《The Shadows Within》


 Chapter 1: The Choice

    Losing my footing, I tumbled over the ledge of a tall building, inadvertently dragging my sister, Evelyn, down with me. Her face contorted in pure dread as we plummeted, her screams echoing through the air. It wasn''t just her, though. Everyone who witnessed our fall added their panicked cries, creating a chorus of terror.


    The only one who had lost their voice was me. Feeling the wind''s gentle caress against my body gave me deep peace.


    How did we get there? Oh¡­ That didn¡¯t matter to me. No, all that crossed my mind was if this was what true freedom felt like. Ah¡­ Will I go straight to heaven or hell? Probably the latter¡­


    Evelyn clung tightly to me, her fingers digging into my arm. Her green eyes glanced at me pleadingly, desperately hoping I would find a way to soften the impact of the blow. I thought this was the moment my life would flash before me.


    Yet nothing did. Not an ounce of my shitty life did I relive in those moments. No, I only saw the shining moon disappear into the city''s darkness.


    Ah... What am I even thinking? Of course, my stop is hell. I¡¯m your spawn.


    Even so, the strangest of feelings surged through me, and I found myself reaching for the empty air like a hand was reaching to save me.


    I don''t want to die!


    Evelyn''s gaze reflected the flashing lights of the police cars below, the only illumination source in the pitch-black city. The darkness swallowed everything, even the night sky above. Despite the lack of visibility, we remained unclaimed by the ground below.


    Instead, something else loomed over us. Before we hit the ground, strange, fuchsia-colored circles appeared above and below us, suspending us in midair. In the blink of an eye, symbols I had never seen surrounded us. One thing was clear, though.


    We were frozen in time and unable to move.


    What the¡­


    Finally, I found you! A voice echoed within me.


    Since this morning, voices had erupted in my head, causing me to question my sanity. Previously, I couldn''t understand their words, but this time...


    Who¡­


    M¡¯ lord! You must ¡ª another voice suddenly cut off.


    Fuck! They¡ª Again, it became distorted.


    The hair on my body stood up, reacting to something that was approaching. In an instant, lightning struck us. Surprisingly, it didn''t hurt. Instead, it whisked us away into the unknown. It was like time resumed, suddenly causing Evelyn to scream even louder.


    They had set a siren near me, and I joined this time. We were twisting and turning, and I could barely determine where we were going. This wasn''t the kind of death I had hoped for. All I knew was that we were in what appeared to be a hole where colors blended into many fractures.


    We didn¡¯t know what awaited us at the end, but surely, it wasn¡¯t what I wished for. The concept of peace wasn¡¯t meant for me. The darkness enveloped us swiftly, leaving Evelyn and I suspended in an empty void. Surprisingly, the fall didn''t cause discomfort, yet I could unmistakably feel her firm grip.


    She fixed her black silky hair that had come undone thanks to the fall and, with a sharp tug on my arm, posed a question. ¡°Where the fuck are we?!¡±


    Her touch was like a searing fire, causing me to yank my hand away instinctively. The intense pain jolted me into the harsh reality, confirming that I was indeed alive, at least for the moment.


    ¡°Get away from me!¡± I growled, desperately attempting to break free from her grasp.


    I could barely move a few steps before she caught up to me. Every step sent a jolt of misery through my body, but her touch was even more excruciating.


    ¡°No! It¡¯s your fault we¡¯re here!" Evelyn peered around, unable to focus her eyes on anything familiar.


    The world was enveloped in darkness, yet our bodies emitted an ethereal glow, casting faint light on our surroundings. My blue jacket and jeans were marred with vivid red stains, entirely visible in the dimness. As I took each step, a sense of instability washed over me, increasing the difficulty of grasping the reality around me.


    "Where is here?! What did you do?!¡± Her voice trembled, speaking faster as she desperately tried to reach me again.


    She was about to step forward when she unexpectedly collided with an invisible barrier. The surface shimmered, catching our attention. As we both gazed at it, the barrier swiftly turned opaque, obscuring Evelyn from my view.


    In front of me, a mysterious figure materialized; it was hazy but still bright against the darkness surrounding us. When it took a step forward, the space surrounding us burst into a mesmerizing array of colors. I stood mesmerized as the vibrant hues intertwined and advanced toward me.


    The entire thing felt like a surreal journey, much like the warp-speed sequences often seen in space movies. I cautiously stepped back, my heart pounding with concern about what they might want from me.


    Despite my overwhelming desire to flee, my injuries left me completely immobilized. The shape stopped in front of me, extending its arms wide. One palm emanated a brilliant, radiant light, while the other dripped with palpable darkness, creating a stark and unsettling contrast.


    ¡°Would you like the power of light or dark?¡± It inquired straightforwardly.


    What the utter fuck is this?


    I took a quick, anxious glance around and felt the weight of the imposing wall. In my current state, there was no possible escape.


    ¡°W-What?¡± I struggled to articulate; my mind could not grasp the unfolding events.


    It took another step towards me.


    ¡°Would you like the power of the saints or the tainted? Of healing or curses?¡± it repeated differently.


    Nothing ever went right when someone asked me what I wanted.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want shit. Especially from someone as creepy as you!¡± I huffed, watching my surroundings.


    The world around me didn''t feel real. It was as if I had entered a different realm where I was still alive.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    Limbo? Not even my death is in my control! I want to stop thinking! Why¡¯s that so hard?!


    ¡°Hm... Why don¡¯t you want anything? She already picked. Why won¡¯t you?¡± Lowering its hands to the sides, it tilted its head.


    She? Do you mean Evelyn?


    Once more, I found myself staring at the wall, hoping to catch a glimpse of Eve. Disappointingly, nothing had changed. She remained elusive, out of my sight.


    Is she being asked these same questions?


    It didn¡¯t surprise me that she had picked something already. Everything had been handed to her all her life. All the while, I always worked for nothing, and that wouldn¡¯t change there. The weight of my independence was suffocating.


    All I longed for was a path to freedom, an escape I couldn''t embrace before.


    I should''ve made my exit before Evelyn even came up.


    The reason why I cared for her eluded me. Though it was all to hide, I was terrified to take that step.


    Even now, I''m still shaking!


    Even though I wasn¡¯t stable, that didn¡¯t change what had to happen.


    Something that sounds too good usually is a lie.


    No one was ever going to take advantage of me ever again.


    ¡°One, I don¡¯t know you. Two, you have nothing I want. So, drop me back where you found me! Or send me to hell already. I know that¡¯s my stop.¡± I took a step away from it.


    I used to be skeptical, but the eerie feeling I experienced made me wonder if I had stumbled into some limbo-like state.


    ¡°What a strange human. Usually, those who come here either want to destroy or save. Yet you want nothing? That¡¯s something new.¡± A soft giggle left the light being.


    I smirked, ¡°Why would I destroy or save something I don¡¯t care about? Just take me back already.¡±


    When those words escaped my lips, a sharp, stabbing sensation pierced through my left flank, leaving me gasping for air, but no matter how hard I tried, it never felt like enough. It was getting worse with every attempt to fill my lungs.


    ¡°That''s so interesting! I think I like you, which I don¡¯t say often!¡± It clapped its hands, taking another step toward me.


    The silhouette shifted, unveiling a captivating woman with flowing golden hair and piercing deep blue eyes fixed upon me. She wasn''t entirely human like me; her luminous skin emitted a soft glow. Adorned in an exquisite white dress, she exuded an otherworldly grace that matched her perfectly.


    A fucking angel?! Am I dead? No¡­ it hurts too much. Then again, what do I know about death? Maybe this is hell, and I¡¯m suffering for it.


    Little did I know, I was close to that mark. Despite being an angel, she was noticeably lacking her ethereal wings.


    ¡°My name¡¯s Serena. The other one with your sister is my husband, Xavier. He¡¯s extremely bored with her, but you¡¯ll show us something interesting, won¡¯t you? Finally! If you only knew how long this took.¡± She shook her head, smirking soon after.


    I chose to remain silent, fixing my gaze upon her orb wide.


    Is she insane?!


    Her stare fixed on the wall, ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    No tricks¡­ Nothing¡­ Just stop.


    ¡°No one you''d... care to know.¡± I huffed, grabbing onto my left flank.


    The world around me was starting to blur.


    He really didn¡¯t let up. Shit...


    I shook my head to keep pace, but it was impossible. My footing became increasingly unstable, causing me to wobble and lean against the invisible wall for support.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re hurt.¡± Her dazzling gaze gleamed with intensity, turning her gaze back to me.


    In the blink of an eye, I sensed a gentle, radiant aura within me.


    ¡°Several fractured ribs. One snapped off, puncturing your lung. Yet you want nothing? Not even help?¡±  Serena narrowed her eyes, shifting her hair away from her shoulders.


    How does she¡­ Is she genuine?


    That thought was quickly snapped off, triggering me to growl at her.


    No¡­ don¡¯t be tricked! Accept nothing from anyone! You learned that!


    ¡°N-nothing,¡± I voiced, shaking, sliding from the wall to the floor.


    Throughout the entire ordeal, I had been struggling to conceal my fear behind a fa?ade of bravado, but it was becoming increasingly apparent. The rush of adrenaline was beginning to subside. The world around me was crumbling, leaving me struggling to keep up.


    ¡°Not even if I put you in a new world. It''s an entirely new start. Isn¡¯t that appealing?¡± Serena kept trying.


    The prospect of a new world didn''t fill me with much hope. I couldn''t shake the feeling that it wouldn''t be any different from the one I was stuck in. While there was a chance that it could be better, there was an equal chance that it could be worse.


    Regardless, I never felt confident about my chances. They were already terrible, and the thought of some god-like force interfering only worsened things. All I ever wanted was peace; it didn''t matter what shape it took anymore.


    Huffing for air, I shook my head, ¡°Nothing¡¯s... free. Do what you... want, but I won¡¯t ask...¡±


    Her lips parted as a gentle sigh escaped. ¡°Heh¡­ I really like you. You know, there''s usually only one person drawn here, never two, so you¡¯re a special case. Well, both of you.¡± Her glance warily shifted towards the wall again.


    Just make it one. Simple...


    My ability to articulate vanished, leaving only a gasp to convey my distress. As each moment passed, my vision dimmed, enveloping me in darkness.


    Oh... am I dying? Did he actually kill me? How... pathetic...


    "Oh, no, no! That won''t do! Don''t you dare die, Sylvia." Serena''s voice echoed through the room, jolting me awake and forcing my eyes to snap open.


    My name... How?!


    Once again, it felt like time had stopped, freezing everything around us. The goddess was before me, allowing me to see my reflection in her radiant blue stare. It was almost like looking into a mirror.


    I was such a mess. My brown hair was matted with blood, and my grey eyes were black and blue from the struggle.


    ¡°As much as I would like to keep you here. We have little time.¡± Her glance gleamed intensely and luminously, rendering me petrified.


    The distortions surrounding us were expanding rapidly, growing larger with every passing second.


    ¡°How about this? I¡¯ll give you everything I have to offer. And all you have to do is live however you want. There will be no strings attached.¡± Serena''s lips curled into a mischievous smile as she leaned in, her eyes sparkling with amusement.


    What?!


    ¡°Well, if you survive having it all.¡± She snickered, opening her arms, allowing the light and darkness to drip from her palms.


    I wanted to refuse her, but nothing came out of me. No, I only felt shivers rushing through me, unable to do anything even though I was aware of everything. Helplessly, I watched her clasp onto my head.


    Pulses of energy rushed through me soon after, scorching my entire being. A few broken ribs were nothing compared to the pain surging through me. If I weren¡¯t frozen in place, I would¡¯ve been shrieking.


    Stop! It hurts! Why does this keep happening to me?!


    Nothing ever went my way. Not even death.


    ¡°Hush, child, everything will be over before you know it.¡± She whispered as a man appeared behind her.


    He also had golden hair, yet his eyes were amber. Letting me go, time continued, allowing me to fall onto the floor, gasping for air. All the agony from before had melted away along with the easier breaths.


    What the fuck did you do to me?!


    ¡°Are you sure that was wise?¡± he asked the rogue woman.


    However, my voice wasn¡¯t coming out. No, all that left me were pants. Before she touched me, I was in constant pain every time I filled my lungs. Yet now, I felt nothing. Though metallic taste remained in my mouth, my hands were still stained red.


    Did you save me?! Why?! And for what?


    My temperature rose as my heart pumped faster than before.


    ¡°Fuck! I wanted nothing!¡± I yelled, yet my words were disregarded.


    To these two beings, I was nothing more than entertainment.


    ¡°Honestly, I didn¡¯t think she¡¯d survive having both elements in her. Especially in that condition. Yet it seems she¡¯s stronger than I gave her credit for.¡± Serena spoke like I wasn¡¯t there.


    I tried to speak up, but no words left me. No, I felt a pull. Something was about to drag me again, which was different from before.


    The distortions were getting more significant.


    ¡°Found yourself a new toy, babe?¡± Xavier chuckled, grabbing his wife by her waist.


    Turning towards him, she pecked his lips with hers.


    ¡°Perhaps. Will she show us salvation or damnation?¡± she giggled, tracing her hand lovingly on his cheek.


    He grabbed onto it, leaning into her touch.


    ¡°The other chose light. Once they go to their destinations, the humans will kill this one when they realize she¡ª¡± Serena stopped her husband, placing her fingers on his lips.


    ¡°Well, we shall see what fate awaits them, my dearest. You feel that. Something else other than them is at play.¡± She pointed out, moving closer to her beloved.


    Again, I felt the tug that caused me to fall onto the floor. It was like the gravity had gotten ten times worse. I couldn¡¯t move but could feel their piercing gazes on me.


    ¡°My sight is barely ever wrong. But if the demon¡¯s finally stepping in. Then it might change.¡± Xavier snickered, leaning on his wife.


    ¡°Oh, the fun we shall see.¡± She murmured, allowing him to kiss her.


    A second later, I fell through that wormhole again. Next to me was Evelyn, who screamed once again. If aliens or something else abducted us, I wouldn¡¯t know. But whatever awaited us at the end of this wasn¡¯t what either of us wanted.

 Chapter 2: Switcheroo

    Once again, we fell through space, though this time, a blinding light consumed us, preventing me from seeing where we were going. A second later, we were on solid ground. Everything shifted before the light dimmed, revealing a new dilemma.


    People in white and black robes surrounded us, prompting my orbs to search for any explanation. However, all they found aside from the audience we had was another weird circle under us. One of them drew it with white salt and odd characters surrounding it.


    Again, I couldn¡¯t understand them. Luckily, I wasn¡¯t the only one disorientated. The crowd surrounding us all stared at us with wide eyes and scrunched-up brows.


    Is this a cult?! Where the heck are we now? A basement?! This doesn¡¯t look like an alien ship.


    It was far from a spaceship. Everything my eyes caught was made of rock or wood, screaming medieval vibes. There wasn¡¯t an ounce of technology near us. The lack of windows assured me we were in some basement or catacomb.


    The air was also pure, unlike that found in modern cities. The only time I had ever encountered something similar was on a school trip to the rural areas. Yet the one there was¡­


    It¡¯s so pure.


    ¡°Why do we have two of them?¡± one of the men finally broke the silence.


    Oh¡­ They speak our language. That¡¯s good.


    Yet the symbols in the circle weren¡¯t ones I recognized. A new sensation was rushing through me, desiring to know if this was limbo or something else. However, seeing Evelyn and I weren¡¯t the only ones out of synch was reassuring.


    ¡°Is this what was supposed to happen? Isn¡¯t there only one saint that will kill the demon king?¡± A woman questioned, shaking her head and stepping away from the circle.


    Demon King? Are we in a game? What the fuck is all of this?


    ¡°No¡­ The saint must be only one of them.¡± Another replied.


    Saint?


    The expression on everyone¡¯s face soon changed from bewilderment into something else, erupting in chaotic chatter among themselves, causing Evelyn to lean closer to me. I was the only one she knew around.


    Better the known devil than the unknown.


    ¡°Could it be we summoned another dark priestess?¡± an older man questioned, slamming the end of his stick on the floor.


    It echoed in the room, producing all gazes to land on him.


    This must be a fucking game. Am I dreaming? All the pain is gone, too. Is this what happens before death? Judgment time or something?!


    Another one took a step forward to us, muttering some weird crap before the surrounding circle shone white. It was almost blinding before it shifted, shimmering a dark red aura.


    ¡°Yes, this energy¡­ I feel it. One of them has the potential to destroy everything, including us!¡± he announced, triggering an encore of discord again.


    At this point, everyone¡¯s eyes dilated, visibly shaking where they stood.


    ¡°Guards!¡± an old man dressed weirdly yelled.


    He had a lot of white and gold d¨¦cor on his blue robes, perhaps alluding to royalty. The door behind them flew open as armed men and women poured into the room. They had the same appearance as knights had in TV shows or games, with steel and all.


    In the blink of an eye, spears and swords surrounded us, prompting Evelyn to squeal, clasping onto me, attempting to use me as a shield. However, they didn¡¯t step into the circle. No, all of them trembled where they stood.


    ¡°But which one?¡± another woman asked, voice shaking.


    All this commotion was because they summoned a dark saint. If I only knew what that was.


    Salvation or damnation¡­ is this what they¡­


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Something¡¯s throwing off the spell.¡± The initial caster sighed, shaking his head.


    Spell? As in magic?! Impossible, that doesn¡¯t exist! Then again¡­ none of this is supposed to exist. Where the¡­


    It was hard to argue with what I saw, yet every fiber in my body wanted to deny it. It didn¡¯t matter what I desired; no, I was a passenger, unaware of where fate was leading me.


    ¡°Sylvia, what are they going on about?¡± Evelyn mumbled, voice quivering, holding onto me, eyes darting around us.


    It was evident to me she was freaked out, and so was I; I couldn¡¯t analyze anything even though my mind was racing.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± My voice trembled, too.


    Even though this was far from what I had desired when I climbed up to that ledge, I ended up in this mess. However, all I had to do was keep my wit; within the chaos, I could find an opportunity that worked to my advantage.


    ¡°One of you has made a deal with the demon!¡± the old man huffed, taking a step forward and dragging his cane.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    All the knights were ready to impale us at any moment, triggering me to gulp and glance at Eve. She was trembling behind me, holding onto me as her life depended on it.


    Ah¡­ Why do I even care about you?


    Perhaps it was because she was nice to me when we were both younger. Though, I knew that out of the two of us, she was always the one with more potential.


    Yes¡­ All I do is destroy.


    I never intended to drag her down with me.


    Yes, it isn¡¯t your fault that he¡­


    ¡°Demon?! We don¡¯t know any!¡± My sister answered, holding onto me again.


    That was when I shoved her away from me, knowing if we stuck together, we would become human shish kabob. She stumbled onto the circle next to me. There was only one way out of this mess while ensuring she¡¯d be fine.


    I took a deep breath, facing all of them.


    Come on, you were ready to jump! This isn¡¯t different! Fuck! I¡¯m scared! Why am I trembling?!


    My entire being was running cold again, like when I stared at that ledge, shaking where I stood.


    Ah, that¡¯s right, I never wanted to die. I¡¯m so fucking tired of all of this! Let me stop thinking for once!


    ¡°Hah¡­¡± My voice quivered, shaking my head to get a grip.


    There¡¯s only one way to make sure Eve¡­ It¡¯s my fault she¡¯s here! I won¡¯t be responsible for killing her too!


    ¡°I was the one who made a deal with a demon! What the fuck are you going to do?!¡± I smirked, clenching my hands into fists.


    Take responsibility for it! I¡¯m not his shadow! Yes, I¡¯m nothing like him!


    ¡°Sylvia?¡± Evelyn muttered, taking a step away from me.


    Enough is enough¡­ This is fine¡­ Just make it quick!


    This was the only way my mind could come up with to save my big sister.


    Eve, I hate you for never being there for me, but I never meant for this. Fuck! My entire existence is a giant fuck up!


    ¡°I¡¯ve killed before! So, if you let me live, I¡¯ll murder all of you fucks in a blink of an eye!¡± I snarled, having had enough of this charade.


    The crowd stared at me, not knowing what to do with me. All until a man stood forward, withdrawing his hood, allowing his crimson hair and amber eyes to show in full splendor. He was jaw-droppingly gorgeous.


    ¡°Why would you confess so easily?¡± He questioned, studying me with those shining orbs of his.


    I scowled at him, not wanting to answer. There was no reason to question my intentions; I had blood on me. In my words, there were both lies and truths. Something he shouldn¡¯t have known triggered me to clasp onto my jacket, unsure how to answer him.


    ¡°Soren, truth bearer, you think she¡¯s acting?¡± a woman asked, standing beside him.


    She also removed her hood, revealing aqua hair and blue eyes. However, what caught my attention the most were her long ears.


    Is that an elf?


    ¡°From experience, sometimes first judgment¡¯s never right, Alena. It might be best to keep them under observation for now.¡± The redhead sighed, shaking his head.


    ¡°If the saint¡¯s companions say to have caution. You better hear them!¡± the old man yelled at the knights.


    Wait, weren¡¯t you the one who called them here?!


    However, I wasn¡¯t the only one looking for opportunity within the chaos.


    ¡°No, she¡¯s right! She killed our father in cold blood before coming here! This woman¡¯s a murderer!¡± Evelyn took her chance to sway the masses.


    It was clear that one of us wouldn''t live long by the time the investigation concluded, and it didn¡¯t appear that they would send us back to our home. If there were even a way back, I wouldn''t have anything there.


    ¡°You¡¯re sisters?¡± Alena mumbled, shifting her gaze towards Evelyn.


    Unlike me, she wasn¡¯t as bloody and had always been beautiful. There was nothing wrong with her.


    Well, physically...


    ¡°Is what she says true?¡± Soren directed his question, not turning his gaze away from me.


    I couldn¡¯t read his expression and didn''t want to know either way.


    I¡­ have no place here or there. So... why delay the inevitable? I¡¯ll be your villain, Eve.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve killed. So, I¡¯m no saint.¡± I gazed at my stained hands before smirking. ¡°It felt so good to bash that bastard''s head in.¡±


    My words caused Evelyn to shift back toward me, lips curled down, nasal flaring, and eyes brilliantly open. ¡°How dare you?!¡±


    Suddenly, I was a danger in all but Soren¡¯s eyes. I didn¡¯t know what he saw in me, but¡­


    ¡°Kill her! End this before this goes wrong!¡± the old man commanded his knights.


    ¡°No! Wait!¡± the red hair declared, but it was too late.


    All those spears were headed toward me without a second thought, leaving me releasing a soft sigh from my lips. I closed my eyes, waiting for the end to come, but it never did. No screams erupted from everywhere instead.


    My eyes flew open to see the same red aura erupting from me, repelling everyone away, including Evelyn, who Alena caught before she flung into the wall. Soren was trying to reach me, but what surrounded me kept him away, burning the skin on his hand.


    Do we finally have her? The same voice from before erupted within me.


    ¡°Stop this!¡± the old man commanded, being held by two of his knights.


    Sadly, barely anyone could move from where they stood. Again, gravity was going insane, leaving Soren as the only one standing. Sadly, he could barely hold on.


    ¡°I can¡¯t!¡± he huffed before being repelled off.


    He rolled towards the side, leaving me stunned, floating in the air again. Another circle formed under me again, radiating an aura I couldn¡¯t describe. It was eerie, though, warning that something dreadful was behind it.


    ¡°Who¡¯s doing this?! Is it her?!¡± the king asked.


    A second later, one of his knights was blown off, sending the older man rolling on the floor, too. All of them were struggling to get a grip.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know!¡± One of them announced, gazing towards me.


    Yes, we finally have her, my lord! Another voice echoed from within.


    Then bring her in! The other commanded.


    This time, I saw the lighting forming before me before it came for me. All the hair from my body rose when it struck me. Once again, blinding light blinded me before I found myself on solid ground.


    The air there was so very different, though. It was dreadful, heavy, foggy, and musky. A thick miasma that made everything hard to breathe surrounded me. Worse yet, I couldn¡¯t see a single thing around me.


    It was pitch black, though I felt like people were around me.


    ¡°My king, we did it!¡± a squeaky voice erupted from the side.


    The stagnant air around didn¡¯t make it easy to gaze around. My eyes couldn¡¯t adjust with no light either. Yet the surrounding footsteps were finding their way with no issues.


    ¡°Yes¡­ we finally have a saint in our grasp.¡± A soft voice erupted from the darkness.


    I couldn¡¯t even respond when something inhuman grabbed me by my hand. It felt rough and scaly, nothing like human skin. It triggered me to squeal, terrified of the sensation, yanking myself away.


    ¡°Oh, no, no, no! I didn¡¯t mean to scare you,¡± the squeaky voice said.


    It sounded like they were right before me, leaving something on my wrist behind. Feeling it, I noticed it was a bracelet of sorts. Yet I couldn¡¯t determine what it was or what it was for.


    And worse yet, I couldn¡¯t remove it, not even when I tried to rip it off.


    ¡°It''s a good thing we kept the others outside. She smells of blood and fear, my lord.¡± A feminine voice informed her master from the side, triggering my eyes to travel towards her voice.


    That one didn¡¯t sound human, either. Well, none of them did. Yet the one with the soft voice was soothing me in some way.


    ¡°Of course, she¡¯s terrified. They can¡¯t see without the lights. Fire the candles.¡± The soft-spoken man sighed.


    So, they can see in the dark? Fuck¡­ why¡¯s the air here so heavy compared to the other place?!


    ¡°Oh, right, M¡¯lord! Forgive me; I tend to forget humans need it.¡± The squeaky voice snickered, walking off to the side.


    Someone clapped their hands, and at that moment, blue fires lit every candle around, lifting the dark veil and revealing a nightmare. Monsters surrounded me everywhere my eyes landed.


    There was no doubt in my mind I was in fucking hell.

 Chapter 3: Finn…

    Am I dead?! Is this¡­actually¡­ hell?


    A sharp pain came from my hand when I dug my nails into my skin, prompting me to wince. However, my eyes soon flew open, realizing¡­


    Should I be feeling anything at all?! If this is hell, then I guess? Are these devils?


    Beasts of every kind, some of whom I had seen in games and others in books, surrounded me. The one closest to me was a weird thing I had seen. Its skin was dark green, with bright red eyes and large pointy ears.


    A goblin?!


    It was like one of those things I had seen in games or cartoons.


    Or what was that called in Japan? Anime? Cartoons? Fuck! I don¡¯t know!


    I never had time for those things; working two jobs and attending school dwindled all my free time. However, I enjoyed reading any book whenever I had a break, though those usually comprised my studies.


    My college scholarships wouldn¡¯t stay if I lowered my GPA, but that was all in the past. No, all that faced me in the present were these things. Surely, I was in a hell-like place. On the side of the goblin was another hideous thing.


    It looked like a transparent blob.


    Is that a slime?! What the heck?!


    Though the lighting wasn¡¯t the best, I could pinpoint where I was. And around those two, well, there were too many to describe or see. All I knew was that none of them were human. Well, until a young-looking man stepped towards me.


    He was the only one with a humanoid appearance¡ªwell, he and the girl next to him. The girl beside him had wolf ears and tails, but her eyes were yellow like the moon. In contrast, the man had deep blue ones that shimmered with every step.


    His black hair was hard to make out in the dim light if it weren¡¯t for those crimson horns that stuck out of his head, but it reached his hips. He also had a weird, serpent-like tail swaying behind him.


    It had shimmering scarlet feathers on the tip instead of scales. In the dark lighting, I could barely make up his face. Yet the closer he got, the more I could see. His blue orbs were lifeless, yet his face was like a handsome doll.


    Monsters surrounded him, yet he was different. Large wings could be seen sprouting from his back, tips shimmering red. Even though he was a magnificent specimen to gawk at, my body shivered when he stopped before me.


    Not only that, but I felt goosebumps form on my skin as every fiber of my being was yelling for me to run away. This one was dangerous, that much I could tell. His eyes weren¡¯t humanoid either. No, his pupils were narrowed, much like a cat.


    But there wasn¡¯t anything about him that screamed feline; no, he was something else.


    ¡°You look so puny for someone who¡¯s supposed to kill me.¡± He spoke, studying me with his orbs.


    Why is your voice so similar?


    I shook my head, trying to focus on the danger in front of me.


    Wait, are you the one they spoke about? The Demon King, was that what they called you?


    ¡°Kill you? Am I not dead?¡± I inched away from him.


    A soft chuckle left his lips, ¡°Dead? No, you¡¯re very much alive and breathing. For now,¡± he offered me his hand, prompting my orbs to narrow.


    Why¡­ would you¡­


    His palm was wide open, allowing me to see sharp black nails coming from his fingertips. His skin was snow white like it hadn¡¯t seen the sun in a long time.


    A deal with a demon¡­ Is this what the others were speaking about?


    ¡°Come, let¡¯s¡ª¡± he began, only for me to interrupt him by swiping his hand away.


    No, I won¡¯t! Not with angels and certainly not with demons or devils!


    ¡°I need nothing! Leave me alone!¡± I snarled, getting up and taking a few steps away.


    Yes, I don¡¯t need anyone! Enough of this!


    If I was still alive, I needed to find a way out. These beasts blocked the only wooden door in there. There was no way out¡ªall but a nearby window. This room reminded me of the basement I was in, built of the same stones, though these were more weathered down.


    Perhaps we were above ground this time.


    Can I reach it? Will I be able to outrun them? Crap¡­


    All this madness had to end somewhere. However, my orbs suddenly were glued to the man I had rejected, and I felt an aura erupt from him. It was the same one that had burned Soren before.You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    It was you?!


    His blue orbs slowly shifted crimson, fangs flashing before clenching his teeth.


    ¡°Oi, little bitch. I was trying to be nice to you. Do you even know how hard that is for me?!¡± the man snapped, reaching for me again.


    However, instead of catching me, I shifted my body away from him. ¡°Stay away from me, creep!¡±


    ¡°Oi, what the actual fuck?¡± His eyes twitched, unable to believe my attitude towards him.


    Taking my chance, I rushed past a few monsters, throwing myself out the window. It wasn¡¯t like they tried to stop me. Perhaps they didn¡¯t expect me to do it, however, I had fucked up. Once I was in free fall, I noticed how high we were.


    Oh, fuck me!


    There was a reason they didn¡¯t stop me. They probably thought I would look before I did anything. But in my desperation, I didn¡¯t care to look before leaping. Before I knew it, I was plummeting towards the ground below, unlike the basement from before we were atop a tower.


    When I jumped, I thought I would hit the ground or another part of the building. I never thought we would be so high up, but it didn¡¯t matter. This brought the result I had looked for when this night started, and I had no one to blame but myself.


    Right¡­ Even if I found my freedom, where would I go? There isn¡¯t a single place for me!


    The humans in this world wanted me dead because of a pact with a demon. However, as soon as I fell, I stopped; something had me in its grasp. Much to my surprise, it was the same man from before.


    His pitch-black wings spread wide, allowing rogue feathers to fall around us. Around us was a stone-eroded castle shrouded in purple mists. Everything about it was eerily, though it was harder to breathe.


    The miasma was thicker and more intense the lower I fell, though, with the moonlight shimmering behind him, I could finally see his face better. He was beautiful, even with his face washed with pure irritation.


    ¡°Are you fucking crazy?!¡± he snapped, tugging me up toward him by my arm.


    His question flared me up, making my temperature rise.


    Why do you care about what happens to me?!


    ¡°You said I¡¯d kill you! So, aren¡¯t you going to get rid of me, anyway?! Let me go already! I¡¯ll make your job easier!¡± I snarled, trying to yank my arm away, but his grip was too much.


    I didn¡¯t have any ground to help me, either. Though I doubted any of that mattered.


    ¡°What?! No! I won¡¯t kill you!¡± he huffed, gripping me by my waist, pressing my body against his.


    There was no escaping him.


    You said I was here to kill you. Yet you¡¯ll keep me around me? What?


    ¡°Huh?!¡± I mumbled, unable to follow him.


    A soft sigh left his lips, ¡°Before anything else...¡± he trailed off, leaning into me.


    There was no dodging him from where we were. Yet I didn¡¯t expect him to plant his lips against mine until he did. Instantly, I froze, shivering where I was, triggering me to gasp within the kiss. My experiences with these types of situations were never the best.


    No, the last time anyone tried to do this to me, I rolled down the stairs in high school more often than I would¡¯ve liked. A soft smirk rose on his lips before he forced his way into my mouth with the opportunity I gave him.


    Throbs rushed through me, feeling his tongue push on mine. I snapped back into reality with part of his tongue. Blood gushed into my mouth, triggering him to yank his face away from me. More pulses rushed through my body as something I was unaware of was happening within me.


    The man growled when I spit part of his tongue out. The taste of iron once again overwhelmed my senses, yet it wasn¡¯t mine this time. I was no damsel in distress, something this demon was about to learn.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you fucking touch me!¡± I snapped, unable to get out of his grip.


    Feeling my heart pumping, I tried to control the rage that I had when I bashed my father¡¯s head. However, the same happened to this demon who had me in his grip. His eyes glowed brightly, turning entirely red.


    The same aura from earlier radiated from his body, triggering me to pause. Yet my skin wasn¡¯t burning off; there wasn¡¯t an ounce of pain rushing through me.


    Is it you who brought me here? Your voice¡­ It¡¯s like the one I heard in my head earlier.


    ¡°You¡¯re one lucky little bitch. I just saved your life, and you fucking thank me like this?!¡± he growled, gripping me tighter.


    The demon''s tongue healed, leaving behind traces of blood on his lips and chin.  He had remarkable regenerative abilities. Slowly, he went back towards where we were before I jumped. His wings were massive, way more enormous than inside, catching my gaze, locking it on them.


    Is he a dark angel? But he has horns and a tail! Devil surely!


    Heaven or hell, I didn¡¯t know where I was anymore. Everything was too complicated for my brain to handle.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t ask you to save me!¡± I scowled, trying to free myself from his grip.


    A sharp tug came from him once we were inside the tower. A second later, he dropped me like a bag of potatoes onto the stone floor. Hitting it hurt, though I didn¡¯t take my eyes off him.


    ¡°Well, I thought you¡¯d be grateful for not turning into a demon!¡± he scoffed, crossing his arms and slamming his tail on the ground.


    Undoubtedly, I was nothing more than something to use in this demon''s gaze.


    I¡¯m tired of that!


    No one would ever use me for something that only benefited them. However, what he said left me utterly confused, too.


    ¡°What?!¡± I mumbled from where I sat.


    Once again, monsters who snickered or observed us surrounded me, triggering the man to turn towards them.


    ¡°All of you, get the fuck out of here!¡± he snapped, aura erupting thicker.


    In an instant, they were all gone, like magic. Well, all but the wolf girl who stayed there.


    ¡°Lord Finn, shall I ready her room?¡± the goblin asked from behind me, bowing her head.


    It startled me.


    ¡°Yes,¡± he sighed, gazing back at me.


    Finn¡­ you don¡¯t look like one.


    ¡°The miasma down where you fell is thicker than up in the tower. You would¡¯ve turned into a demon in a matter of minutes. If I hadn¡¯t given you the antidote.¡± He informed me.


    The wolf girl handed him a cloth, letting him wipe off the blood from his lips and chin.


    Miasma? Is that the heavy purplish fog that¡¯s everywhere here?


    I couldn¡¯t see the ground when I jumped out because it clouded everything.


    ¡°Antidote?¡± I continued to mumble, utterly confused.


    A sharp smirk rose from his lips. This dilemma would affect me every day. Though I was blissfully unaware until...


    ¡°It comes from a demon¡¯s bodily fluids. So, be fucking grateful I helped you.¡± He smirked, crossing his arms.


    This bastard¡­ Acting all high and mighty. Like hell I¡¯ll ever be grateful to you!


    ¡°I wanted nothing from you! You should¡¯ve let nature take its course!¡± I snapped, standing up.


    I didn¡¯t know half of what I was talking about, but I wasn¡¯t about to admit it.


    Nothing makes any sense! Why did any of this happen?!


    A soft chuckle of disbelief left his lips. ¡°Too bad, I can¡¯t allow you to turn. Not for what I need you for,¡± He announced, leaving me gazing at him like he was insane.


    I¡¯ll never give anything to you!


    ¡°And that is?!¡± I questioned, glaring at the demon in front of me.


    His eyes glowed brightly again, spreading his arms towards the side with a sharp smirk on his lips.


    ¡°Be my bride.¡±

 Chapter 4: Not An Ounce More!

    What the heck did this monster say?! I must¡¯ve misheard. Surely, it can¡¯t have been a bride.


    ¡°Excuse me?¡± I mumbled, raising my eyebrows and biting my lower lip.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure your hearing is just peachy, sweetheart.¡± Finn huffed, not moving from where he was.


    ¡°My lord, you¡¯re assuming. This human might be defective.¡± The female wolf scoffed, rolling her eyes.


    Her tone made my eyes twitch.


    ¡°No, I can see the anger in the human¡¯s face, Brie. She obviously understood what I said.¡± He shifted his gaze towards the grey-haired wolf.


    ¡°Hey! Don¡¯t talk like I¡¯m not here!¡± I growled, standing up from the floor.


    My words caused the demon lord to snicker while the wolf girl scowled at me.


    ¡°My king, should I rip her tongue out? She lacks the respect needed to address you.¡± She growled, taking a step towards me.


    Her clothes were much like a nimble knight, and by her belt, she had a blade inside its sheath. The lighting didn¡¯t let me see much else.


    He shrugged before shaking his head. ¡°No, you know I need her whole and sound. Though, I¡¯m starting to doubt the second one. She seems a little dumb.¡±


    ¡°Fuck you!¡± I snapped, glaring at the demon, who smirked.


    ¡°So, you did hear me before. You¡¯ll give it to me, right?¡± Finn turned around the question, making my eyes twitch.


    This man wouldn¡¯t get a single thing he wanted.


    No one will.


    ¡°Oh, sure! I¡¯d love to marry you!¡± I huffed, glaring at the demon.


    ¡°See, Brie, the human might have a brain after all.¡± He sighed, turning to his follower.


    A smirk formed on my lips, ¡°Monster, I wasn¡¯t done. I¡¯ll marry you right after you grow a pair of balls, pubescent demon. Fuck off and get hitched! I¡¯ll never marry you or anyone!¡±


    I stuck my tongue out at him, flipping the middle finger like I had won something.


    ¡°What?!¡± he snapped, getting flared up as well.


    His body gave off the same red hue again. He wasn¡¯t a man to mess with, but I couldn¡¯t help myself. The fact he wanted something from me irritated me. However, I had to be wary of this one. Pain wasn¡¯t something I looked forward to, and that aura coming from him was deadly.


    It burned that man from touching it.


    What was his name? Soren? A saint''s companion¡­ Huh¡­ I wonder how Evelyn¡¯s right now. Probably better than me. She knows how to snake herself around.


    A weird dark portal opened from nowhere, allowing an owl-man thing to walk out of it. He had white feathers covering his body, wearing black robes and deep red eyes. His beak was red, too.


    ¡°M¡¯lord, I didn¡¯t want to interrupt. But I caution you to remember.¡± His tone carried differently from any of the others.


    If it was the years the owl had on him or something else, I didn¡¯t know, but I did feel like he was someone I could rely on. In his feathered hands was an orb-like object that shimmered lightly. Much like Finn and Brielle''s, his clothes were all dark in color.


    Though Finn¡¯s had fur for d¨¦cor, much like my blue jacket. And his fur cloak dragged on the floor with every step he took.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± the demon king grumbled.


    His eyes were glowing so brightly that they outshined the blue flames from the candles.


    ¡°You need her whole, sound, and to love you for the ritual to work. Not hate you, M¡¯lord.¡± The owl-looking man informed, leaving me flabbergasted.


    Love? Who?! You?!


    Rolling my eyes, I gazed at the demon who wanted me as his bride.


    Never!


    I would never give myself to anyone in that way. This man was no different from all the others. Shivers ran down my spine as memories¡­


    ¡°Sylvia! You must do as I say!¡± Father yelled, chasing after me.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m done listening! You¡¯ve already screwed me up in ways you¡¯d never know! I''d rather be homeless than give you anything else!¡± I screamed, trying to move away.


    The man who was supposed to be my father made me sign a paper right when I turned eighteen. It was for a loan. He had promised it was for my studies but instead used it for my sister¡¯s education.


    This was an obvious fraud case, but I couldn¡¯t report it¡ªnot when he was the police chief.


    All of what I said would¡¯ve been buried, if not worse. No one cared enough to see how he was drinking his wages away, either¡ªthat or gambling it.


    ¡°Stupid bitch, you should be grateful I raised you at all! Come back here!¡± He yelled, following me close behind.


    This man wasn¡¯t my biological father. No, he was married to my mother when my real dad raped her.


    Why she had me? I don¡¯t know.


    I guess she was too busy dying while having me think. All she left me behind was a broken man who drank his sorrows away.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care! I¡¯m leaving!¡± I stormed, trying to head to my room.


    The following words snapped me out of that memory.


    ¡°Love¡¯s a thing that doesn¡¯t exist. We should work on an agreement. That¡¯ll work way better than any soppy feelings and stuff.¡± Finn sighed, shaking his head.


    ¡°M¡¯lord, but¡ª¡± the owl began, only to be interrupted by me.


    Never again¡­


    I wouldn¡¯t be used by this man or anyone else. No, I had enough of this bullshit.


    ¡°Then you¡¯re doomed, demon king, or whatever you are! I¡¯ll never love or marry you! So, I¡¯m useless for whatever you want me for!¡± I declared, feeling power over my choices.


    If that was what it took, this demon couldn¡¯t get what he wanted from me. At least on his terms, not while I had every card to play. If he let me live, I would attempt to be his worst nightmare.


    Once again, his eyes gave off the same radiant hue, and that red aura surrounded his body. The slight warmth they had faded away, turning fridged.


    ¡°I wish I could just kill you and steal your power. That little mouth wouldn¡¯t be annoying me then.¡± Finn narrowed his eyes, clenching his fists.


    His aura grew thicker with every moment. All the fear from before left me, though. Even though these appeared like beasts, they were sentient beings. Even so, I wasn¡¯t about to trust them. The owl stepped in between him and me before it escalated.


    ¡°M¡¯lord, you can¡¯t. You know that she¡¯s the only chance we will ever have.¡± The owl sighed, stepping closer to me.


    He was taller than the demon king, yet they all respected the shorter-horned man. If it were because of fear or something else, I wouldn¡¯t know. However, to me, he appeared like a child throwing a tantrum.


    Or perhaps I was.


    ¡°Why did we have to get a saint that¡¯s so stubborn?¡± Finn complained, eyes twitching, lips curled downward.


    It didn¡¯t help that I didn¡¯t stay quiet, though.


    ¡°I¡¯m no saint. Another loss for you, little king.¡± I smirked, triggering him to glare at me again.


    It wasn¡¯t only him, but his wolf girl, too. She was a kettle about to blow from how red her face was. I couldn¡¯t help but scowl in her direction, too.


    What the heck? Are you his lover or something? I couldn¡¯t give a damn about your man! You can have him all to yourself!


    However, the owl once again stood between us. ¡°What makes you say that?¡± he asked before Finn could get a word out.


    Are you trying to protect me? Why?


    The owl¡¯s question had an easy answer.


    ¡°Don¡¯t saints usually do good things? I destroy. So, I doubt you¡¯d want me either way. And even if you did, my answer doesn¡¯t change.¡± I assured him, waving him away.


    There were just three of us in this room. I could see the little goblin gazing at us from the open door. Thanks to it, I didn¡¯t notice the owl coming near me. When I did, it was too late; he touched my forehead with one of his feathers.


    It triggered me to shimmer white, though it was followed by the same dark substance Serena had flowing from her other hand.


    That woman did mess with me! No, she gave me something I didn¡¯t want! Just what did she make me?!


    The owl¡¯s eyes widened before narrowing, followed by an intrigued chuckle.


    ¡°Hoho! M¡¯lord, she¡¯s one of a kind! The power flowing within her can surely purify you!¡± He suddenly declared, walking over to Finn like it was something good.


    Purify?!


    Finn shrugged, shaking his head before glaring at me again. That was when the owl once again waved his feathered hand between us, provoking our gaze to meet with him.


    ¡°With that said, her mastery is a long way out. She may be even more interesting than the other woman that came with her. Her potential is extraordinary. We made the right choice, M¡¯lord!¡± The owl assured his lord, glancing back towards me.


    A soft sigh left the demon king¡¯s lips, relaxing his stance. There, he shrugged before gazing back at me.


    ¡°By the end, I¡¯m sure you¡¯d be head over heels for me.¡± He smirked, accepting the challenge I gave.


    Once again, my temperature rose as my heart galloped an unknown race. Huffin, I faced down the man I was supposed to kill.


    There isn¡¯t a reason to kill you. You haven¡¯t done a single thing to me. But¡­


    An unknown warmth came from my lips, and his earlier grip on me was gentle. He probably could rip me apart in many ways if he wanted. Yet I was breathing even when I took his tongue. That alone fired me up even more.


    What kind of demon are you?!


    ¡°I already hate you. So, good luck.¡± I scowled, facing him head-on.


    The king shook his head, shrugging at my words.


    Brielle growled at me, ¡°How dare you talk to my liege like that!?¡±


    The owl refused to let her access me by standing between us.


    Finn turned away from me, heading for the door. ¡°Leave her be. She¡¯s just a dumb human that doesn¡¯t know any better.¡±


    The wolf girl shifted toward him in disbelief before glaring back at me.


    ¡°But M¡¯lord!¡± she mumbled, turning back to me. ¡°You¡¯re lucky he needs you!¡± she scoffed, going for the door.


    I should¡¯ve let her go without saying anything else.


    Being good gave me nothing but pain! I won¡¯t stay down anymore! I refuse!


    Although it probably came with much more misery, I¡¯d enjoy it more.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure the definition of luck for you is different than it¡¯s for me, mutt.¡± I countered.


    Turning to me, those yellow eyes of hers shimmering, fangs flashing at me.


    ¡°Why you!?¡± she snapped, radiating that same aura her king did, weaker than Finn¡¯s.


    However, it didn¡¯t change how she wanted to launch at me. Yet the moment she heard her master¡¯s voice...


    ¡°Brielle, I said leave her!¡± he commanded, louder than before.


    Everything shook because of him, startling me where I stood. The wall he rested his hand on by the door had cracks forming on the stone. There was no denying that man was terrifying and powerful.


    So, why do you need me?! What can I do that you can¡¯t?!


    It was also the first time anyone had protected me, though he only did it because he needed me whole¡ªsomething I couldn¡¯t forget. This time, I wouldn¡¯t give any of me to anyone!

 Chapter 5: Shadows…

    Brielle¡¯s eyes shone brightly before dimming at Finn¡¯s command.


    ¡°Yes, M¡¯lord.¡± She muttered, leaving behind her master.


    The owl gazed at me, shaking his head, while the goblin watched the king leave. It stayed by the door, glancing towards the owl and me.


    ¡°Girl, why do you want to make enemies?¡± He asked, leaving me feeling hollow inside.


    It wasn¡¯t like I wanted enemies. No one ever saw value in me or cared enough to get to know me, and those few who did quickly left me once they knew who my parents were.


    Well, I¡¯m sure they aren¡¯t that different here.


    ¡°There¡¯s no such thing as friends or family,¡± I answered, clenching my fists and biting my lip.


    For someone like me, such a thing didn¡¯t exist. Everyone who ever dared to call themselves my friend abandoned me the moment they learned I was the daughter of a serial rapist.


    How did they figure it out?


    Well, my mom¡¯s case was the one that put my biological father in jail. He got sloppy, and she managed to get away. So, there were public records of who she was and who I was.


    I¡¯m living proof it happened.


    However, this was a different world or planet.


    Will they find out?


    It would come out anyway.


    Evelyn¡¯s here, too. Probably everyone else already knows.


    I could already imagine her calling me a devil¡¯s spawn to all the others back in that basement.


    ¡°You know, I think you and the lord will be great friends if you let it happen.¡± The owl announced, making me scoff at the thought.


    ¡°There isn¡¯t a world where that would happen. Friends aren¡¯t my thing.¡± I sighed, clasping onto my chest.


    The iron taste was still in my mouth, along with the warmth his lips left on me. It was warm and...


    Why¡­ did you kiss me so gently?


    I didn¡¯t notice when I reached for my lips¡ªsomething the owl noted for different reasons.


    ¡°By the way, you need to drink your antidote daily.¡± He announced, walking towards me.


    Wait! Do I have to kiss him every day?!


    ¡°W-what?¡± I stumbled out.


    ¡°If it comes from our king, it¡¯ll be easier for you.¡± The crazy bird continued, leaving me flustered.


    ¡°Wait, I can¡¯t follow you! I¡¯ve got to kiss him every day?! If not, I¡¯ll become a demon?!¡± I yelped, feeling like my head was spinning.


    Sadly, the bird wouldn¡¯t make it better.


    ¡°Yes. Well, you don¡¯t have to kiss him. You can drink his blood, saliva, or semen, too. It has to be ingested or, well, uh, kept in your lady hole.¡± He informed me.


    I felt my heart drop.


    ¡°What?!¡± I squealed, eyes twitching.


    Death couldn¡¯t come for me sooner.


    A soft chuckle left the owl. ¡°A kiss or ingesting his fluids will last around twelve hours. But if you have sex with him, it can last up to three days. I would say four, but let¡¯s stay within the safety window.¡±


    That¡¯s even worse, you bird brain!


    ¡°You know what. I think I¡¯ll become a demon instead.¡± I huffed.


    That was when I suddenly felt the hair on my body rise again.


    The owl gazed at me coldly as his king had. ¡°I¡¯ll forgive you for being ignorant, but I doubt you want to spend hundreds of years like an animal.¡±


    My voice refused to leave me as his gaze pierced through my soul.


    ¡°Your only purpose as a fresh demon is to seek and kill everything you see. All while thoughts of your past life torture you.¡± The owl scoffed, turning away from me.


    Even though I knew nothing of what he spoke about, it sounded like they were in constant agony by just breathing, and that was enough to make me tremble where I was. The last thing I wanted was more pain.


    No, I only wished for peace, which wouldn¡¯t come if I became what they were.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    ¡°This curse will make you lose your reason for being. Most of us still don¡¯t have it. Do you even know what it is to be rabid? Or to have an uncontrollable thirst for flesh and blood?¡± The owl stopped, noticing he was startling me.


    I knew nothing of these people. Yet I judged them anyway.


    Am I any different from¡­


    Even though it felt like there was a knot in my throat, ¡°Fuck¡­¡± I mumbled.


    A soft hum left his lips, crossing his feathered arms. I had to be better than everyone who did the same to me. Especially to someone who hadn¡¯t done a single thing to me.


    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± I asked, shifting my glance away from him.


    They didn¡¯t deserve my attitude. At least this owl didn¡¯t, and the king saved me from a fate worse than death, even if I didn¡¯t want to admit it.


    ¡°My name¡¯s Rizak, young one. Shall we show you to your room? I know it¡¯s been a long day for you.¡± He pointed towards the goblin by the door.


    A soft sigh left me, nodding. Fighting was useless; the best way to engage in this was with knowledge, which I severely lacked. The owl walked over to the small goblin, who nodded, waiting for me to follow them.


    ¡°Hey¡­ how old are you all?¡± I continued to inquire, stepping towards them.


    ¡°I¡¯ve lost count of the years. We¡¯re immortal to everything but the saint¡¯s magic.¡± He answered.


    So that¡¯s why we were called here to kill Finn. But¡­ why? What has he done to deserve death?


    I shook my head, placing my hands in my jacket¡¯s pockets.


    A life filled with torture¡­ Isn¡¯t death better? Why do any of these people want to live in constant agony?


    That was an answer I wasn¡¯t ready to hear, though. Yes, a question I wouldn¡¯t dare to ask. Hesitantly, I followed the duo towards a room two levels down, yet once again, everything was too dark for me.


    The only thing I could spot was the lantern the goblin was holding in front of me before slowly placing it down when they opened the door, clapping its hands. Like magic, all the hanging lamps around lit.


    They were brighter than the candles used in the tower. Thanks to that, I could see I was in a place with a pool of running water. There were also stalls around with metal showerheads in each one. This surprised me as there appeared to be plumbing in this run-down castle.


    Like the others, the room was worn down, colorless, and poorly decorated, but it was cleaner than the halls.


    ¡°By tomorrow, all the halls will have candles so you can see without a guide!¡± The goblin announced, gesturing to me to go in. ¡°You should wash off all that blood. It can attract others, and we don¡¯t want that. I¡¯ll wait for you outside once you¡¯re done, M¡¯lady.¡± She bowed her head.


    So¡­ you¡¯re the one with the squeaky voice.


    Noticing my hesitation, Rizak pushed me onward into the room. ¡°Go on, child. It¡¯s safe. This is the king¡¯s bathroom. Only those trusted by him are allowed to use it.¡± He assured me.


    That didn¡¯t make me feel any better. However, I walked inside before they closed the door behind me. For the first time since all of this began, I was alone. Taking another step in, I gazed around to see no exit.


    This room had no windows or anything like that other than the door behind me. It didn¡¯t matter, either. We only went down two floors; there was no escape either way.


    If I even try, there is a high chance I¡¯ll turn into a demon, and if that happens, then I¡¯ll be stuck in this life, reliving nightmares.


    I could¡¯ve tried to drown myself, but that wouldn¡¯t work.


    No one has ever drowned themselves without a current to help them or weights to bring them down.


    It wasn¡¯t an appealing way to go, either. After waiting a couple of minutes to see if anything would jump out at me, I cupped my face.


    Nothing¡­ there¡¯s no one else here. I can¡¯t understand them.


    ¡°Heh¡­ the water here is probably cold,¡± I mumbled.


    Taking another step in, I noticed there were clothes there. It was a comfortable blue gown with slippers. I went to reach for it, only to stop when I saw how bloody my hand was. Flashes of what happened struck me, causing me to gasp.


    ¡°I¡­¡± I clasped my hands, shaking my head.


    I didn¡¯t mean to kill you! I promise, please! Forgive me for ruining your life!


    Tears streaked down my cheeks, marking the moment I was finally breaking as sharp sobs left me. I had been holding everything back all this time, but I was finally alone, and there was no need to.


    I wish I weren¡¯t born! You shouldn¡¯t have given birth to me! Why did you bring me into this life, Mom?! Everyone hates me! I¡¯ll never¡­


    ¡°Fuck! Why did you follow me into my room?!¡± I cried, gazing up at the stone roof, falling onto my knees.


    All I ever wanted was for you to love me too! Why couldn¡¯t you see me as your daughter?!


    All I wanted was to be loved, but no one was willing. No, everyone left me with scars that wouldn¡¯t heal. Another memory was¡­


    Ah¡­ I was about ten when¡­


    ¡°Daddy, Do you love me too?¡± I asked after hearing him say it to my sister.


    Not once did he ever say it to me.


    ¡°Love you?¡± Father scoffed, rolling his green eyes before chugging his drink.


    His words froze me where I was.


    ¡°You¡¯re nothing more than a disgusting reminder of everything I lost! Be grateful I even bother to feed you!¡± Father snapped, throwing a bottle at me.


    It barely missed me before shattering on the wall next to me. That was the moment I realized something was wrong with me. Everyone around me said similar things, but they never stuck with me until later.


    However, his hate-filled expression filled burned into my mind that day.


    ¡°If only I weren¡¯t married to her! Then you wouldn¡¯t have been my responsibility!¡± He went for another bottle.


    After that day, I never dared to ask him again. My father wasn¡¯t the only monster in my life.


    ¡°Yeah, she gives some bad vibes.¡±


    ¡°Stay away from her.¡±


    ¡°Hey, have you heard her real daddy is a¡­¡±


    If their intentions only stayed in words, no, they did much worse. Kids were much crueler than adults because they didn¡¯t do it out of necessity. Their reasoning was much more straightforward. All they wanted was for me to apologize for existing, for being that man¡¯s biological daughter.


    A man¡¯s name I didn¡¯t even know or care to know; all I knew was that he had raped and killed twenty women before they caught him. My mother was his twenty-first, leaving him with a sentence of life in prison.


    Many didn¡¯t approve of it, using me as an outlet for their revenge. There were too many invisible scars in my heart. It wouldn¡¯t be long before it broke into many pieces again. Even when I tried to stick them together, something always came around to shatter them into smaller bits.


    I had lost how many times I had to put myself together.


    How many times must I try? No, that¡¯s right, this life¡­ isn¡¯t meant for me. I¡­ hate this. Breathing is so hard. It always has been!


    I reached up to my neck, hands trembling, before shaking my head.


    If I could only stop the hurt. Yet I don¡¯t want to die. Ah¡­ I¡¯m such a coward!


    Perhaps then I would finally dive into a silent ocean.


    ¡°Fuck! I never want this!¡± I shouted, slamming my hands into the ground.


    At that moment, I noticed darkness sprouted out of me. Thick shadows surrounded me instead of the stone floor, responding to my negative emotions.


    Power of curses¡­ Is this what Serena¡­


    ¡°What the¡­¡± I mumbled, tears still trailing down my cheeks.


    Salvation or damnation¡­


    There was no way I was a saint.


    No¡­ I¡¯m the devil.


    These demons brought death to their door, and they didn¡¯t even know it.

 Chapter 6: Broken Heart

    Clenching my hands, I got up from the cold floor, shifting my gaze towards the pool. Luckily, the shadows dissipated as soon as I was on my feet. Clasping my hands onto my chest, I could feel my body quivering.


    What was that?


    Once again, I glanced around, thinking someone would come in after that display, but no one did.


    Damnation or salvation¡­


    There was no doubt in my mind I was their death. Even if they were demons, they didn¡¯t deserve it. Not when they hadn¡¯t done a single thing to hurt me.


    ¡°I have to get out of here,¡± I mumbled, closing my eyes.


    Before I explode again¡­ and hurt them¡­ I don¡¯t want to kill anyone else.


    Taking some deep breaths, I shook my head.


    I can¡¯t allow myself to hurt anyone else. For once¡­ can I not destroy everything I touch?


    ¡°Shit¡­ I got to get a grip.¡± I sighed, wiping my face.


    Slowly, I took off all my bloody clothes before heading to the nearby shower stall. Turning on the water, I was surprised by how warm it was. Beside the stall was a glass bottle with what smelled like soap.


    It was lavender, though thanks to the miasma, it was difficult to tell it apart. Watching the bloodstains being washed away from my skin brought me no relief. Yet I refused to break again, not if it meant those shadows would come out again.


    Biting onto my lower lip, I noticed what that goblin had left on my arm: a silver-colored bracelet. It was simple but hexagon-shaped with a water droplet in the middle. Touching it, it appeared like any other jewelry, but the moment I tried to remove it, I couldn¡¯t.


    It had nothing to unclip, and trying to rip it off wasn¡¯t working either.


    ¡°What the hell is this?!¡± I grumbled, struggling, but it didn¡¯t budge.


    A soft groan left me, rolling my eyes.


    Is this fucking magic or something?


    Shaking my head, I focused on washing my body before leaving the stall and drying myself with a towel near the clothes before putting them on. The cloth was made of silk, making it soft on my skin.


    I didn¡¯t know how to feel about it since I never had fancy clothes. No, everything I wore came from cheap stores that broke in a wash or two. Even my underwear and socks always had holes, much like the ones I have taken off.


    This was the first time in years I wore something without imperfections, prompting me to feel odd. Especially when looking in the mirror, I didn¡¯t recognize myself.


    These are too beautiful for me.


    The gown had long sleeves, fur ends at the bottom, and a collar reaching the middle of my neck. It was warmer than what I had on. I was so used to feeling cold that feeling else was strange.


    Winters usually didn¡¯t bother me since my father had removed the heater from my room to save money. I got out of the bathroom and saw the goblin waiting for me. Rizak had left, probably summoned by the demon king.


    ¡°Are you done, M¡¯lady?¡± the little thing asked.


    I couldn¡¯t understand why I feared it in the first place. Even though these monsters were terrifying-looking, they were more civil than ordinary people.


    ¡°Sylvia,¡± I mumbled, clasping onto my arm.


    Yet, I still couldn¡¯t bring myself to trust them. Sadly, I couldn¡¯t help but feel they would drop me like everyone else if I let them in, but at least they could call me by my name.


    ¡°Excuse me?¡± it tilted its head.


    Its eyes were uniformly red and glossy. There was no trace of a human within it, yet behind all of that was a sentient being, and it deserved to be treated with dignity¡ªat least until it showed its true colors.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    ¡°My name¡­ is Sylvia.¡± I clarified, shifting my glance toward the floor again.


    ¡°Oh, my lady. Mine¡¯s Nyla.¡± It smiled, clapping her hands.


    A female?!


    I couldn¡¯t tell before, but the more I studied her, the more her mannerisms appeared to be like one.


    ¡°I see. Thank you for the clothes. You got them for me, right?¡± I asked, clasping onto the gown.


    How can something like her have eyes for something so pretty? No¡­ That¡¯s wrong.


    ¡°Oh yes, yes! The king picked out many clothes for you. Well, he had the Arachne make plenty of all sizes, too. But gosh, you¡¯re beautiful without all that gunk on you. Lord Finn will be speechless!¡± She giggled, leaving me feeling sick to my stomach.


    Finn¡­ he¡­ arg¡­ no¡­


    ¡°I¡¯m sure he couldn¡¯t care less about how I look.¡± I sighed, remembering the way he gazed at me before.


    I was nothing more than a bug in his eyes.


    No, all that bastard wants from me is¡­


    ¡°Well, he¡¯ll marry you even if you look like me. So, yes, he doesn¡¯t care how you look. I mean, look at us. We all used to be humans. So, we can¡¯t judge, but that doesn¡¯t change the fact that you have the appearance of a queen,¡± she smiled.


    Why¡­


    I didn¡¯t know how to answer her anymore, so I followed her a floor to a room. There were two, though, and they were right before each other.


    ¡°The king¡¯s bedroom¡¯s right in front of you. And I¡¯ll be your personal servant if you need anything. I''ve got great hearing, so call me, and I shall appear.¡± Nyla assured me.


    Once again, I didn¡¯t know what to say. It was too bad that the entire place appeared run down and untaken care of.


    ¡°Thanks, I¡¯ll be fine.¡± I sighed, going for the doorknob.


    This room probably isn¡¯t any better. If I have a bed, it¡¯ll be better than my actual home.


    However, before I could get to it, Nyla grabbed me by my hand, handing me a small bell. Her hands, although rough to the touch, were gentle. I hadn¡¯t noticed before, but she had a small patch of brown hair on her head.


    ¡°If you need anyone to listen to you. I¡¯ll be here, M¡¯lady. So, please don¡¯t hesitate to¡ª¡± she continued, only for me to interrupt her.


    ¡°Please, just call me Sylvia,¡± I mumbled, dragging my feet in every step.


    A soft nod came from her, retreating her hands away. She wore a small dress, too.


    Why didn¡¯t I notice anything before? Then again, it was all dark.


    ¡°Well, Sylvia, have a pleasant evening. If you get hungry, let me know.¡± She smiled, tugging away from me.


    Opening the door, the first thing that hit me was the light. Unlike all the other rooms, this one was completely clear. Not only that, but it had much more than a bed; it had everything a girl could want.


    There was a single window, but it probably had some magic lock after my unsuccessful escape. That king wouldn¡¯t give me an easy out. A soft sigh left my lips, turning my gaze towards the bed, which had sheets and covers made of fur; the pillows were made of silk.


    Is it the start of winter here, too?


    The air was chilly, but it wasn¡¯t anything I wasn¡¯t used to. The room¡¯s d¨¦cor was feminine, leaving me to wonder who did it. Its colors were light pinks and other lighter tones of red. The wood around, though, was dark brown.


    The bedding was all different colors, grey and white. They filled the wardrobe with beautiful clothes, too.


    Huh? They¡¯re all my size. I guess Nyla and her helpers did this. But why¡­?


    Their speed, though, was amazing. This place was so different from what I was used to. Warmth radiated from everywhere I looked.


    Why waste this much effort on me?


    Feeling defeated, I gazed towards the bed. The only thing that was left was for me to fall asleep. Laying on the bed, I found myself sobbing again, haunted by everything that had happened. Turning my glance to my side, it was like my father was there lying beside me with his head bashed in.


    You¡¯re last words¡­


    They would stay with me for an eternity.


    I¡¯m sorry! Please! Stop! You¡¯re killing me!


    Those words didn¡¯t stop me. Nothing would after he tried to rob me of the one thing I could give to who I wanted. It didn¡¯t matter that he was drunk out of his mind and probably wasn¡¯t even fully there.


    The moment you were off of me, I¡­ I¡¯m no victim.


    If I were, I would¡¯ve run away when I knocked him off me, but I didn¡¯t. No, I keep plunging that lampstand onto his head like all the years of fury that I stored in me exploded. By the time I got winded, it was too late.


    My father was barely recognizable. At that point, no one would believe it was self-defense¡ªperhaps the first two blows, but not the twentieth. Not when I splashed his brains all over the wall, like a grotesque painting.


    Realizing what I had done made me puke right where I was.


    ¡°Fuck! Fuck! What did I do?!¡± My voice didn¡¯t sound like mine.


    No, it was heavy and short of breath, triggering me to run into the bathroom to get a grip. Splashing my face with water, I tried to control my breathing, only to notice how much blood was around me.


    I was an utter mess, too. My clothes were ripped from when he tried...


    If you won¡¯t be useful! Then, at least be a woman for me! His words rang in my ears, causing me to throw the trashcan into the mirror.


    It shattered, prompting glass to rain on the floor.


    ¡°You should have left me alone! This is all your fault!¡± I screamed, stomping my way around our apartment.


    Everything hurt from the beating he gave me. I was used to it, but not to this extent. It felt like he was going to kill me if he didn¡¯t get his way. Usually, he avoided hitting my face.


    Not this time.


    My lip was broken, and my eyes were almost swollen shut. This had been the worst one he had ever given me. In the storm in my mind, thoughts finally formed while lying in the comfiest bed I had ever experienced.


    Why did I even do that for? I should¡¯ve let you do what you wanted! Maybe then I wouldn¡¯t be feeling like this!


    My eyes soon felt heavy from staring at the stone wall and crying. It wasn¡¯t long before my consciousness was consumed in a dreamless state. There was no way to know what the morning would bring.

 Chapter 7: Nothing But A Dose Of Medication…

    The next thing I knew, I was jolting away from the door opening. Finn and Nyla entered the room, leaving the demon lord with his eyes widened and cheeks rosy when he spotted me. Of course, his mouth quickly ruined his fluster look.


    ¡°It¡¯s time for your dose, little girl.¡± He growled; cheeks were still lightly pink.


    I didn¡¯t know what was going through his head, and I couldn¡¯t care enough to find out.


    ¡°I have a name, demon.¡± I huffed, facing him with the same hostility.


    His eyes twitched; I could see him thanks to the sun shining through the window. Even though the light dulled his radiant horns, it allowed me to witness his complexion more; it was so fair that I felt I would leave a bruise on it if I touched it.


    ¡°You refuse to call me by mine. Why should I call you by yours, human?¡± he frowned, stepping into the room.


    My temperature rose, making me clench my teeth.


    Rizak¡¯s wrong. There¡¯s no way we can be friends.


    ¡°Fine then, stupid king. Give me your blood and be done with it.¡± I growled, clasping onto the sheets.


    A smirk rose on his lips, shrugging. ¡°Heh, you¡¯ll get sick if you drink my blood or semen. So, to avoid that, I rather¡ª¡±


    ¡°Then give me another demon who¡¯s willing to do that.¡± I huffed, crossing my arms.


    His eyes twitched again.


    ¡°What?! At least let me finish, you fucking bitch!¡± Finn snapped, eyes giving off a bright hue.


    It should¡¯ve been scary, but I knew he wouldn¡¯t hurt me while he needed me. However, I flinched at the sharpness of his tone. His voice had a familiar feel; it was the same as I used to say to everyone around me.


    Who hurt you?


    Nyla stepped in, even though she was tiny compared to him.


    She patted Finn¡¯s leg. ¡°Now, now, M¡¯lord, your temper.¡±


    Gazing down at her, he sighed, shaking his head. ¡°I¡¯m already trying my best, Nyla.¡±


    His temperament appeared to be quelled by the little goblin.


    How did you¡­ Oh¡­ No¡­


    His eyes were warmer when he glanced at her.


    He trusts you. That¡¯s how.


    ¡°I know, M¡¯lord. Let me try.¡± She smiled, shifting her gaze at me.


    Taking a few steps towards me, ¡°M¡¯la¡ª¡± she stopped, shaking her head.


    Releasing a soft sigh, she focused on me again. ¡°Sylvia, if it comes from a lesser demon like me. You¡¯ll have to drink it every hour. And that wouldn¡¯t be pleasant. You¡¯ll probably end up puking it out and getting sick.¡±


    However, I couldn¡¯t help but deny Finn everything he wanted, even if it was for my well-being.


    ¡°That still sounds more appealing than tongue-locking with this beast.¡± I huffed, glancing away from them.


    ¡°Why you¡ª¡± The demon king began, only to be interrupted by a familiar voice.


    One that made me gaze back at them.


    ¡°M¡¯lord, please be kind to the lady. She¡¯s had a tough time.¡± The white owl from before chuckled, noticing our dilemma.


    ¡°Rizak¡­ this isn¡¯t easy for me.¡± Finn rolled his eyes.


    Ah¡­ They must¡¯ve heard me last night. Crap¡­


    I didn¡¯t even know why I was being difficult. It was obvious it was for my benefit. Drinking blood wasn¡¯t appealing, and the kiss itself wasn¡¯t bad.


    ¡°Morning, Sylvia, Nyla was happy to share your name with everyone last night.¡± The owl greeted me.


    The king, however, appeared done with pleasantries.


    ¡°Look, there isn¡¯t a world where I risk you getting sick. So, the only way you¡¯re getting blood is if you bite me again, and I¡¯d refrain from doing so. Last time, it was hard to hold back from hurting you.¡± He huffed, giving off a bright hue from his eyes.


    ¡°You should¡¯ve just ended me then!¡± I countered.


    This time, it broke something within the demon king.


    ¡°Oi¡­ you little piece of shit.¡± He growled, taking a step towards me.


    His eyes were turning from blue to red again, yet the aura from before dimmed.


    ¡°How about we leave them be for a bit? I have a feeling they¡¯ll figure it out.¡± Rizak chuckled, using his wing to tap Nyla¡¯s back.This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    It caused her to jump up.


    ¡°Oh yes, yes! We shall be outside if you need us!¡± she erupted, walking out.


    However, before Rizak walked out, he glanced back at their king.


    ¡°Finn, you know¡ª¡± he started, only to be interrupted by his lord raising his hand.


    He sighed, ¡°I know, Rizak.¡±, walking to me.


    The others closed the door, causing me to sneer at the demon who stood before me.


    Are you going to force me?


    I couldn¡¯t help but cringe at the thought.


    ¡°I¡¯m used to a beating. So, if you will force me, do it already.¡± I growled, knowing I couldn¡¯t fight against him.


    From what I saw when the wall shattered yesterday, I knew his strength was too much for me to handle.


    Sitting on the bed beside me, his wings lifted slightly to prevent them from dragging on the sheets. ¡°I¡¯m not forcing you. But blood won¡¯t make you feel good, even if it¡¯s twice a day. You have less than an hour to decide.¡±


    Knowing I was cornered, a soft sigh left my lips.


    You''re also stuck in this.


    There was no way he was okay with this. We didn¡¯t know each other. Yet this ritual thing was forcing us together.


    No one would be fine with me.


    Nyla even said he would marry me, even if I were like her. This meant he was desperate, especially when he was as handsome as an angel.


    ¡°What about you? How do you feel about kissing a stranger every day, twice a day?¡± I asked, gazing at him.


    His eyes were frigid while gazing at me.


    Who hurt you?


    I thought I was hurt, but this man was dead instead, intriguing me to know more about him.


    ¡°Well, you aren¡¯t a stranger. You¡¯re going to be my wife. Eventually... And I¡¯m big on monogamy. So, in other words, I¡¯ll only do these things with you.¡± He answered, shrugging.


    There was no affection in his voice. I could never detect emotion other than the rage I invoked on him when I went against his wishes.


    ¡°Why?¡± I mumbled.


    He was different from most others in my life.


    ¡°Just how I am. If you want to see other men, that¡¯s up to you. I don¡¯t care if you love me or not. All I need is your power.¡± He rolled his eyes, shifting them towards me.


    Tapping the bed, he shrugged again. ¡°Look, after that, you can do whatever you want. I¡¯ll even let you live in peace.¡±


    Will you free me after? Is there such a thing as peace?


    ¡°I thought Rizak said I needed to love you for it to work,¡± I mumbled, unable to believe him.


    Yet I couldn¡¯t help but feel Finn had other plans for me.


    There is no way you¡¯ll allow me to live in peace if I¡¯m meant to kill you. Where is your angle?


    ¡°That shit doesn¡¯t exist. So, it must work either way. You need to learn how to use your power, and that bracelet will alert me when it¡¯s time for the ritual, or so Rizak says. Sometimes, that owl plans for things I don¡¯t quite see.¡± He sighed, shaking his head.


    I see¡­


    ¡°So¡­ Love doesn¡¯t exist for you, too,¡± I mumbled, feeling a weird kinship with him.


    Rizak¡­ maybe you¡¯re right.


    Finn leaned closer to me. ¡°Enough talk, decide. Suppose it comes down to the hour; I¡¯ll have no choice but to force it on you.¡±


    His warning tickled my belly, triggering me to giggle.


    Force or willingly¡­


    My laughter caused the demon king to tilt his head.


    ¡°What a choice you¡¯re giving me. Fine.¡± I cackled, rolling my eyes.


    Well, it was better than the choices my father was giving me. At least, these were for my benefit. I surely didn¡¯t want to feel sick or turn into a demon.


    ¡°Fine, what?¡± he smirked, knowing he had won the first battle out of many.


    Again, I rolled my eyes, ¡°Kiss me already,¡± I frowned.


    A soft chuckle left him, pushing me onto the bed. Before I knew it, his wings spread wide, towering over me.


    ¡°You¡¯ll come to enjoy it.¡± He trailed his finger down my cheek.


    His touch was warm and comforting, a first for me.


    Is this how it feels to feel any affection? Even fake ones?


    ¡°Shut up, little king. This is nothing but medicine.¡± I smirked, thinking it would tick him off.


    A sly smile rose on his lips. ¡°If you say so, sparky.¡± He whispered, choosing to ignore my comment.


    Sparky?!


    A second later, our lips met, triggering a warmth I had never felt before to rush through me. It was less shocking than the first one since I saw it coming. Unlike the rushed one, it was gentle too. His tongue traced my lips, leaving me stiff.


    I had never kissed like this before. The other time was a quick peck before it went downhill. My friend¡¯s boyfriend tried to get me with him, forcing a kiss when I told him I wouldn¡¯t hurt her that way.


    She had been my one and only friend since childhood. Of course, I didn¡¯t want to ruin our relationship if I did fancy him. At that time, I didn¡¯t know he had one of his friends standing by to take a picture if I rejected him.


    It was all a dare to fuck the rapist¡¯s daughter. How did he figure it out? I don¡¯t know, but my friend probably told him in confidence.


    That moment ruined everything for her and me. No matter how I pleaded my case, she believed him instead, slapping me right on the face and calling me a whore.


    ¡°Father like daughter!¡± She yelled, storming away.


    That was another thing bullies used against me, turning crueler, especially when the boy said I tried to have my way with him. Thanks to him, I rolled down the stairs more times than I would¡¯ve liked.


    Once again, no one believed me.


    No one ever does.


    Pulling away from my lips, Finn tilted his head. ¡°Hey, haven¡¯t you done this before?¡± he asked, wondering why I wasn¡¯t responding to him.


    Blinking, I shook my head, trying to rid myself of those thoughts. Yet, my past haunted me in everything I did.


    ¡°Not like this,¡± I mumbled, releasing a sigh.


    This is pathetic. I need to get a grip. I¡¯m twenty-two, not fifteen. There¡¯s no reason for me to act this innocent.


    For a moment, I thought he would make fun of me, but instead, he caressed my cheek lightly.


    ¡°I see, then let me teach you. Open your mouth.¡± His voice turned gentle instead of the harsher tones he used before.


    My lips were trembling, doing as he asked.


    ¡°Good girl, now push and play with my tongue. It¡¯ll feel better that way.¡± He simpered, leaning into me again.


    Once again, our lips met. This time, his tongue slipped into my mouth, provoking a soft mewl to leave me and triggering him to smirk. I gripped onto his cloak, tugging it closer, allowing him to deepen the kiss.


    The way his soft member entwined with mine was clumsy yet alluring. It took my breath away with how warm it was. A soft groan came from him when he pulled away, leaving a saliva string connecting us.


    Not wanting to stay behind, I pushed myself slightly to lick it away from his lips, turning his cheeks rosy when I did. Mine were, too, probably. Though, this was more intimate than I thought it would be.


    My heart was racing loudly, drumming in my ears.


    ¡°It¡¯s better not to waste it,¡± I mumbled, trying to stay on top.


    This demon wouldn¡¯t win the war.


    ¡°Cute, don¡¯t tempt me.¡± He sighed, tugging away.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t trying to,¡± I huffed, feeling my heart beat faster.


    It almost felt like I was about to have a heart attack, completely different from when I stood on the edge.


    This is warm.


    ¡°I¡¯m just happy you didn¡¯t bite my tongue off again.¡± He threw a jab at me, getting off the bed.


    A soft rumble left my lips, shaking off the feeling he left on me. ¡°I would do it every time if you never explain yourself.¡±


    Finn turned to me, eyes twitching and growling. The intimacy from that kiss changed nothing. We were still the same, and that was fine with me.


    You won¡¯t conquer that easily with me, either. I need to be careful. Nothing is ever free, and you have your intentions for me.

 Chapter 8: Solas

    Finn glared at me, taking a step towards me again.


    ¡°You really have no tack for a lady in you.¡± He huffed, shaking his head.


    I stuck my tongue at him. ¡°I never wanted to be one.¡±


    A soft chuckle came from his lips. ¡°That¡¯s a good answer.¡±


    Slowly, he reached for his pocket, taking out a strange-looking egg. It almost appeared like a purple gem, shimmering in different hues in his hand.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± I asked, mesmerized by its shine.


    The demon gazed down towards the egg, smirking. ¡°It¡¯s a dark hound.¡± My gaze shifted to his face before he offered the egg to me. ¡°I want you to have it.¡±


    His words left me unsure of his intentions, unable to understand why he was doing this. The clothes and the entire room were enough. It was filled with things I dreamed of having. I didn¡¯t even know how to use vanity close by.


    ¡°Why?¡± I mumbled, narrowing my eyes.


    Are you trying to buy me?


    Noticing the distrust in my eyes, Finn sat back on the bed. ¡°Because it¡¯ll protect you,¡± he informed me.


    It caused me to giggle, like a funny joke.


    ¡°I¡¯m to be the demon king¡¯s wife. Why do I need protection when I have you?¡± I questioned, focusing on him.


    There was something else in the air.


    This isn¡¯t quite right.


    ¡°Not all my generals think you¡¯ll be of use. So, this is to prevent accidents from occurring.¡± He rolled his eyes, shifting them back onto the egg. ¡°It¡¯ll also try to ensure you¡¯re safe even from me.¡± He tapped the egg with his fingers.


    ¡°I see. Even from you¡­¡± I trailed off.


    Why would I need protection from you? Don¡¯t you need me alive?


    ¡°This little guy will be loyal to you first and to me second.¡± He clarified.


    So, its loyalties will be spit. Not that I care; I don¡¯t need anyone on my side.


    Not even this demon''s lingering warmth on me would erase that.


    ¡°So, will it hatch soon?¡± I continued to query, curious about what hideous thing would spawn out of it.


    ¡°It will as soon as I put it in your hand.¡± He answered, shifting his weight towards me.


    I reached for Finn with my palms wide open, waiting for him to give it to me. There was no point in running away or fighting him on this, especially when he was saving me from turning into a demon. At least, that was what they said.


    I¡¯ll play along for now.


    There was no way to know if I¡¯d turn into a demon but to let it happen.


    ¡°Will it be a creepy thing?¡± I mumbled, shivering at the thought of a spider.


    This one wasn''t a fan of crawlers, and those usually came from eggs. However, it could¡¯ve also been a reptile. He said dark hound; neither of those fits a canine. But from what I had seen, anything was possible in this world.


    That slime from yesterday is hard to deny. And right now, I¡¯m with a crazy angel of sorts. Though, your horns aren¡¯t angelic at all.


    ¡°Uh, they usually aren¡¯t cute. But it could change the moment it eats your magic. It¡¯s the first to feed on my power and a saint.¡± He replied, gazing at me with those cold blue eyes.


    The warmth from before was gone.


    ¡°Wait, why does it need to feed on my magic? And do I even have any?¡± I questioned, pulling my hands away.


    ¡°Yeah, basically, it¡¯ll be your familiar, and as I said before, it¡¯ll be loyal to you first.¡± Finn sighed.


    I narrowed my eyes again, tugging away.


    You¡¯re trying to buy me, aren¡¯t you?! I can¡¯t trust a single thing about you!


    ¡°Why would you do that?¡± I huffed, crossing my arms.


    Another soft sigh came from his lips. ¡°Look, I can¡¯t trust myself to always control the beast with me. I may look human but still struggle with my cardinal desires.¡± He shook his head, shifting his gaze to the window.


    ¡°You say you¡¯ve killed. But I¡¯ve done genocide of bloodlines in a fit of anger.¡± Finn confessed, keeping his eyes locked on the window.You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    Were those people the ones who hurt you? Is that why you look so dead all the time?


    ¡°There are still many I wish to eliminate.¡± He sighed, shaking his head.


    Gritting his teeth, his fangs flashed. I didn¡¯t feel them when we kissed, but they appeared sharper than any blade I saw. Clasping onto the hand holding the egg caused a slight shimmer to come from it.


    ¡°Maybe I shouldn¡¯t push your buttons so much then,¡± I mumbled, gazing at him.


    Though, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder how many emotions I could provoke in this demon king. When he was around, I couldn¡¯t help but notice I wasn¡¯t thinking of other things that plagued me when I was alone.


    Perhaps he wasn¡¯t such a bad guy.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you''ve seen reason.¡± He smirked, handing me the egg.


    A soft giggle left me. ¡°Or maybe I should push them. It would get me out of this situation quicker, wouldn¡¯t it?¡±


    His eyes twitched again, flashing red, too.


    ¡°Oi, Sparky, that¡¯s the complete opposite!¡± he huffed, grabbing the sheets.


    A soft, red aura erupted from him, yet he appeared to be a pouting child more than anything else. He didn¡¯t seem much older than I.


    If a curse changed you into what you are. What age did it take you?


    Rizak had mentioned they were all immortal. Yet my curiosity was growing within me.


    How old are you? You really don¡¯t look any older than me. But at the same time, you look so tired of life. Much more than me.


    However, to show I cared would¡¯ve been a mistake. Even as annoyed as he looked, for some reason, I felt safe.


    Why is that? Am I resonating with you?


    That answer still eluded me. Perhaps it had to do with the gentle kiss he gave me, even though I could¡¯ve bitten his tongue off again.


    ¡°Little king, thank you for the things you¡¯re giving me, but I won¡¯t marry you. I hope you know that.¡± I declared, facing him straight on.


    Even before all of this, marriage was never something I ever thought of doing. I had crippling debt and had a rapist for a father. No one in their right mind would¡¯ve had a relationship with me. Well, if they knew me.


    You¡¯ll probably be the same, if not worse.


    Shrugging, he shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s only the second day. You¡¯ll come around to an agreement.¡±


    You make it sound like a contract waiting to be written. Wait¡­ Isn¡¯t that what marriage is?


    ¡°What should I name it?¡± I asked, ignoring that.


    There was no use in going in circles. Plus, the egg in my hands was slowly shimmering brighter. It was more interesting than any marriage idea.


    ¡°Name it anything you want. It¡¯s yours.¡± He answered, getting up from the bed.


    Sitting on the edge, I titled my head, inspecting the little oval thing in my hands.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never had a pet before.¡± I sighed, unsure of how I¡¯d even care for it.


    Dad was always allergic to animals. Even when Evelyn wanted a cat, he never gave it to her.


    ¡°It¡¯ll be more than a pet. Familiars were more like life companions. Once you have one, it¡¯ll be with you until death.¡± He informed me, voice shaking, clasping at his chest.


    A soft smile rose on his lips, yet his eyes showed no signs of joy.


    Did you have a familiar at one point? Does that mean you''re a mage or a wizard? Hold on, am I one?


    Shaking my head, I decided to focus. It was apparent this world had magic. Though, what interested me more was¡­


    ¡°Do you have one?¡± I asked, examining his expressions.


    His eyes squinted while his lips curled downward at my question, quickly shifting his eyes from me.


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t. I can¡¯t have one anymore. All I can do is connect myself to them. Much like I did with that hound, it has my blood coursing through its veins.¡± He sighed, avoiding my gaze.


    You¡¯re not being truthful.


    Being direct with him wouldn¡¯t get me anywhere; even if this demon called me sparky, he was more explosive than me. Everything was stemming from the curse that affected all of them. Yet, I knew he wasn¡¯t all bad from how he gazed at Nyla.


    She also showed him respect and affection. Surely, a mad king wouldn¡¯t get that respect.


    Rizak¡­ are you right? Can this man and I be friends?


    Heck, we were doing things that were more than friendly. Though, he didn¡¯t lean to touch me again. For a demon, he was a strangely gentle one.


    ¡°Like an offspring?¡± I mumbled.


    It caused him to jump up, shaking his head. I never expected to see his eyes open so wide.


    ¡°No! I don¡¯t have any children!¡± he quickly went on the defense, voice pitched high.


    I had never seen a startled demon or anyone before. Laughter erupted from me at an unstoppable rate.


    Gosh, what?! How can you be that cute?!


    His eyes twitched again, watching me like I had lost it. This time, though, there wasn¡¯t any red aura coming from him. No, all that was relatively pink was his cheeks, reaching his ears.


    ¡°Oi! Sparky! Don¡¯t do that to my heart, okay?!¡± he huffed, narrowing his eyes and growling soon after.


    He was too easy to tease. However, what was said after caused me to stop.


    ¡°It¡¯s more like a part of me.¡± He sighed, shaking his head.


    My heart stopped, ¡°Wait, you¡¯re giving me a part of you?!¡± I gasped.


    Why the fuck would you give anyone a part of yourself? Especially someone like me. I¡¯m a stranger. A nobody. A danger. Much like you are, you won¡¯t fool me!


    However, this had nothing to do with trust. No, it was more like a need between us.


    ¡°Yeah. It isn¡¯t like you can kill me with it. It¡¯ll be connected to me, though. So, it can use my power to protect you. I¡¯ll also know if you¡¯re in danger. Stuff like that.¡± Finn waved his hand, dismissing it.


    Is this something normal!? Or is everyone an idiot in this world?!


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡± I gazed back at the egg.


    It was glowing brighter than before.


    ¡°I need you alive and well. That¡¯s all.¡± Finn informed me, leaving me shrugging.


    I¡¯m something to be discarded after¡­ Like you said. No one would ever want me for me. Not even a demon like you. Well, it isn¡¯t like I need you. Still¡­ It stings.


    Clasping onto my chest, I shook my head, ¡°Right¡­ that¡¯s all I¡¯m good for.¡±


    The tone in my voice caused Finn to click his tongue.


    ¡°Wait, that¡¯s not¡ª¡± He started, only to be interrupted by the egg cracking.


    Soon after, a light consumed the room before dimming, leaving a ball of fur in my palm¡ªa tiny pup with a snow-white coat. The right side of its face was red, and the left was black.


    It also had its paws alternating between red and black. The tip of its tail was red, followed by black, and then its dominant white fur. However, the moment it opened its eyes, I felt a vibration.


    They were grey like mine. A name formed in my mind, one I couldn¡¯t let go of. I didn¡¯t know my expression, but Finn was flustered when I turned to him.


    ¡°What will you name it?¡± he asked, gazing at the pup in my hands.


    However, it looked too fluffy to be a dog, a furball. There wasn¡¯t a single dark thing about him.


    You''re a perfect little thing!


    For the first time, my heart was stolen in seconds of meeting another living being. I thought this was impossible, yet I couldn''t help the butterflies fluttering in my stomach, leaving me humming and pondering for a name.


    ¡°Sol.. as¡­ His name will be Solas.¡± I simpered, bringing him up to my lips.


    I never thought I would see something born into this world, let alone hold a tiny life in my hands.


    Perhaps this world isn¡¯t so shitty all the time.

 Chapter 9: Gael

    After Solas¡¯s birth, Finn left me with Nyla to attend to his duty. The infamous generals wanted to meet him, but that wasn¡¯t my concern. No, all that was in my mind was the little pup in my hands.


    Nyla told me he would grow to full size within a week. Something I couldn¡¯t believe, then again, he was a demon feeding on my magical power. So, I needed to open my mind to this world''s possibilities.


    At least I didn¡¯t think I was surrounded by aliens anymore, or perhaps I was.


    This is another world, so it can be considered alien-like.


    Putting on more comfortable clothes to walk in, I placed little Solas in a bag; he fit snugly in it. With that, I headed out with Nyla into the halls of a broken castle. She took me into the dining room to eat before showing me around the castle.


    Thankfully, because it was morning, everything was easier to see. Though, there was a light tint of purple everywhere. Its thickness got worse with every floor we went down. Nyla assured me it was okay to breathe in as long as I had my dose, yet I couldn¡¯t help but feel jittery the lower I went.


    Something about it gives me the icks.


    The castle appeared to be a tomb more than a home, as the decorations outside my room were destroyed or burned down. Unidentifiable dark stains were on the stone, the floor, and the walls; whatever they had used to paint had withered with time.


    Whatever happened here is older than I am, that¡¯s for sure.


    There were signs of a fight everywhere my eyes landed.


    How long have these people suffered?


    Before that thought could¡¯ve gone further, the little goblin stunned me right where I was.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting so long for our lord to get a wife! The lady should be the one to decorate! A new start for all of us!¡± She hummed, walking towards our destination.


    It left me silent the entire walk there.


    Being the demon lord¡¯s wife isn¡¯t something I am keen on fulfilling.


    The way she spoke about it made me bite my tongue, though.


    She¡¯s loyal to her king and nothing else¡ªno point in fighting.


    It was going better than the previous day, but not to the extent of marrying him. All I wanted was to get to know him better. If I were stuck there, I would have to figure out a way out of this mess. Yet I couldn¡¯t deny Finn¡¯s pain; it made me want to know how he lived so long with that burden.


    Perhaps in his reasons, I could find mine as well. Since Solas popped out of his shell, Finn¡¯s warning rang in my head.


    The pup will die with me if I expire. My stunt with the window gave you an idea of how little I care for my safety.


    I had willingly been leading into a trap. Though, I couldn¡¯t get bothered by it. Solas was adorable, even if it dented one of my exits.


    It doesn¡¯t change how the demon king trapped me. This trick came from Rizak, surely. There''s no way that you could¡¯ve thought of that.


    Although the owl appeared friendly, there was no doubt that he was set on using me too.


    All of them were, but I must stay calm and collected for now. I must see what they''re planning and ruin it.


    At least the other monsters weren¡¯t threatening me; even when I walked down the halls with Nyla, they all gazed at me before continuing. The ones inside the castle had their humanity to some extent, or at least that was what the little goblin said.


    I don¡¯t understand what she means by that, but they shouldn¡¯t touch the king¡¯s future wife, right?


    Once in the dining room, everything was a mess there, too. Most of the wooden decorations were charred, and even the table was deformed.


    ¡°Sorry for how everything looks, but the king has other things on his mind. I try to keep everything clean, though!¡± Nyla smiled, ushering me inside.


    This is too much for you alone. How can anyone live like this? No, why live like this when you don¡¯t have to?


    It only made me more curious about what Finn was thinking.


    ¡°Sit, sit, please, so we can bring you a meal!¡± the little goblin continued to smile.


    Releasing a sigh, I sat in one of the more stable chairs, unsure how a little demon like her could make a meal. The kitchen was probably taller than she was. Nonetheless, she disappeared into the room on the left when I studied my surroundings.


    Whatever happened in this place left its mark everywhere. Well, all but my room.


    The effort they made it look normal was unreal. They did the same in the bathroom, but everything else was as if a storm had passed. Shaking my head, I picked up the bag holding Solas within, still sleeping soundly.


    You look nothing like what I thought you would. None of you are¡­ what I thought you¡¯d be.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    A smile crept up my lips when I poked his cheek; it was so soft.


    I¡¯ve only known you for a couple of hours, yet¡­


    Before Finn left, he mentioned that once Solas was bigger, he could speak. This allured me in many ways, and I became jittery at the thought of having a talking dog for a friend.


    If he would be...


    Suddenly, a loud noise startled me, triggering me to glance at the door to see the demon lord and Brielle entering the room.


    ¡°Oh, I didn¡¯t mean to scare you, sparky.¡± He chuckled.


    The female wolf glowered at me, remembering everything I had said the previous day. It caused me to avert my eyes away from them.


    Scary¡­


    ¡°You¡¯re done with the others?¡± I mumbled, feeling the pressure of the wolf.


    From everything I said before, it wasn¡¯t like I didn¡¯t bring it onto myself. At least Finn appeared friendly, but his eyes were still fridged.


    ¡°Hardly. I needed a breath, and what better excuse than to check on my fianc¨¦e?¡± he declared, triggering me to glance at him.


    However, before I could argue anything, Brielle pointed towards the door Nyla had entered. ¡°Is that smoke?¡±


    When I noticed the fumes, I ran towards them, worried for Nyla. There wasn¡¯t a moment when I thought of my safety. She had been sweet to me, and I didn¡¯t want to see her injured or worse.


    Opening the door, I saw her coughing as a flame on the stove was out of control. However, before I could run in to grab her, Finn grabbed onto my shirt, yanking me from back towards him. Falling into him, he raised his hand towards the inferno.


    It was drawn to his hand a second later as he devoured it.


    Closing his hand, a soft sigh came from him. ¡°Nyla, love, what are you doing?¡± Finn huffed, eyes twitching.


    His grip on me was tight and protective, something I couldn¡¯t understand. The little goblin turned to us, still slightly wheezing.


    ¡°Oh, my lord.¡± She hacked a bit more, shaking her head. ¡°I thought I could make a meal for our lady.¡± She paused, coughing some more, ¡°But I forgot about the heating! It¡¯s been so long since I¡¯ve cooked!¡± She tried to explain herself, getting off a stool she had been using to reach the stove.


    That was when I noticed he even consumed the smoke surrounding everything, too.


    All but her.


    ¡°I told you to let Gael deal with it.¡± He let me go.


    Where he had held me, for some reason, it was warm, too.


    ¡°But m¡¯lord, he hasn¡¯t returned since he entered the human territory yesterday.¡± She announced, taking a few steps towards me.


    Finn''s soft red aura alerted me that his mood was souring.


    ¡°He isn¡¯t back?¡± he muttered, clenching his hands into fists.


    Oh, no, no one will lose their head because of me.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I can scavenge something up.¡± I stepped in, hoping to stop where this was headed.


    Whatever Finn was doing before he came there obviously already had him in a bad mood. It was showing more with everything that went wrong.


    ¡°But Sylvia, I¡ª¡± Nyla tried to discourage me.


    Probably some queen-bull shit.


    ¡°Look, I learned to cook when I was eight. I¡¯ll be fine by myself. And I won¡¯t burn down the kitchen.¡± I didn¡¯t let her dissuade me.


    Stepping into the room, everything was like a tornado had gone through. All her fellow goblins were covered in some food, too.


    ¡°Arg, let her do as she pleases. I have to go back to the generals. It¡¯s better if I explode there than here.¡± Finn huffed, walking out of the room.


    Brielle scowled at me before leaving, too. A soft giggle left me, turning towards Nyla, covered in flour from head to toe. The entire kitchen was a mess, yet I didn¡¯t mind it.


    ¡°Gael¡¯s the castle cook, I¡¯m guessing?¡± I asked, wetting a rag to clean.


    Picking up a broom made of hay and wood, the little goblin smirked. ¡°Oh, yes, yes. He is. But we demons don¡¯t have to eat every day like you. So, he leaves for the human territory to find new recipes.¡±


    That¡¯s pretty interesting. A demon who likes to cook. Huh¡­ They really aren¡¯t any different from us.


    Other goblins were around us, helping us clean, too. However, their appearance was still unsettling, so I kept my distance even if I didn¡¯t mean to be rude. Thanks to his humanoid appearance, Finn was easier to get used to; the others would take some time.


    This brings me to¡­


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t the humans fear him?¡± I asked, trying to create chatter to ignore the grumbling from my belly.


    Hunger was nothing new. I was used to going nights and mornings without eating. My father made sure I was underweight for most of my life until I got a job to buy my food. Of course, all the fast food made me gain a couple of pounds.


    Thankfully, it wasn¡¯t too much, thanks to school and work keeping me active, especially when I tried to get into an archery and kendo club. It was fun and accessible since the school offered them as electives, and being an honor student allowed me to have two.


    I was pretty good at both, but I never got too much into archery. Kendo, the sword art, was more alluring to me, but I did everything to stay away from home. I usually got home in the early morning hours after my part-time job.


    A couple who owned the restaurant I worked for has constantly fed and paid me for the past eight years. They even let me study while I cooked and served, but I lost my nirvana last week when they got into an accident.


    The wife died, leaving behind the old husband who had to close the restaurant, leaving me without a place to work while he figured out everything. I understood his reasons, even if they meant I¡¯d be fucked.


    His family came first, and he had to mourn her.


    Heck, I cried at her loss, too. She was one of the good ones.


    It was one of the many reasons I found myself up on that edge. The little goblin reminded me of that old, kind woman.


    Life¡¯s one tough son of a bitch to go through.


    ¡°He¡¯s a shifter. No one there knows his real form.¡± Nyla answered, prompting me to hum.


    ¡°I see,¡± I mumbled, wiping the table.


    The doors opened again, allowing someone else to enter the kitchen. Turning around towards the noise, I saw a man with crimson eyes and blue hair. It was longer than Finn¡¯s, reaching his bum in a tight ponytail.


    His skin was tan, much like a light chocolate bar.


    ¡°Who the fuck is this?¡± the man huffed, dropping bags full of ingredients onto the stone floor.


    The moment my eyes shifted towards one, something changed in the room. With a single movement of his hand, the mess was gone.


    Is that magic? Like the candles that turn on by themselves. This is so disorientating!


    Nyla was unfazed by it, turning to him with a giant grin on her lips.


    ¡°Oh! Gael! I thought something happened to you in human territory! I¡¯m so happy to see you!¡± she beamed, dropping the broom.


    I couldn¡¯t help but feel a little in this stranger¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Nothing but a nice ass that kept me there. Now, who¡¯s this girl? She smells human.¡± He huffed, studying me with an icy stare.


    I could tell this demon wasn¡¯t used to humans being on this side of the fence. The little goblin rushed towards him, jumping before slapping his head.


    ¡°Gael! Watch your words! This is the lord¡¯s fianc¨¦e! You knew she was coming!¡± she scolded, pouting.


    For the little thing that she was, she had personality. For some reason, this man reminded me a lot of their lord. The surrounding air was heavy and darker around him compared to the rest. His eyes were lifeless, too.


    ¡°Oh¡­ so she¡¯s finally here? I thought that was later.¡± He shrugged, walking towards me.


    Grabbing onto my hand, he kneeled before placing his lips on my hand and kissing it. I couldn¡¯t help but pull away from him.


    ¡°Pleasure to meet you, my lady. My name¡¯s Gael. Suppose the king doesn¡¯t satisfy you. I surely can, with my body and cooking.¡± He smirked, prompting my eyes to twitch.


    What? Is any demon here normal?!


    It appeared the mountain of colorful characters kept increasing, and this one appeared to be one to be wary of. Yet Finn trusted him with me, which would be something that eluded me.

 Chapter 10: Hostility

    I knew nothing of anyone in this world. Yet, I judged them based on my first impression.


    It''s such a human thing to do. Yet¡­ Why is this demon kissing my hand?! Surely that warrants some reaction?!


    Before I could say anything, someone else took the lead.


    ¡°Gael! What do you think you¡¯re doing?! Have some decency!¡± Nyla huffed, slapping him on the back of the head again.


    A soft growl left his lip, letting go of my hand. ¡°Decency? We lost that long ago, dearie.¡±


    The little goblin huffed, crossing her arms. ¡°I don¡¯t care! Ever since I got my humanity back! I intend to keep it.¡±


    It was cute watching her pout like that.


    Well, as adorable as a monster can be.


    ¡°Oh, please. If it weren¡¯t for me. You¡¯d be feeding on humans still to keep that part of you.¡± He chuckled, walking into the kitchen.


    This entire time, I had neglected a simple question that he brought to mind with those words.


    Why did my kin hate the demons?


    ¡°Feeding on humans?¡± I mumbled, feeling shivers run down my spine.


    I didn¡¯t mean to word it out, but it was too late. It caused Nyla to bite her lip, grabbing her arms as her glance shifted away from me.


    ¡°Oh, right. You know nothing about this world.¡± Gale sighed, making Nyla shake her head.


    ¡°Don¡¯t¡­¡± her voice shrunk.


    Ignoring her, he continued, ¡°Goblins feed on flesh, much like most other demon. It¡¯s what allows us to get our senses. A few of us feed on other things, but there¡¯s something common between us all.¡±


    His words left me feeling cold.


    ¡°And that is?¡± I asked, unsure if I genuinely wanted to know.


    Sometimes ignorance is a blessing, yet in this case, I couldn¡¯t afford it. No, I had to know who these people were even if¡­


    ¡°We solely eat humans. It keeps us sane from the curse flowing through our veins.¡± Gael smirked, eyes showing a light red hue.


    Huh?


    My brain lagged momentarily, unable to understand what he said. Yet the way he chuckled afterward sent shivers down my spine. It dawned on me that he wasn¡¯t lying or trying to scare me.


    Wait¡­ So, I¡¯m in a place where I can be eaten alive at any time?!


    All the previous gazes from before finally hit me.


    No wonder they were all looking at me weirdly! They were sizing me up! If I weren¡¯t Finn¡¯s wife-to-be, I would¡¯ve been¡­ Arg...


    My body ran cold at the thought of being someone else''s dinner, triggering me to shift my sight away from them and towards the wall.


    ¡°Gael!¡± The little goblin huffed, turning to me. ¡°Sylvia, please don¡¯t worry. None of us would dare to hurt you.¡± She reached for me.


    But before she could, he snickered. ¡°As long as you¡¯d had your feed, you mean.¡±


    ¡°Gael!¡± she snapped again.


    It was the first time I had seen her get angry, triggering a soft aura to erupt from her. However, he was unfazed by her little slaps. No, he was more interested in me.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, little shrimp; I¡¯m an incubus. So, I feed on sexual energy, which means I¡¯m the least dangerous of the bunch here. Well, to a point.¡± He smirked, ignoring Nyla¡¯s taps on his legs.


    He barely budged at her assault, though I doubted she was trying to hurt him.


    Something isn¡¯t right here.


    ¡°Are you trying to make me feel afraid?¡± I asked, facing him head-on.


    Shaking his head, he shrugged. ¡°Oh, you wound me.¡± He pretended to be hurt before smirking, ¡°Not at all. If you plan to live here or at least if it¡¯s what Finn wants you to do. You should know you¡¯re a walking platter for everyone.¡±


    He paused, studying my reactions before taking a step closer to me. ¡°This includes for our king, little shrimp.¡±


    Gael appeared purely human, at least on first impression, but Nyla mentioned he was a shifter.


    Is this real or an illusion? Yet¡­ I don¡¯t think you¡¯re lying to me.


    ¡°Stop it!¡± Nyla growled, not wanting him to speak anymore on the matter.


    Yet, since he offered, I would take the bite, especially since I needed to know more.


    ¡°So, the king¡¯s the same?¡± I asked, gripping tighter into the bag that held Solas.


    Even this fluff feeds off me¡­ Why didn¡¯t I put it all together before?


    ¡°Yes, and no. None of us die if we don¡¯t eat, but we get irritable and animalistic. Sometimes, we lose touch with our humanity if it goes long enough. Finn¡ª¡± Gael couldn¡¯t finish, thanks to Nyla yanking on his hair, triggering a yelp to leave him instead.


    ¡°Enough! Don¡¯t pry into our lord¡¯s life! If she wants to know, she can ask him!¡± Nyla chided, huffing from where she was.


    Tugging away from her grip, he rolled his eyes at her. ¡°You think he¡¯ll talk? All he sees her as is¡ª¡± he started, only to be interrupted by the little goblin.


    ¡°Even if you¡¯re his oldest friend! You don¡¯t have the right to¡ª¡± she wouldn¡¯t finish.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.


    ¡°Nyla, love, I know you want this to be a fairy tale, but this will kill him if it goes wrong. So, yes, I¡¯ll fuck with her if I must. I won¡¯t make that mistake again.¡± He scowled at me.


    Again? What happened here? If only I can¡­


    There was only one way to know.


    ¡°Mistake?¡± I mumbled, holding tighter into the bag.


    A sharp sigh left Gael¡¯s lips. ¡°Nothing you need to know. You¡¯re a temporary guest here, nothing more.¡±


    Yes¡­ I am. We can agree on that. It seems that this source of information has dried up.


    ¡°Gael! Enough!¡± Nyla slapped him again.


    There was no point in me staying in this place. Dropping the rag in my hands on the table, I turned away.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I¡¯ll go. Sorry for wasting your time.¡± I declared, heading out of the door.


    Before I could get far, Nyla grabbed me by my clothes and tugged them towards her. ¡°Sylvia, you can¡¯t. You must eat.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine without food.¡± I sighed, tugging away from her grip and heading for the door.


    ¡°Fuck, just sit outside. I¡¯ll make you something.¡± Gael sighed, shaking his head.


    A soft smirk rose on my lips, noticing a basket of fruits. It was with what he had brought in. Grabbing a red apple, I took a bite of it.


    It''s sweeter than what I¡¯m used to.


    ¡°Actually. You don''t need to do anything for me. I¡¯ll be fine with this.¡± I huffed, walking out.


    Once outside the kitchen, I ran into Rizak, who was waiting for me. Not knowing what he wanted, I gazed at him.


    ¡°Oh, there you are.¡± The white owl greeted, leaving his book on the table.


    No matter where I turned, one of them was always around.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± I scoffed, feeling it from my previous treatment.


    Not that it isn¡¯t natural. It appears I have that effect on everyone.


    ¡°Oh, I will take you to my library after you eat.¡± He answered, shifting his eyes towards where I came out. ¡°Is Gael back?¡±


    ¡°Yep,¡± shaking my head, I shrugged, taking another bite of the apple. ¡°Well, this is all I¡¯m going to eat. Why do I need to go there?¡±


    A soft crackle left his lips. ¡°For you to learn to use magic.¡±


    Does that mean I¡¯ll have to deal with the shadows from last night? I¡¯d rather¡­


    ¡°And if I don¡¯t want to learn.¡± I sighed, shifting my eyes onto the apple.


    ¡°Well, if you don¡¯t learn. It¡¯ll become a hazard to everyone around you. This includes yourself.¡± Rizak informed.


    Ah¡­ What a cunning owl¡­  You won¡¯t force me but will guilt me into it. Huh¡­


    ¡°Arg¡­ Fine.¡± I took another bite of the fruit.


    There is no choice to make again. You¡¯re right, and I lost control last night; that alone is enough to give it a shot.


    If this power responded to my emotional state, I was nothing more than a loose cannon waiting to explode.


    I don¡¯t know if I¡¯ll be at peace thanks to that woman, Serena.


    ¡°Are you sure that¡¯s enough food?¡± The owl asked, tilting his head and pointing towards the apple in my palms.


    ¡°Plenty. Let¡¯s go.¡± I declared, walking towards him.


    It was better to get this done. That way, they could throw me out or kill me once I failed. Perhaps I could only survive this by lifting the curse they spoke about. Either way, it involved following this owl.


    He nodded, ¡°All right, come this way.¡±


    The track there wasn¡¯t long; it was a floor above my room. Nyla stayed behind with Gael, probably scolding him.


    She didn¡¯t look so happy after what he said, but it¡¯s none of my concerns.


    Once in Rizak¡¯s studio, I felt like I had entered a different world. My eyes widened, unable to believe the sight before me. While the rest of the castle was rotting, this room was extraordinary¡ªevery book, no, everything in here radiated energy visible to me.


    Some were different colors, and others appeared like I was gazing into a galaxy. There weren¡¯t any signs of the horrors outside this room. Every shelf was packed with shimmering books that caught my attention.


    Is that wood vintage? The design is so unique, too!


    They all had carvings of different types of dragons to d¨¦cor. They were also made from the same wood my bed frame was, but much older. A soft hum left my lips, feeling a warm sensation grow within me with every step.


    This room was a true scholar¡¯s dream.


    It feels magical and alive.


    ¡°What you''re feeling is magic,¡± Rizak informed me, stepping inside.


    It was cozy and fuzzy, surrounding me and calling me to come in.


    The most welcoming sensation I had ever¡­


    ¡°It¡¯s electrifying!¡± I beamed in awe.


    This place is something else. Even books are floating around like some wonderland!


    Especially when Rizak picked out anything, they¡¯d stay where he left them. A pedestal was holding a galaxy-looking orb within bounds by the center of the room. This owl kept this room pristine; even the purple curtains for the windows he had for d¨¦cor worked for it.


    The windows had a draconic stained-glass design that ran with the theme, too.


    ¡°Yes, I made this room a focal point where it all congregates.¡± He chuckled, shifting his gaze toward me. ¡°Everyone in this world can use it. However, there are two types that only other world wanderers can use. These people are called Saints in this world.¡±


    I probably had the astonishment of a child planted on my face, but I couldn¡¯t help it.


    Is Finn¡¯s magic like this too?


    Though he had consumed it this morning.


    Wait? Why am I thinking about that you?!


    Shaking my head, I tried to focus on the owl, ¡°Which are?¡± I asked, shifting my gaze toward a book floating nearby.


    Everything was so new and refreshing that I couldn¡¯t help but want to know everything I saw.


    ¡°Light and Darkness are native to saints. They usually can only use one, but you¡¯re different. It seems the gods are smiling on you.¡± Rizak commented.


    My eyes twitched, taking a step back from the delusional owl.


    That isn¡¯t how it happened. Those two are looking for a circus act rather than blessing me. Though, Serena¡­ She¡¯s an odd one.


    ¡°I don¡¯t feel blessed.¡± I sighed, gazing toward the infinite amount of shelves in this room.


    It would take me years to read everything in there.


    ¡°Well, we rarely get what we want. Sadly, magic will take you years to master it.¡± Rizak picked out a book for me.


    Years¡­ with this empty feeling in my chest. Will I make it that long?


    ¡°Light has healing and purifying properties, meaning it can also inflict damage on beings like us. There isn¡¯t much known about the Darkness, but it¡¯s the basis of the curse they inflicted us with.¡± The owl informed, prompting me to turn my gaze towards him.


    What? A saint did this?


    In that instant, everything clicked in my mind.


    ¡°How can you stand looking at me?¡± I mumbled, feeling my voice shake.


    Someone with my magic caused all of this pain¡­ If I don¡¯t figure this out, I¡¯ll¡­


    ¡°Well, that girl only helped those who brought her into this world. I wouldn¡¯t say she had a choice in it. There isn¡¯t any point in being angry with a weapon.¡± Rizak sighed, picking up another book from the selves.


    Gazing at my hands, ¡°Is that what I¡¯ll be too?¡± my voice quivered.


    Even though I had washed them, they were still red to my eyes.


    Placing a blue book in my hands, he shrugged. ¡°In a way¡­ You¡¯ll undo the curse bestowed on us, so it¡¯s different from a weapon. Sadly, if that can¡¯t be done, Finn plans to destroy humans once and for all.¡±


    You¡¯re brutally honest. No pressure¡­


    The scars of their story were written all over the walls, but that wasn¡¯t enough to know everything I needed. If I didn¡¯t ask, I wouldn¡¯t remain ignorant. This owl appeared to be a man of knowledge, especially if this was where he spent most of his time.


    ¡°Why did she¡­?¡± I trailed off, unsure of how to feel about it.


    Rizak¡¯s eyes narrowed, shifting his red eyes towards me. There was a flash of red hue coming from them.


    ¡°The ones on the other side of the miasma are the ones who did this to us for the silly thought of conquering us.¡± He scoffed, snapping his beak.


    It made a sharp noise that caused me to flinch.


    ¡°Instead of winning land, they created abominations, and now they have another saint to exterminate us. If they think, we¡¯ll sit back and let it happen.¡± He paused, shaking his head.


    The same crimson aura was shimmering out of him.


    ¡°Is this because you feed on them?¡± I couldn¡¯t help but wonder how long it would be until he snapped at me.


    To my surprise, my questions caused his eyes to soften and gloss. These demons used to be people, and there was no way to know if they could be free.


    ¡°That¡¯s their sin to bear. If they left us alone, Lord Finn and Lady Serah¡­¡± he trailed off, eyes giving off a bright hue before turning away from me and shaking his head.


    Is that another demon I haven¡¯t met?


    ¡°Who is she?¡± I asked, tapping my fingers on the book.


    The owl turned to me again, ¡°Lady Serah was¡­ Ah, let¡¯s not speak of this now. Let¡¯s focus on your studies. Please turn to page twenty.¡± He shut me down.


    I wouldn¡¯t push him any further. Sitting down on a chair, I listened to him, and it would turn out to be a lesson I wouldn¡¯t forget.

 Chapter 11: Magic

    Rizak spent the entire morning explaining how magic works in this world. It was a warning more than anything else. This power responded strongest to emotions; however, trained mages could make things happen even if they felt nothing.


    They could do this by concentrating their mana, which was a type of magical energy. Mana replenished when mages slept, at least for humans like me. For demons, it was different concerning how much they feast.


    So, a demon who ate thousands of humans wouldn¡¯t have to worry about their magical power.


    Sadly, that lesson would have to wait until I understood my basics. Saints, also known as priestesses, had the most mana of all humans.


    Of course, these can only be females. Males lack the energy we have, though they have been summoned into this world before. How dumb is that?


    With that, I finally learned they indeed abducted me from my world to fulfill the purpose of saving them.


    So, in a sense, I was taken by aliens, only that we aren¡¯t in the same dimension as my original world. No, this one has monsters and magic. It''s an entirely new life¡­


    The humans had intercepted the spell, and the owl thought that was how Eve and I ended up in the realm together.


    Finn and he were the source of the voices I heard before I came into this world.


    Rizak also informed me that my sister was a light saint, thanks to his spies in the capital of humans, Traedan.


    You¡¯re getting the royal treatment from everyone there. So, saving you was the right choice. I owed you that much for dragging you down here with me, but from now on, I won¡¯t be looking out for you, Eve.


    Light magic responded to happy thoughts, while darkness was volatile and responded to the opposite. Of course, it would be the first one I experienced, even though I could use both.


    ¡°To cast spells, younglings usually use incantations to concentrate. More advanced users can dance while others do simple maneuvers with their hands to make it come,¡± Rizak explained, summoning a droplet of water with a whisk of his hand.


    It reminded me of Finn when he swallowed that fire; he appeared to crush it with his hand. Of course, to be as advanced as him, I would first need to know how it felt to have magic.


    Something that wouldn¡¯t come overnight, if at all. Trying to understand any of this is like gibberish to me!


    ¡°This is all elemental level lessons.¡± Rizak chuckled while my brain was a goner.


    Oi! That doesn¡¯t make me feel better!


    The owl was kind to me, but I could see I wasn¡¯t moving forward. The only thing I learned from my lesson was that I was a mess. I couldn¡¯t even do it in command with help.


    It doesn¡¯t help that I neglected to tell you about what happened in the bathroom when I was alone, but I didn¡¯t fully trust you. All of you will probably cage me up, if you know.


    Feeling light-headed with all the information dumped in my mind, I face-planted into the desk.


    I¡¯m not meant to be here.


    Evelyn had probably already learned everything, but she wasn¡¯t the type to help those who needed it, nor was I. Rizak continued speaking about how magic flowed through us, but I couldn¡¯t keep up.


    Instead, I gazed down towards Solas, who was playing with a pen that fell into the bag. A soft sigh left my lips, wincing at the overload.


    I¡¯m just¡­ always lacking, aren¡¯t I?


    I was an honor student back in my world, but this was all new to me. Magic was invisible energy like all the sugar our bodies broke down to make us move.


    But where does it come from?


    Rizak mentioned that it was everywhere that had life.


    So, the entire world is the spring of magic.


    Yet, using too much of it would tire anyone out.


    So, it isn¡¯t endless? Arg¡­ Why¡­


    It didn¡¯t matter, even if I did get it.


    How can I help them when I can¡¯t help myself?


    The entire thing was comical.


    Placing all their hopes on me is their mistake, not mine. Yet why do I feel so heavy?


    After the lesson, I explored the castle, and surprisingly, they didn¡¯t restrict my movements. I could go anywhere, minus two places where wolfmen were guarding. One appeared to lead to the catacombs, and the other inaccessible room was on the first floor, in front of the castle''s entrance.


    Why guard this door and not the entrance? What¡¯s so important that it requires me to be kept out?


    The door to the outside was unguarded, leaving it readily available for me to go if I wanted. Yet, if I did, it would only end with me turning into a demon.


    ¡°The closest human settlement is months away, and Finn¡¯s immunity only lasts twelve hours. So, make informed decisions, Sylvia.¡± Rizak warned me before letting me out.


    The ghastly fog enveloped the entire demon kingdom of Fathal.


    So, there isn¡¯t a safe spot for me to escape. Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.


    There wasn¡¯t any point either, with all the rabid demons the owl warned me about. If I stepped outside, I¡¯d be an easy snack. Though, with demons like Gael, the chances of me having a worse fate than death were higher.


    Being eaten alive or ending up as a toy for a beast isn¡¯t on my to-do list.


    It wasn¡¯t long until hunger took me back to the kitchen for a second time. I met with Gael this time, handing me a food box before ushering me out to eat it in the dining room. Not wanting to waste it, I ate it only for my eyes to sparkle with the savory taste it left behind.


    Holy cow! This is amazing!


    It was almost as if my tongue was dancing with the flavors, leaving me ecstatic. Gazing at the kitchen door, my eyes dropped to the meal before me as a soft sigh left my lips.


    Not that I¡¯ll tell you, and it¡¯s not like you¡¯d care.


    I shrugged, taking another bite of the hardy meal Gael had made for me. Humming under my breath, I couldn¡¯t help but note that I hadn¡¯t run into Finn this entire time.


    Are you still dealing with your generals? Ah¡­ it doesn¡¯t matter.


    After the first good meal I had ever had in a while, I headed to the bath to wash before calling it a night. Opening the door to my room, I was surprised by the demon king standing by the window.


    The moment I came in, he shifted his gaze to me. Closing the door, I slowly walked towards the bed before placing little Solas on it.


    ¡°I heard you were exploring the castle. I¡¯m glad you didn¡¯t run away.¡± Finn¡¯s voice was colder than this morning.


    The only reason for his visit had to be my dose.


    ¡°There isn¡¯t anywhere else to be. At least here I have a warm bed waiting for me.¡± I sighed, sitting next to Solas, who rolled towards the middle of the bed.


    The pup was bigger than this morning, but not by a lot. Rizak said it was normal for me to feel sleepy since he had been feeding me, but this entire time, I felt fine. It only made me wonder what was going on within me.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you aren¡¯t as stupid as I thought.¡± Finn chuckled.


    His eyes were fridged, leaving me questioning if they would ever warm up for me.


    Doubtful¡­ There isn¡¯t a bone to like in me.


    Yet these monsters were more human to me than my family or friends ever were. Perhaps that was why I didn¡¯t bolt at my first sight of freedom.


    It also helps that there¡¯s good food and a comfy bed here.


    ¡°That¡¯s because I have nowhere to go.¡± I huffed, crossing my arms.


    ¡°You¡¯d rather be with your kin?¡± he scoffed, walking towards me.


    Was this morning a fluke? Your mood is¡­


    From Rizak¡¯s and Gael¡¯s reactions, what happened to this man wasn¡¯t pleasant and was all caused by someone like me.


    Why keep me here instead of in the dungeon below?


    The stench of death was present when I walked by the catacombs earlier.


    How did I know the smell of death?


    Well, I once found a pile of dead cats in the garbage. A local restaurant had poisoned them, yet no one cared, calling them pests¡ªmuch like I was in everyone¡¯s life. I found myself reflecting on the cats in the bin, leaving me humbled.


    If I were missing, no one would¡¯ve missed me either.


    ¡°No¡­ I wish I could live alone. No one in sight for miles. Everything¡¯s quiet in my dreamland.¡± I sighed, falling on the bed.


    A soft smile crept onto Finn¡¯s lips. ¡°Sounds like a nice place.¡±


    Shrugging, I turned to face him, allowing Solas to lay against my back.


    ¡°It is. Too bad I have nothing like that.¡± I bit onto my lip, gazing at the demon king.


    You don¡¯t look like a mass murderer who does it for fun. So¡­ why do you want to kill everything if I don¡¯t lift the curse? What am I missing here?


    Rizak¡¯s warning hadn¡¯t stopped resonating within me.


    Tell me, would you understand my reason, Finn?


    ¡°If you help me, I¡¯ll give you anything you want.¡± The demon king sat down on the bed beside me.


    Shaking my head, I lifted from where I was, facing the demon head-on. He didn¡¯t scare me, not like the others.


    No¡­ not like my father did.


    ¡°Why do you want my power, little king?¡± I smirked, knowing that usually triggered him.


    On cue, his eyes twitched. ¡°Oi, Sparky. We back to those nicknames?¡± a soft growl left him.


    I hummed, looking back at Solas, who had shifted to my thigh. In a matter of hours, I fell for this pup. The happiness I felt every time I saw him was something I had never felt before.


    Warm¡­


    ¡°Are you going to kiss me?¡± I asked, shifting my gaze back at Finn.


    There were no clocks in this world, yet I could see the moon had risen, and he kissed me when the sun was up.


    ¡°Hm¡­ Should I?¡± he tilted his head with a soft smile.


    This man was beautiful, with horns and all. He didn¡¯t deserve the soulless eyes he had.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that why you¡¯re here?¡± I mumbled, feeling flustered under his gaze.


    I''ve made a fool of myself if you aren''t here to do that. Shit¡­


    ¡°Yes, and no. There are three hours before I must kiss you, but I have free time. What better way to spend it than with my fianc¨¦e?¡± he smirked.


    I couldn¡¯t help but scowl.


    This demon¡¯s sly.


    ¡°Did Rizak tell you to say that?¡± I huffed, shifting my gaze away from him.


    Finn¡¯s eyebrows raised, shaking his head. ¡°What? No.¡±


    I was saving myself from the earlier embarrassment. Yet¡­


    Why do my cheeks feel like they¡¯ll burn off my face?


    ¡°I mean, wasn¡¯t Solas his idea?¡± I continued grasping at straws, glancing down at the little pup.


    He was out cold.


    A soft chuckle came from Finn¡¯s lips. ¡°Fuck, no. It was mine. None of those idiots wanted me to give you a dark hound. If you have one, it makes you harder to control, but I loved having a familiar before...¡±


    My gaze quickly fixed on him, catching his subtle gestures. Glancing away from me, he gripped his arms, biting his lip.


    You¡¯re going into your shell, aren¡¯t you?


    ¡°I remember it helped me through hard times.¡± He sighed, closing his eyes as his hands trembled slightly.


    Even though I had my issues, it hurt to see him like that. My pain was resonating with his.


    I¡¯m such a fool. You don¡¯t deserve to be treated like I¡¯m doing, but can you answer why are you being like this? Is it to break the cycle of pain¡­ instead of furthering it? Or is it to trick me?


    Even though I couldn¡¯t fully trust his intentions, I knew his pain was real. If I had never experienced it myself, I probably wouldn¡¯t have realized it. Whenever I felt like that, all I ever wanted was¡­


    I can¡¯t be like all the others in my life. Be different! If I can¡¯t be, why did I survive in the first place?!


    ¡°Finn¡­ may I touch you?¡± I mumbled, trying to keep my emotions in check.


    Be different! Make it mean something!


    A day in, and I already had something that was mine. This world couldn¡¯t be all bad if it gave me something like Solas.


    Yes, a reason to keep going... For now¡­


    Yet I couldn¡¯t help but feel like the other shoe would drop soon.


    ¡°Why even ask when I¡¯m yours, remember?¡± he chuckled.


    I¡¯m not joking!


    My eyes twitched before I released a sigh from my lips.


    For a demon king, you¡¯re clueless! You¡¯re not scary at all! No, you¡¯re more human than the ones I know. Why is that? How can you be more human than all the ones I¡¯ve met?


    ¡°Idiot,¡± I huff, grabbing him by his cloak before pulling him into my arms.


    My sudden tug caused the demon to lose his balance. He fell snugly on my chest, where I held onto him. The tips of his horns were sharp, yet this hair was silky soft.


    ¡°W-what are y-you d-doing?¡± Finn stumbled on his words.


    His hands were on the bed instead of on me, which he had used to catch himself. He was shorter than most other demons but still slightly taller than me.


    For a demon, you¡¯re too respectful. Not that I mind it.


    ¡°It looked like you needed a hug, so I¡¯m giving it to you. Now, just be grateful.¡± I mumbled, trying to keep my fluster in check.


    Though he could probably hear my heart beating, it felt like it was going so fast. This was the first time I had ever hugged anyone like this. Holding him filled me with a sense of warmth I wasn¡¯t used to.


    Yes, you¡¯re nothing like them.


    I was beginning to understand why they all wanted to protect their king. Though there was no doubt he didn¡¯t need my protection, perhaps his heart did. It was silly since I didn¡¯t know how to fix mine, let alone his.


    We are a pair of broken souls. Perhaps we can find kinship in that.


    A friendship was all I could hope for, yet I didn¡¯t expect it. After all, he was a man who wanted to use me.


    But you gave me Solas, and that¡¯s worth a hug.

 Chapter 12: Start of Something

    Letting go of Finn, he sat up, gazing at me weirdly.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you scared of me? I usually can feel fear radiate out of you, but not now. Why? I¡¯m a monster; a little human girl like you should be terrified.¡± he trailed off, not shifting his piercing blue eyes away.


    You¡¯re right. Your entire appearance is one of a beast.


    Horns that glowed red whenever he flared up, pitched black wings with radiating red tails, and fangs to boot. Yet the one who haunted me¡­


    Who hurt me¡­ That person looks like me, not you.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t scary at all the time. I was yesterday, but that was because I didn¡¯t know anything. Everything is much clearer today, and I¡¯m calmer than when I first got here.¡± I sighed, shaking my head.


    There¡¯s so much I don¡¯t know¡­ Shutting everyone out isn¡¯t the way to get out of here, and they haven¡¯t hurt me yet, so there isn¡¯t any reason to lash out at them. It isn¡¯t like you were the ones who hurt me.


    ¡°Though I¡¯m sure there¡¯s much to learn about you and everyone here,¡± I mumbled, feeling tiny in his gaze.


    Giving me Solas allowed this king to open a way to my heart.


    Well, at least for a friendship.


    A soft chuckle came from Finn, triggering me to shift my glance away.


    ¡°No, honey, you don¡¯t want to know anything about us. We¡¯ve all done things we can¡¯t take back.¡± He assured me.


    His words left me unsure of how to go about anything anymore.


    Don¡¯t you want to marry me? Isn¡¯t that a requirement?!


    ¡°Like the genocide of bloodlines?¡± I echoed his earlier words, rolling my eyes.


    It caused Finn to shoot his gaze back at me.


    ¡°Oi,¡± he huffed, narrowing his eyes at me.


    Are you trying to tell me that taking one life is nothing compared to what you¡¯ve done? Do you know about what happened on the human side?


    ¡°You¡¯ve done that. Yet when you touch me¡­ No, when you held me so protectively against a dreaded kitchen fire. I find it hard to believe that¡¯s the real you.¡± I giggled, feeling something new.


    Can I tell you anything without judgment? Is it true we can be friends? Or are you just acting to get me to lower my guard? Ah¡­ There is no way to know, is there?


    ¡°I think there¡¯s something more to it. You don¡¯t seem like the man to burn down the world for no reason.¡± I added, picking up Solas and placing him on my lap.


    The little pup was asleep. Before I knew it, Finn clasped onto my chin, dragging my gaze to him. His eyes were so fridged.


    ¡°Oh, sweety, you don¡¯t know anything about me.¡± The demon warned, not letting me go.


    I closed my eyes and sighed softly, ¡°You¡¯re right. I don¡¯t know you. All I can judge you by is the actions you¡¯ve shown me in the few hours we¡¯ve met.¡±


    Clicking his tongue, he let go of me, allowing me to glance down to my hands.


    You aren¡¯t what I first thought you¡¯d be. Perhaps¡­ You¡¯ll understand me.


    It was all I ever wanted.


    But will you be the right person?


    ¡°Finn, when you look at your hands, do you see them stained with blood? Do the images of those you¡¯ve killed haunt you in your dreams and waking moments?¡± I asked, clenching them into fists.


    The blood wasn¡¯t there, but I knew the moment he left, it would be back. A soft hum came from Finn, who gazed towards the window where the moonlight shimmered in the room.


    Yet¡­ It can¡¯t top the sight I saw before coming here.


    ¡°Perhaps once upon a time, it did. Now, it¡¯s the same as any other day.¡± He paused, biting onto his lip before a broken smile rose on his lips. ¡°What haunts me isn¡¯t those I¡¯ve killed.¡±


    His gaze didn¡¯t move away from the shining moon.


    Ah¡­ Then who?


    However, that wasn¡¯t a question I could ask him.


    Not yet, at least.


    ¡°I guess it becomes normal after a while.¡± I sighed, letting myself fall on the bed.


    Groggily, Solas got up from my lap, nesting himself on my belly.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    At least tonight, I won¡¯t be alone.


    This pup¡¯s presence helped me in the bathroom, where I broke last time. I had heard how animals could be emotional support, but I never expected it to be accurate.


    ¡°If I¡¯m honest. No, it shouldn¡¯t; only monsters don¡¯t feel anything.¡± Finn shook his head.


    Why are you¡­


    ¡°For being a demon, monster, or beast, know you¡¯ve been more human to me than those who were supposed to be closest in my life.¡± I simpered.


    Even if his concern was fake, he showed me more than my father and sister did. It warmed my heart in ways I thought I¡¯d never feel.


    ¡°That only makes me want to know why, Sparky.¡± He let himself fall next to me, facing me.


    I hummed, closing my eyes. ¡°Hm¡­ Let¡¯s keep our secrets for now.¡±


    Before I knew it, I felt his fingertips touch my cheek, fluttering my eyes open to see him gazing at me.


    ¡°Should I kiss you now to let you rest?¡± he asked.


    I wasn¡¯t tired, but¡­


    ¡°Can¡¯t you stay longer? I¡¯m starting to like your company, little king.¡± I teased.


    It caused his eyes to twitch because of the nickname I used.


    ¡°Oi, Sparky.¡± He huffed, tugging his hand away from me.


    I grabbed onto it before he could retreat fully.


    ¡°Hey, what do you feed on?¡± I asked, thinking it was innocent enough.


    ¡°So many questions. Why would you want to know?¡± Finn¡¯s brows raised suspiciously.


    I shrugged. ¡°I just do.¡±


    How can I judge you if I know nothing about you? I¡¯m stuck here no matter what I do.


    ¡°Fine, curious little mouse, I can feed on any part of a human. Soul, blood, magic, anything.¡± He answered.


    I felt no different when Finn kissed me, but I had to know.


    ¡°Do you feed on me when you kiss me?¡± I asked.


    It caused him to sit up slightly.


    ¡°No,¡± he answered plainly.


    I hummed, ¡°Hm¡­ Why?¡±


    ¡°Because if I did, I would lose control. I¡¯d probably make you cry, bleed, or worse.¡± He huffed, shaking his head.


    Another soft hum left me. ¡°Isn¡¯t it tempting for you?¡±


    ¡°Very,¡± he confessed, climbing on top of me and straddling me.


    It should¡¯ve been intimidating, yet I wasn¡¯t. His eyes gave off a gentle blue hue, too.


    ¡°If you have a human here. How do you control your primal urges?¡± I mumbled.


    A smirk rose on his lips. ¡°So, many questions.¡±


    Shaking my head, I turned my gaze towards the wall, which Solas used to roll off me.


    ¡°You said I can touch you, right?¡± I mumbled, once again feeling tiny in his gaze.


    ¡°Right. I did.¡± He answered, only for his eyes to widen when I reached toward his wings.


    When my skin touched them, electricity coursed through my body.


    Ah¡­ Your wings are more like birds, even though they sometimes resemble scales. I guess it¡¯s the lighting.


    The tips of his black plumage had horn-like features separating this demon from any winged creature I had ever seen.


    Heck, if I¡¯m going to be trapped here. I might as well make the best of it.


    ¡°You look like an angel with wings like this.¡± I smiled, trailing my fingertips down his feathers.


    All that comment did was cause the demon king to tilt his head. My touch didn¡¯t bother him at all.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± he asked.


    Ah, right¡­ this is another world. Different stuff¡­


    ¡°A messenger from god where I¡¯m from. They¡¯re beautiful beings that help those in need.¡± I answered, enjoying the softness.


    It can rival the pup.


    ¡°And you think I look like one?¡± he continued with his query.


    Now, who''s the one with the questions? Ah¡­ I¡¯m starting to think you might be one. Will you prove me wrong or right?


    He had yanked me away from a world that only gave me pain to one that had the potential to be something more. Even as hostile as I came, everyone in this castle was trying, including the incubus who had given me the best meal I had ever had.


    ¡°Mhmm¡­ you do.¡± I smiled, dragging my hand down.


    Rizak had mentioned some demons that appeared humanoid were hiding their true form.


    Yours¡­ what is it?


    Another question I couldn¡¯t ask, at least not yet, but my curiosity was flaring.


    Maybe this world isn¡¯t so bad, or it can be hell. It''s still too early to tell.


    ¡°You¡¯re crazy.¡± Finn chuckled, shaking his head with cheeks rosy as they could be.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that a good thing? If I weren¡¯t, you wouldn¡¯t ever be able to reach me.¡± I huffed, raising my eyebrows.


    Yes¡­ a friendship maybe won¡¯t be wrong. Though¡­ how do I even go about it? None of mine ever worked out.


    ¡°Does that mean you¡¯re thinking of marrying me?¡± Finn asked, caging me under him.


    His arms pinned me to the bed without touching me.


    You never handle me more than you need to.


    ¡°No, but I might want to help you. Of course, in my terms.¡± I declared, smirking soon after.


    There was no way I would let this demon win.


    ¡°Hah, don¡¯t think it¡¯ll go your way, Sparky.¡± He huffed.


    And it won¡¯t go your way, silly king.


    Dragging my hands down his cloak, I tugged on it.


    ¡°We¡¯ll see. Kiss me.¡± I announced, triggering him to lean into me.


    A test¡­ if you fail, I¡¯ll know peace, but¡­ I need to know.


    Our lips hovered over each other, leaving me feeling flustered. Even though it was for my health, I couldn¡¯t help but feel the intimacy that came with it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be jittery. I won¡¯t hurt you,¡± Finn whispered.


    ¡°I¡¯m not!¡± I growled.


    A second later, he clashed his lips with me, yet it was different from this morning and the one before; softer and gentler, unlike the other ones, this was a quick peck. Tugging away from me, he licked my bottom lip.


    Ah¡­ right, you want me to¡­


    Instinctively, I let him in, only to feel him smile before his tongue searched for mine a second later. Gripping onto his clothes, I deepened it by playing with his soft member. Although inexperienced, he let me do what I wanted, grabbing me by the back of my head to secure me in place.


    Not wanting to stay behind, I pulled myself up, pushing my soft member into his mouth, triggering a soft whine to leave him when I did. Helping me up, he tugged me into him, allowing me to straddle him while one of his hands settled on my hip.


    His tail wrapped around my waist, triggering me to shiver and allowing me to feel its smoothness.


    It''s just like your wings.


    The tip of it fanned out like a peacock display, vibrant red much like his horns. I felt his sharp fangs on my tongue, yet they never pierced me.


    No, everything about this demon was gentle.


    Even though I¡¯m testing you, why do you treat me like this? Am I really that precious of an asset for you?


    My temperature rose as I found myself bothered by his gentleness.


    Yet the kiss feels good, and everywhere you touch feels hot. Why is that?


    He never stopped responding to me, holding me tenderly in his grip. When I drew away from his lips, I felt my heartthrob at the expression he was making.


    How can you look how you enjoy it?


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you wanted to kiss me so badly, Sparks.¡± He smirked, leaning to lick my lips.


    Feeling his warm tongue on me again triggered me to shiver. Though, what was worse was that he¡­


    ¡°Nice try, though. I won¡¯t lose control that easy.¡± Finn assured me, going for another kiss only to stop a few lengths away from doing it.


    His breath was so close that it tickled my skin.


    ¡°Out of words? Did I eat your tongue, sweety?¡± he teased.


    Everything had to be in his tune.


    No! I¡¯ll make it my own!

 Chapter 13: Magic’s Complicated

    Pushing the demon king¡¯s buttons wasn¡¯t working for me that well. Even so, I found myself on him, huffing like a pufferfish that had been provoked. Of course, he allowed me to shove him onto the bed with a sly smirk on his lips as my eyes twitched.


    ¡°You¡¯re so full of yourself, little king.¡± I pressed my hands onto his shoulders.


    His tail coiled snugly around my waist, and my lips tingled from the heat of our recent passionate encounter. As I looked into his eyes, I noticed a newfound spark of life dancing within them, bringing a sense of vitality and energy.


    ¡°Sparky, you don¡¯t have a sense of danger in you. That¡¯s not good, you know.¡± Finn smirked, leaving his hands beside him.


    You only touch me when necessary. No more, no less. Why are you like this?


    ¡°You know, nothing about me.¡± I echoed his earlier words.


    A soft chuckle left him when someone knocked on the door.


    ¡°My King, General Sebastian wants another word with you.¡± Brielle¡¯s voice erupted from the other side.


    Grabbing me by my hips, Finn held me so I wouldn¡¯t fall when suddenly he sat up, lining our chest together before glaring at the door and radiating that red hue from his body.


    ¡°Does it have to be now?!¡± he growled.


    ¡°Yes, they¡¯re all still insisting on meeting the saint, and he¡¯s the largest voice,¡± the she-wolf informed him.


    ¡°They want to meet me?¡± I mumbled, triggering Finn to gaze at me.


    He shook his head, ¡°No, I won¡¯t allow you near them.¡±


    His eyes were shifting in color following the harsh tone, matching his current hue.


    ¡°My lord, should I tell him to come another time?¡± Brielle asked, noticing his hesitance.


    Reaching my cheek, I felt his warm radiate into me once his palm cupped it before he released a sigh. ¡°No, he¡¯ll just fucking make the others more anxious. I¡¯ll be there in a few.¡±


    ¡°Yes, my lord. I¡¯ll let him know.¡± She left, leaving us alone again.


    ¡°You need to get off me, Sparky.¡± Finn declared, shifting his gaze onto me again.


    Even though I should¡¯ve let him go, my hold on his clothes didn¡¯t relent.


    Why are you protecting me from your kind? I don¡¯t get it.


    ¡°Won¡¯t it be easier for you just to let me meet them? I won¡¯t be scared.¡± I assured him.


    ¡°Oh, Sparky, as I said before, you don¡¯t have a sense of danger. So no, I won¡¯t allow them near you.¡± He huffed.


    ¡°Then I won¡¯t get off.¡± I pouted, grabbing him tighter.


    His eyes twitched again. ¡°Oi¡ª¡± he started, only for me to not let him continue.


    ¡°You¡¯ll have to pry me off you.¡± I declared, staring at the demon head-on, triggering him to laugh before grabbing onto my hips.


    ¡°You¡¯re crazy.¡± He cackled, pulling me closer to him.


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t need anyone to defend me.¡± I didn¡¯t relent.


    Another chuckle erupted from him, allowing his red aura to dissipate along with the change in his eyes.


    ¡°You don¡¯t even know how to cast magic yet, silly girl. Bravado doesn¡¯t do much in this world other than shorten your life.¡± He smiled.


    It wasn¡¯t fair to point that out, and I had been there only a day.


    ¡°I¡¯ll wing it. Plus, you¡¯ll be there, no?¡± I rolled my eyes at him.


    Before I knew it, his lips crashed into mine, triggering me to let go of him. A second later, I was on the bed, pinned by him.


    Pulling away from me, he licked his lips. ¡°Perhaps next time, Sparky.¡±


    In an instant, he vanished into what appeared like smoke.


    ¡°Oi! Little king! That isn¡¯t fair! You aren¡¯t playing fair!¡± I yelled, only to startle Solas, who whimpered because of me.


    Instinctively, I turned to the little pup, scooping him in my arms.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry!¡± I apologized to the little one, only to receive a lick from him.


    Arg¡­ What am I doing?! Arguing with a monster on what¡¯s fair?! How dumb is that?! Ah¡­ but you aren¡¯t like the others.


    A heavy sigh left me, letting me fall onto the bed.


    This is going to be a mess. An unfair one at that, too!


    I never thought my heart could race as fast as it did when Finn was around. And worst yet, how he touched me made me feel different, too.Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!


    It¡¯s too warm. Nothing compared to when¡­


    As I held Solas close to me, I found myself slowly slipping into a deep slumber. The day''s events had consumed my thoughts so entirely that I didn''t even spare a moment for my father that night. The following day, I awoke to a gentle knock on the door.


    What? The sun¡¯s already out? When¡­ Huh?!


    Getting dressed, I headed out of the room only to bump into the white bird who had come for me.


    ¡°Please, meet with me after you eat.¡± The owl announced, leaving me to my own devices.


    After a quick trip to the bathroom, I headed downstairs, only to meet Finn on my way. Swiftly, he took me into a neighboring room before pinning me against the wall after the door closed. He kissed me without asking.


    A soft mewl left me, triggering him to deepen the kiss. His tongue traced my features, leaving me stunned to move. Before I could even respond, a knock came from the door.


    ¡°My lord, I hate to interrupt you, but you know.¡± Brielle''s voice erupted from behind it.


    A sharp growl left him when he tugged away from my lips, emanating the same crimson aura he usually bore.


    ¡°I know!¡± he snapped, creating cracks on the wall where his hands were.


    If he had been holding me, my bones would¡¯ve shattered much like the stone.


    ¡°What?¡± I mumbled, gazing at him before shifting it towards the fractures made by him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it; eat and go with Rizak.¡± He sighed, pulling away from me.


    A second later, he was gone, leaving me in the dark room with my small lantern. Once again, my lips burned thanks to his touch. It all happened so fast that little Solas was the one thing that snapped me out when he moved in the bag.


    Finn''s emotions were once again in flux. As I looked at the wall, the lantern in my hand cast flickering light on the deep cracks running through it. These weren¡¯t the result of his aggression; he hadn''t slammed his hands into the wall.


    Like the others in the vicinity, the pure stone material seemed unexpectedly weak, yet when I pressed my fingers on it, it didn¡¯t budge.


    What do you feel to be able to create this? Is it rage or something else? Can you...


    A soft sigh left me, walking out of the room and continuing my day. After an uneventful meal with Nyla and Gael, I headed to Rizak¡¯s study, where I spent most of the day failing to capture anything related to magic.


    Of course, everything confused me.


    None of it makes sense! Owl! Please put it in layman''s terms for me!


    As he effortlessly wielded magic and explained the process, I couldn''t help but feel inadequate. Everyone around me seemed to use their magic naturally while I struggled to grasp the basics.


    This is tiresome! Why am I even trying?


    These people had lived in this world all their lives, something that eluded me when I wanted...


    A baby can¡¯t run before it can walk, and it can¡¯t walk until it learns to crawl. Bah! There must be a shortcut! Something I¡¯m missing!


    After the strenuous lesson, I found myself in my room again, unable to find the energy to explore. Following a warm shower and a meal, I focused on magic.


    One step at a time¡­


    I opened the book I had taken from Rizak¡¯s library and tried to study it.


    Of course, I can¡¯t determine what it¡¯s trying to teach me! How will I ever¡­


    Nothing was going well until Finn interrupted me. He opened the door, closing it behind him.


    I hadn¡¯t realized the radiant sun had set, giving way to the shimmering moonlight to shine through the window. Shifting my eyes towards the demon, he smiled, triggering me to glance back at the book, feeling my heart skip.


    What was that? Why did¡­


    I clasped onto my gown, shaking my head.


    I can¡¯t¡­


    ¡°Did I interrupt you?¡± he asked, sitting on the bed.


    ¡°Kinda,¡± I mumbled, trying to shake the feeling left in me.


    ¡°Hm¡­ Rizak told me you¡¯re getting frustrated with your studies,¡± Finn commented, leaning closer to me.


    No matter what I try, I still wait for something to come out. Frustrated isn¡¯t¡­ the right word.


    ¡°I¡¯m no saint.¡± I sighed, closing the book before pushing it away.


    A soft hum came from his lips before he offered me his hand. ¡°Let me show you something.¡±


    Narrowing my eyes, I couldn¡¯t help but¡­


    I¡¯m not sure what you¡¯ll show me, but I doubt it''ll be any better than what Rizak is trying to do.


    Hesitantly, I grabbed onto his hand, allowing him to pull me towards him.


    Sitting next to him, ¡°I doubt you¡¯ll be able¡ª¡± That thought wouldn¡¯t finish before he sliced his wrist with one of his nails.


    A soft gasp left my lips upon seeing a trail of blood drip from his arm.


    ¡°What are you doing?!¡± I clasped onto his wound tightly without an ounce of hesitation, blissfully forgetting how he healed his entire tongue before.


    Yet my heart raced, trying to stop the bleeding that dripped onto the floor. Putting pressure on it, my hands suddenly gave off a shimmering white gentle light cleansing the blood and the cut Finn had made.


    ¡°What¡­¡± I mumbled, tugging away from his skin.


    This marked the first time I had seen a glimmer of hope.


    ¡°For magic, you need to want to accomplish something for it to come to be. Usually, you can follow it with action, and the mana will naturally flow out of you.¡± He explained, leaving me amazed.


    Why does that owl make it so hard?!


    Pouting, I grumbled, ¡°Stupid bird with dumb rules! You must know this and that to do this! Arg!¡±


    The demon chuckled, hearing me complain before touching where I had healed him. ¡°Thank you for healing me, Sparky, but do remember, I am immortal.¡± He smiled.


    There was still a soft light coming from his skin.


    ¡°Right¡­ So, wait! Didn¡¯t you do that yourself? Are you sure?¡± I huffed, crossing my arms.


    Are you tricking me?!


    He shook his head, ¡°No, I can choose when to heal. You did this, not me. It left my skin feeling warm and tingly.¡±


    Then why does that owl want to burn my brain off?!


    ¡°Why does Rizak overcomplicate things?!¡± I felt like strangling him.


    A soft chuckle left Finn¡¯s lips. ¡°Well, he likes to over-explain things but will teach you the dangers of magic better than anyone else. He used to be a scholar before, but he¡¯s the best caster I¡¯ve ever met. You¡¯ll learn much from him once you get over the wordy parts.¡±


    Suddenly, I rested my head on his shoulder, making Finn stiff while Solas ran into my lap, wagging his little tail. He was already the size of a small cat.


    ¡°That¡¯s funny. Rizak says you¡¯re the best caster he has ever seen, and I can see why. You probably would be a better teacher if you weren¡¯t so busy.¡± I said, feeling like a weight lifted off me.


    Maybe I can do something, but if it¡¯s what you want me for, that¡¯s yet to be seen, little king.


    ¡°Teacher? Me?! Impossible.¡± he huffed, shaking his head.


    ¡°Well, aren¡¯t you the best mage to ever exist?¡± I asked, turning to face him.


    His eyes narrowed, shifting his eyes away from me. ¡°Hah¡­ That isn¡¯t a title I¡¯m fond of.¡±


    A soft sigh left me, turning my glance back at Solas.


    Part of me wants to ask you why, but I don¡¯t want to pry too much and scare you away. You might be more brittle than me, I think.


    ¡°Hm¡­ I wonder if I¡¯ll ever be able to do it on command like you.¡± I continued, opening my hand only for nothing to happen.


    The lack of magic caused a frown to rise to my lips before a sigh left my lips.


    A soft chuckle left him again. ¡°Spontaneous is just as good. It''s a bit dangerous since it relies on emotions, but it reminds me of¡­¡± he trailed off, grasping onto his white blouse.


    His tone caused me to glance back at him, allowing me to see how his eyes lost all the life they had in them.


    ¡°Of?¡± I mumbled without realizing it.


    Closing his eyes, he sighed before biting his lip.


    ¡°My sister.¡±

 Chapter 14: Moving Forward

    Finn¡¯s eyes grew colder when he mentioned his sister. I couldn¡¯t help but grab his hand, triggering him to gaze at me even though I wanted to know more about him; pushing him more would be a mistake.


    ¡°So, will you teach me more magic?¡± I tried to change the subject.


    A soft smile formed on his lips. ¡°Sure, Sparky. At night, I¡¯ll be your teacher.¡± He chuckled, leaving me to pout.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you just give up your kingly duties to teach me all the time?¡± I nudged him.


    His smile became more refined because of it.


    ¡°And have the generals on my ass? No thanks.¡± He sighed, shaking his head, ¡°You¡¯ll learn from Rizak. Give him a chance.¡±


    I rolled my eyes, getting up from the bed. Solas slid off towards the side. Before I could get anywhere, Finn yanked me onto him. Grabbing me by my hips, I straddled him again.


    ¡°Where are you going? I have to kiss you. Brielle¡¯s close to finding me. I feel it in my bones.¡± He declared, triggering me to get flustered.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t going anywhere,¡± I mumbled, gazing towards the side.


    He hummed, leaning into me before he could snatch my lips, though.


    ¡°Is she your babysitter or something?¡± I grumbled, stopping him.


    More like a scorned lover from how she looks at me, but I¡¯m afraid to ask so directly.


    Bursting out in laughter, he let himself fall onto the bed, dragging me too and prompting me to cage him under me. His voice was so pleasing to the ears, and his expression filled me in ways I had never expected.


    I never knew I could make anyone laugh like that.


    It¡¯s been so long since I had someone to feel like this with. Ever since my friend left my side¡­


    ¡°Hah, I guess she is my babysitter. She¡¯s uptight about doing things right, you can say.¡± He cackled. ¡°I¡¯d be lost without her, though.¡±


    ¡°I see,¡± I simpered.


    The next moment, a knock came from the door, dragging his eyes away; instead of listening to who it was, I leaned onto his lips, brushing them with mine. I quickly tugged away after I realized what I had done.


    However, Finn followed me, capturing my lips again.


    ¡°M¡¯lord, General Astred, wants to speak with you,¡± Brielle announced from the other side of the door.


    Ignoring the wolf, he deepened the kiss, pushing his tongue into my mouth. A mewl left me when he pressed his body against mine. Feeling his soft member caress, mine made me grab onto his cloak before he tugged away, gazing at me with rosy cheeks.


    ¡°Why did you do that?¡± Finn mumbled.


    Another knock came on the door. ¡°M¡¯lord?¡±


    My heart was in my throat because of what had happened.


    I don¡¯t know why I did it. I just wanted to, but I won¡¯t tell you that.


    ¡°I... wanted to stop you from laughing so much.¡± I struggled to voice.


    A soft smile rose on his lips. ¡°Right,¡± he breathed, kissing me again.


    This time, though, he grabbed onto my hips, pressing me closer to his body. His tongue once again claimed mine, leaving me incapable of fighting the feeling the kiss left on me.


    This is something too intimate to do and not feel anything!


    It felt like I would melt into him at any moment.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    However, another knock came from the door. ¡°My lord¡­ should I tell Astred¡ª¡± Brielle began, only for Finn to pull away from my lips, glaring at the door.


    ¡°Fuck Astred! She can wait!¡± he snapped, body giving off the same red hue I had accustomed to.


    ¡°Yes, my lord.¡± She-wolf acknowledged, backing off the door.


    A soft sigh left his Finn before shifting his gaze back at me. ¡°You¡¯re getting great at kissing,¡± he licked his lips.


    This demon is¡­


    ¡°Hah? I have an excellent teacher, that¡¯s all.¡± I smirked.


    My heart wasn¡¯t in the building anymore, and I didn¡¯t know my expression, but it wasn¡¯t long before I found myself with my back against the bed.


    ¡°Oh, Sparky, you¡¯re stirring me up. Don¡¯t forget, I¡¯m a man.¡± He warned, gazing at me with hungry eyes.


    It sounded silly to me.


    ¡°How can I forget?¡± I mumbled, feeling my cheeks hot.


    His cheeks turned rosy upon hearing me say that. Caging me under him, he bit onto his bottom lip.


    ¡°Oi¡­ careful, my urges are hard to control. So don¡¯t tease me unless you want me to bite.¡± He huffed, eyes giving off a light blue hue.


    ¡°Urges?¡± I mumbled.


    It wasn¡¯t like I didn¡¯t know what he meant, but I wanted him to say it clearly.


    A soft sigh left his lips before he grabbed onto my thigh. ¡°Yes, urges.¡± He trailed his hand up my inner thigh.


    It triggered something in me.


    ¡°Is the reason you don¡¯t want to lend your womb to Evelyn and her fianc¨¦ because you¡¯re a virgin?!¡± Dad yelled at me.


    Fuck! Did Eve call you right after I bolted?


    His bloodshot eyes alerted me that he was on drugs or alcohol.


    ¡°No! I don¡¯t want to have their baby! I think I can decide what I want to do with my body! You already fucked me enough! Don¡¯t you think?!¡± I snapped, having enough of the bullshit that my life was built on.


    The loan was one thing, but I wouldn¡¯t give into this ¡ªnot when they needed me to consent to the clinic. Of course, it would only lead to a beating whenever I was this defiant. However, this time, I was collecting my things to leave.


    I¡¯m done with this family. If I must sleep in the streets for the rest of my life, so be it!


    Turning away, I headed for my room, only for him to grab my hair from behind.


    ¡°What are you doing?! Let go of me! I¡¯m leaving?!¡± I screamed.


    Slamming me against the wall, he knocked the air out of me before dragging me towards the living room. There, I received a punch to the face, triggering me to stumble onto a table, slicing my forehead with it.


    Falling onto the floor, I was met with another kick, then another. My breath came short as my ribs cracked under his blows. After getting winded from kicking me, he grabbed me by my hair again. I mumbled incoherently, trying to keep my head in place.


    He¡¯s going to kill me!


    Dragging me into what used to be my safe zone or room, he threw me against the bed.


    ¡°You know this has a simple fix. Let me make you into a woman.¡± He declared, ripping my shirt off, leaving bruises where he tore it.


    ¡°No! Leave me alone!¡± I tried to keep him off me, to no avail.


    Yanking off my pants, he left me in my underwear, trembling where I lay. I had never seen those eyes gaze at me like that, freezing me where I was. It was like a lion staring at a juicy meat waving in them.


    Licking his lips, he unbuckled his belt.


    ¡°You look just like your mother did when she was younger.¡± Dad smiled, exposing himself, finally sending me into a frenzy.


    ¡°What are you doing?! I¡¯m your daughter!¡± I screamed, trying to kick him off, only for him to overpower me before tearing off my bottom underwear and leaning into me.


    ¡°Such smooth skin. I haven¡¯t had a woman in so long.¡± He purred, sending shivers down my spine.


    In a moment of desperation, I reached for anything that was on the nightstand. Clasping onto the first thing my hands could feel, I swung it back onto him, hitting him right on the temple and causing him to fall back toward the floor.


    Getting off the bed with him, my blood was boiling, unable to contain the emotion surging within me. Swinging the metal base at him left me winded, unable to count how many times I brought the lamp down on him, but by the end, his head had a dent when I realized what I had done.


    Brain pieces and blood were everywhere my eyes landed on.


    Ah¡­ this is a bit more than I can bite¡­


    That memory left my body trembling, triggering Finn to stop his advances.


    Taking a glance at me, he narrowed his eyes. ¡°I think I should take my leave.¡± He announced, withdrawing away from me.


    Instinctively, I clasped onto his hand.


    It isn¡¯t you!


    ¡°Please, wait¡­¡± I mumbled, trying to set my mind in place.


    He gazed back at me, making my sight land on the bed.


    ¡°It isn¡¯t you! I didn¡¯t think it would bring back¡­¡± I trailed off, shaking my head.


    We had only met three nights ago and had an apparent physical attraction.


    Chemistry, some might call it.


    Yet we didn¡¯t know anything about each other, and that memory left me shivering where I was.


    How can any of that change unless one of us gives in?


    This had nothing to do with trust but acceptance.


    Will you think I¡¯m crazy like everyone else? Am I life not worth living? Will it make a difference?


    Finn sighed. ¡°You don¡¯t have to say anything if you don¡¯t want to. I¡¯ll wait until you¡¯re ready. If it ever comes.¡±


    It was almost as if he saw right through me. His pain resonated with mine in ways I didn¡¯t know it could.


    Rizak¡¯s right. You¡¯re¡­


    ¡°Will you listen to my story? To whom are my real monsters?¡± I mumbled, leaving myself wide open.


    Sitting down next to me again, he nodded his head.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± I felt my eyes tear up.


    Solas climbed onto me again as they listened to me tell them the pitiful story of a girl who had nothing to lose. I had to let go of the heavy chains anchoring me to the past to move forward.


    But can I ever leave it behind? Or will it always define me?

 Chapter 15: Miserable Existence

    I closed my eyes and let go of everything I had never told a soul before.


    ¡°My story begins before I was even conceived, thanks to my biological father being a horrible man. He found pleasure in violating women, taking in twenty women before he fucked up with my mom.¡± I paused, clasping onto my nightgown.


    Why is it so scary to even look at you? Ah... because I don¡¯t want you to judge me like everyone else. But you deserve an explanation after I reacted like that. The last thing I need is for you to think it¡¯s because of you.


    Unable to look at Finn, I carried on. ¡°He stalked her from her job one night. She was a nurse, so it was normal for her to be late or not come home sometimes.¡±


    My voice shook, making me wince. ¡°Everyone said he was probably watching her for months.¡± I bit my lip, gripping the fabric tighter. ¡°Taking the opportunity, he nabbed her while she waited for the bus.¡±


    I paused, closing my eyes, knowing I was probably oversimplifying.


    ¡°No one saw it happen, even during daylight hours, right after she had finished a night shift. Even with pedestrians around and a camera catching the entire act, they didn¡¯t find my mother until a week later.¡± I shrugged.


    Thanks to a hooded jacket, his appearance wasn''t evident in the video.


    ¡°He raped her for the entire time they were together, leaving her battered and bruised everywhere when they found her.¡± I sighed, vividly remembering the pictures I had found in my stepfather¡¯s office.


    Why he kept it was unknown to me.


    ¡°Mom survived by wooing him enough to lower his guard, allowing her to roam the house with no bounds.¡± I felt a disconnect when it came to my mother¡¯s survival story.


    Will you want to marry this mess after I¡¯m done? Probably not. Eh, it¡¯s better that way.


    ¡°After escaping his grip, she ran naked through the woods before stumbling onto the main road. A nice trucker found her and took her to the nearest hospital.¡± I glanced over at Solas, who rubbed against my thigh.


    It almost felt like he was trying to comfort me.


    Such a silly pup.


    ¡°Your mother sounds like a fighter, much like you are,¡± Finn commented, leaving me vulnerable.


    I smiled, shaking my head. My heart was throbbing, but it wasn¡¯t his fault.


    You don¡¯t know.


    ¡°Yeah, she was¡­ until she lost the fight against me. I killed her on my way out. It¡¯s something my stepdad never forgave me for. Nor did my half-sister, Evelyn. Though that¡¯s getting ahead of myself.¡± I sighed, causing Finn to stiffen up.


    It wasn¡¯t his intention, and I didn¡¯t blame him.


    So, instead of dawdling there, I continued. ¡°Mom had a weak heart, but it was too big to let me die. It stopped beating after giving birth to me, though everyone would¡¯ve been better off if she had aborted me.¡± I shrugged, shifting my eyes to the demon beside me.


    Finn appeared to be at a loss for words, prompting me to shake my head.


    I raised my hand, gripping onto his cloak before tugging on it slightly. ¡°Don¡¯t say anything. Not until the story¡¯s over.¡±


    A soft nod came from him, allowing me to carry on when I let him go.


    ¡°So, she had me and went off on her merry way. I still don¡¯t know why my stepdad didn¡¯t give me away or why he kept me. Apparently, it was because he promised her he¡¯d care for me, but he should¡¯ve left me in the hospital and never came back.¡± I paused, feeling shivers go down my spine.


    The foster system isn¡¯t perfect, but it was better than what I went through. Her death fucked him up in ways I couldn¡¯t comprehend.


    ¡°If he had left me, that would¡¯ve been a happier ending for me, but my life isn¡¯t made for that,¡± I mumbled, remembering the feeling Solas gave me.


    That¡¯s what I thought until now. But after you gave me Solas, I¡­


    ¡°Growing up, I guess it was good for the first five years. I can¡¯t remember them, so that''s probably why I think they were good, but I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever been happier than when you gave me this pup.¡± I confessed as Solas hopped onto my lap.


    A soft smile rose on my lips, feeling comforted by his touch. ¡°So, use that as a bar to see how I felt during all those years.¡±


    ¡°Hey¡ª¡± Finn began, only for me to stop him again.


    ¡°Not until the end.¡± I huffed, not wanting to see his expression.


    A soft sigh left his lips, leaning towards me.


    ¡°So, I think the first time Dad beat me was when I was ten. He never fed me well before then, but that didn¡¯t hurt as much as his fists. The first time it happened was when I failed a test.¡± I bit my lip, feeling Finn¡¯s gaze on me.


    If being a demon king is too much, you should try to become a therapist. You¡¯re so easy to talk to. Ah¡­ Why didn¡¯t I do this before? Oh, because¡­ those who wanted to hear me cost money, while the ones who didn¡¯t care enough.


    But why are you different? Why do I feel I can tell you everything, and you¡¯ll accept it?


    ¡°He called me a failure to my face and said that I should¡¯ve died instead of Mom. Evelyn was eleven then and told him to stop wailing. I think she¡¯s the only reason he never killed me. Though with age, she also moved on away from me.¡± I sighed, letting out a short-broken cackle.


    Why did I ever wake up every morning? What got me up and running? Autopilot, I guess.


    ¡°So, when I was fifteen, everyone I knew at school learned about my real father. The person who was supposed to be my best friend told the school about it because she was angry with me.¡± I paused, gripping the sheets.


    It would be best if you had punched me and moved on, but teenagers are vengeful little things.


    ¡°I mean, she was the only one who spoke to me. So, I guess that made her my best friend of sorts?¡± I shrugged, trying not to let those memories influence me.


    We used to speak about stupid things, but she never noticed how badly I was hurting, and it wasn¡¯t like I tried to help her with her issues, either. However, in my stupidity, I told her about my biological father during one of our hangouts when she mentioned her drug-addict of a father.


    I thought we both could bond over our bio fathers'' misdeeds, which worked until¡­


    ¡°Her boyfriend tried to make me hook up with him, and when I didn¡¯t, he forced me into a kiss, having a friend take a picture of us. Ah¡­ not the type you draw. It¡¯s a device that captures a moment.¡± I tried to clarify, glancing over at Finn to see him tilt his head.The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    His eyes, though, had a soft shimmer of red within them.


    ¡°Uh, is there a spell for that?¡± I mumbled, attempting to lighten the mood.


    He nodded, ¡°There is, but you need the canvas and other crap for it. Some mages specialize in it.¡±


    Oh, like photographers. So, they have those in this world, too.


    ¡°So, yeah, something like that, but something you can send to others without a second thought,¡± I added, shifting my glance away from him. ¡°He sent it to everyone in my school. It ended up with her calling me my father¡¯s daughter. Like I raped him or something.¡± I released a heavy sigh, frowning.


    A soft hum came from Finn¡¯s lips. ¡°Was that your first kiss?¡±


    I didn¡¯t see any reason not to be honest.


    It isn¡¯t like I¡¯m not telling you my life story, right?


    ¡°Yeah, my second one was with you. Sorry for the tongue.¡± I mumbled.


    It was spontaneous, and he didn¡¯t deserve that.


    In my defense, I didn¡¯t know you were trying to save me.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re a virgin?¡± the demon king continued to query.


    Oi¡­ that¡­ doesn¡¯t matter in my story, doesn¡¯t it?! We¡¯re getting off track here!


    His expression caused my eyes to twitch, feeling like this was a provoked attack on me.


    Hey! Don¡¯t look at me like that!


    ¡°I¡¯m, but not the point! Oi! Little king, stop interrupting me, or else I¡¯ll start calling you perverted demon king instead!¡± I huffed, glaring at him only for him to chuckle.


    However, my heart skipped again when my eyes met him, melting away the irritation quicker than it had formed.


    ¡°Yes, Sparky.¡± He smiled, captivating me, much like his laughter.


    I lost my voice, gazing away from him.


    Why¡­ no¡­ no!


    Shaking my head, I gazed towards Solas.


    Get a grip! This may all be a trick, but it feels good to talk to someone.


    Clearing my throat, I tried to get a grip on my rogue heart. ¡°A-after that, I can¡¯t count the times I r-rolled down the stairs of my school.¡± I stuttered.


    Chill out already! Damn it, why do you have to be so handsome?! That isn¡¯t fair at all!


    Though it wasn¡¯t hard to stabilize myself with the topic that was coming, just remembering how many times I was shoved, drenched in water, and almost drowned in the bathrooms was enough to snap me back.


    ¡°Luckily, I never broke a bone. Though the bruises hurt, that¡¯s when Evelyn stopped talking to me, too. She went to the same school and didn¡¯t want the bad rep I had.¡± I sighed, avoiding some topics.


    After that, they accepted my friend into the group, like she was my victim.


    ¡°Eve started blaming me for everything, too. If a boy broke up with her, it was my fault. If someone did something against her, again, it was my fault. I tried to keep to myself, working at an enjoyable job. Oh, I worked there since I was thirteen.¡± I continued, finding my pace again.


    Again, Finn silently listened.


    ¡°An elderly couple picked me up after finding me one day while I hid in an alley instead of going to school. Dad beat me up so bad that he even fucked up my lip.¡± I shrugged, ¡°Of course, I told them I fought somewhere. Stupid of me. I don¡¯t even know why I protected him.¡±


    Repositioning myself, Solas rolled off me only for him to jump back up.


    ¡°In the end, that restaurant became my little piece of nirvana. Of course, that was only while I was there. At least I didn¡¯t have to worry about food anymore.¡± I shrugged, poking Solas¡¯s fluff of a cheek.


    ¡°Sadly, that stopped when the old man¡¯s wife died not too long ago. He closed the shop, leaving me with nothing but debt. Oh, when I turned eighteen, my dad took out money under my name.¡± I paused, remembering that day.


    He beat me until I signed the paper he had brought home.


    I didn¡¯t know what it was. Nor did I care. All I wanted was for the pain to stop, and it did once I gave in.


    ¡°Of course, they don¡¯t usually give big loans to eighteen-year-old kids, but since he cosigned well, I was screwed. And if I didn¡¯t pay for it, he was. Of course, it fucks me more because of credit crap that makes little sense to you.¡± I sighed, seeing Finn tilted his head again.


    ¡°Anyways, before I knew it, my credit went to shit because I couldn¡¯t keep up with the payments, and college was getting harder too. I didn¡¯t move out because I was dumb. Looking back, I should¡¯ve just slept on the street somewhere.¡± I confessed, tapping my legs.


    ¡°Then Evelyn got a fianc¨¦. She¡¯s barren, though. So, she can¡¯t have any kids, but she found a workaround, me. She wanted me to lend her my womb, but that¡¯s where I drew the line.¡± I gripped the sheets under me, feeling my temperature rise at the thought of it.


    ¡°I¡¯m not carrying anyone else kid in my belly.¡± I huffed.


    Those words I yelled at her when I stormed out of their dinner.


    ¡°I wanted to give this to someone I chose, not them.¡± Shivers ran down my spine as Evelyn demanded that I sleep with her husband-to-be since they didn¡¯t believe in artificial implantation.


    ¡°If I can¡¯t own a car or house or stay in college. I might as well be able to fuck whoever I want, right?¡± I clicked my tongue, falling onto the bed.


    All of it was a mess. I should¡¯ve run away from there, if only¡­


    ¡°Well, not to my father. The money he took out for her, in my name, wasn¡¯t enough. I had to give everything else to Evelyn, too. I took her mom away. So, who else would do it? They could¡¯ve gone for anyone, but since Evelyn can¡¯t produce eggs, she needed me to have something closely related to her.¡±


    There was no oven or egg to make the bread you wanted, so you tried to get me to cook it for you.


    It was a valid reason, yet it wasn¡¯t one I would give in to. Perhaps if we had a better relationship, but¡­


    ¡°They even took me to this fancy dinner with her fianc¨¦ and everything. He was willing to pay me a lot of money. It was enough to clear the debt, but I¡­¡± I trailed off, gazing at the ceiling.


    ¡°I told both to fuck off and left. Of course, she went crying to Dad. It didn¡¯t help that I tried to get the loan suspended or moved for fraud earlier that day. Bad timing for everything, I guess.¡± I sighed.


    The perfect storm.


    ¡°So, Dad¡¯s mood was the worst it could be, and I had enough, too. That day, I decided to move out. I¡¯m twenty-two years old; being a bum in the streets can''t be hard. Well, it probably is, but it¡¯s better than where I was living.¡± I paused, gazing at Finn.


    ¡°It didn¡¯t help. I had voices in my head all day and a nasty headache that came and left. It felt like I was going crazy.¡± I mumbled, narrowing my eyes.


    I should¡¯ve left without my clothes, but I worked for it. It was mine, even if it had holes.


    ¡°Sadly, Dad got home before I did. He was out with his drinking buddies, and well, the alcohol-fueled rage was headed my way. I only wanted to get my phone, a few clothes, and bounce.¡± I bit onto my lip again.


    ¡°So, when I got home, Dad confronted me about my loan and brought up Evelyn¡¯s situation. I told him I wouldn¡¯t do anything for them. Then I tried to run to my room.¡± I glanced towards the wall.


    Everything that happened next felt harder to say. I could even see him lying there with his¡­


    You¡¯re back¡­


    ¡°Before I could get there, he grabbed me by my hair¡­¡± I choked on my words.


    However, I pushed forward even as tears stung my eyes.


    ¡°He slammed me into the wall and dragged me to the living room. There, he gave me the worst beating I¡¯d ever had. But then he¡­¡± Once again, it felt like it wouldn¡¯t flow.


    Solas blocked my view from the wall before licking my nose.


    ¡°Dragged me into my room and threw me onto the bed. And¡­¡± I trailed off again, sitting up and covering my face with my hands.


    My entire being was shaking, and my breathing was unstable, too. However, Finn leaned on me this time, resting his head on my shoulder. This jolted me out, and I dropped my hands on the sides. Memories were vividly playing in my head.


    How will I ever¡­


    ¡°He¡­ ripped my clothes. It hurt so much. Oh, my god¡­ it felt like he ripped my skin too. He then yanked my pants down.¡± I paused again, trembling where I was.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay to cry,¡± Finn whispered, grabbing my hand.


    His voice was so soothing that I couldn¡¯t hold them back. This entire time, his body gave off a light red aura, and so did Solas.


    Tears welled up in my eyes before they trailed down my cheeks. ¡°After that, he¡­ took off my underwear, and I lost it.¡±


    Right¡­ I¡­


    ¡°Grabbing onto the first thing I found, I slammed it against his head. He fell, and I followed him, bashing his brains out.¡± I sobbed, trying to stay strong.


    Even now, I still love him. And I don¡¯t know why I do.


    Before I knew it, Finn tugged me into his chest, wrapping his arms around me. ¡°Sylvia¡­, it¡¯s okay, sweetheart. You survived.¡± He whispered, leaving me grasping onto his shirt, incapable of stopping the tears.


    A soft, broken laugh left me. ¡°My mom gave me that name before she died.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s pretty.¡± He hummed, holding me close.


    How can a monster¡­. Be you¡­ No¡­ you aren¡¯t one. You¡¯re¡­


    ¡°After that, I dressed myself up, texting everyone I knew that I needed help. No one responded to me, but I knew Evelyn would come home soon from the dinner.¡± I whimpered, holding onto his shirt.


    This embrace was too warm. However, it couldn¡¯t erase the image of me staring into the cracked mirror that reflected a bloodied and battered woman in its domain.


    No one cared enough. No one ever does.


    ¡°Having nothing more to lose, I went up to the roof of our apartment building. No one in the building cared to stop me as I passed by, which made me wonder how many times they heard him beat me and said nothing.¡± I sniffled, trying to get back on track.


    ¡°Once on the roof, I sent a final text to Evelyn, telling her I was up there. I don¡¯t think I even felt the pain of all he did to me. Perhaps the adrenaline kept it at bay. Though watching the city from the top made me feel tiny.¡± I confessed, wiping away my tears.


    Solas whimpered, wanting me to scoop him, which I quickly did, allowing him to nest himself between us.


    Why do I feel so empty inside?


    ¡°I thought my life was over by then, but I just couldn¡¯t leap. Then Evelyn showed up not too long after that and fell with me, and now I have a demon who wants me as his wife.¡± I shook my head, tugging away from him.


    However, the tears didn¡¯t stop while Finn gave me a soft hum, allowing me to move away from his embrace and meet his gaze.


    ¡°If only that demon knew, he¡¯d never get it. Probably then, he¡¯ll kill me and finally put this miserable life out of her misery.¡± I announced, triggering Finn to push me onto the bed.


    You aren¡¯t a monster, but you want to use me all the same. I won¡¯t give you anything you want; now you know why.

 Chapter 16: No Monster Here

    When I looked up at Finn, I couldn¡¯t help but notice how he seemed to tower over me, eliciting a wary from me. Despite the intimidating air surrounding him, I couldn¡¯t deny the undeniable beauty that exuded from him.


    A dark angel¡­ You aren¡¯t pure, but if you don¡¯t kill me, you¡¯ll become the person who saved me from a miserable existence. Can I become your savior?


    The demon didn¡¯t physically touch me; instead, he gripped the sheets beside me, successfully pinning me under him. His expression was something I didn¡¯t want to read into.


    ¡°What? Did I anger you?¡± I scoffed, refusing to meet with his gaze. ¡°As you can see, I have that effect on people.¡±


    ¡°Quiet¡­¡± he trailed off, clasping onto my chin before guiding my sight to turn to him.


    There, I saw his shimmering blue eyes mesmerizing me as a pulse of energy rushed through me, causing me to gasp. Everything I didn¡¯t and had told him replayed in my mind as shadows surrounded us like the day I lost control.


    Crap, when did they¡­ Is that what triggered you?


    I tried to say his name but couldn¡¯t, as this sly demon had enchanted me.


    ¡°Oh, honey, you did more than roll down the stairs,¡± he whispered, alerting me that he was witnessing all my memories.


    So many things in my story confused him, and I didn¡¯t want to get into them.


    A soft, broken giggle left me. ¡°I did, didn¡¯t I?¡±


    I lost count of how often my head was dunked into the toilet. Every time they called me a rapist, throwing things at me, sometimes it was literal feces found on the floor or taken from the bathroom.


    Kids are hellish creatures. Worse yet, all the adults ignored me as I walked home in a mess.


    No one cared enough to stop me, even if I stank like I hadn¡¯t showered for days.


    I loved it when it rained. There¡¯s nothing better than walking home on an empty street.


    It was the only time my life was peaceful other than at work when I didn¡¯t have to think about coming home, just the following order and the one after.


    ¡°You went through so much in your short life.¡± Finn sighed, closing his eyes and releasing a soft growl from his lips.


    It broke the charm he had me on, but it changed nothing. His eyes opened wide when my hand found his cheek.


    Why aren¡¯t you killing me? You saw everything I am. So, you know I won¡¯t let you have your way. So why keep me around?


    There was only one answer, and that made me bite my lip.


    Unless¡­ You¡¯re the first to ever¡­


    ¡°How can someone like you be a monster?¡± I mumbled, tracing my finger down his cheek.


    The shadows were gone, yet his red aura remained visible. I knew he was angered by something, but it wasn¡¯t directed at me. Not even when I denied him, he was¡­


    ¡°What?¡± Finn breathed.


    Instinctively, I hugged him, feeling like I wanted one. He held me back in response, allowing me to fall onto him. His back was against the bed while I struggled to hold back the tears.


    Why¡­ No¡­ don¡¯t¡­ come into my heart!


    ¡°So, are you going to kill me? I am too much, aren¡¯t I? It¡¯s probably better for you to find another saint than to deal with me.¡± My voice shook.


    Who wants to piece together a broken girl who refuses to be with them?


    At least this demon could kill me off after giving me a final hug.


    You¡¯ve given me more than a human ever has in this short time. That¡¯s good enough.


    ¡°No, I¡¯d rather have you than anyone else. It wasn¡¯t a mistake when I picked you.¡± He announced quicker than my mind could handle.


    What? Am I¡­


    It caused me to lift off him to gaze at his blue-shimmer eyes. His arms were still around me.


    ¡°Even if I don¡¯t become your wife?¡± I mumbled, feeling off.


    Why waste your time on me? No one else wanted me. Why do you? Is it because I¡¯m your weapon? Yes¡­ that must be it. It¡¯ll never be because of me.


    ¡°Even then, I won¡¯t kill you. We¡¯ve got more than a lifetime to figure this out.¡± He sighed, gazing towards the side.The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    I tilted my head.


    More than a lifetime?


    ¡°Hm? What¡ª¡± I couldn¡¯t finish when he forced me down onto his chest.


    It wasn¡¯t rough, but it was enough to silence me.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it.¡± He mumbled, holding me in place.


    I felt like a trapped plush.


    Why¡­ You¡¯re his doom or freedom, of course. He¡¯ll keep you close¡ªstupid Sylvia.


    ¡°So¡­ you really won¡¯t kill me? Not even to get another saint?¡± I asked, feeling his warmth radiate into me.


    There had to be a way to get another; there were two of us in this world, allowing him another choice.


    ¡°Nope. I don¡¯t want your narcissistic sister. I would¡¯ve ripped into her by now.¡± He answered without a second thought.


    Ah¡­ That¡¯s probably true. She would¡¯ve probably gotten under your skin. Or maybe she would¡¯ve played along for you. You are her type, without the horns, I mean.


    ¡°But what if I make you super angry?¡± I mumbled.


    A soft chuckle left his lips. ¡°I don¡¯t think there¡¯s a bone in you that can make me rage enough to do that, Sylvia.¡±


    I shook my head, remembering the first night there. Then again, we knew nothing about each other, yet he still put up with me. His intentions and mine were unknown, though the way my name rolled off his tongue was surprising.


    I liked it with his voice. His tone had no disgust or hate, which I was so used to.


    ¡°Hm¡­ right, little king.¡± I giggled, closing my eyes.


    Finn, why are your eyes always full of pain? Who hurt you? Won¡¯t you tell me one day?


    ¡°Oi¡ª¡± he huffed, only to stop when I snuggled into his chest.


    You don¡¯t deserve that look in your eyes.


    None of the people who I had met in this castle did. I never thought I would enjoy the warmth of another. Not that anyone back in my world wanted to hold me this way; even in college, everyone avoided me.


    He was the first to hold me, and I liked it. There was a hint of roses on his clothes, even though the stagnant air was overpowering.


    ¡°Hey, Finn¡­ does the pain ever stop?¡± I mumbled, feeling him trace his fingers down my brown locks.


    Solas cuddled himself in one of the demon king¡¯s wings, officially declaring the demon lord our bed.


    ¡°They say with time, everything heals, but it only dulls it out.¡± He whispered.


    My eyes were getting heavier with each caress he gave me.


    ¡°I see. Did yours?¡± I struggled to keep my eyes open while he comforted me in ways I didn¡¯t know were possible.


    Hey¡­ Has anyone done this for you?


    ¡°Heh¡­ you don¡¯t want to know.¡± He sighed.


    ¡°But I do,¡± I mumbled, closing my eyes.


    His heartbeat was so soothing to hear, too. Perhaps I was playing into his hand, but I couldn¡¯t help but want to reach out for this warmth.


    This was all I ever wanted. For anyone to¡­


    ¡°It¡¯s better if you don¡¯t know,¡± Finn whispered, still caressing my hair, leaving everywhere he touched tingling.


    ¡°Hm¡­¡± I hummed.


    Only in this world would a demon be my bed; perhaps that isn¡¯t so bad.


    While listening to Finn¡¯s heartbeat, I drifted into a dream. One where Nyla almost burned down the kitchen again to make Gael angry.


    I guess I¡¯ve seen them arguing too many times.


    The following day, I was curled up in a ball with Solas. Finn was nowhere to be seen, leaving me pondering if the prior day was a dream. However, some of his feathers were left behind on the bed surrounding me.


    Picking up one, I couldn¡¯t help but gaze at it.


    Ah¡­ you¡­ are you¡­ finally, the one to save me?


    Tears stung my eyes as I shook my head, clutching the feather close to my chest.


    Why did it take you so long?!


    Unable to hold them back, they trailed down my cheeks, breaking into a sob. Holding the feather to my chest, I didn¡¯t understand why I was still there.


    Don¡¯t you know I¡¯ll probably ruin your life more? It¡¯s all I ever do, but you know that now. I¡¯ve seen everything!


    His kindness and sweetness were wasted on someone like me, yet I couldn¡¯t stop reaching for that hand.


    Is that the same one I saw reaching for me when I was in free fall? No¡­ It can¡¯t be. Don¡¯t be fooled!


    When I fell with Evelyn back in my original world, I thought someone was reaching out to me.


    Is this¡­ No, don¡¯t¡­


    I couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling that I was nothing more than a tool for him.


    Yes, this benefits you. You¡¯re just trying to make me feel better for your needs. It isn¡¯t because you care; it¡¯s because you need me.


    A tool that he would care for until he didn¡¯t have to. The moment he had no use for me, he would throw me away just like everyone else. Yet the tears wouldn¡¯t stop flowing out of me. I didn¡¯t know why I sought affection after everything.


    It wasn¡¯t for me to have. I knew that, yet¡­


    I wish for it.


    My sobbing woke Solas up, who whimpered, pawing at me.


    ¡°Am sorry, did I wake you up?¡± I whipped my eyes.


    Placing Finn¡¯s feather in the book I took from Rizak¡¯s library, I took Solas into my arms. The demon king had given me a wonderful gift in this pup. There was no more I could ask for.


    Even if it¡¯s a lie for me, everyone here loves you, and that isn¡¯t a lie. I wish¡­ I can find a home here. But I know¡­ You¡¯ll all come to hate me sooner than later.


    The couple that took me in did so because it was cheap labor, not because they cared. Yet I didn¡¯t mind because it was somewhere I could be away from home.


    I can¡¯t forget, this is all temporary. When it¡¯s time for him to move on, Sylvia, you¡¯ll be left behind. Remember, no one sticks around for long.


    Starting my day, I met Nyla, who was waiting outside my room.


    ¡°Did you have a pleasant sleep?¡± She beamed, fixing her tiny dress.


    The halls appeared cleaner than on other days, too.


    Did they spend the entire night cleaning? Don¡¯t they sleep?


    ¡°You could say I did.¡± I smiled, remembering the dream about the little goblin and the troublesome incubus.


    My eyes aren¡¯t puffy, right?


    ¡°Oh, yes, yes! That¡¯s good then!¡± she continued with her positivity.


    With Solas in my bag, I followed her on our merry way. Much like I expected, Gael once again made her hit him multiple times when he tried to make a move on me. Though I knew he wasn¡¯t serious.


    There wasn¡¯t an ounce in him that said he was, yet Nyla didn¡¯t appreciate him trying to steal the king¡¯s fianc¨¦e.


    If I can be one.


    Even if we were attracted to one another, I didn¡¯t want him that way. We barely knew each other. This admiration that was forming for the demon was far from love or anything that could be based on marriage.


    After watching the argument, I ate a warm meal before leaving the dining room. There, I met Rizak, who quickly took me into the library for more wordy explanations. This time, I was more open to them.


    Sadly, they were still hard for me to decipher completely. We quickly moved on to potions, which were easy enough for a child to do, but Finn came into the library looking for me before I could get too deep into that.


    It was time for my dose. The moment my gaze met him, the same aura from before was present. I didn¡¯t know what he was doing before arriving, but it had left its mark on him. Rizak left the room, giving us room for ourselves.


    Walking towards where I was, Finn quickly noticed I was using his feather as a bookmark. His eyes widened before a soft smile rose on his lips. However, his eyes were still soulless, turning my mind into a storm that kept going in circles.


    What type of king are you? Why did this happen to you out of everyone?

 Chapter 17: Poisonous Feeling

    My eyes followed the demon lord, who tapped his finger on the book I held.


    ¡°You found a nice marker to use while you read.¡± He smirked.


    I nodded. ¡°I like it, and it isn¡¯t like you¡¯re using it anymore.¡±


    A soft chuckle left his lips. ¡°They shed from time to time.¡±


    Oh, you look happier than I thought¡­ you¡¯d¡­


    His reaction made my cheeks burn hot.


    ¡°Hm¡­¡± I gazed away, unable to hold the emotion within me.


    What is this?


    Walking behind me, he glanced at the book I was reading. There were ingredients all around, scattered on the wooden table, too.


    ¡°Studying potions today?¡± he mumbled.


    I gave a soft shrug, ¡°Yes, they''re simple to do. At least one thing I understand from Rizak.¡± I sighed.


    The books were all written in a unique language; however, I could understand everything even though I didn¡¯t know how to write it, another thing Rizak was trying to teach me.


    It¡¯s another blessing Serena gave me. That goddess keeps on giving.


    ¡°Heh, you¡¯ll get it. Sorry to rush, but can I kiss you?¡± Finn asked, triggering me to gaze at him.


    Oi! Don¡¯t ask me like that! You¡¯re way too chill about this!


    I was bothered by it all the while, which was odd because it felt good to kiss him.


    But perhaps that¡¯s the problem.


    ¡°It¡¯s a chore for you, isn¡¯t it?¡± I mumbled, watching those same cold blue eyes.


    My concern caused him to chuckle again. I didn¡¯t notice when his tail caused the chair to tilt to him, triggering a soft squeal to leave me before I was suddenly facing his sapphire gaze. His smile got even more defined after my sudden burst.


    ¡°Did you think I¡¯d let you fall?¡± he questioned, with a smirk on his lips.


    ¡°N-No! I wasn¡¯t expecting it!¡± I grumbled, feeling embarrassed.


    Leaning into me, I felt his lips brush against mine before stopping.


    ¡°You¡¯re the best chore I currently have,¡± Finn breathed, triggering me to grab onto his cheeks.


    This king was hard to read, yet I couldn¡¯t let his words sway me. The one with the most to lose from this was me, or at least I believed I did.


    ¡°Don¡¯t lie. It won¡¯t work on me.¡± I simpered, tugging myself up to press my lips onto his.


    I lied.


    Those words were working, but I wouldn¡¯t let him know. A second later, I felt his tongue on mine, triggering an unrelenting warmth to invade. Unable to help myself, I searched for more by sticking my tongue into his mouth, where he allowed me to caress all his features.


    A soft moan left him, prompting me to realize how much he enjoyed having me in the commanding seat. However, it wasn¡¯t long before he won dominance, leaving me a panting mess when he tugged away from me, licking his lips.


    Leaning into my ear, I felt his lips curl upward.


    ¡°I never lie.¡± He whispered before letting go of the chair, back where it was.


    A second later, he was gone, but not before he shook my heart in ways I never knew it could. Solas once again nested himself on my lap while I felt vulnerable.


    Never lie? No¡­ It¡¯s a trick. Don¡¯t fall for another man¡¯s con. Make your own, Sylvia! But¡­ how?


    Rizak wasn¡¯t back yet, and with my heart thundering like a tropical storm, I couldn¡¯t help but reach for the nightshade, angel trumpet, and foxglove flowers.


    Do I want to be used and thrown away again? No¡­ I need a way out. I¡¯m tired of letting everyone get the best of me.


    After pouring the flowers into the pot, I poured water over them before mashing them together. Placing the poison into a vial, I gazed at it for a while before shaking my head.


    Ah¡­ Just what am I doing? It¡¯s just like that night. I won¡¯t be able to take it even if I feel I¡¯m cornered.


    A soft sigh left me before shifting my gaze toward the pup on my lap.


    This little one isn¡¯t at fault for anything, and I can¡¯t take you with me like that.


    Solas was blissfully unaware of what I had done.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    No¡­ I¡­


    Hearing the door open, in a panic, I quickly hid the potion on a shelf filled with them. Shoving Solas into my bag, I pretended to be deep into a book. Luckily, Rizak was none the wiser when he reached me before bombarding me with another lesson.


    After his lecture, I learned how to make different potions for ailments. The tricky part was being in the correct mind space to cast the spell and turn the liquid into something useful.


    There¡¯s a potion even to cure minor wounds and even blindness!


    When the lesson ended, I left Rizak to explore the castle again, with Nyla following me around until dinner. During a conversation between the goblin and the Gael, I stopped feeling like I had forgotten something, but it quickly slipped my mind before I finished the tasty meal.


    Once done, I headed for the bedroom, where Finn was waiting again. This became my routine for an entire month. I spent time in the castle these demons called home, and no injury came my way.


    For beasts, they have incredible self-control. Well, better than my stepdad ever did. This marks the first time I haven¡¯t had a bruise on my skin. There is not a single ache. How odd does it feel?


    Rizak consumed my mornings, while Finn used his free time for me at night. Learning from the demon king felt more accessible than with the owl; all the while, Solas grew from the tiny bean he once was.


    You¡¯re the size of a full-grown golden retriever, yet no words out of you.


    His personality was showing, and I couldn¡¯t imagine my life without him in it anymore.


    My partner in crime is glued to me by the hip. I never thought I¡¯d feel this much love for something in such a short time.


    In many ways, this pup spoiled me rotten.


    I probably won¡¯t be able to sleep if you aren¡¯t around anymore.


    Whenever I reached for something, the pup handed it to me whenever he could. Rizak¡¯s lessons became more complicated when he dove into enchantments, symbols that increased human strength and abilities when painted onto the skin.


    They were much like the ones I saw in the circles that summoned us here.


    Most humans tattooed these sigils onto their skin. It was the only way they would keep up with demons that feasted on their power to make it their own, which was why the owl was determined, and I learned how to do them.


    ¡°You never know when you¡¯ll need to fend off a demon or a human.¡± Rizak huffed, ruling my studies with an iron fist before letting me free.


    Thankfully, Finn¡¯s seamstress, a spider lady, better known as Arachne, was available to make me clothes that fit my style.


    The dresses were beautiful, but I preferred comfier clothes to wear. Nothing beats shorts and a T-shirt.


    Sadly, the winter breeze made it impossible to use, so I wore sweatpants more than anything else. The creeper crawler, Phoebe, was nice enough to allow me to adjust to her appearance. I didn¡¯t mean to be rude, but I hid the entire time behind Nyla.


    She had a humanoid torso, but her eyes were purple, like her hair and crawler parts.


    All eight of them felt like they were staring into my soul.


    However, unlike the rest of her, her human skin was grey. Yet, I was left in awe when I saw her magic. Colorful shimmers surrounded us while she tailored my wishes into a reality, making clothes out of silk or any material provided in the blink of an eye.


    With that, she made me a beautiful sweater, baggy pants, and a fur-hooded cloak to wear when it got too cold. We ended up with so many different variants that many didn¡¯t fit into the closet I had, something that was quickly remedied with a little bit of enchantment, thanks to Rizak.


    Before I knew it, I was surrounded by things I never had. I was used to hand-me-downs from Evelyn, which usually had holes. This entire month stunned me since I never knew I could smile as much or even feel this way.


    Yet, in the moments of silence, the fear of losing it all grew even more. The only thing I could do to keep myself in place was to remind men that this was temporary. Even though Finn kissed me every morning and night, it didn¡¯t change the look in his eyes.


    My heart felt like a storm was festering inside me, even though everyone was friendly.


    I¡¯m still in pieces and don¡¯t know how to assemble it.


    In all this time, I had gotten no closer to figuring out what happened in this castle. Everyone kept their lips tight; even Rizak¡¯s slip-ups weren¡¯t helpful. Feeling extra yucky from writing enchanting sigils on me, I took an early shower.


    Nyla wasn¡¯t around, so I went in with Solas instead of informing her. Taking off my clothes, I placed them in a basket nearby, making it easier on the little goblin.


    I can wash my clothes, you know.


    That was an argument she didn¡¯t let me win, though I still wasn''t used to people doing things for me. Even Gael argued whenever I told him he didn''t need to cook for me. However, there were days when he wasn''t around; I¡¯d make food with any ingredients I found.


    Finn caught me yesterday and told me to cook for him, too. He curiously watched me while I made a stew for us. I found the entire thing silly, as my food wouldn''t help him like Gael''s. Yet, the cheeky demon said he liked mine better.


    Such a liar...


    However, that was the first time anyone had complimented my food so bluntly, making me happier than I¡¯d ever admit. I had never had such a good meal as the one I ate with him, leaving me wondering if that was how families were supposed to be.


    These monsters were slowly filling all I missed.


    More than any human¡­


    These emotions that were developing within me were dangerous. I had to stay strong until I knew the truth about what happened there, yet I couldn''t help but care for all of them. Finn, especially, was becoming an irreplaceable presence.


    No matter how hard I tried, my thoughts traveled toward him more than I wished. The demon couldn''t know he was winning my heart.


    I don''t know if it¡¯s love or something else, and I don''t want to know. But... I know it¡¯s a matter of time until I give in. Arg! You have me in the palm of your hand! I must do something about it!


    Releasing a sigh, I placed my bag and the book about the sigils I could use on my body next to the bin. Solas always went with me into the stalls where I washed the pup, who loved to dive into the inks with me.


    It¡¯s always a priority to keep his fur snow-white!


    After showering, I turned off the water, only to hear the door open and close. Not knowing who was there, I hid in my stall, hoping they would leave. Yet when they spoke, my heart wanted to come out of my throat.


    ¡°So, M¡¯lord, when will we see the saint? My birdies say she¡¯s a beauty.¡± A voice I had never heard echoed down the room, freezing me where I was.


    Crap! Crap!


    ¡°In time.¡± Finn sighed.


    Oh¡­ I¡¯m fucked! I should¡¯ve told Nyla!


    It never hit me why she always wanted me to tell her whenever I used it.


    This is the king¡¯s bathroom! Of course, you¡¯ll use it too! I¡¯m such an idiot!


    I had never used the giant pool in the middle, but it did seem like a nice place to spend time.


    Why didn''t I think of it before?! A demon¡¯s perfect spa!


    Nyla once briefly mentioned that, on occasion, others would join him in the bath. Even though I had the guts to walk out and confront them, I didn¡¯t while I was naked. Solas was my only cover, as I had left the towel by my bag.


    Luckily, the stalls were separated from the pool in front. Sadly, there was no other way out, and where I was would be the first place they¡¯d go before the pool.


    Fuck... I¡¯m fucked!

 Chapter 18: A Close Encounter

    Finding myself pinned, all I could do was hold on to Solas. The pup¡¯s hair frizzed up, responding to my heart rate skyrocketing, which got worse when four other voices erupted into chatter.


    How many of you are there?! And who¡¯s going to find me first?!


    The rustling of clothes hitting the ground sent shivers down my spine while I tried to hold my voice. An urge to scream, the bathroom was occupied rose within me, and it was hard to drown. Knowing how fast demons were, making noise would¡¯ve been a mistake.


    There were around six stalls, and I always used the last one.


    Being closer to the wall made me feel safe, but in this case, it might¡¯ve screwed me!


    Their footsteps got closer to me before¡­


    ¡°W-Wait¡­ I-I need to check something.¡± Finn¡¯s voice cracked.


    ¡°What is it, darling?¡± a female voice questioned, followed by a snake-like sound.


    Is that a hiss?!


    Shivers ran down my spine; trying to keep myself still was hard.


    If creepy crawlers aren¡¯t my thing. Neither were snakes!


    I strangely loved lizards, though.


    Bearded dragons are too cute not to like. Perhaps even geckos with¡ª Wait! This isn¡¯t the time to think that! How am I going to get out of here?!


    ¡°Uh¡­ I think Nyla might¡¯ve forgotten something in here.¡± The demon king shuffled past them, opening each stall.


    Did you see my stuff?! Please send them away!


    Before I knew it, he opened the door to my stall. His eyes widened before covering his mouth, trying to catch himself. One wrong word and the generals would realize I was there. I wasn¡¯t the only one who was bare, as I could see most of his features, usually covered by his clothes.


    He had a medium-built body, lean and fit, yet my eyes were glued to the scar on his upper abdomen. The old wound went on a straight line from where his rib cage was to his belly button.


    How did¡­


    ¡°O-Oh, here it is. Nyla must¡¯ve placed my soap here. I¡¯m going to use this stall.¡± Finn announced, gazing at the others in the room.


    Wait! Use?! Why not send them away?! Unless¡­ Will it look too weird if you did? Why are¡ª


    ¡°But I thought you would wash with me.¡± Another female voiced, raising a new emotion within me.


    Oi¡­ you bathe with women?! And then you have the audacity to want to marry me?! Are you kidding me?! You stupid, perverted demon!


    The desire to tell Finn off grew within me, but his expression quickly silenced me. His eyes turned crimson instantly, giving off a thick aura from before.


    Not once have you ever¡­


    ¡°Oh, honey, you¡¯ve never been able to handle me. Plus, I¡¯m committed to another. You know that.¡± Finn scowled, growling lowly soon after.


    It was a deeper red than before.


    ¡°Hah! That¡¯s a good joke! I keep telling you that human girl, saint or not, won¡¯t be able to fill your violent needs like me and my girls do!¡± The same woman chuckled.


    Her voice was so seductive, reminding me of¡­


    Is that a female Gael?


    Shivers ran again, leaving me wondering what Finn was doing with her.


    Did she say violent needs?! No! Your past has nothing to do with me! Not even the present, as we aren¡¯t a thing!


    Though his aura got thicker, allowing it to pool under him.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dwell in the past. I rarely repeat it.¡± He huffed, gazing back at me.


    The emotion that filled his eyes left me trembling where I stood. They were¡­


    You genuinely want to murder them, don¡¯t you? Is this how you feel about me, too? Or¡­


    ¡°Aw, Astred, I know you¡¯ve been craving our king¡¯s attention for years. How about I keep you company today?¡± Another different man cooed from the side.


    His voice was rougher than the other one who had spoken before him.


    ¡°Ew, Vorex. I don¡¯t want your fangs in me.¡± The woman huffed, going into her stall.


    The rest chuckled; anyone coming blindly into the room would think they were friends, but Finn¡¯s expression wasn¡¯t one of enjoyment.


    ¡°Nice try.¡± Another man cackled at Vorex, who groaned before muttering under his breath.


    Finn carefully watched his generals go into the stalls before entering mine. Closing the door behind him, he crotched down to me while I used Solas as a cover, and all he had on was a towel. He placed his finger on his lips and ensured I knew not to make a sound.


    ¡°So, M¡¯lord, when will we see the girl? It¡¯s been a month. You can¡¯t keep hiding her forever, or perhaps she is a failure?¡± the man who first spoke commented, alerting me to why the demon king didn¡¯t cause a scene.


    Ah¡­ That¡¯s why you didn¡¯t send them away. They¡¯re like vultures circling to see me. Without a doubt, they¡¯ll jump at any chance to see me.


    Finn¡¯s eyes closed, shaking his head before turning on the water with his tail. There were parts where his skin turned into feathery scales, which were in small patches all over his body, but they were more prevalent on his back, where his wings erupted.


    You really aren¡¯t human.


    ¡°You¡¯ll see her when she¡¯s ready.¡± He huffed, focusing his gaze on them.


    The tone snapped me back, shifting my glance at his face. Even though I was baring it all for him to see, he was more concerned with the others in the room.


    My body isn¡¯t anything special to look at. I know that, damn it, but at least¡­ Wait! I don¡¯t know where I¡¯m going with that!


    ¡°Ready? My birdies say that girl¡¯s broken. Her magic is barely viable at best.¡± The same man pointed out, stabbing my heart.


    Oi! You stupid demon! I¡¯m trying to get better! This isn¡¯t easy at all since I wasn¡¯t born here!This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    If I weren¡¯t naked, I would¡¯ve given him a piece of my mind, or so I thought I would. I probably would¡¯ve stood there listening to him without saying anything like I always did. However, Finn¡¯s aura became more prevalent with each thing they said.


    Ah¡­ Is this why you¡¯re always in such a bad mood when I see you? They get right under your skin. But if it¡¯s because of me¡­ Then¡­


    ¡°Perhaps we should go for the other human saint. My spies say she¡¯s a prodigy.¡± The other woman commented, followed by a hiss.


    ¡°Your intel is floppy at best.¡± Vorex huffed on the side.


    ¡°You¡¯re insulting our king¡¯s future wife. Don¡¯t cry when your tongues go missing again.¡± One unidentified male snickered.


    ¡°Now, Vabaru, I¡¯m simply saying that perhaps we should do the other ritual with her. Finn should eat her and¡ª¡± he was quickly interrupted by one of the others.


    Eat me¡­?


    ¡°Sebastian, you¡¯re out of line. Do you want to end up in a puddle again?!¡± Vorex warned, feeling the energy that radiated out of my stall.


    Finn was about to snap, gritting his teeth as his fangs flashed. Every time he had shown me his aura, it had never been so deep red, reminding me of blood. Even his eyes were crimson, without a single hint of blue left to them.


    ¡°Rizak may be wrong. Perhaps this girl is useless to us, and we should follow a different path!¡± Sebastian continued.


    However, before Finn could explode, I grabbed onto his wet black hair before lifting myself to clash my lips against his.


    I don¡¯t care what they say! If you explode, I¡¯ll be exposed, and I don¡¯t want anyone else to see me bare! Don¡¯t let them win!


    That wasn¡¯t all, though; the demon lord¡¯s expression was one I wanted to erase. He didn¡¯t deserve to feel anything like that, especially for someone like me.


    Insults were all I ever knew. I¡¯m fine with them. So, please don¡¯t get angry for my sake. Strangers don¡¯t bother me, but your expression does!


    His hands trace down my arms before holding onto them. My eyes widened when he opened his mouth, letting me into his, allowing our tongues to tango for dominance. With the running water, the demons surrounding us had to speak up to be heard, and their movements drowned any little sound.


    ¡°Oh, my king, we¡¯re just going in circles! I know a great surgeon who can help make her more docile! Ah¡­ what was it called? Oh yes, a lobotomy. She¡¯ll be the perfect doll after it!¡± Astred commented, humming soon after.


    Lobotomy?!


    I tugged away slightly from Finn, feeling myself flare up because of her.


    What the heck did you say?! No one¡ª


    Finn closed the small gap before I could analyze her words thoroughly, kissing me again. It was rougher than all the other times. The urge to whine surged, but I held it off as the running water or their movements wouldn¡¯t have drowned such a sharp noise.


    If they realize I¡¯m there, it¡¯s game over!


    However, their chatter consumed them too much to notice the king taking his frustration out on our kiss.


    ¡°That¡¯s dumb, Astred. I¡¯m sure you heard Rizak¡¯s warning.¡± Vorex sighed.


    Pressing my back against the wall, I finally saw some of the demon king¡¯s true colors. His gentle touch was firmer, unlike all the other times. His aura was still radiant, yet he focused on me instead of the generals.


    You really are no beast like they say you are.


    The way his tongue left me feeling was something I was growing to need. Winning the fight for dominance, his soft member caressed my mouth in ways that left me weak to the knees. Saliva dripped down my chin in his pursuit of me.


    The closer he got, the more our bare skin touched. One of his hands trailed down my arm and towards my waist before grasping onto it, tugging me closer to him. Places that had never known warmth were starting to tingle.


    Your skin¡¯s so warm on mine.


    ¡°That old crow¡¯s going to kill us all for a dream. We should enslave all humans and feed off them as we wish.¡± Sebastian scoffed.


    They were so into their world that they didn¡¯t notice when Finn didn¡¯t respond to them. More bickering continued as their voices were muffled because of the kiss, allowing a weird warmth to grow with me. Slowly, I traced my hands down his chest, triggering him to release a soft sigh.


    Pulling away from my lips, he licked them, leaving me jittery to his touch. Covering my mouth, I tried to silence my pants as he tugged away from me slightly.


    ¡°Enough of your banter,¡± Finn voiced.


    He was much more composed than I was, yet his eyes were back to blue, giving off a shimmering hue, leaving me wondering what was going on in that head of his.


    ¡°Yes, my liege.¡± They all quickly became silent.


    The gap between us was so small that he pressed his lips against mine again. It was short and sweet before he quickly tugged away again.


    ¡°Nyla,¡± Finn called, summoning her right away.


    The little goblin swiftly opened the door, running to his stall, allowing me to see her feet on the floor.


    ¡°Yes, M¡¯lord!¡± She waited for his command.


    ¡°Find a place for them to wait for me before I rip them into ribbons. I¡¯ll cool off for a bit here before I meet them again. Tell Brielle to keep them company for me.¡± He announced, setting my heart ablaze.


    Cool off in here?! Wait?! Weren¡¯t you waiting for a moment to send them all away?! Why are you staying behind?!


    ¡°Oh, I see! Yes, yes, follow me, generals. I¡¯ll have a warm meal waiting for you!¡± Nyla declared, guiding them out of the room and into the unknown.


    A soft sigh left Finn¡¯s lips before he glared at Solas. ¡°Oi, mutt, you¡¯re always supposed to tell me where she is. You¡¯re big enough for that.¡± He growled.


    Solas released a whimper, tail tugged between his legs.


    The demon lord quickly turned back to me, ¡°Are you crazy? I could¡¯ve hurt you.¡±


    His eyes gave off a slight glimmer, yet I again felt no fear from him.


    Perhaps my sense of danger is broken, much as you love to remind me.


    ¡°I wanted to stop you from getting angry,¡± I mumbled, feeling my cheeks burn.


    The panic had dulled everything else down before, but with the threat gone, I felt the full brunt of our display.


    Oh fuck! Heart, slow down! So, what if you''re naked?! It¡¯s just skin!


    ¡°Oh, sweety, I get angry daily. These idiots are a daily shitstorm for me.¡± He rolled his eyes, radiating the aura again.


    ¡°You slept with one, though.¡± I pointed out, shyly covering my breast.


    Finn¡¯s eyes twitched before shaking his head. ¡°I... Uh¡­ I have nothing to say to that, Sparky. I did, and I regret it.¡± He sighed.


    You never lie to me, not even to defend your honor, though at this point, I wonder if there¡¯s any to defend.


    ¡°I see,¡± I mumbled, feeling something new in my chest.


    It isn¡¯t fair. Wait¡­ what am I thinking?! What isn¡¯t fair?! You can sleep with whoever you want. I¡­ have nothing to do with that. Your past has nothing to do with me.


    ¡°Are you jealous?¡± Finn smirked, picking up on my subtle cues, triggering me to get jittery.


    ¡°N-no!¡± I stumbled.


    Oh! Doesn¡¯t that make me look more guilty?!


    All the red aura from before had withered away as he shrugged.


    ¡°I slept with her to release stress before you were even in the picture. It¡¯s been a couple hundred years since I last did with anyone, though.¡± He was too honest for his good.


    Yet I couldn¡¯t help but feel off by it.


    You¡¯ve been alive for multiple life spans. It¡¯s hard to get my head around that.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you now, then?¡± I asked, puffing my cheeks.


    A yelp left me when I felt his tail on my back, pushing me into him.


    His eyes rolled, allowing a soft hum to leave him. ¡°I got you; nothing else but my Sparky relieves the stress anymore.¡±


    It doesn¡¯t feel like you¡¯re being entirely truthful there! Arg! Why do you dodge the past? I want to know!


    ¡°B-but we d-do nothing like it!¡± I squealed, triggering him to chuckle.


    ¡°Sex is boring compared to talking to you every night... Seeing you not fear me... That¡¯s enough, Sparky. I didn¡¯t think I¡¯d have that again.¡± He simpered, leaning into me.


    Perhaps it was the lack of clothes, but those words left me vulnerable, and his approach broke me in ways I never knew I could.


    I can¡¯t feel my heart anymore!


    ¡°You know, everything else¡¯s irrelevant until we both want it. However, the way you are, how can a demon like me hold back?¡± he breathed, locking his lips with mine again.


    I knew I was losing the war when his touch caused an eruption of sensations that felt like it could swallow me whole.


    You¡¯re¡­ going to win. I can¡¯t seem to hate you; I''m falling for it even if all this is a trick.


    Yet I would fight it tooth and nail until the end when I brought life to those eyes of his. Picking me up, my legs rested on his hips while my arms wrapped around his neck. Our chests brushed against one another while his tongue caressed mine, leaving me mewling into our kiss.


    Gripping onto my bum, he deepened the union, drowning me in his warmth before slightly tugging away from my lips.


    ¡°I should stop.¡± He sighed, leaning in to lick my lips.


    In the heat of the moment, though, my heart couldn''t keep up with my mind anymore.


    ¡°Don¡¯t stop,¡± I mumbled, leaning into his lips again before freezing where I was.


    Woah¡­ what did I say?!


    My cheeks felt like I was about to fall off, as his eyes were wider than I had ever seen them. His cheeks were also pink, reaching past his ears, and, like me, he was speechless.


    ¡°W-wait! I m-mean¡­¡± I continued, trying to get ahead, but the sentence refused to form.


    How do I recover from that?! There is none!


    My heart was beating too fast for me to calm down.


    ¡°Okay, when did you get this cheeky?!¡± Finn finally erupted, voice squeaky.


    ¡°I¡­¡± I tried to start but again failed.


    Shaking his head, he took a deep breath before letting it go. ¡°This is no place for a girl to lose her virginity. So, I¡¯ll stop. Though, know you¡¯re playing with fire and will get burned someday.¡± He warned, letting me down.


    His towel showed a tent before he turned around, struggling between turning back to me or leaving.


    ¡°Sparks, let Nyla know when you¡¯re in the bathroom to prevent this from happening again.¡± He sighed before walking out, leaving me in the shower to wash away all the mistakes I made.


    I¡¯m such an idiot. Fire? Burned? I''m already scorched!

 Chapter 19: What Are You?

    Thanks to our passionate kiss that evening, Finn never came to see me that night. However, I missed his presence, which I had become accustomed to.


    I¡¯ve become too spoiled. The stupid demon is giving me stuff I never wanted! This is precisely why I didn¡¯t want anything from anyone!


    A soft sigh left my lips, tracing my lips, which still felt his warmth from before.


    That kiss was rough, unlike the gentle ones I¡¯m used to. You wanted to dominate me, didn¡¯t you?


    I didn¡¯t do a single thing to stop him from doing so.


    Your sheer strength and ability to hold back is ridiculous!


    Heck, part of me wanted him to mess me up.


    I mean, look at you! Who wouldn¡¯t want a night with you?! Wait¡­ When did I start wanting more?! No, no! Back up, Sylvia! Take a hold of your ovaries and think clearer!


    I shook my head, flopping onto the book in front of me.


    I¡¯m insane?! Though¡­ Why didn¡¯t you take the opportunity?! A demon caring for a girl''s chastity! Who has ever heard of that?! Why don¡¯t you act more like what you are supposed to be?! I can¡¯t hate you like this!


    No, I could never hate him if this was the real him. However, that wouldn¡¯t have changed; he was the one who had brought me into this world before the humans intercepted me. This monster saved me from a deadly leap and gave me everything I never had.


    Friendly chatter, a purpose, and a companion¡­ No¡­ most importantly, you¡¯ve given me a home.


    I rolled on the bed, gazing towards Solas, who was always with me.


    I never imagined I would ever have anything like this!


    Before I knew it, Rizak, Nyla, Solas, and even Gael had become vital to me, too. The incubus felt more like an annoying brother than anything else. In comparison, Nyla felt like the mother I never had, while Rizak was a caring father who wanted me to be ready for anything.


    Although they all wanted to use me for their needs, I couldn¡¯t help but have fun when I spoke with them. Most importantly, they enjoyed my presence or at least pretended to. Even Gael, with his constant flirtations, was warming up to me.


    In less than a month, they all crawled into my heart somehow.


    I can¡¯t help but feel this intense emotion growing within me.


    The old couple made it easy not to get too attached as they treated me at arm¡¯s length.


    Even then, I still cared about them, but this is different.


    These demons treated me like a normal human, unlike everyone else. Even though I missed Finn that night, I eventually fell asleep. Every day was full of things to do that I didn¡¯t have time to think about anything else.


    However, from time to time, I would get nightmares that melted away when Solas cuddled me.


    Those days, I wonder if the pup eats more than just my mana.


    The next morning, I readied myself for the day, only to be met by Finn phasing into my room, startling me enough to squeal. Luckily, I was fully dressed this time.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re up. I thought you were asleep.¡± Finn chuckled, shifting my eyes to the bed to see Solas there.


    He had another growth spur, making him as large as a wolf. Yet he still didn¡¯t speak, which meant he was going to grow even more.


    ¡°You scared me! I didn¡¯t expect you to poof in here, especially since you bailed last night!¡± I grumbled, envious of whatever took up his time.


    He promised to teach me, but it was only when he was free. Even so, I couldn¡¯t help that new emotion surging within me.


    ¡°Astred and Levaira wouldn¡¯t leave me alone yesterday, and you already had your dose. Though today it means I get to kiss you earlier,¡± he informed me, leaving me dejected.


    Of course, you were with them.


    Again, my blood boiled at the thought, something that didn¡¯t concern me yet¡­


    You said you hadn¡¯t touched them in years, but can I believe you? Ah¡­ No! This has nothing to do with me! You can do as you wish!


    ¡°Well then, I wouldn¡¯t want to keep a busy little king here for long. So do it and go on your merry way.¡± I pouted, sitting on the bed.


    My periods had always been irregular, probably because of malnutrition, but thanks to Gael¡¯s meals, I had gained some pounds. I missed last month, but I was already feeling the effects of this cycle, such as the occasional cramps, but these mood swings were probably a sign.


    They have to be.


    ¡°Hm¡­ is that jealousy I hear?¡± Finn picked up on the subtle tone in my voice.


    ¡°N-no!¡± I huffed, eyes twitching.


    ¡°Hm, okay.¡± He hummed, sitting next to me.


    Closing his eyes, he let himself fall against my bed, leaving me gazing at him.


    You really are too beautiful, even with the horns and all.


    However, those feathers I saw around his body made me wonder what his authentic form was. Rizak told me all of them struggled to get their humanoid forms. Yet Finn and Brielle were the only two I saw who appeared more human than the rest.


    The she-wolf was still as cold as ice towards me.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Pfft, it wouldn¡¯t surprise me that she was sleeping with Finn, too!


    I always tried to ignore her scorn-lover vibes; it wasn¡¯t like she was any worse than my sister. A soft sigh left me as I approached the laying demon and climbed onto him.


    In response, his eyes opened with a smirk on his lips. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Do you want it already? I wanted to spend a little time with you.¡±


    It left me vulnerable again. Yet those eyes of his were always so lifeless.


    You don¡¯t mean a single thing, do you?


    ¡°As I said, I don¡¯t want to keep the little king away from his duties.¡± I huffed, reaching to touch his cheek.


    Instinctively, he leaned into my palm.


    ¡°You won¡¯t rescue me if I ask you?¡± he closed his eyes again.


    Unable to help myself, I leaned on him, snuggling my face into his chest.


    Ah, this demon isn¡¯t playing fair. You don¡¯t feel a thing yet, but you¡¯re setting an unending storm within me! When did this become a safe space for me?


    The bracelet Nyla placed on me the first night I arrived had yet to change. Rizak had said we both openly had to love one another, something Finn always said wasn¡¯t possible.


    Love doesn¡¯t exist. His words echoed in my mind.


    If it doesn¡¯t exist, then what¡¯s this feeling? Am I confusing it with something else? Arg¡­ Fuck it.


    I had never felt it before, at least not to this extent and not toward so many others.


    The owl said openly, which is probably the keyword. But I don¡¯t know if this is love. Isn¡¯t it supposed to be more intense? Can I even feel that?


    Admitting any shape of the emotion would¡¯ve meant I lost, and I wasn¡¯t about to lose to him or anyone else again. Even with all those things that made my day brighter, he wouldn¡¯t know until I was ready.


    ¡°No.¡± I huffed, grumbling under my breath.


    It triggered Finn to chuckle, clasping me by my waist.


    ¡°So cold.¡± He sighed, prompting me to lift off him slightly.


    ¡°Says a demon.¡± I huffed, rolling my eyes at him.


    A soft shrug came from him, ¡°Eh, I could be worse. I think I¡¯ve been patient with you.¡± He confessed, gazing at me with the same eyes as always.


    Caging him under me, I felt his tail wrapping around one of my legs.


    ¡°At this point, I doubt you¡¯re this evil thing. I bet you¡¯re like the plushiest demon there is.¡± I simpered, feeling those pesky butterflies in my stomach.


    This demon was far from a stuffed doll. His horns were so deep red at times that they reminded me of blood and were sharp enough to pierce the skin, yet I didn¡¯t have a bruise from all my interactions with him.


    ¡°Plushiest?¡± he tilted his head.


    How can a demon be this cute?! This shouldn¡¯t be allowed! It¡¯s illegal!


    His cheeks were rosy, though.


    Arg! Demon, act like one! Stop trying to win this heart!


    ¡°One of those stuffed animals and dolls,¡± I mumbled, feeling jittery in his gaze.


    Cupping one of my cheeks in his palm, ¡°Oh, so now you want to stuff me? Should I be worried?¡± he chuckled, raising his eyebrows.


    Don¡¯t surrender!


    ¡°Maybe,¡± I mumbled, dropping onto his chest again.


    My strength to fight only made my emotions grow more vigorous. Another soft cackle left him, leaving me hearing his heartbeat. It was always pleasant to the ears, reminding me that even though he was immortal, he still had one.


    You aren¡¯t so different from me.


    ¡°You really enjoy hugging me.¡± He whispered, holding me back.


    I nodded, liking the warmth he offered me.


    ¡°You¡¯re cuddly, and you always look like you need one. So be grateful I¡¯m willing to give them to you.¡± I mumbled into his chest.


    With each kiss, I¡¯m growing more attached to you. I won¡¯t be able to live without you one day. Arg¡­ That can¡¯t come. I don¡¯t want¡­ any more heartaches.


    ¡°By the gods, you aren¡¯t normal. If you only knew how many I¡¯ve killed.¡± Finn sighed.


    You once said it was hard for you to be friendly to a human.


    Yet your nature is one of a gentleman; every demon I¡¯ve met in the castle loves or admires you. Aside from the generals, you aren¡¯t ruthless to those you care about.


    ¡°Then tell me.¡± I declared, not releasing my hold on him.


    He went stiff for a moment, releasing a sigh. ¡°Uh, I stepped into that one, didn¡¯t I?¡±


    I wasn¡¯t about to let him slip away this time.


    ¡°I¡¯m listening.¡± I hummed, enjoying the feeling of his chest rising and falling.


    His voice pleased the ears, and I didn¡¯t mind if he lectured me for hours about the history that made them into demons.


    So, this is a victory.


    Everyone always dodged the past, saying to hear it from the king.


    ¡°Well, uh¡­ I¡¯ve killed people for making me angry.¡± He tried to go around the question.


    I already knew he had anger issues, which made me wonder what would¡¯ve happened if I hadn¡¯t kissed him in the bathroom.


    ¡°Mhm, what else? And who?¡± I pressed on.


    ¡°Oi, you¡¯re getting specific.¡± He growled, squishing me a bit.


    It caused me to giggle, lifting myself off him.


    ¡°Well, you¡¯re being vague and learning from the best, remember?¡± I smiled.


    His cheeks went rosy again.


    ¡°Who, Rizak or me?¡± he asked, raising his brows.


    A soft hum came from me, ¡°Rizak,¡± I declared.


    His smile didn¡¯t vanish with my answer; instead, he cupped my cheek in his palm.


    You won¡¯t let me in that easy. No, your pain runs way more profound than mine ever did.


    From Rizak, I learned they had been alive for thousands of years.


    First as humans, then as rabid beasts before becoming what they are today.


    It had only been a thousand years since they had regained their humanity. Every time I asked, Finn avoided it; however, I would allow myself to be shifted off.


    If you aren¡¯t ready, I won¡¯t push you.


    ¡°Ouch, you wound me, sparks.¡± He pretended to be hurt.


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°I¡¯m learning to be seductive from you. That¡¯s all you¡¯re teaching me.¡±


    His eyes suddenly twitched as his smile was finally gone.


    Looking like a flustered mess suits you so much, Finny.


    That was a nickname I still didn¡¯t have the guts to use.


    ¡°What?! You mean from Gael. I¡¯m not an incubus nor a succubus to be teaching you the ways of seduction.¡± The demon lord huffed, growling soon after.


    A soft red aura erupted from him because of it.


    I do push your buttons, but nothing like your generals.


    I shook my head, giggling. ¡°You¡¯re the only one I do perverted things with, but I don¡¯t know what you are. So, I thought you might be one of those.¡±


    A sharp smile rose on his lips. ¡°I¡¯m a dragon, sweets. Rizak didn¡¯t tell you?¡±


    I shook my head, gazing at him in a new light.


    Dragon?! Well¡­ You have horns, wings, claws, fangs, and a tail¡­ How did I not see it before?! But aren¡¯t they supposed to be scaly?


    ¡°A feathered one?¡± I mumbled, tilting my head.


    He looked nothing like a dragon other than the tip of his wings and horns on his head.


    ¡°Is there any other kind?¡± he asked, trailing his fingers on my face.


    Will you still treat me like this after you get what you want? You might be a demon if you don''t, but I won¡¯t know until it¡¯s too late.


    ¡°Well, in my world, they depict them as a scaly beast,¡± I mumbled, feeling small at his touch.


    ¡°There are different dragons in Fathal. Perhaps that¡¯s why, but I¡¯m the only one with a human form. The others can¡¯t talk or even rationalize like you.¡± He informed.


    Grabbing onto his hand, I leaned into his touch.


    ¡°I think I only saw scaly ones in my world. Hey, do you breathe fire?¡± I asked, wanting to know more about this king.


    Sitting up slightly, he leaned into me; our lips hovered closely.


    ¡°I can do more than breathe fire, sweets.¡± He whispered, coiling his tail around my legs.


    ¡°Like?¡± I mumbled, feeling a little jittery because of his touch.


    ¡°I can suck the life out of you just by looking at you.¡± He murmured, eyes shimmering.


    I couldn¡¯t help but push him down because of it.


    ¡°Liar.¡± I huffed, feeling like there was a world behind his words.


    One I knew nothing about; all the while, everyone around me knew him and the horrors he hid.


    Unfair! Yet¡­


    ¡°Oi, I don''t lie, Sparky.¡± He huffed.


    A soft, red aura radiated from him, again triggering me to smile.


    ¡°I know.¡± I leaned in to kiss him.


    Though all I did was brush his lips, a second later, he drew me into a more feverous kiss, filling me with warmth I never knew I could have.


    Ah¡­ this demon is already winning.


    Feeling him play with my tongue caused me to melt, letting him into my mouth and roam freely before I found myself against the bed. His tail lifted my shirt, allowing his hand briefly to brush against my navel.


    It left me jittery as a slight whine left my lips. His fingers slowly traced up my abdomen and towards my chest, only to stop when a knock erupted from the heavy wooden door. Tugging away from my lips, a sliver of saliva connected us, and his eyes focused on where the noise had come from.


    Enchanted by this demon, I would soon see the nature he warned me about. If only¡­

 Chapter 20: Humans

    The knock had broken our sweet moment, bringing with it an unknown storm that had been brewing.


    ¡°M¡¯lord, human emissaries are at the castle door,¡± Brielle announced, sounding colder than ever before, which dragged my gaze towards her.


    Have you ever sounded like that?


    A second later, my eyes darted towards the demon holding me when his aura erupted, thick enough to drip off and linger on anything it touched, including me. However, what left me stunned was his expression.


    The most wicked grin rose on his lips as his eyes turned crimson, leaving none of the gentle blue I was used to. They shimmered brighter than a sun as he dragged his hand out of my shirt, breaking our sweet moment.


    ¡°And why should I care? Just kill them and be done with it.¡± His voice was devoid of anything but poison.


    Not once since I arrived had he used that tone.


    ¡°M¡¯lord, they bear the crest of the saint. So, that means they come from the royal city of Traedan and are part of the saint¡¯s hunting party.¡± Brielle informed.


    Instantly, that smirk on his lips grew more defined, tugging away from me.


    ¡°Finn?¡± I mumbled, feeling my heart drop.


    However, my voice didn¡¯t reach him; his mind filled with something else that wasn¡¯t me.


    ¡°What? The fools traveled to the center of Fathal for me? With such an inexperienced pathetic saint?¡± he mocked them, releasing a broken chuckle soon after.


    Goosebumps rose on my skin, and this was a side I hadn¡¯t seen in Finn.


    If¡­ I hadn¡¯t kissed you in that bathroom. Is this what you would¡¯ve become?


    ¡°No, their saint isn¡¯t here, my king, but they came to retrieve the human girl we have,¡± She-wolf said.


    Her words caused something to snap at him, triggering him to clench his hands as his nails dug into his palm, dripping blood onto the stone floor. He was right when he said I had never made him rage.


    Angry, yes, but this is something else.


    ¡°Hah?! I¡¯ll soon roll over dead before I give Sylvia up!¡± He snarled in an inhuman voice.


    His fangs were visible as the ends of his mouth widened, turning the handsome man I knew into a beast. Yet that didn¡¯t scare me. Everything about him screamed agony, leaving me wanting to reach out to him, but my body wouldn¡¯t move.


    All I could do was clasp my hands onto my chest, trembling on the bed.


    This Finn isn¡¯t¡­


    ¡°I know, my liege. Sadly, I have other news, too.¡± Brielle paused, triggering the demon lord to slam his tail on the ground, leaving cracks in this path.


    ¡°Out with it.¡± He breathed as more blood droplets fell from his hands into the floor.


    ¡°Finn, he¡¯s here for her,¡± Brielle growled, triggering the demon king to snarl a nasty roar before spreading his wings wide.


    A laugh full of malevolence left his lips before the same smile from before rose again on his lips. ¡°I see! Well, then, I guess I¡¯ll go to kill them personally. The last time we met, that man got lucky. This time, I¡¯ll end him without hesitation!¡±


    His tail slammed against the floor again, triggering me to grab hold of Solas, who quickly comforted me. Finn¡¯s feathers were puffed up and ready for battle as his tail ones fanned out, shimmering different shades of red.


    Why¡­ Wait no! You¡¯re leaving! I can¡¯t¡ª


    Shaking the shock away, I tried moving towards him before he could vanish like usual.


    ¡°Yes, M¡¯lord.¡± Brielle retreated from the door.


    However, before Finn followed her, I tugged on his cloak to get him to face me. The moment he did, I felt tiny in his gaze, turning my voice heavy, incapable of leaving me. Those eyes were full of agony, leaving me partially frozen where I was.


    No! I can¡¯t! Speak, Sylvia!


    ¡°P-P-Please, wait. T-They want me, right? S-So, let me help. Maybe I can make them back down.¡± I managed to stumble out.


    Please¡­ don¡¯t leave like this. That hate¡­ is it because of me? Or something else¡­


    Closing his eyes, he shook his head before grabbing me by my wrist and tugging me up to him. Within those moments, he shifted back into the Finn I was used to before leaning into me. A kiss soon followed, prompting me to hum at how gentle it was.


    I¡­ don¡¯t understand.


    His aura slowly dimmed, but it never resided even as I gripped his cloak, tugging it closer to me. Opening my mouth, I let him in, allowing him to trace my features with his tongue. This caused my legs to become jelly-like, and I lost all the strength to stay up.


    However, he didn¡¯t let me fall, supporting me by my waist. Instead, he continued to caress my mouth, turning my mind into mush before letting me fall on the bed again. The rim of his iris was slowly turning blue again, struggling to keep his humanity, but it was slipping.


    ¡°Please, sweetheart, you must stay here no matter what you hear.¡± He warned, pulling away from me.


    My lips burned, prompting me to touch them with my fingertips.


    ¡°But¡­ Finn, I¡­¡± I mumbled, reaching for him again.


    How can I let you be when you look like that?


    ¡°Stay and obey me. Today isn¡¯t the day to defy me. Got it?¡± he sighed, turning back to me again.


    His eyes were fridged, prompting me to wince, shaking my head.


    ¡°No, Finn¡­¡± I called out, clasping onto my sweater.


    ¡°Please, stay.¡± He breathed before disappearing.


    I clasped onto my chest, gazing at the droplets of his blood on the floor.


    There¡¯s no way I can stay when you look like that!


    Turning to Solas, I remembered what the demon lord once said. This little one could tell him where I was at all times. Yet I¡­


    ¡°Solas, you won¡¯t rat me out, will you? I have to know!¡± I asked, frowning at the pup.


    He tilted his head when I shifted my gaze towards the door. I had no fancy spells to hide or teleport, but I knew the castle''s basic layout. A few floors above the castle door, there was a room where I could watch everything without anyone knowing.


    I couldn¡¯t stick to ignorance, even if it were easier on me, but after seeing Finn¡¯s crazed look, I¡­


    You hate all humans so much. Is that why you always look so emotionless to me? Are you hiding the fact you hate touching me? What happened to you? I need to know. Otherwise, how can I help you?Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    This demon helped me move forward daily, giving me more freedom to choose what I wanted. They even removed the bind on the windows, allowing me to open them. Nyla waited for me in the dining room in the early morning since I knew my way around the castle.


    You''ll come looking for me if I don¡¯t show up eventually.


    Sneaking my way around, I reached the room above the castle entrance, where a scene was about to be played. Luckily, their voices were loud enough to hear through the open window as Finn had just arrived to greet the rogue party.


    I didn''t know where he was before coming here, but the aura radiating from him wasn¡¯t. It was darker than ever before, lingering in every step he took, yet none of them reacted because of it. Rizak arrived with him, too. There were a few others with them I had never seen before.


    One man had brown hair with heterochromia eyes, making one red and the other blue with tanned skin. He also had a snake-like tail swaying around and goat horns coming out of his head. The other man had red eyes, black hair, and bat wings on his back with fair skin.


    Unlike those two, the ten humans standing in the middle of a shimmering white circle, some were familiar while others weren¡¯t.


    That red hair¡­ You¡¯re¡­ the one who defended me when I first came.


    ¡°My, my, dreadful king, first you make us wait, and you bring your generals for a friendly chat?¡± Soren asked, gripping a sword that hung by his belt.


    Why are you here?


    ¡°Vabaru and Vorex came because they wanted to; I didn¡¯t tell them anything. Though, if my memory works, in our last friendly chat, you ripped my heart out of me,¡± Finn answered, walking towards the party that faced them.


    He did what?!


    It caused me to hold on to my chest, wincing just with the simple thought.


    How much did it hurt? Immortality¡­ It is a curse in itself.


    Yet I heard his heart beating not too long ago.


    Finn¡­ How painful is life for you? I can¡¯t even begin to imagine.


    The same blue-haired elf was beside Soren, holding a fancy staff with a green gem. Unlike when I first came, they were equipped for battle.


    ¡°Too bad I lack the power to kill you, or you¡¯d be a corpse, and we¡¯d be safe.¡± The red-haired man shrugged, not taking his eyes off the demon lord.


    A sharp smirk rose on Finn¡¯s lips as he reached towards the party, only to meet an invisible wall that the circle had provided. The moment his skin touched, it triggered him to retreat when it sizzled. His reaction caused the other knights to appear relieved by his temporary retreat.


    ¡°Hm¡­ You have a nasty spell protecting you from the miasma and me. Did your pretty saint make it for you? I hear she¡¯s quite the handful.¡± He scuffed, smashing his fist into the barrier, provoking cracks to appear within the walls and startling everyone within them.


    Soren''s eyes twitched, ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter to you, does it, beast? Now, I need to know what you¡¯ve done with the girl. Is she a demon, or have you eaten her already?¡±


    ¡°Eh, I don¡¯t think the spell will last long enough for you to find out,¡± Finn smirked, walking around the barrier, trailing his nail on the wall, producing a screech.


    All the injuries he received healed in less than a second, making everyone within the barrier skittish to his approach. The only one unphased was the red-haired man who appeared to have a history with Finn.


    ¡°Talk, demon!¡± Soren huffed, narrowing his eyes and gripping onto his sword.


    From where I was, I could see a faint glow from the humans'' skin, alerting me that their sigils were active and ready for battle.


    ¡°Hah, if you must know, I fucked her brains out, successfully making her my pretty little slave.¡± The demon lord snickered, keeping up his pace.


    Liar¡­ You haven¡¯t even touched me! You¡¯ve been nothing but kind to me!


    ¡°You perversion of a beast.¡± Alena scoffed, gripping her staff tighter.


    You¡¯re wrong! Finn isn¡¯t a beast! He hasn¡¯t touched me, other than my lips, to keep me from transforming into a demon!


    They still felt so warm from our previous interaction.


    ¡°Don¡¯t entertain him. He¡¯s lying,¡± Soren informed, eyes giving off a white hue.


    His words made Finn snicker as his generals stood by the castle¡¯s gate, unphased by what was happening.


    ¡°Oh, truth bearer, am I? How else is she still alive and not one of us?¡± Finn questioned, stopping by a point in the barrier before gazing upward.


    Again, his aura erupted, while everyone around was none the wiser.


    Am I the only one who can see it? Come to think of it, no one else has mentioned it. Not even Rizak¡­ Is it a unique ability for a saint? Or¡­


    It wasn¡¯t like I had asked anyone about it, but Soren and the rest weren¡¯t flinching. The party probably only saw the vibrant color of his wings, horns, and eyes.


    ¡°How about you tell me instead?¡± Soren sighed, following the demon lord with his amber eyes.


    ¡°Let me in, and I¡¯ll tell you everything you want up close and personal, especially how her lips are the softest I¡¯ve ever had.¡± Finn snickered, pressing his hand on a particular spot, which caused more cracks to appear.


    It must¡¯ve been excruciating to force his hand against the barrier, yet he didn¡¯t flinch. Noticing the imperfections, more knights became alarmed, quivering where they stood.


    ¡°Disgusting, you take a girl from her world and then ravish her? That¡¯s low even for you, beast.¡± Soren continued, trying to focus on the task.


    This time, the demon had not lied in his words. Instead of arguing with the saint¡¯s companion, the demon lord broke out on a slight chuckle.


    ¡°Oh? It seems your saint isn¡¯t too experienced in doing these things.¡± He smirked, digging his nails into the barrier as his skin sizzled.


    In an instant, panic ensued, triggering one soldier to rush towards Finn. The spear in his hands was shimmering white, reminding me of what Rizak said: blessed weapons could harm them.


    Evelyn¡­


    Seeing the armed knight made me want to scream where I stood, yet I held myself off, remembering that I was supposed to be in my room. Instead, someone else beat me to it.


    ¡°Stop!¡± Soren yelled, reaching for the startled knight, but it was too late.


    The spear had found its mark, going through the barrier and into the demon lord¡¯s shoulder, triggering him to erupt into a maniacal laugh. A second later, their protection shattered, exposing everyone within it.


    Ah¡­ You¡­ allowed him to stab you.


    A wicked smile rose on his lips, grabbing into the man who had impaled him before turning him into his body into a husk, close to a mummy that had been petrified, leaving all he faced stunned and pale.


    ¡°Now, little boy. You dare come into my home for a second time and demand answers. How about I repay you for everything your ancestors did to me?¡± Finn stepped inside the circle, shattering what was left of the barrier.


    ¡°The miasma!¡± a knight yelled, seeing it come in with the demon, who didn¡¯t wait for them to compose themselves before gripping into another knight and juicing his head like a lime.


    They kept their eyes on the demons as more red eyes appeared within the purple mist, and they all took out a bottle before chugging it.


    ¡°Alena! The portal!¡± Soren commanded, throwing the glass bottle to the side.


    The blue-haired girl made signs with her hands, gathering ether around her body before slamming the staff on the ground, triggering the gem to give off a hue. Unlike demons, the mortals had to cast specific spells to teleport around.


    Vortexes¡­ Rizak called them.


    ¡°On it! Buy me some time!¡± the elf acknowledged, swinging her staff around and creating a faint blue maelstrom.


    ¡°We only have thirty minutes before we turn!¡± Soren declared, drawing his shimmering sword before facing the demon lord who lost his touch with humanity.


    There wasn¡¯t an ounce of the gentleness I had come to know. Blood dripped down his hands from the crushed skull before dropping the lifeless body on the floor. His wings spread widely as the lingering eyes in the purple mist appeared to watch instead of engage.


    It was almost as if they dared not touch their lord''s prey, but they were ready for any who warily ran away from him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do it in five!¡± she screamed, rolling to the side to avoid the black-haired man with red eyes.


    A man with brown hair, blue eyes, and a large shield intercepted him before he could angle himself to launch at her again. ¡°Vorex, you¡¯re so eager. It¡¯s so bad for a bloodsucker like you.¡±


    A vampire?


    ¡°Oh? I love my women and haven¡¯t had an elf in so long. So how about you move out of the way, meat shield?¡± The demon licked his lips, digging his claws into the metal.


    ¡°Ezekiel!¡± Alena shouted, gazing towards the man who had protected her.


    ¡°Concentrate!¡± he huffed, matching the vampire¡¯s strength and forcing him away from her with a swift shove.


    Catching himself before he rolled on the floor, Vorex gasped in pain when someone else appeared from thin air, jabbing a dagger in his abdomen. This one was another elf with green eyes and hair. His skin was tanned, though, much like Ezekiel''s.


    ¡°Jasper, I¡¯m so glad you always know when to pop in.¡± The big man smirked, getting ready to charge at the stumbling vampire.


    ¡°Stop being a headache and protect Alena!¡± The elf sighed before pulling away from the vampire, barely dodging a new contender in the fight.


    The one with blue and red eyes used his snake-like tail to slam between them this time.


    ¡°Vorex, you¡¯re getting sloppy.¡± He huffed at his struggling comrade, who pulled out the dagger and threw it to the side.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, thanks for asking Vabaru.¡± The vampire sighed, clutching his wound.


    Around them, more demons surged, but instead of diving into them, a girl with black hair and blue eyes stood forward. Tapping the staff onto the ground, she created an elemental barrier, repelling the lesser demons away that were itching to come in once the generals had invaded the king¡¯s playground.


    ¡°Shit! There are too many of them! I can¡¯t keep this for much longer!¡± the girl warned, voice quivering.


    ¡°I¡¯m almost there, Rose. Keep it up!¡± Alena informed them, triggering the maelstrom to become an unstable portal, giving off different vibrant hues, much like when I first arrived.


    My eyes darted towards Finn when he clashed with Soren. Pulses of energy erupted from them, cracking the ground below them. Upon impact, the brave warrior¡¯s sword shattered, showing the difference between the two.


    Even blessed, it was nowhere near strong enough to purify the demon king. However, Finn missed the red-haired man by several lengths when he yanked away from his claws. The demon followed closely while a grey wolf launched at him behind Soren.


    Brielle?! When did you¡­


    I wasn¡¯t the only one who saw her as Jasper diverted her attack with a well-placed arrow on her head. A sharp whine left her, triggering Solas to bolt away from me, yanking my sight from what was happening.


    ¡°Solas? What are you doing?¡± I whispered, but he ignored me.


    Pushing himself onto two bookshelves, he opened a secret passageway into the unknown. Nyla had told me about them, but I never found any.


    ¡°Solas!¡± I called out into the darkness before seeing a shimmer of his white fur as he disappeared into the abyss.


    Fuck!


    Having little choice, I went after him, unaware of the horror that awaited me at the end of this path.

 Chapter 21: Crystal Room

    The corridor was darker than the night sky, and I couldn¡¯t see past a few steps down. Taking a deep breath, I cast a simple spell I had learned¡ªone to brighten a room when there was no light. Rizak taught it to me, and it was one of the few ones that worked for me on command.


    Even a three-year-old can do it; it would¡¯ve been embarrassing if I couldn¡¯t.


    ¡°Lighty, light,¡± I mumbled, snapping my fingers. I formed a small light orb in my hand and placed it inside a small lantern I always carried.


    Even though they tried to light up the castle for me at all times, some places didn¡¯t brighten enough with the candles they had. The spell Firefly would last four hours, enough time to find the runaway pup. Hesitation swelled within me as I didn¡¯t know what awaited me, but I couldn¡¯t let him be.


    Slowly, I made my way down the web and dust-filled corridor, only to hear my exit close up when I went down a few steps.


    Crap¡­ Really?!


    I gulped, looking back to see that there was no way to return to the room I had been in.


    ¡°Solas?! Where are you?!¡± I called out, but there was no response.


    The blanket of silence that surrounded me left me shivering where I stood before I took another deep breath and descended the cramped steps. The debris from my movements made everything more challenging to see and breathe.


    Coughing, I tried to wipe my eyes, but dirt fell on them.


    ¡°Solas! You better hope there aren¡¯t any bugs down here, or I might just not let you eat my carrots anymore!¡± I huffed, noticing how my clothing was covered in webs, too.


    Again, no sound came from the corridor depths, leaving me to move forward as my sole choice to find the missing pup before trouble found me.


    Surely¡­ Nyla already knows I¡¯m not in my room! Arg! I¡¯m going to be in so much heat for this!


    Perhaps because the walls were so cramped, it felt endless no matter how much I went down. Yet I knew there was always a way out at the end of the tunnel, and I found mine in a room I had never been to.


    ¡°Solas!¡± I mumbled, brushing the webs and dust away from my clothing.


    Again, there was no response.


    Arg! Finn¡¯s going to kill me if I lose Solas!


    Walking into the pitch-black room, I could barely see two steps ahead of me, yet I froze when an eerie sensation filled me, making the hair in my body frizz.


    I¡¯m not supposed to be here, am I?


    However, Solas was still not in view as I continued into the darkness surrounding me. The room was ginormous, and my tiny light couldn¡¯t see anything other than the floor a few meters before me.


    ¡°Solas¡­ please come out. This isn¡¯t funny.¡± I tried to keep my voice down, peering around, hoping to find him and a way out.


    Finn always made fun of my lack of danger, yet it was blazing with every step I took. This room almost felt like it was suffocating me.


    The miasma is too concentrated here!


    My breathing quickened as my heart climbed up my throat, leaving my eardrums rumbling.


    ¡°Please, Solas! Where are you?!¡± My voice quivered much like the lamp in my hands.


    Again, there was no response. However, something fell within the shadows, startling me and prompting me to squeal as I backed away from the sound, only to hit what felt like a wall. Turning towards it, what I saw left me with eyes wide open.


    ¡°What the fuck?!¡± I gasped, staring at the giant crimson crystal in front of me.


    The moment I touched it triggered a bright hue from the core, but that didn¡¯t keep me in place. No, what froze me was the bare girl inside with a hole where her heart was supposed to be. Her eyes were open and soulless, while on her body, there were multiple wounds.


    Who¡­ are you?!


    The crystal''s color couldn¡¯t hide that she had white skin, pure black hair, and blue eyes resembling the demon king I had come to know. When I stepped back from the gem before me, the light within the lamp flickered wildly, almost blinding me, before escaping the lantern and darting towards the tip of the crystal.


    In a second, it lit up the entire room even though it wasn¡¯t at my command, revealing every horror surrounding me. Old stains of blood were splattered on the walls, pillars, and the only tile floor in this castle, as remains of human skeletons were scattered along with ripped clothes and destroyed decorations.Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    Nothing that wouldn¡¯t have decayed with time remained, as this room wasn¡¯t exposed to the outside.


    What the fuck happened here?!


    Although most of the bones were dust, as the skeletons around were incomplete, the different sizes of skulls lying around meant there were probably children in this massacre, too. The decorations that used to be white long ago were stained with old blood, ripped, and burned.


    There were rusted swords, spears, and parts of old armor on some skeletons and the floor.


    What the¡­ did you do this or¡­


    Before I could take another step, a voice echoed within me.


    Come closer¡­ please¡­


    Startled by it, I peered around, unsure where the source was.


    ¡°Solas? Is that you?¡± I mumbled, unable to find it even though the room was well-lit.


    Crap! I really shouldn¡¯t be here! We need to get out now! Where are you?!


    Shivers ran down my spine, and my fingers and feet ran cold.


    If you want to reach him, come closer to me. The same female voice resonated with me again.


    What?!


    My heart was about to erupt, yet something glued my eyes to the broken girl inside the massive red crystal.


    ¡°Are you speaking to me, or am I going crazy?¡± I asked, taking a step towards her.


    Come closer¡­ Touch me, skin to skin. She was a gust in the wind.


    Her voice was so eerie, turning every fiber of me upside down.


    By him¡­ Do you mean Finn?


    That was a question I didn¡¯t want to voice, yet I knew there was no choice but to listen to the known source. The malicious demon I had witnessed outside was a side I had never seen before.


    If I don¡¯t take the chance, I¡¯ll never truly know you. After all, the you, I saw outside is nothing like the one I know.


    Standing before the vibrant crystal, I gazed around one last time for Solas, but he wasn¡¯t anywhere to be seen. A soft sigh left my lips, fully aware I was about to do something I probably shouldn¡¯t have. Every fiber in my bones told me to turn and run away from this place.


    But¡­ if I listen to my instincts, then¡­


    Shifting my glance toward the girl, I slowly touched the shimmering red glow with my fingertips, leaving them tingling before pressing the palm into it. In an instant, I felt a throb course through me before everything went blank.


    The moment colors found me, I was no longer in that dreadful scene but in a red room decorated with many fresh white flowers.


    Are those carnations?


    In front of me stood the girl inside the crystal, fully clothed in a black dress that fit her curves so well.


    ¡°Haha! I finally got to meet you! You¡¯re the first living being I¡¯ve seen in so long! It¡¯s been such a lonely slumber, but now that you¡¯re here, you¡¯ll shine the light onto us, won¡¯t you!¡± she beamed the biggest smile, clasping my hands.


    This girl was jaw-droppingly beautiful, much like the king in this world.


    Why am I seeing him so much in you?


    ¡°What?¡± I mumbled, incapable of following her.


    Is this even real?


    ¡°Oh, you must be so confused. Sadly, we don¡¯t have much time to explain everything. This is the only chance I¡¯ll ever have to speak to anyone, so please focus!¡± The girl frowned, shaking her head.


    Her hands were warm, even though the crystal I touched was as cold as ice, alerting me that something wasn¡¯t right.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± I asked, gazing around to see some of the flowers turning red on the far end of us.


    Her eyes glossed before squinting them. ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter. We don¡¯t have the time to discuss me, and I can¡¯t hold you here for long. So, you need to listen to me carefully, understand?¡± She puffed her cheeks, clasping my hands tighter.


    Even in this red space, her heart was missing, and the dress had a hole where it should¡¯ve been. My mind could barely keep up with her or anything else. First, Finn showed me his psychopathic side when he ripped through those knights, and suddenly, I found myself talking to what appeared to be a ghost if anything at all.


    My mind wasn¡¯t making the links it needed to understand her.


    ¡°Sylvia, you need to save him. I know you¡¯re the only one who can.¡± she pleaded as I tried to make sense of the situation before me.


    Is your soul trapped in the crystal? Rizak mentioned being able to trap mana within vessels, but could a soul get stuck within one?


    Whenever I searched for explanations, I always had more questions.


    ¡°But you''re dead. How can I believe anything you say if you don¡¯t tell me who you are? Just tell me what the hell happened here?! Was this Finn¡¯s doing?!¡± I asked, triggering her to shake her head.


    ¡°What happened here is a past that you can learn about later! Listen to me now! What I¡¯m focusing on is the future! You can¡¯t let him kill the rest of the humans! Please help him find his soul again! If this continues, he¡¯ll become a true monster, and I don¡¯t want that for him! He¡¯s the best person I know, and I love him. Please save him from his nightmares!¡± Her tears streaked down her cheeks.


    What? Nightmares?


    ¡°Are you talking about Finn?¡± I confessed, remembering his cold eyes every time he gazed at me.


    ¡°He can¡¯t hear me, so you must find a way! You can reach him; I know you can! You have to¡ª¡± She tightened her grip on my hands, eyes widening.


    That was when I noticed most of the flowers had shifted crimson. The ground under us also turned into a liquid, prompting our feet to sink.


    Is that blood?!


    ¡°Oh, no¡­¡± her voice quivered, shifting her eyes onto me.


    All her skin color faded as her eyes dilated, alerting me that something dreadful was coming for us. It wasn¡¯t long until the white flowers all turned red.


    ¡°Crap! He¡¯s coming! We¡¯re out of time!¡± she gripped my sweater, pulling me close to her. ¡°Please, you¡¯re the only one that can help him! So don¡¯t you dare give up on him! But for now, run!¡± she shoved me, triggering me to open my eyes back into the room filled with horrors.


    ¡°What the¡­?¡± I mumbled, unable to handle the transition.


    Nothing makes sense. Who was that, and why are you pinning all their hopes on me? I don¡¯t even know half of what I¡¯m doing!


    My head felt like it spun in place, unable to keep up with the changes happening.


    He¡¯s coming! You need to run and hide! The girl echoed before fading away completely.


    ¡°Who¡¯s coming?!¡± I mumbled, shaking my head before turning to try and find the runaway pup. ¡°Fuck, this! Solas, where are you?!¡± I called out, voice quivering.


    Luckily, this time, he responded, coming out from behind a broken desk before whimpering and running into my arms.


    ¡°Oh my God, there you are. Thank God, let¡¯s get out of here before trouble finds us.¡± I hugged the whining pup.


    ¡°Trouble, you say?¡± A voice colder than a winter storm erupted from behind, dragging my gaze towards it.


    My heart dropped as I saw a Finn I didn¡¯t know. His eyes and aura were crimson, dripping onto the floor below him, much like blood would. The wings on his back spread widely, leaving me feeling tiny in his presence. He gripped his shirt with a wicked smile, tilting his head slightly towards the side. His horns shimmered brightly, and every feather on his body frizzed, ready for anything to come.


    The man I knew had lost touch with his humanity, leaving behind only the beast within him. Like a deer staring at headlights, I froze before the dragon, who was about to consume me right where I stood.

 Chapter 22: I See You

    Finn¡­ you¡¯re skyrocketing my danger meter! I think I do have one!


    Words refused to leave my mouth as I stared at an enraged demon king. His face had scrunched up to inhuman extents, the skin morphing to relieve the tension.


    A soft chuckle left his lips, ¡°How strange¡­ You aren¡¯t one of us, are you? No, no, no, definitely not. How did an intruder slip away into my hoard?¡±


    Before I could answer, he shrugged, ¡°Mmmm, it doesn¡¯t really matter since I¡¯m going to eat you now, okay? I¡¯ll feast in your flesh, little mouse.¡±


    ¡°What? Wait! Finn, it¡¯s¡ª¡± I tried to speak but stopped when he raised his arm.


    His image flickered in my mind, replaced by the lovely, gentle Finn I had known before this.


    ¡°Silence! A mouse shouldn¡¯t make any noise unless asked!¡± He snapped, triggering the entire castle to shake with his voice before holding onto his head like a sharp headache was troubling him.


    With each passing second, this demon¡¯s eyes turned hazier yet vibrant red, but that wasn¡¯t what sent chills down my spine. No, I was a stranger in that gaze as he reached for me. I could tell the sparkle was gone; what made him Finn was gone.


    You¡­ don¡¯t know who I am?


    I tried to materialize my thoughts as tears stung my eyes, turning my voice heavier than ever. Suddenly, Rizak appeared before him, dragging the demon king¡¯s eyes away from me.


    ¡°M¡¯lord¡ª¡± the owl was cut in half before he could say anything to defend me.


    ¡°Silence,¡± Finn screamed, clenching his fist.


    My eyes widened as blood splattered everywhere while the dismembered body fell to the side, yet even before I could see the attack, I was overwhelmed by an aura¡ªthe pressure exerted by the hate and rage he was feeling was too much for me.


    ¡°Rizak!¡± I screamed, reaching for the battered owl while forgetting one of his many lessons.


    The demon king shifted his gaze back onto me, freezing me again where I stood. The last time I saw him, he almost had Soren, yet there was an open wound that bled onto the floor on his chest. It wasn¡¯t the only one; he had another wound on his shoulder, and his hands were burned from when he destroyed the barrier.


    My sister was inexperienced, but her magic could harm the demons I had come to care for.


    ¡°Sylvia, run! He doesn¡¯t recognize you or anyone when he¡¯s like this!¡± the owl warned, casting a spell that blazed an alarm before Finn crushed his skull under his foot.


    Ah¡­ right¡­ Demons can¡¯t kill each other!


    Taking the chance Rizak had given me, I went to move; however, without sigils, a human movement was nothing to the beast before me. A split second later, Finn launched at me before I could even take a step away from him. I had considered using them before leaving the room, but it would have taken too much time¡ªa mistake.


    I was nothing without them, leaving me to face the claws of a demon who had lost himself. This was the first time I had seen what their curse consisted of, which was a side they hoped I would never see.


    Oh¡­ I¡¯m¡ªdead, aren¡¯t I?


    Once again, I was staring at death come for me, yet no memories of my past flowed through me. Back when I fell with Evelyn, they were also missing.


    Ah¡­ I have been through this. This happened again. I couldn¡¯t do anything. I had the chance, yet I did nothing; I have nothing to show.


    Closing my eyes, I braced for impact, gripping my sweater, drowning in the guilt of being useless. I hated this body and its self-preservative instincts.


    Why do I grip on even though life is meaningless? Why do I brace, expecting something to save me? Why do I want to live anymore? No, I don¡¯t deserve to after what I did. Hey, Finn¡­ Will my death bring you Solace?


    My eyes quickly flew open when the demon never reached me, only to see his claws only a few lengths away from my face, stuck by a wall of blood that separated us.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re the saint. What a pity to meet like this.¡± Someone yanked me away from Finn from behind.


    Dropping on the floor, the man with black hair and red eyes who was back at the castle gate stood before me. His flank stab wound was still bleeding, much like Finn¡¯s wounds, but they barely bothered them.


    Just how high is the pain tolerance of demons?!


    ¡°As hard as it is for you, focus on Finn rather than on the female, Vorex!¡± the other male from before was also there.


    These two were beautiful beasts, much like the demon lord himself. Yet admiration wasn¡¯t in my cards. No, Finn¡¯s aura was erupting deeper and thicker with each passing second.


    ¡°Oh, Vabaru. What¡¯s the point? He¡¯s going to fuck us so hard no matter what we do, aren¡¯t you, my beautiful, loving king?¡± the vampire sighed, focusing his eyes on the danger in the room.


    It was lucky I was holding Solas, or he would¡¯ve been left behind; even though he was more significant than a wolf, he was light to carry.


    ¡°Oh, shut up and get your ass ready for a whooping. It¡¯s better us than the girl!¡± Vabaru smirked, summoning weird green energy from his hand.


    From all my studies, this was one that I quickly identified.


    Corruption magic, anything it touched would decay, including me.


    However, Finn would heal anything done to him if it didn''t have blessed enchantments. So, in this scenario, it was only a danger to me, prompting me to lean onto Solas and away from it.


    ¡°Shit, shit! I don¡¯t like it when he gets like this! My wall won¡¯t hold him much longer!¡± Vorex declared, wincing.


    Even though others were in the room with me, Finn¡¯s eyes set on me alone. I was the only one who was different from everyone else. Yet, I sat there, too stunned to do anything. My mind was lagging.


    Ah¡­ what was I even thinking? We can¡¯t be friends. You and I live in different worlds, and I know nothing about yours! Yet, why do I¡­


    The skin on my knees, arms, and hands was scrapped from being dragged and dropped by the vampire who protected me. They could be gentle with an enraged demon king staring down at them, but that wasn¡¯t what had me shaken.


    Why¡­ won¡¯t you¡­


    Before that thought fully formed, he ripped the wall apart, shifting his eyes towards us.


    ¡°Well, when he suddenly disappeared from the battlefield, he still had his head, but having an intruder here, well, that¡¯s probably the only reason he¡¯s lost to the blood lust,¡± Vabaru announced, shifting his eyes towards me.


    Ah¡­ It¡¯s my fault you¡¯re like this? I didn¡¯t¡­ mean... This is just what I am. I ruin everything I touch! I shouldn¡¯t have ever allowed myself to care! I¡¯m no different from the humans you hate, yet I selfishly clung to you, hoping something would be different this time.


    I¡¯m sorry¡­ I should¡¯ve just¡­ listened to you!


    ¡°Girl! I don¡¯t know how you got in here, but you better survive for his sake!¡± The chimera huffed, rushing towards Finn before he could free himself.


    A wicked chuckle left the demon lord¡¯s lips, who quickly grabbed Varbaru by his neck before crushing it like a straw.


    ¡°Out of my way, worm.¡± The king dropped his limp body to the ground.


    Not once did his crimson eyes ever shift from me.


    ¡°Uh, oops, he¡¯s serious.¡± He voiced, even though his neck was the size of a straw.


    Rizak was getting up from where he was, spilling his organs on the floor after healing his head. Even though he wasn¡¯t fully healed, he sent a dark ball of energy towards Finn, who quickly consumed it with a single tail swipe.


    ¡°Oh¡­ shit.¡± Vorex''s voice trembled.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    Although they didn¡¯t die, they felt the pain from their injuries, and it appeared this vampire wasn¡¯t a fan of pain. Yet he didn¡¯t leave my side, reaching towards me when Finn snickered before another swipe of his hand ripped Rizak into pieces again.


    Blood and feathers were everywhere on the floor, leaving behind a mangled owl; the king stepped towards us when the doors to the room flew open.


    ¡°No, no, no! M¡¯lord, please get a grip! That isn¡¯t an intruder, but Sylvia! You mustn¡¯t harm her!¡± Nyla screamed from the entrance.


    Next to her was Brielle, who was getting ready to attack Finn, too.


    ¡°I knew this girl is just trouble, no matter how you see it,¡± the wolf growled, stepping into the room.


    Her eye was missing from the arrow she took to the face, yet she was ready to go again, reaching for her sword on her belt. Everyone¡¯s words failed to reach their king, who was rabid and without an ounce of reason left in him.


    ¡°Hehe, come here, little mouse. I¡¯ll make sure your death¡¯s painfully fast.¡± Finn snarled as an explosion of feathers came from him, triggering a shift within him.


    ¡°Shit!¡± Vorex huffed, shifting his eyes towards me.


    Vibrant colors of red gathered around him as the plumage gathered into him, along with the crimson fire that erupted from each of his extremities before swirling around him. It was breathtaking, locking my eyes towards the transforming beast.


    Before I could witness the entire transformation, Vorex grabbed me by my sweater.


    ¡°What the fuck are you doing?! Go hide somewhere!¡± He snapped, eyes twitching while tugging me up to my feet.


    Behind him, a flurry of different shades of red shimmered before concentrating at a center point within Finn¡¯s metamorphosis, triggering every hair in my body to rise. Something was¡­


    Oh¡­ crap!


    With little hesitation, I ran for cover as it wasn¡¯t a second too late when a screech quickly came from the vampire, followed by an immense heat behind me. I didn¡¯t stop to look at what happened before reaching one of the stone pillars to hide by.


    Once safely hidden, I finally caught a glimpse of his true form. A magnificent, black-feathered dragon, the size of a school bus, with shimmering red tips in his wings and feathers, stood where I had run from. His horns were the same as in his humanoid form but more extensive, and the feathers that fanned his tail were also purely vibrant.


    The plumage on his body appeared furry from afar, and his arms and legs didn¡¯t hinder him as he swiftly moved around, appearing serpent-like. A soft hiss left his lips every time he couldn¡¯t find me; luckily, he was on the other side of the room, distracted by Brielle.


    The blue eyes I admired every time they gazed at me were still deep red, his aura lingering on every surface he touched. This room was vast, allowing Finn¡¯s size not to hinder him as he searched for me. It was almost like the castle was made for large creatures to venture through.


    I know nothing about you! How can I change that?!


    His tail swiped towards the grey wolf, who caught his attention as her bones crunched upon impact. This triggered a startling whine from her before she slammed into the wall. I covered my ears, shielding myself from what was happening, wanting to curl into a ball.


    No! No! This is all my fault! How can I stop this?! I don¡¯t want anyone else to be hurt because of me! If anyone must be, it is me!


    The big pillar hid me from Finn¡¯s view, but he knew I was still around. My breath hitched as my eyes stung with the tears that wanted to burst out of me. The little goblin was still by the door, searching for me, hoping I¡¯d run to her.


    However, I was too far away for it to be viable, and my legs refused to listen to me, shaking right where I was. Unable to move, I heard the demon lord release the most startling shriek, prompting me to gaze toward him again and witness him breathing fire onto Rizak, who had a barrier up.


    It cracked under the demon king¡¯s blaze, locking my gaze on him again. Some might¡¯ve called him a terrifying beast, but he was beautiful. How his feathers flickered and puffed reminded me of a bird dancing, although that tango was less dangerous than the one in front of me. Yet everything from the tone in his voice to his movements screamed agony.


    The way he hid his pain behind his anger reminded me of when I bashed my stepfather¡¯s head in. I was stuck in place with Solas as I gripped his fur, looking for comfort.


    All that hurt¡­ Will I¡­ be like all the others who ignored me?


    Clenching my hands into fists, I shook my head, hitching my breath before turning toward danger instead of where the goblin awaited me.


    Will I¡­


    The correct move was to run towards Nyla, but somehow, I faced the demon king¡¯s back, who was concentrating on breaking Ryzak. If I ran out there, I would be putting Solas'' life in danger, too, but I couldn¡¯t help it¡ªnot when the thoughts that bombarded me occupied my entire being.


    Can I be like all the others who ignore my pain?


    All the people who stared every day and never stopped me once to see if I was okay.


    No one cared enough. So how can I be like them?! No! I¡­


    If only one person had reached their hand out to me, perhaps then my life would¡¯ve been different. It would¡¯ve only taken a single person to stop me from spiraling and going up to that ledge that night.


    No! I want to be different! This pain must mean something! I won¡¯t ignore you, Finn! I won¡¯t!


    Against better judgment, my legs listened to me for once as I ran toward the crazed dragon, hoping that all my experiences would allow me to reach out to his broken heart. Whether it was right or not, I wouldn¡¯t ignore his pain, not when he was there when I needed him most.


    ¡°Girl! What are you doing?!¡± Vorex yelled as I passed by him.


    The poor vampire was still healing from his burns to move, yet he wasn¡¯t my focus.


    It¡¯s okay; you need to hold on, Finn. You were just lonely and misunderstood, weren¡¯t you? It¡¯s not like this world is any different from mine when it comes to shitty people. No one ever realized my pain. None of them asked me once if I was okay!


    Only you¡­


    Vabaru went for me the moment he could move, yet he met with Solas, who protected my path. He grew to be as large as a dire wolf in that instance. Sadly, I couldn¡¯t appreciate it, launching myself at Finn¡¯s back leg without wasting the chance given to me.


    I¡¯ll be what you are to me! If you let me! Even if¡­


    Though I wasn¡¯t dumb, with the way things were happening, I expected to be killed right away, but instead, it was like time halted the moment I touched him. Everyone froze in place, scared Finn would snap if they did anything.


    My mind felt empty, and his feathers tingled on my skin. I had never expected to make it this far, but words formed on my tongue nonetheless.


    Sometimes, it takes to walk in someone¡¯s shoes to understand them! To reach our hand out to them! I see you, and I won¡¯t let you be alone, Finn!


    ¡°If¡­ If you want to eat me, then do it!¡± I snuggled myself into his leg.


    A second later, I found myself pinned onto the floor with one tip of his claws going into my right shoulder. The other dug into the floor beside my head, locking my gaze on his. His weight on me caused my bones to feel like they would crack at any moment, knocking the wind right out of me.


    It was hard to breathe because of the pressure he was placing on me, and it didn¡¯t allow a single sound to leave me, preventing me from screaming in agony. All I could do was gasp for air, yet my lungs refused to fill with enough of it.


    You¡¯re smothering me! I can¡¯t breathe!


    ¡°Little mouse, I finally found you!¡± Finn smirked, smashing his tail behind him.


    A sharp whine remained from the blow, alerting me that it was probably Solas. Unable to move my right arm, I softly reached with my left toward what had become unfair.


    ¡°U-unf-fair¡­ I¡­ t-thou-ugh¡­ you were¡­ g-going¡­ t-to¡­ kill me f-fast.¡± I struggled to voice.


    In his eyes, I was no longer the girl he wanted to marry nor the girl he spent his nights teaching.


    ¡°I lied for entering my hoard. I¡¯ll first skin you alive, little mouse.¡± His eyes glowed brightly, leaning into me with his snout.


    Smoke came out of his nostrils, yet all the fear from before washed away. Again, I was at peace, like when I fell that night with Evelyn. My life would end at any moment with a simple movement of his claw.


    Ah¡­ I just noticed I¡¯ve been on borrowed time. I¡¯ve been living on someone else¡¯s life expectancy till now. You saved me the night I was supposed to die. It¡¯s only fitting you end me too. It¡¯s okay¡­ I forgive you, Finn.


    Blood pooled under me from his claw, which dug deeper into me. It wouldn¡¯t take much for it to pop to the other side. Struggling to keep my eyes open, I gazed towards his chest to see his open wound there.


    At least the adrenaline was helping with the pain, but that, too, would end soon.


    ¡°D-Does¡­ it h-hurt?¡± I asked, touching the feathered limb that held me.


    It was so soft, just like his wings. His eyes widened when a soft shine came from me, healing his wound instantly.


    Oh¡­ That¡¯s good¡­ It seems... my magic listens to me when it matters.


    Tears rolled out of my eyes, noticing his aura was still so deep.


    Can I even reach you? No, you hate what I am. Hell, you don¡¯t even know it¡¯s me, but it¡¯s okay; I¡¯ll forgive you if¡­ I can see the real you once again. I don¡¯t care if you hate me; I don¡¯t care if we never talk again. Please, just do this one thing for me.


    Instead of finishing me, he hesitated for the first time since this all began. If a pin fell, it would¡¯ve echoed how quiet everything was.


    ¡°I-I¡­¡± a soft groan left my lips, feeling him gently retreating his claw.


    His eyes struggled to change color again, shimmering from purple to red. My magic appeared to have allowed Finn a way back to us, but it wasn¡¯t enough. His aura was getting stronger faster than it was fading, but I could breathe a little easier thanks to it.


    ¡°S-so-orry for¡­ n-not li-isteni-ing to you. E-eat me, i-if i-it¡¯ll¡­ he-help you¡­ co-ome¡­ b-back.¡± I continued, struggling to keep my eyes open.


    The agony dulled by the adrenaline was slowly coming back to me. Finn was still crushing me, but what scared me the most was never being able to see him again. I wanted to talk much more, listen to his story, and be there for him like he was for me.


    Even if all of this was temporary, I wanted to help him.


    You were the first person to hear me. I wish I could do the same for you. But it seems my time is running out¡­


    ¡°E-every¡ª¡± I gasped, feeling like my ribs would crack when he shook his head.


    ¡°Shut up! You won¡¯t trick me! I¡¯ll never fall for a pretty face again, little mouse!¡± he snarled, digging his claw into me again.


    I wanted to scream in pain, but all I did was bite my lip, causing it to bleed, too. In one instance, everyone around us was trapped by a gravity spell that crushed them to the ground, leaving us unaffected.


    Blood dripped down my chin from the open wound on my lip, yet I¡­


    ¡°C-co-ome... b-ba-ack to me. P-ple-ease, I¡­ want t-to see¡­ one¡­ last time.¡± I whispered, losing all sensation in my right limb with a loud snap.


    ¡°What did you say?!¡± he asked, voice cracking.


    I didn''t know if he had crushed it with his claw, but I couldn¡¯t feel my arm. His eyes widened again when, instead of tearing his feathers with my left hand, I gently caressed them.


    It¡¯s¡­ okay¡­ I¡¯m sorry for not listening to you.


    My left hand was losing the strength to hold on as blood was drenching my hair.


    The chaos within his heart was prevalent. Again, he retreated his claws from my body, allowing air to fill my lungs. However, the bleeding¡­


    ¡°C-c-come¡­ b-bac-ck t-to¡­ me. I-I¡¯ll¡­ a-accept y-you¡­ t-the w-way¡­ y-you are.¡± I simpered, trying to keep my eyes open.


    Using my last bit of strength, I reached for his snout.


    Pain that comes from you¡­ is bittersweet. Ah¡­ all those gentle kisses poisoned me. You tainted me, and I¡¯m okay with it.


    ¡°Y-you¡¯re¡­ b-beautiful¡­ I¡­ s-see¡­ y-you¡­ F-Finn.¡± I whispered, failing to reach to touch him.


    My hand fell limp on the floor before I could. Everything became blurry as muffled noises came from everywhere around me. However, the clearest one was¡­


    ¡°What? Sparky? Oh¡­ fuck, what did I¡ª¡± Finn¡¯s voice soon faded too.


    My eyes were too heavy to keep open, and for the first time, I wanted them to stay open, but soon, my consciousness wavered, too.


    ¡°Sylvia! Stay with me!¡± I thought I heard the king yell for me before I plunged into darkness.

 Chapter 23: A New Normal

    Fluttering my eyes, I found myself in my room as the memories before I arrived were hard to recall. My right shoulder ached at any slight movement while the rest of my body was sore, making it a struggle to lift myself to sit.


    Solas was next to me, quickly wagging his tail upon seeing me up.


    "Sylvia!" he beamed, licking my cheek.


    His voice rang in my ears, and my eyes opened wide when I realized he could finally speak.


    "You can speak?" I voiced, failing to lift my right arm to touch him.


    However, my gaze quickly traveled to Nyla, who opened the door upon hearing Solas, tears visible in her eyes.


    "Oh! Sylvia! You''re awake! You''ve been asleep for three days!" she cried, running to me before throwing herself at the bed.


    The bed shook as she gripped my left hand. However, the sudden movement made my right arm throb again. My memory lagged to catch up, but it wasn''t long until I remembered everything that happened before my world faded.


    None of that was a dream. Finn did go berserk.


    "Three days?" I mumbled, attempting to move my right arm only for it to lag.


    Its sensations were also compromised, but at least I still had my limb attached, and somehow, I was still alive.


    Death isn''t for me yet. Ah... I''m not sure why I''m still around.


    "Yes, Rizak used Lord Finn''s essence to heal you," Nyla informed, gazing away from me.


    "Essence?" I couldn''t fully follow.


    Slowly, Rizak''s lesson on the difference between the two types of healing was coming back to me.


    "Yes, his life force." She announced, triggering me to grab onto her rough hands.


    That was when I noticed my right hand had little to no sensibility, as I couldn''t feel the same warmth that my left did. My movements also made me realize I was only wearing a loose robe, which allowed me to see that parts of my chest, shoulder, and arm were covered in clean bandages.


    "Doesn''t that hurt him?" I asked, remembering the lesson.


    That''s right; the essence is a pure type of energy similar to mana, but it uses the user''s life force rather than their magical power.


    It was the only way anyone who wasn''t a saint could heal others. However, it would shave years from the user''s life.


    "Painful? Yes, but he''s immortal. It can''t kill him, and after what he did to you, he was the one who insisted it be him." Nyla sighed, taking my right hand into hers.


    "Did to me?" I mumbled, remembering Finn digging his claws into me.


    Yet I didn''t know what happened after it.


    "Your arm. Don''t you remember? You weren''t fully lucid through the entire thing, so, understandably, you don''t remember all of it." She informed me, caressing my hand, yet I felt nothing.


    "Tell me, please," I mumbled, not wanting to hide from the truth.


    "He severed it." She declared, shifting my gaze towards it.


    Severed my arm?


    Memories of feeling it pop while under him rushed into my mind as I winced, shaking my head.


    Ah¡­ that''s why it hurt so much.


    "Do you want to remove the bandages?" Nyla asked as I nodded, leaving her to reach for them and undo the bindings.


    Once off, I could see the entirety of my shoulder was pitch black.


    Damn, it looks like a cool tattoo.


    Some branches spread from the black on my arm and chest. Nyla watched me, thinking I would freak out or start screaming, but a smile rose on my lips instead.


    Wait¡­ If I survived that, then¡­


    "Does this mean I reached him?" I felt something within me grow.


    On the other hand, she had her eyes wide open, tilting her head.


    "What? Um¡­ Yes, you did. He was able to break through the rage, but not before he hurt you." She mumbled, amazed.


    Tracing my fingers over the mark he left me, I felt powerful.


    All this represents is how I can bring you back. Otherwise, I would be dead. This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    Even if I lacked feeling in my arm, at least I had it.


    It''s nowhere near the many bruises my father gave me, but I chose to run to you, and it worked! I want¡­


    "Where is he?" I asked, turning my gaze to her.


    Again, her eyes stayed wide open before quickly shifting them away from me. "Oh, I don''t know. He''s probably with the generals."


    Ah¡­ that''s vague.


    "Well, let him know I want to see him," I mumbled, gazing at Solas, who wagged his tail.


    A soft sigh left her lips before a smile formed on them. "I''ll go get you some food and let him know. You probably want to shower, too, so let''s do that first."


    I nodded, gazing again towards my shoulder.


    My first victory scar is a trophy I''ll gladly wear!


    Not wanting to stay down for long, I tried to stand up, only to fall on my knees as Solas quickly came to me.


    "Are you okay?" the pup whined, pressing his snout against my cheek.


    "Haha, I just got a little dizzy. My blood pressure didn''t keep up with what I wanted to do." I simpered at him, unable to hide the emotions swirling within me.


    I probably should''ve sat briefly before trying to get up. I was down for three days, but no more!


    He tilted his head before nuzzling my cheek with his wet nose again. Grabbing onto his fur, I slowly found my footing. I felt lethargy, but that was normal after the bleeding from losing my arm. It didn''t help that I felt cramps, and it didn''t take long for me to notice I was bleeding from my lady bits, too.


    I had caused Nyla to care for me in ways I never wanted her to, yet all I could do was be grateful, especially when I saw rags for me to use on the side. Luckily, I was never a heavy bleeder; the cycle usually only lasted three days.


    It must''ve started when I was out since the bleeding was already less. After struggling with my arm to dress, Nyla brought me food with Gael, who came to see how I was. Seeing him come was surprising, but I was pleased to see him cared enough to see me.


    "Hey, Shrimp, glad to see you on your feet. I''ve missed you." He smiled, petting my head like I was a lost pup.


    Nyla quickly slapped him, huffing, "Keep your impure intentions to yourself!"


    "Huh?! I didn''t do anything this time!" He growled, glaring at the goblin who crossed her arms.


    Their interaction left me giggling, which brought a smile to both of them as I ate the delicious meal he had made for me. The duo avoided speaking about anything about Finn, leaving me feeling odd.


    Are they avoiding you because they think I''ll fear you? Or is it because¡­


    From there, I went to shower, where I ran into a new problem. Solas was so big that he no longer fit in my usual stall. So, instead of joining me for a warm shower, he watched me from the opening, whimpering.


    Unlike most canines, this one enjoyed its daily baths. I didn''t want to watch him sulk, but I couldn''t do anything about it.


    "You''re too big, buddy. Maybe you can use the pool?" I suggested, as in my current condition, I could barely wash myself.


    When I washed my body, I couldn''t feel the warmth of the water running down my right arm. It was like it wasn''t mine, yet it was attached to my body. The lack of sensation would be a new normal I had to get accustomed to, as it could be hazardous if I didn''t pay attention.


    I wonder if I can feel any pain. If I don''t, then¡­ crap¡­ hopefully nothing happens.


    Shaking my head, I finished washing my body with no other events. However, when I turned to exit the stall, I noticed Solas was missing. Walking out, I saw him sulking in the giant pool, whimpering again when he saw me.


    Those little puppy dog eyes will be the end of me.


    "You really love baths. See, now you''ve upgraded and got a bigger one," I giggled, heading toward the pup.


    "I do, but I want to be with you too!" he whined, tilting his head when I sat on the pool''s edge, reaching out to him.


    Solas quickly closed the gap, laying his head on my lap.


    Oh... how much I love you is beyond me. You''re such a delight to be around.


    His size didn''t matter to me; I still saw him as the pup hatched out of the small egg Finn had given me.


    I have Solas because of you. Yet you¡­


    "Did you learn to speak while I was out?" I asked, trailing my hand down his fluffy white fur.


    You''re like a cloud, so unfair!


    "Mhm, I wanted everyone to know I was there for you, so I spoke up! I think I gave Nyla a heart attack," he chuckled, tail wagging.


    This pup was a sprout of energy, which I didn''t mind. Yet, I saw Finn crush him, which meant he was a demon, just like them.


    Oh right¡­ I¡­


    "Hm¡­ Solas, why did you run into that place?" I mumbled.


    "Oh! I can''t remember! One moment, we watched the fight, and then it felt like something took hold of me! It was weird, and I didn''t like it!" He whimpered, his ears back and tail tucked under his belly.


    The guilt in his voice was so prevalent, though.


    "I promise I would never do anything to harm you! I-I don''t know what happened!" he whined.


    Shaking my head, I simpered. "It''s okay. I believe you, let''s get you dried, okay?"


    I have to find Finn. You''re probably¡­


    The pup nodded, getting out of the pool. However, drying him wasn''t as easy as I thought. He was too big, and when he shook, it drenched everything in the room. I let out a soft sigh when he apologized for soaking me again.


    "Geez, aren''t you adorable?" I giggled, having to dry myself again.


    Seeing how I didn''t get annoyed triggered Solas to wag his tail. His voice resembled Finn''s, yet I would never confuse them. After the wash, I headed to the library to see Rizak, though he wasn''t there.


    I had hoped he would tell me where Finn was since everyone else avoided it. Nyla was quick to inform me he had gone into town for supplies. It was the first time I heard about a settlement near the castle grounds, and there was a reason for that.


    Most of the demons that lived there didn''t have their sanity in check. The simple sight of a human would send them into a frenzy. So, I had to avoid leaving the castle grounds unless I wanted to be a feast. When I asked Nyla what Finn was doing, she avoided the question again before suggesting I walk around to regain my stamina.


    A soft hum left my lips as I did just that.


    Huh¡­ So, you''re avoiding me. I knew it. You kissed me while I was asleep, so there''s no need for you to come to me anytime soon. How convenient¡­ You can''t avoid me forever, demon king!


    I spent the rest of the day trying to find the elusive demon that avoided me like a walking plague; of course, I didn''t go to the restricted areas, but I made it known to everyone I saw around my search area.


    It all peaked when my feet hurt and the cramps from all the walking were getting in my way. Yet he was nowhere to be seen, leaving my temperature rising and my eyes twitching.


    "Oi! Can you hear me, stupid king?! If you want someone to marry you! You should listen when they want to fucking see you, or is it you''re scared to fucking see me after you broke me?!" I screamed down the hall, knowing he could hear me.


    It caused me to flinch when my arm ached, thanks to the magic within me responding to my emotions. Nyla told me not to overdo it since the incantation was still unstable.


    Even so, I refuse to give up. Not when you''re probably blaming yourself for my actions. No one told me to go there or to run to you! I need to see you, God damn it!


    Clenching my hands into fists, I was about to scream again when I felt a presence behind me.


    Finally¡­ I found you, Finn!

 Chapter 24: Guilt

    Finn¡¯s blue eyes were back, and that menacing, profound red aura was nowhere to be seen. Yet his eyes were still the same emotionless ones as before.


    Worse, it feels like you''ll disappear if I go anywhere near you.


    ¡°What the fuck are you doing, Sparky?¡± he sighed, keeping his distance from me.


    He was also avoiding my glance, which made my heart ache.


    ¡°What do you mean?! I¡¯ve been looking for you all day!¡± Tears ran down my cheeks when I noticed he was far from my reach.


    There wasn¡¯t an ounce in me that wanted to fight him, but I couldn¡¯t run up to him either.


    ¡°I know.¡± He shook his head.


    So, you are avoiding me. Why?! It stings!


    The cramps were making me even more flustered. However, the pain arising from my chest was overwhelming every other sensation as I clasped onto my chest.


    ¡°You¡¯re a stupid, idiotic, perverted demon! Why make me look for you for so long?!¡± I snapped, taking a step forward, only for him to take one back.


    Instead of answering me, he stayed silent while avoiding looking at me.


    Ah¡­ why¡­ won¡¯t you¡­


    ¡°Sylvia, he thinks you¡¯ll fear him, and that''s something he doesn¡¯t want to see.¡± Solas suddenly informed.


    Ah¡­ You¡­ are¡­


    ¡°Oi, mutt.¡± Finn huffed, glaring at him.


    When he gave me a part of himself, he never thought loyalty would lie with me¡ªat least not entirely, even if he had said it before.


    ¡°Our connection is a two-way street, milord. Please remember, you told me to be loyal to Sylvia alone.¡± Solas smirked, triggering Finn to radiate a small amount of red aura.


    However, before they could argue, I took the opportunity to pretend I had lost myself, only for Finn to catch me as I coiled my arms around him, ensuring he couldn¡¯t escape.


    ¡°What?¡± Finn mumbled, letting go of me and instantly realizing I had faked my illness, but it was too late.


    I don¡¯t care if I play dirty! Not when you¡¯re being unreasonable!


    ¡°Stupid¡­ so fucking stupid!¡± I cried, holding onto Finn as my life depended on it.


    Though my weak arm wasn¡¯t clasping onto him as hard as I wanted to, he could¡¯ve quickly vanished if he wanted. Instead, my action froze him in place.


    ¡°Scared? Of you out of everyone? Never.¡± I huffed, trying to control my sobs.


    I was happy to see him finally. If he worried I would be afraid of him, he cared about me to some extent. Or perhaps it was because his job to marry me would be more complex. I didn¡¯t know what to believe, yet I clung to him as he leaned against the wall pinned between it and me.


    ¡°What the fuck are you talking about?! I ripped your arm off!¡± Finn declared, pressing his hands onto the wall, ensuring he wasn¡¯t touching me, but it didn¡¯t matter.


    ¡°It was my choice to run to you! To make you come back! I thought you were going to kill me, but here I am. You didn¡¯t kill me! Instead, you came back to me! So, what if I lost an arm?!¡± I held on to him for dear life.


    Some things are worth a limb, like getting the only being that talks to me back. The only one I can call my friend if you allow me to be one.


    ¡°You¡¯re fucking crazy.¡± He sighed.


    I shook my head, holding on.


    ¡°You already knew I was from the moment you met me!¡± I declared, gazed up to look at him, but he was still avoiding me.


    How will I get you to look at me again? Please¡­


    Closing my eyes, I pushed myself on him to reach his cheek with my lips. When they met with his skin, I felt a rush of warmth radiate from him and into me. Leaving a soft peck on it, I tugged away to see him finally gazing at me.


    Taking the chance that his eyes were set on me, I reached with both my hands to cup his cheeks. His warmth sunk into my left hand while my right lacked its comfort.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t take away from me the only person who knows everything I am.¡± I pleaded, triggering him to narrow his eyes as they flickered and got glossy.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    ¡°No¡­ Don¡¯t say that. Don¡¯t humanize me. What I did to you was¡ª¡± I didn¡¯t let him finish when I yanked him towards me to press my lips onto his.


    It was a quick brush, and the only thing I could think of was to silence a demon.


    Well, you, I wouldn¡¯t do this to anyone else.


    Tugging away from his lips, I left him speechless, his eyes wide open, and his jaw slightly dropped.


    ¡°You¡¯re already winning, Finn. Don¡¯t give up.¡± I confessed, realizing this was the only way to reach him.


    I didn¡¯t know what he was thinking, but I understood what he wanted from me.


    If I dangle that, you won¡¯t throw me away now that I¡¯m broken, right?


    ¡°Fuck¡­ I was going to take you back to the humans after the spell stabilized.¡± He gazed towards the side.


    What?


    I shook my head, grabbing onto his shirt tighter.


    ¡°So, you give me a reason to live just to take it away?¡± I mumbled, feeling hollow inside.


    This emotion was worse than when that boy forced a kiss on me or when my father beat me senseless.


    Back then, I had nothing to lose. Now¡­ I had everything to lose. Ah¡­ did I realize that too late? Is it too late to run into your flames from when you were chasing me?!


    ¡°What? No, I wouldn¡¯t¡­ do that.¡± He breathed, shaking his head.


    Tugging on his shirt, I faced him head-on. ¡°Then why would you give me back to them?! I never asked you to!¡±


    His eyes widen, shaking his head. ¡°Oi, I said I was! As in the past!¡±


    This entire time, though, he hadn¡¯t touched me.


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± I mumbled, gazing towards the side.


    Will you ever do so again?


    ¡°Do you want to stay here?¡± he asked, triggering my gaze to land on him again.


    I nodded. ¡°Yes, I want to be here.¡±


    He sighed, ¡°I don¡¯t know if I¡¯ll lose control again. Next time, I might kill you, you know that, right?¡±


    I snuggled myself into his chest, ¡°I won¡¯t ignore your warnings anymore,¡± I promised, feeling safe in his presence.


    The demon in that room wasn¡¯t you. No, the one there was lost beyond anyone¡¯s reach while you¡­ You¡¯re Finn.


    His arms were still by his side.


    Will you ever touch me?


    ¡°How did you even get in there? A guard posted there for a reason, and he didn¡¯t see you.¡± Finn asked.


    I didn¡¯t move from where I was. Though I knew he wouldn¡¯t be happy with what I said next.


    ¡°Well, I kind of wanted to see what you were doing when Solas felt something pull him there. He walked into a passageway while I was trying to eavesdrop on you with the human emissaries,¡± I mumbled, trying not to sound too guilty.


    It didn¡¯t work, as his aura spiked in color.


    Oh crap!


    ¡°Oi¡­¡± he huffed, taking a deep breath. ¡°What did you see?¡±


    A soft, nervous giggle left me while I held onto him, ¡°Oh, nothing much. You were psychotically trying to reach them and got one or two before¡­ uh, you know,¡± I minimized my interaction.


    However, his aura spiked again, and I continued before he could speak.


    ¡°What happened to the others?¡± I asked, trying to avoid the anger directed at me, but even then, I wouldn¡¯t let go of him.


    A heavy sigh left his lips.


    ¡°That red-haired fucker stabbed me with a holy knife when I felt¡­ what I assume was you... touch¡­¡± he trailed off.


    He didn¡¯t want to continue, yet I wanted to know more. Though it appeared, I saved the humans without wanting to.


    ¡°Finn, is that girl connected to you?¡± I mumbled, hoping not to go too deep.


    A wary smile formed on his lips. ¡°She¡¯s connected to all of us.¡±


    How he avoided talking about her alerted me she was someone with whom he had a past. It was just like I loved to avoid talking about my father and stepfather.


    ¡°I see. You must¡¯ve cared deeply for her,¡± I fished for information, knowing I couldn¡¯t stay in the dark any longer.


    I never knew the words he said next would hurt me so profoundly.


    ¡°I do. I can¡¯t¡­¡± he trailed off, clenching his hands into fists.


    I felt my heart drop. Of course, the second person I liked wouldn¡¯t like me back, even if they wanted to marry me. Tears stung my eyes again for different reasons. Suddenly, I felt like a fool for kissing him earlier.


    How does my chest hurt more than when you ripped my arm?


    It probably was because of the adrenaline, yet the hole in my core grew with each negative thought that crossed my mind.


    ¡°I-I¡­ see. You don¡¯t have to say anything else. I¡¯ll wait until you¡¯re ready.¡± I grumbled, feeling dejected.


    Realizing I shouldn¡¯t cling to someone with no feelings for me, I tugged away before planting my eyes on the floor.


    A soft sigh left his lips again. ¡°Hey, don¡¯t get the wrong idea. She was my little sister.¡±


    It was almost as if he had read my mind, and with some simple words, the fog lifted.


    ¡°Oh!¡± I breathed before realizing how it sounded.


    I quickly shifted my eyes to Finn''s face, seeing an expression that caused my heart to skip. His blue eyes were set on me, and his eyebrows raised as a soft smile was on his lips.


    ¡°I mean¡­¡± I trailed off, feeling flustered.


    Why am I even trying to fix what I¡¯m saying? I¡¯ve already confessed that you¡¯re winning.


    Yet I hadn¡¯t told him he had already won the race, becoming irreplaceable in my life.


    ¡°You really aren¡¯t scared of me?¡± he asked.


    ¡°No, if anything, now I¡¯ve got a part of you that¡¯ll stick to me forever.¡± I simpered.


    My eyes widened when I saw his eyes gloss as his smile broke. Feeling one of his hands on the back of my head, the next moment, I was in his chest again. The sound of his heart was so fast that it caused me to clasp his shirt again.


    ¡°You silly girl. You aren¡¯t like other humans.¡± He finally held me tenderly.


    Like the ones you hate. I don¡¯t want to be. Please never compare me to them, or I¡¯ll be angry with you, but that¡¯s for another day. For now, I¡¯m just glad you''re touching me again.


    Instead of saying anything else, I basked in his warmth, enjoying every minute. After a few moments, Finn broke the silence again.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t hungry?¡± he asked, trailing his fingers down my hair.


    After walking for hours, there was no doubt that I was, but I didn¡¯t want to release him. It felt like I couldn¡¯t grab onto him again if I did.


    ¡°No¡­¡± I mumbled.


    ¡°Oi, Sparky, don¡¯t lie. I can hear¡ª¡± I quickly interrupted him by touching his lips with my hands as my eyes twitched because of his comment.


    The nerve of this demon!


    ¡°Then why ask?!¡± I huffed, glaring at him.


    Suddenly, he was having fun with me.


    You¡¯re such an annoying demon! But¡­ I wouldn¡¯t change you for the world, Finn.


    A soft chuckle left his lips, brushing them against my palms. ¡°Do you want me to tell Gael to prepare a tea my sister used for her lady days?¡±


    Again, my eyes twitched, and I felt a rush of heat on my cheeks.


    Wait! What?!


    ¡°Oi! You aren¡¯t supposed to know that either!¡± I growled, feeling like my head could pop at any moment.


    Isn¡¯t there anything you don¡¯t know?!


    ¡°Hm, do you?¡± he hummed.


    The shift between this Finn and the enraged one was too much of a curve¡ªno, it broke it. Yet both sides were the same person, and I would accept him either way. He entwined his hand with mine before I gave a soft nod, leading me into the dining room, where I would eat my fill.

 Chapter 25: Bitter-Sweet

    Once in the dining room, I had a warm meal and hot tea with hibiscus, which made it bitter, but Finn reassured me that it would make me feel better. Gael was extra quiet with the king in the room, which made Nyla glare at the incubus.


    It probably didn''t help that I was holding onto the demon lord with one hand while using the other to eat.


    "You know, you''ll eat more comfy if you let me go." Finn sighed, prompting a glare from me.


    "I spent all day looking for you. So, no, I''m not letting you get away." I grumbled, taking another bite of my food.


    A soft chuckle left his lips. "And where would I go? You already trapped me."


    "I don''t know. The fucking she-wolf can come to get you. Generals this and that." I continued to sulk, munching.


    "I thought the generals were out today. I mean, they''ve been out since yesterday." Gael informed, walking in with a desert.


    Nyla''s eyes widened upon noticing my demeanor change, and Finn scowled at the poor incubus for betraying him.


    Finally¡­ proof¡­


    It caused me to yank on the demon lord''s shirt, allowing Gael to retreat into the kitchen after selling his friend out.


    "Oi¡­ You''re telling me. You were avoiding me this entire time by making up excuses?! What are you twelve?!" I growled.


    "I-I¡­" Finn struggled to find his words.


    It was almost as if a cat had stolen his tongue.


    "Oh, wait a minute, is a woman like me scary for a big evil dragon?!" I huffed, attempting to stay civil.


    My rage would never reach the extent that his could, but I could be feisty. A soft sigh left him before shifting his gaze away.


    "Idiot¡­ stupid king," I grumbled, letting go of him to cross my arms.


    I couldn''t help but pout, thinking all the times I asked where he was, only to be lied to.


    I spent hours looking for you! Unlike you, my time matters! I''m not immortal!


    "Ah, I wasn''t far from you, sweetheart." He breathed as I glowered at him again.


    Oi! You''re such a¡­


    "So, you just let me run around looking for you all day. Got it." I rolled my eyes.


    Another soft exhale came from him. Instead of arguing, he let me eat while I grumbled under my breath. However, before I touched the desert, Rizak barged in, looking winded. Everyone glanced at him before he placed down a bottle that appeared familiar.


    Isn''t that¡­ Wait, why is it empty?!


    Realizing what it was, I felt my body run cold as I dropped the utensil I used to eat.


    "Sylvia, did you do this?" the owl questioned, startling me.


    Did¡­ Oh¡­ No¡­ Why didn''t I throw it away?!


    "Uh¡­ I¡­ think I did." I mumbled, feeling a bit overwhelmed by him.


    It had been an entire month since I last saw that bottle. The only reason I knew it was mine was the lack of a wax seal since Rizak always placed one on his batches.


    How could I forget something so dangerous?! Did I hurt someone?!


    "Okay, slow down. What''s the matter, Rizak?" Finn asked, getting up from beside me.


    "M''lord, I think she found a way to save us all." The owl declared, gazing at me with expectations I knew I couldn''t meet.


    Are you kidding me?! No, that¡­ wasn''t to¡­


    "What?" I whispered, slightly shaking my head.


    "One of Maxwell''s patients drank this." Rizak started, prompting the demon lord to tilt his head.


    Who¡­


    "You mean those demons?" Finn asked.


    Those? What?


    "Yes, m''lord, this brought one of those back. This potion isn''t mine, and Sylvia was the only person other than me who could''ve put this in the batch." Rizak once again put me in the spotlight.


    I shook my head, not knowing how to explain that potion was for me to kill myself with. It was careless of me to place it in the batch.


    I didn''t know they were meant for others to consume! Damn it, I thought they were only for studying!


    "I¡­ don''t know," I mumbled, wanting to curl up and hide as Solas whined upon noticing my hands tremble.


    Finn quickly stepped in between us, extending his hand before me and dragging the owl''s eyes back to him.


    "You''re scaring her. Perhaps we can continue this once she''s better. Let''s talk about this in another place," he suggested, taking note of my demeanor, too.


    The owl quickly backed off, gazing at his king. "Oh, yes, my lord. Apologizes my lady. I know you''re still recovering." He bowed his head, picking up the bottle before leaving with Finn.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    This time, his departure from me wasn''t an excuse. A heavy sigh left me gazing at Solas, who placed his head on my lap. The entire thing made me lose my appetite. Apologizing for not finishing everything, I excused myself for the day before taking a quick shower and finding my way into my room, where I sulked on the bed.


    How can something I did to kill myself save anyone? No, impossible, Rizak must be wrong. Arg¡­ I should just be happy no one was hurt because of me.


    I rolled on the bed, staring at the ceiling before raising my hand towards it.


    The power to save them is really at my fingertips, or so you say. I don''t¡­ believe I can save anyone. Reaching Finn was a fluke, one that cost me my arm.


    The power of the saint seemed like something I would never understand. Perhaps the plants in this world differed from the ones in mine. Still, everything sent shivers down my spine. Sadly, Solas couldn''t lie on the bed with me anymore.


    The pup was too big and would break the bed if he did. However, it wasn''t long until Finn appeared in my room. I could always feel his presence when he did. However, I didn''t sit up to meet with him this time. Instead, I turned towards the side, hiding under the covers.


    Before Rizak came with his news, all I wanted was to spend time with Finn, but all I felt was pressure within my chest that felt like it would suffocate me.


    I¡­ can''t¡­ I don''t want everyone to rely on me!


    Instead, I felt the bed sink under him.


    At least you came back instead of running away again, but I don''t know if I can face you right now.


    "You okay, love?" he whispered, knowing I was awake.


    I didn''t turn to him. Even though I wanted to know what Rizak told him, it also scared me.


    "My cramps are bad." I lied.


    They were the last thing bothering me. I was probably already browning, yet my heart was heavy. Rizak''s words felt too serious for me to bear, and I didn''t want to talk about him either.


    "Hm¡­ I can''t help with that." He hummed, lying next to me.


    I turned to him to see his wings dripping over the bed''s side. Those blue orbs of his were on me, though he kept his hands to himself.


    "Finn¡­ can I hug you?" I mumbled, struggling to keep my sight on him.


    If you knew what I¡­ did, you''d be disappointed, wouldn''t you?


    "You don''t need to ask." He chuckled, opening his arms for me.


    Without thinking twice, I snuggled myself into his chest. It was becoming my favorite place to be.


    "You always smell like roses. Do you have any in your room?" I asked, feeling better.


    "Uh, no. I don''t." He answered, letting me do as I pleased.


    "Hm¡­ How do you always smell so good?" I mumbled, feeling jealous.


    "I guess it''s a scent I give." He chuckled, unsure of what I meant.


    It caused my eyes to twitch.


    "Not only can you fly, handsome, don''t age and powerful, but you smell like a flower all the time too?! Can you tell me again what''s so bad about being a demon?" I puffed up my cheeks.


    "You forgot that I also lose control; turning me into a madman and feeding on living things is the only way to keep my sanity." He sighed, trailing his hand down my numb arm.


    I rolled my eyes, grumbling, "You''re close to perfect."


    Even though I couldn''t feel his touch, shivers ran down my spine.


    "Does it hurt?" Finn whispered, not wanting to say it too loudly, yet his voice broke by the end


    "No, it doesn''t hurt anymore." I smiled, reaching to remove some of his hair from his face, allowing me to see his piercing blue eyes.


    "I''m going to kiss you. Is that okay?" he asked, trailing his fingers on my cheek.


    "Is this because it''s time?" I mumbled, gazing at him with hopeful eyes.


    I didn''t know what I wanted him to answer.


    Yet his cheeks turned rosy. "N-no¡ª" I didn''t need him to finish that.


    No, my lips met with his before he could get that thought out.


    You don''t need to ask¡­ If only I could say that, too, but I don''t have the guts.


    A second later, his hand locked me in place by holding the back of my head, coiling his fingers around my hair when I felt his tongue glide over my lips. Opening my mouth, I let him in, allowing in a known warmth I had never felt before.


    Thanks to the activity already there, it came with a weird itch that I couldn''t focus on. His soft member fought mine for dominance, something he quickly won. Caging me under him, I felt his hand go under my shirt before stopping.


    Tugging away from my lips, he licked his.


    "Am getting ahead of myself, aren''t I?" he breathed, gazing away. "I did rip into you not too long ago."


    Grabbing onto his hand, I guided him to my breast. Of course, it was over the clothes rather than under them. I was cheeky, but not so much.


    "Oh, honey, you didn''t just¡­" his eyes glossed.


    However, he hesitated to squish the lump that was under his palm. Yet the warmth from his skin seeped through the clothes and into me.


    "I like your touch." I voiced, feeling like my cheeks were about to fall off.


    He closed his eyes, squishing me lightly enough to make me jittery, triggering a soft mewl to leave me. The moment my voice erupted, he pulled away from my chest before caging me under him again. His blue eyes narrowed, biting onto his lip.


    "I don''t¡­ Why don''t you see me as a monster? I ripped into you, too. You should be terrified of me." His voice broke.


    This demon used to be so confident, but it had all melted away, allowing me to see the real Finn, who I wished to know more about.


    "You know who my monsters are." I traced my fingers on his cheek.


    These emotions weren''t slowing down and got worse when I fought them. However, I didn''t want to lose either because if I did, then there would be no reason to keep me around. There wasn''t a single thing about me to love, so my only choice was to be helpful.


    "Don''t you realize I just want to use you?" Finn declared, dropping my heart, which was in his hands.


    I know¡­ but¡­ if that were all, then¡­


    "If that were true, then you wouldn''t have said that, and you wouldn''t feel guilty for hurting me," I answered, trying not to feel hurt, but it was impossible.


    My heart was too heavy and on the verge of breaking. It wasn''t like I didn''t know since the way he gazed at me always lacked something.


    "I won''t let you use me until you fall for me, too," I mumbled.


    Finn shook his head. "It''s Impossible. That emotion''s dead in me. I can''t love you." He winced, closing his eyes as this demon appeared small for the first time.


    Ah¡­ Who hurt you? Does everything you feel have to do with what happened in that room?


    "I know, but can I revive that part of you? Even if it isn''t for me?" I simpered, trying to find meaning in all of this.


    This marriage he wanted was a convenience, something I wouldn''t allow, but if I could save him with my feelings, I would try to, especially since I didn''t know what happened with Rizak. Yet that was something I would avoid while I could.


    I didn''t want to tell them I was trying to off myself when I created what they thought was the cure to their affliction.


    "I can''t promise you anything." He confessed, opening his eyes as his lips trembled, triggering him to bite into them.


    It was hard to hold back the tears, but his honesty was something I appreciated. Even if he didn''t realize it, all he said made me confident that he cared about me, especially with what he followed up with.


    "Yet even though I need you. I don''t want to hurt you. You don''t deserve it. Not you, I¡­ can''t." He sighed.


    One ritual needed both our affections, while for the other, he had to kill me, or at least that was what I got from Sebastian. Yet¡­


    Do you feel nothing when you kiss me? Is it all an act? It can''t be. I don''t believe you. I don''t want to accept all of this is an act. You came back to me. There has to be a reason¡­ You must feel something for me, even if it isn''t love.


    There had to be a way to save him. If I focused on him, perhaps the rest would come, too.


    I''ll try to find it and set you free.


    "Kiss me, please?" my voice cracked.


    He soon followed my demand with a bitter-sweet kiss. One that left me feeling tingly all over. It mixed the pain with pleasure, allowing me to forget it while in the moment. There weren''t any more lies between us.


    All that was left were secrets of a past I knew nothing about. Even so, it was my choice to ask him to kiss me.


    Even though I promised to accept you anyway, you came. Why does it hurt so much to know you will never love me? Ah¡­ because no one ever will.


    Yet I could hope for the day someone would.

 Chapter 26: Demon’s Heavy Heart

    I didn¡¯t remember when I fell asleep that night, but Finn held me close the entire time. He was still there when I woke, gazing up at the ceiling. All the while, I used him like a pillow. It was almost as if he hadn¡¯t slept the entire night.


    He hadn¡¯t noticed I was up, either. If he was still around, it was apparent the generals weren¡¯t back yet. I didn¡¯t know their task, but I was glad they didn¡¯t take Finn away, and I wasn¡¯t ready for him to leave me yet.


    ¡°Did you sleep?¡± I asked, not wanting the day to begin.


    This was the first time he had stayed with me the entire night.


    ¡°I can¡¯t remember the last time I slept,¡± Finn whispered, making me hug him.


    It was the only thing I could think of to comfort him.


    ¡°No dreams?¡± I mumbled, holding him.


    ¡°No, did you have some?¡± he asked, trailing his fingers down my hair.


    I nodded. ¡°Solas was a cuddly cloud,¡± I announced, not wanting to let go of Finn.


    Ah¡­ I¡¯m being clingy, aren¡¯t I? It¡¯s probably annoying, but¡­ after seeing you lose it like that. I¡¯m scared you¡¯ll revert if I let go.


    ¡°I was?¡± the pup placed his snout on the bed.


    I turned to face him, only for Finn to grab onto me from behind.


    ¡°I mean, you are kind of already, but you were fluffier, and brushing you was a pain! I couldn¡¯t find a comb big enough.¡± I sighed.


    A soft chuckle left Finn, squishing me into him. ¡°Sounds like a hassle.¡±


    A soft smile rose on my lips, enjoying how he held me.


    ¡°Hey, can I ask you something?¡± I mumbled, enjoying the warmth.


    ¡°Hm?¡± he hummed.


    I would never know anything about him if things kept up this way. It was like going in circles, something I wanted to avoid.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t you love?¡± I let go, feeling him tense up.


    Hearing that question wasn¡¯t one he wanted to answer.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to know.¡± He sighed.


    However, he didn¡¯t let me go. Instead, he held me closer to him as his tai rested on my lap, allowing me to touch it.


    It¡¯s now or never. Push or never know.


    Grabbing onto the arms that held me captive, I secured myself in place.


    ¡°I do. Finn, I¡¯ll accept you. No matter what you say. I¡¯ll accept you. Please let me be what you¡¯ve been to me.¡± I declared, not wavering.


    Even if it were something I didn¡¯t want to hear, I would accept it. A heavy sigh came from his lips.


    ¡°Sparky¡­ I had a wife once. She betrayed me in more ways than I¡­¡± he trailed off.


    Ah¡­ A wife¡­ You already married once and know what it is to lose it.


    I had forgotten that he was thousands of years old from how young he appeared. I wouldn¡¯t have put him past my age when his time stopped.


    What happened to you? Won¡¯t you let me in?


    ¡°Is that why you say you can¡¯t love anyone? Do you still feel the same way about her?¡± I continued to question, trying not to feel anything.


    Yet my heart ached, knowing he could love, just not me.


    He gave me another slight squeeze. ¡°I still love her?¡± A soft, broken chuckle left him. ¡°Nah, she ruined me, sweets. Love¡¯s nothing but an illusion that destroys you when you least expect it. It poisons the mind and soul and makes you act irrationally. There¡¯s nothing useful about it.¡± He sighed.


    It triggered me to gaze down at the bracelet, which hadn''t changed from the droplet it was.


    ¡°Yet it¡¯s needed for the ritual you want to do. Unless you want to eat me, as that guy said.¡± I huffed, rolling my eyes.


    ¡°Oi, I¡¯m not going to eat you. Well, at least not that way.¡± He mumbled.


    ¡°Wait¡­ what?¡± I turned to the dragon only to see his cheeks were rosy.


    Cute¡­ Who knew the demon lord could be this adorable?


    ¡°Nothing,¡± he gazed away.


    Right¡­ I won¡¯t tease you this time. I want something.


    ¡°Hm¡­¡± I hummed, reaching for his cheek.


    Even through my numbed fingers, I felt his cheeks radiate warmth.


    ¡°Tell me more about your life.¡± I simpered.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    He grabbed onto my hand, leaning into it.


    ¡°I¡­ Do you want to know?¡± Finn sighed, giving in to me.


    I nodded. ¡°Mhm, I do.¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t look at me the same.¡± He whispered.


    Grabbing onto his head, I tugged him into my bosom.


    ¡°Highly, I doubt it. You heard me and didn¡¯t judge me. I¡¯ll do the same to you.¡± I trailed my fingers through his soft hair.


    Burring his face into my chest, I heard his voice crack. ¡°Where do I start? I don¡¯t even know.¡±


    ¡°Start where it hurts less, then gradually progress to where it hurts most,¡± I murmured, enjoying the feeling of his hair on my fingertips.


    Who would have ever thought I would hold a demon king in my arms? This world isn¡¯t bad at all.


    This was something to brag about as I finally achieved something positive. Other than saving a random person with my attempt to create poison for me, I would rather not dive into that.


    Yes! I hope everyone forgets about that, please! Let¡¯s find another way!


    ¡°Is that what you did?¡± he sighed, gazing up at me.


    ¡°Mhm, I did.¡± I simpered.


    A soft, nervous chuckle left him. ¡°Feels like you''re stronger than me in that aspect.¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°No, I¡¯m not.¡±


    Grabbing onto my hand, he sat up before leaning into me for a kiss. His tongue quickly found mine, entwining his hand with mine. They both promptly found the bed sheets when he towered over me. Deepening the kiss, I closed my eyes, allowing myself to feel the moment.


    Sinking into the bed, I felt him play with my soft member until he tugged away, leaving me panting under him. My eyes were watery as a string of saliva connected us. Leaning into me again, I felt him lick my lips, breaking the connection.


    ¡°How about I show you instead?¡± Finn suddenly declared.


    ¡°Wha¡ª¡± I began but didn¡¯t finish when his eyes met mine.


    His eyes glowed brightly, mesmerizing me again.


    Ah¡­ it¡¯s the same¡­ when you see my memories.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be scared. Time will move differently. All you¡¯ll see isn¡¯t real, okay?¡± Finn¡¯s voice echoed in my mind.


    I nodded slightly and was no longer in the room the following moment. No, I was a passenger in the events that unfolded before the ruin of Fathal. I found myself in a room I didn¡¯t recognize, decorated with luxurious items such as crystals, gold, and silver.


    There was a white theme to the curtains and the flowers displayed, though. They arranged from Lilies to Roses, which were all beautiful arrangements.


    Oh my, everything looks so festive! Is this a celebration of something?


    The paintings were portraits of people I didn¡¯t recognize. The cloth they used was white, and many flowers were around. Most were roses and lilies, and others I couldn¡¯t identify. Yet it reminded me of the ruined ones in the crystal hall, but unlike the castle, I knew everything was cleaner and brighter.


    The air here is pure, too. It¡¯s nothing like the fog from my time. So this is what Fathal was before the curse? Everything is so lively and vibrant. How does it turn into¡­


    It wasn¡¯t long before a voice startled me, triggering me to squeal. Though, it was a voice I knew so well.


    ¡°Lillia, where were you?¡± a different Finn from the one I knew spoke to someone behind me.


    I froze as my eyes sparkled when I saw him without horns, wings, or tail. His blue eyes had life in them, and his voice carried joy, unlike the one I had known. Better yet was his smile; it was lively, triggering dimples to form on his cheeks.


    Ah¡­ so that¡¯s how you genuinely smile?


    ¡°Oh, my prince! I didn¡¯t know you were looking for me. I was sending a pigeon out.¡± The girl named Lillia smiled at the young prince.


    Wait? Finn, you were a human prince before you became the demon king. It wasn¡¯t because of your power but because of your birth, right?


    He walked through me and over to her with the biggest grin on his lips. She had deep red hair and amber eyes, which reminded me of Soren, the man who had come looking for me. I stepped closer, knowing they couldn¡¯t see me as he had gone through me like I was a ghost.


    ¡°You¡¯re going to have to stop calling me Prince. I¡¯m going to be your husband soon enough. So, shouldn¡¯t you call me by my name, Lillia?¡± Finn grabbed her hands and brought them up to his lips.


    That¡¯s your wife¡­ She¡¯s beautiful¡­ I, on the other hand, am scrawny compared to her.


    The entire thing made me feel envious, but what bothered me the most was how he gazed at her as she tugged away from his touch.


    ¡°It¡¯s embarrassing.¡± She mumbled, avoiding his gaze.


    The young black-haired boy tilted his head before another smile crossed his lips.


    You can¡¯t be past twenty while your sister is probably a little younger.


    ¡°Hm¡­ after everything we did last night, you''re still embarrassed?¡± Finn teased.


    Obviously, he was infatuated with her, but that smile was erased when she pulled away again. I could feel everything he did, and his thoughts echoed within me.


    Is she nervous about the wedding? He wondered, releasing a soft sigh.


    ¡°Last night was our first night together. Of course, I¡¯m not used to it.¡± She clarified, shifting her gaze towards the side.


    She reminded me of when I wanted to avoid things.


    ¡°Well, love, I¡¯ll make you used to it.¡± Finn reached to comfort his nervous fianc¨¦e, who dodged his touch again.


    ¡°Later today, you¡¯ll marry me. So, let¡¯s save it until then.¡± She assured him.


    As a bride, she was resistant to touching the prince. She reminded me of when I was running away from that boy who wanted a relationship with me.


    Why would anyone run away from you? Hug him, damn it. He¡¯s adorable! Wait a minute¡­ why am I rooting for my rival?!


    Knowing how he felt probably affected me. After all, I was more of a pest than a rival to Lillia. She was beautiful and not mentally fucked up like me. I wanted him to be happy.


    You deserved it. Everyone does.


    This was all in the past, and she was nowhere to be seen.


    You fucked up, Finn; I know it, but¡­ he loves you. How could you do that to someone who genuinely loved you?! I¡¯d give the world to have anyone look at me like he¡¯s looking at you!


    ¡°Yes, after five years¡­ Finally, we¡¯ll be together every night and day.¡± Finn simpered, reaching for her again.


    This time, she met with his hands, triggering my heart to sting. From his view, her nerves seemed to quell enough for her to accept him.


    Wait¡­ Don¡¯t¡­


    ¡°Yes, peace for all.¡± She gazed towards the side again.


    Pulling her into his arms, he held her close.


    Still is¡­ just to me¡­ I¡¯m ¡­


    ¡°Hm¡­ that¡¯s the least of my worries. I¡¯m more concentrated on making you happy. So, how about you tell me what¡¯s on your mind?¡± The Finn I knew was there even if he was close to a ditz, picking up on her cues.


    Vigilant too¡­ You didn¡¯t change much, did you?


    It didn¡¯t make me happy to know he treated another girl with the same gentleness.


    No¡­ you were much more loving towards her than to me¡­ I¡¯m¡­ nothing special. You said so yourself: I¡¯m not worth loving. Well, you didn¡¯t put it like that, but¡­ I know I¡¯m nothing special.


    ¡°Finn¡­¡± Lillia sighed, gazing at him.


    She frowned, slowly reaching for his cheek.


    ¡°Hm¡­?¡± he hummed, holding her close.


    Finn, you idiot¡­ why show me this? Is this your way of saying you¡¯ll never love me? Well, at least the way you loved her. Arg¡­ It hurts. Is this where it¡¯s less painful for you?


    ¡°No, it¡¯s nothing.¡± She smiled, kissing him on his lips.


    Relief washed over Finn as he grabbed the back of her head and kissed her back, turning the room heavy. However, a knock came from the door before they took any clothes off.


    A saving grace¡­ Thank God, I didn¡¯t see you bone her!


    Little did I know, this was the start of an unrelenting storm that swept away all their smiles and led them into the lives I had come to know.


    How I wished I could stop it, but everything was out of my hands, and I would meet other monsters that looked nothing like them.

 Chapter 27: Siblings

    A knock interrupted the groom¡¯s and bride¡¯s sweet moment, much to my relief.


    A heavy sigh came from Finn. ¡°What now?¡± he grumbled, shifting his gaze noise.


    Oi! You don¡¯t need to look so disappointed! Perverted demon! I guess some things don¡¯t change!


    Knowing how he felt, I couldn¡¯t help but pout at his tone.


    Lillia pushed on his arm. ¡°I-I don¡¯t know, but you should answer it.¡±


    Rolling his eyes, he pulled away from her before heading towards the door. My gaze shifted between him and her as he went for the door.


    Damn it! There isn¡¯t any reason to be hesitant, Sylvia; you asked for it; deal with it! Even if it destroys you in the end. See it through to the end, no matter what! You promised to accept everything about him!


    Everyone had different ways to express themselves, and surprisingly, this was fitting for someone like Finn, who hid nothing.


    Though, I could do without the smooches to another girl!


    Opening the door, the girl from the crystal quickly greeted him, though this version was alive and sparkling with energy. She also lacked the gaping hole in her chest and probably had a beating heart.


    ¡°You¡¯re late!¡± she huffed, crossing her arms.


    Her eyes twitched at her brother, who winced, gazing at her forced smile.


    ¡°Serah, I¡¯m sorry. I had to check on¡ª¡± he began, only to be stopped by her placing her hands over her mouth as she gazed inside the room.


    ¡°Oh, you buffoon! Don¡¯t you know the groom isn¡¯t supposed to see his bride on the wedding day?! It¡¯s bad luck!¡± the girl huffed, grabbing his arms.


    Finn rolled his eyes. ¡°So superstitious.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not!¡± She glared at him before shifting her eyes away and onto the bride. ¡°Sorry, Lillia! I¡¯ll take him away now!¡± she declared, dragging the prince out of the room, leaving me with little choice but to follow them.


    ¡°Oi! Wait¡­ what?!¡± Finn struggled to keep up, only for her to stop in another hall.


    Turning to him, Serah crossed her arms again, tapping on her arms with her fingers.


    ¡°You stupid brother, you¡¯re doing everything possible to ruin your day! Just because you¡¯re an hour older, you always act like you know everything!¡± she huffed, pouting soon after.


    Twins?! You two are twins?! I mean, she does look like a female Finn, but still! When you called her your little sister, I thought months or years separated you two! Wait¡­ That means¡­ you lost¡­ Oh¡­


    I couldn¡¯t help but clasp onto my chest, feeling a different ache.


    I need to be more sensitive. Crap¡­


    ¡°Oi, that means I¡¯m older, even if it¡¯s because of an hour.¡± He sighed, shaking his head.


    Though there wasn¡¯t an ounce of annoyance from him, he thought she was adorable every time she worked herself up for his sake.


    Is that a sister complex I smell? Though she is cute, I¡¯ll give you that.


    ¡°Right¡­¡± she mumbled, rolling her orbs at him.


    Finn picked up on her strange behavior, which she had been displaying since the previous day when she hadn¡¯t left him out of sight¡ªuntil he snuck off to spend time with his bride¡ªsomething he kindly spared me of witnessing firsthand.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? You¡¯ve been odd for a couple of days now.¡± the prince asked, prompting a sigh to leave her lips.


    She shrugged. ¡°I don¡¯t know why I¡ª Arg, I just have a bad feeling. Are you sure about all of this? What if she isn¡¯t the one? She doesn¡¯t feel like the one, you know.¡±


    Finn tilted his head, reaching to touch her cheek. ¡°I think you¡¯re just nervous about stuff changing, but I¡¯ll always be there for you.¡±


    Rolling her eyes at him again, she huffed. ¡°Right¡­ Just me being superstitious.¡±


    ¡°You know that¡¯s not what I mean.¡± He shook his head, only for her to grab his arm again.


    ¡°How about we get you ready? Your marriage is finally going to help bring world peace.¡± Her voice cracked again, forcing another smile on her lips.


    Shifting my eyes towards Finn, I didn¡¯t need to know his thoughts to understand his process. As young as he was, he probably thought he was on top of the world and that she was worrying over nothing.


    Change is hard for everyone to accept, and your twin marrying is a big deal, but from how you look, it¡¯s not just that, is it, Serah?


    I should¡¯ve listened to you. Finn¡¯s icy voice echoed within me, triggering me to search for him, but it was his younger self there.


    Ah¡­ Are you reliving this with me?


    ¡°I¡¯m just happy it¡¯s with someone I love.¡± He beamed, and I turned my sight back to him as my heart stung.


    Damn¡­ I wish you¡¯d smile at me like that.


    Even though this was in the past, hearing him say that still felt terrible. Though, it was bliss to see him so excited and happy.


    I wish¡­ you¡¯d say those words to me one day, but no one will ever say that.


    ¡°Lucky you! Now let¡¯s get ready!¡± she dragged him around like a small rag doll.


    Not that he minded with that smile planted on his lips.


    ¡°Hey, at least with this, you¡¯ll also be able to marry for love. I know how you¡¯ve been eyeing down Gael.¡± Finn teased, triggering Serah to turn to him.


    ¡°Stupid brother! That¡¯s totally different!¡± she growled, crashing into someone she hadn¡¯t seen.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    Books and papers flew everywhere when they crashed into an older man with white hair and piercing green eyes. He wore a grey scholar robe similar to one I had seen on someone else in the castle.


    Wait¡­ is that¡­ No, it can¡¯t be.


    ¡°Woah there!¡± the man yelped, surprised by the two.


    Serah squealed, startled, while Finn laughed at the entire thing.


    ¡°Oh, Professor Rizak.¡± The princess sighed, grabbing onto her chest.


    The revelation surprised me, but it wasn¡¯t like they hid it. However, it still was a bit off-putting, especially since I never knew how they looked before the curse.


    That owl is you?! You don¡¯t look anything like¡­


    Everything they said was real. They all used humans or elves before the curse turned them into beasts.


    ¡°Ah, you two are as energetic as ever.¡± The man chuckled, leaning down to pick up the papers.


    Serah, flustered, ¡°Hehe, let me¡ª¡± She couldn¡¯t finish before someone else came from behind Rizak¡ªa woman who had beautiful brown hair and eyes wearing a maid¡¯s dress.


    ¡°No need, I¡¯ll help him. It would be best if you went off to the dresser. The guests are already arriving!¡± She smiled at the two.


    Both siblings smiled. ¡°Nyla, thank you!¡±


    All the things that little goblin told me rang in my mind.


    Oh god¡­ that¡¯s you?! Nyla, I¡­


    I clasped my hand on my shirt, wanting to hug her.


    It¡¯ll be the first thing I ever do when I come back.


    ¡°Any time, dearie.¡± She bowed, allowing them to go on their way.


    After they were in another hall, Finn burst out laughing again as his sister dragged him away. It was so lovely to hear. Unlike me, everyone that surrounded them cared about them. Yet the ones I had come to know were far from these cheery versions before me.


    Why¡­ did¡­ this happen to you, of all people?


    ¡°See, all this rushing is just making more work for others.¡± He cackled at his sister.


    It triggered her to turn to him, eyes twitching.


    ¡°Shut it! If I¡¯m not after your ass, you¡¯d never get anything done!¡± She huffed, dragging him again.


    He continued to chuckle, allowing her to handle him however she wished. Their interaction reminded me of the wolf that constantly interrupted us to get him on track.


    Yes¡­ Some things don¡¯t change, and that¡¯s good.


    Their joy was contagious, prompting a smile on my lips as well.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s true. We were born together and¡­¡± he trailed off, wanting her to finish.


    She stopped again before gazing back at him.


    ¡°Forever together! Don¡¯t forget that when you marry Princess Lillia!¡± she huffed, cheeks puffed.


    A sharp grin rose on his lips. Despite all the rough handling, it was clear he loved his sister.


    So, this is what a normal sibling relationship is. It¡¯s nice.


    ¡°Never.¡± He assured her.


    Her cheeks turned rosy before she huffed up again.


    ¡°Now! Get to it!¡± Serah declared, shoving him into a room.


    Their entire interaction left me giggling, and I found each step lighter because of them. However, I couldn¡¯t help but wish Evelyn were that for me.


    If anyone had cared... Would I have gone up to that rooftop? No¡­ I probably would¡¯ve never met you. That would¡¯ve been a shame, wouldn¡¯t it?


    After tossing him into the room, she helped the other maids dress up the prince. Seeing Finn as a dressed doll was adorable, something I didn¡¯t see coming. All the hairstyles they tried on him annoyed him in the end.


    Like many maids, I couldn¡¯t take my eyes off him whenever they adjusted his clothes, leaving him in boxer briefs. His eyes twitched every time they retreated, focusing on the clothes while the stylist messed with his hair. Getting close to the annoyed boy, I noticed the scar on his abdomen was gone.


    Instinctively, I reached for it, only stopping upon touching his skin before I went through it.


    This is before¡­


    Shivering ran down my spine before I shifted my eyes toward his face to notice him gazing at me as I retreated from him, feeling my cheeks burn.


    Ah¡­ what am I doing?


    However, he wasn¡¯t looking at me but his sister, who was the only one not gawking at him and keeping everything on track.


    Right, you can see me, that¡¯s good!


    A few curse words left him when they wouldn¡¯t leave him alone, prodding and poking him. By the end, he wore a fancy blue shirt, black pants, and leathered boots. Weddings were nothing like the ones in my world. Black tuxes weren¡¯t a thing in this world, and neither were elegant dresses.


    No, everyone would dress flamboyantly for this party to celebrate the occasion. This wasn¡¯t only about the bride and groom but a union between nations. I hadn¡¯t seen Finn with his hair in a ponytail before. It was decorated with a pin on top that appeared like a blue flame, with gems hanging and twirling down his hair.


    You¡¯re pretty with anything on you, aren¡¯t you?


    It was nice to sit through it all; watching them interact was probably one of the most enjoyable things I had experienced.


    ¡°Oh, wow! See! I knew you had it in you to be handsome! Hah! Lillia¡¯s such a lucky girl.¡± Serah gushed over him by the end.


    Maybe a brother complex, too.


    Finn chuckled, gazing at her.


    Just like I¡¯m lucky you gave me a home.


    A soft smile rose on my lips as I gripped my right arm.


    No, you¡¯re my home. Finn¡­ I¡­ if what you felt for Lillia is what I¡¯m feeling, then¡­ I¡­


    ¡°No, I¡¯m the lucky one,¡± he reassured, pulling away from the stylist who made the final adjustments to his shirt.


    ¡°Oi, you¡¯re too smitten by her. I would be wary, big bro.¡± She huffed, crossing her arms.


    There was no malice in her words, and she didn¡¯t appear jealous, at least nowhere near as much as I was.


    If my eyes weren¡¯t grey, they were undoubtedly green by now.


    A soft sigh left her when all he did was smile at her.


    ¡°Hey¡­ Are you sure about this? Isn¡¯t this too much of a rush?¡± Serah walked over to her brother.


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m sure. Why are you skittish? Don¡¯t want to give your brother away?¡± Finn teased, nudging her.


    However, before his sister could argue back, someone opened the door, revealing a beauty that made my jaw drop. A woman with long, soft golden locks and shimmering blue eyes walked in. I had seen no one so pretty before beating any model from my world right out of the water.


    ¡°I never thought I¡¯d see the day. The greatest warlock to grace us, finally marrying.¡± The beautiful woman announced, leaning close to me.


    Serah frowned upon being interrupted, yet Finn beamed with affection.


    ¡°Mom.¡± He smiled.


    Wait, that goddess is your mom?! God, no wonder you¡¯re such a fucking looker! It¡¯s all in the genes!


    A soft growl left my lips, gazing at the happy groom, having the time of his life.


    I never had a chance, did I?


    I couldn¡¯t help but feel jealous of it. The queen quickly closed the gap between them, inspecting Finn, whose cheeks turned rosy.


    ¡°Oh, gosh! You are adorable!¡± She cooed, grabbing his shirt before leaving a red rose in his pocket. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to see your grandkids!¡± she gushed over her little boy.


    For a queen, she appeared like an airhead. It was nice finally to meet her. After all, I had been staying in her castle, and her kid had saved me, too. The maids who followed her called her Queen Astrid.


    God, Finn, she¡¯s beautiful and loves you. I wish¡­


    My heart stung in so many ways. These people had the perfect lives.


    Perfect family, perfect living¡­ How did it all¡­


    ¡°Oi, aren¡¯t we moving too fast?!¡± Serah yelped, stepping in between the two.


    ¡°Now, now! A mother can dream!¡± Astrid smiled, waving her hand to dismiss her worries.


    Finn sighed, feeling like it was too soon for kids too. At least, that was one thing he agreed on with his sister. He wanted to enjoy his time with his fianc¨¦e. There, I felt another sting in my heart.


    Your thoughts are full of a future with her. I¡¯m¡­ a pass time if anything at all. You¡¯ll never feel the same way about me, but I guess that¡¯s the point.


    His earlier words rang in my head before being snapped out by Finn.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Dad?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Shinra¡¯s greeting King Ageth.¡± She informed, inspecting her son.


    ¡°Oh, I see,¡± Finn mumbled, sitting on the chair.


    Astrid grabbed onto Serah, pulling the unsuspected girl towards her.


    ¡°Well, we¡¯ll excuse ourselves. We ladies need to get pretty, too.¡± She announced.


    Serah frowned. ¡°Yes, mother.¡±


    Gazing back at Finn, she waved before leaving with her mother.


    ¡°We¡¯ll see you later, sweetheart.¡± Astrid bid farewell, walking right out.


    ¡°Right, Ma.¡± He voiced, watching the door close.


    The maids also left to let the groom have a moment to himself. In an hour, his entire life was about to change, and in his mind, he was about to marry the woman of his dreams. Feeling the jitters, he got up from his hair before gazing outside the window.


    Below, guests arrived for the wedding, to which everyone in the kingdom had an invitation. Even though he was a projection, I couldn¡¯t help walking over to him. His expression was so peaceful that I reached for his hand, stopping before I touched it.


    What am I doing?


    An ache rose in my heart.


    I can¡¯t reach you here or anywhere. This is all to show me that I¡¯m nothing important. I can leave my past as there isn¡¯t a nice thing about it, but you had everything before someone took it from you. I¡¯m a tool for you to get what you want.


    I know that, yet I¡­


    Standing behind him, I rested my head on his back, wishing for more than I could have.

 Chapter 28: Betrayal

    Closing my eyes, I wished I could stay there with Finn. Even though he was happy, I knew what came next wasn¡¯t. From the conditions in the castle, I knew the coming events were anything but cheerful.


    Serah¡­ you told me to stop him, but what if he¡¯s right? What if those who took his smile away deserve nothing more than damnation? What if¡­


    Whatever happened in that dreadful room changed this innocent boy¡¯s life forever to the point that he couldn¡¯t be reached.


    ¡°Please stay here,¡± I mumbled, wishing to hold him in place.


    Yet I knew he wouldn¡¯t have wanted me to if I could when he had Lillia in his heart.


    She¡¯s probably still in there, even after...


    However, the door opened, triggering Finn to phase through me and towards the person who fetched him. I ran behind him, only to try to grab his shirt, but it went right through again.


    ¡°Finn, don¡¯t. Please stay with me here.¡± I pleaded, knowing he was going somewhere I couldn¡¯t help.


    However, my eyes widened when I saw it wasn¡¯t the maid who fetched him but Brielle. Reaching the door, the prince chuckled as I recognized her because she looked the same, without a wolf''s tail and ears.


    Her eyes weren¡¯t yellow but brown.


    ¡°Here to see your little cousin get married?¡± Finn smirked like he was on top of the world


    Cousin?! Oh¡­ Oh no¡­ I¡¯ve¡­ Crap¡­ Wait! This doesn¡¯t change the fact that you may be a scorned lover!


    ¡°I¡¯m your knight. Of course, I¡¯ll escort you to the throne room to see you get married. I¡¯m happy for you, Finny.¡± She smiled, nudging the prince.


    Finny? Cute¡­


    ¡°Hey, is Felix going to be at the wedding?¡± he asked, following his knight out of the room.


    I quickly followed, wanting to see more of this side of him.


    ¡°Your big ass dragon familiar? Nope. No way, he won¡¯t fit with all the people there.¡± Brielle shut him down.


    A heavy sigh left Finn before he grabbed onto Brielle. ¡°He can shrink, and I want him there.  It won¡¯t be the same without him, please?¡± he begged, looking at her with puppy dog eyes.


    Her eyes twitched, quickly gazing away.


    ¡°Arg, fine, I¡¯ll go get him. Don¡¯t blame me when he eats all the deserts, making the guests cry.¡±  She warned, rolling her eyes.


    ¡°Right, thanks, Brie.¡± He beamed, defeating her right where she stood.


    ¡°If Gael tries to kill me if he ruins the desert booth, that¡¯s on you.¡± She breathed, shaking her head.


    The trip to the throne room was swift, and with everything decorated, I could barely tell where I was.


    This place is another world compared to the castle I currently live in.


    However, I felt my heart drop when we got to our destination. Instantly, I recognized it, thanks to the pillars that still stood there. However, in this memory, everything was cheerful and colorful. The same white theme surrounding the castle was everywhere in this room, from the curtains to the flowers.


    The tiles were perfectly kept and colorful, and the same draconic theme was found in Ryzak''s room. However, I couldn¡¯t stop imagining the room I had come to know, where people danced and laughed, would soon be full of skeletons and horrors.


    Even though I wanted to see more of their cheer before I lost Finn in the crowd, I pursued him. Luckily, I went through everyone. Many people greeted him, congratulating him on his day. The King and Queen were both on their thrones overseeing the entire event.


    Finn¡¯s father was just like him, and he probably gave him his black hair, yet his eyes were green. Serah was around the ball looking for her brother, only to be met by Gael, who delivered some treats. He was one of the castle chefs even at a young age, thanks to his father, who worked there too.


    Like Brielle, he was the same. His hair was blond instead of blue, and his eyes were green. However, his features were the same. Nyla was serving some guests, while Rizak was one of the guests who was invited to enjoy a cup of tea with some fellows on the side.


    Brielle was by the guards while Gael moved between the kitchen and the banquet, bringing food for everyone.


    Everyone¡¯s so happy. I¡­ wish they¡¯d stay like this.


    I stood by Finn, who found a place to admire everything, beaming like this was the best day of his life. His childhood was one full of love. It wasn¡¯t long before a blue dragon flew over to Finn, landing on his arm, the size of a bird.


    ¡°Hey Felix, good of you to make it.¡± The prince chuckled, feeling the dragon nuzzle his cheek.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t miss it for the world!¡± he cooed as those shimmering blue eyes reflected his life partner.


    Unlike the demon lord¡¯s form, though, this one had beautiful sparkling scales that reflected any light that hit them and had wings for arms.


    Felix¡¯s a wyrm, a dragon resembling a bird more than anything else.


    I learned this thanks to Ryzak¡¯s teaching, much like I knew how to identify demons thanks to his bestiary. Even in his demon form, that owl was still the same scholar from before he turned. Watching the prince and his dragon interact reminded me of Solas. This was the first time I had been without him since I got him.


    Huh¡­ it feels lonely without you here. How odd¡­


    It was almost as if a part of me was missing. Everything, from the music to the chatter, stopped when the bride came in accompanied by her father, King Ageth. Some maids had commented that her mother was sick, which made her unable to attend the event, though she sent her wishes to the couple.


    Lillia wore a beautiful pink dress with her father, whose eyes appeared lifeless. There wasn¡¯t an ounce of joy in that king¡¯s expression compared to the others around us. His smile was forced, as there were no dimples on his cheeks.


    From everything I heard from the party guests, this was the first time the two warring countries were united and in one place. Fathal and Traedan were the biggest continents in this realm, separated only by the elven forest in between, known as the Evergreens.


    They were both ruled by humans, while the elves kept to themselves in the forests that bordered them. It was the only reason they hadn¡¯t conquered one another since elves. However, all the tensions would finally end in peace with this union.


    Or so everyone hoped.


    It was also why they celebrated more vigorously. For four entire years, Finn and Lillia spoke through letters alone, only meeting in brief war sessions, where the two nations negotiated a temporary truce. During those times, love bloomed for both, allowing them to bridge the gap between the two nations.


    Or so they said.


    I watched Finn head to meet his bride. When he saw her, he saw his world in her, which crushed me, realizing I cared for him more than I wished.


    Ah¡­ my heart isn¡¯t surviving what the future has in store. Is it?


    The demon wasn¡¯t winning.


    No, you¡¯ve won. I care about you so much that I¡­ Yet you¡¯ll never look at me like that. I know that¡­ and I can¡¯t hate you for it. Not when you told me straight to my face from day one. The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    My heart was breaking with a bitter-sweet sensation. It was nothing like I felt when the schoolboy played me. Nor was it as dreadful as when my father beat me. It was a pain that made me feel like I was growing.


    The ceremony to bring the two of them together began soon after. Watching him gaze at her, full of hope and love, made me look away. Her expression was one of nerves as anything made her jittery.


    Grabbing their hands together, a priest tied their union with a red ribbon before holding onto it. From there, the two exchanged vows, solidifying their marriage. In this world, soul mates were highly believed in, and a marriage symbolized the two forever finding each other in their next lives.


    This meant¡­ you¡­


    ¡°Will you take Lillia as your wife for now and forever more?¡± he asked the young prince.


    ¡°I, Finn Dragonheart, here take Lillia as my wedded wife to cherish and love her until death claims me.¡± He beamed, softening his expression to his beautiful wife.


    Forever¡­ you promised her to love her even in death. Ah¡­ This is just killing me.


    ¡°Lillia, do you take Finn as your husband for now and forever more?¡± the priest shifted his question towards the bride.


    She nodded, ¡°My forever is yours, Finn.¡±


    ¡°You may kiss the bride! With this union, let there be peace forevermore!¡± the priest announced as magical spells fired up everywhere.


    It was like fireworks erupted as shimmering colors followed the people''s cheers. It was a beautiful scene, yet my eyes were on Finn, who shared his first kiss with his wife. Seeing his affection for her made me clasp my chest.


    No matter how short it was. He treated her gently and with care. Something very different from the lust he felt for me. Tears welled up in my eyes as the Finn¡¯s father set up a celebratory toast.


    I¡¯m always talking out of my ass when it comes to you. Finn, why does my heart hurt so much? I don¡¯t need anything from anyone! Not a single thing¡­ Yet I want¡­ No! I can¡¯t have that! There is no use in wishing for fantasies, Sylvia!


    Seeing him smile with her by his side destroyed me in ways I couldn¡¯t understand. However, chaos soon erupted, breaking that moment of cheer when suddenly, some of the people who took part in the toast collapsed around.


    Finn¡¯s and Serah¡¯s screams broke my sight from the chaos on the floor. Turning towards where they were, I saw the father bubbling foam from his mouth. He was convulsing, too. Astrid froze in place with everything happening; pupils fully dilated as the color from everyone¡¯s face drained.


    Others ran out of the hall before some red knights locked the doors behind them. They had come with the king and bride. Serah tried to help her father, but it was too late. His eyes were fully blown and bloodshot in a matter of seconds.


    Finn went to find his wife, only to notice her by her father¡¯s side. At that moment, everything went silent as panic ensued in the halls. Shrieking and screams echoed from the locked door, announcing the slaughter of innocent.


    While the ones trapped in this throne room were far from safe, the same red knights took arms against those within the room, slaughtering anyone who got in their way. Soon, the floors and walls where everyone was celebrating were full of blood and pieces of the people who they were cutting into.


    From limbs to innards splatter on the floor as the knights took no pity on women or children. Even those who begged for their lives were cut down without a second thought.


    ¡°W-What¡¯s going on?¡± Finn asked, unable to shift his brain from celebration to the pure horror before his eyes.


    The poor prince had all his previous color drained from his skin as his lips trembled where he stood.


    ¡°Aw, it¡¯s a takeover, boy. It¡¯s a pity Shinra took the easy way out, though. I wanted to see him squirm.¡± Ageth smirked, gazing at the limp king.


    Not everyone who participated in the toast ended up like him, meaning that only some cups had poison laced in them.


    What type? I didn¡¯t know.


    Nor did it matter. They were dead long before anyone could help them.


    ¡°You did this?!¡± Serah snarled, wanting to hurt him back.


    Her magic swirled around her. However, her mother prevented her from stepping towards him by grabbing her.


    ¡°No, something isn¡¯t right!¡± Astrid warned her daughter.


    Stepping in front of her kids, she used herself as a wall.


    ¡°What are you doing?! Wasn¡¯t this for peace?!¡± she questioned with visible tears in her eyes.


    She had lost her husband, but her children still needed her.


    ¡°Peace? No, lovely Astrid. This was for conquest. What¡¯s a better way to kill a foe than when they least expect it? Isn¡¯t that right, Lillia?¡± Ageth snickered, reaching to his spawn.


    All the guards had been on low alert because of the festivities. With all the noise that came from outside, it sounded like a war zone. No one expected an attack from within, especially with the celebrations on hand.


    ¡°Yes, father. I couldn¡¯t keep up the act anymore. I almost broke earlier.¡± She sighed, placing her hands on her hips.


    ¡°W-what? Lillia, what are you¡­¡± Finn mumbled as more shrieks joined the show of horrors from below.


    His brain lagged to understand how the girl he had come to know was a stranger. A hiss came from Felix, who was ready to launch at the intruders.


    ¡°Oh, sleeping with you was such a bore. It was so hard to stick that fake blood in there last night, but I needed you to believe I was a virgin like you for a little spell.¡± Lillia shrugged, snapping her fingers, triggering a pulse of energy to disperse around us.


    Unaware of what she had done, I stared at her like she was mad.


    ¡°Riding you so passionately was fun, though. Everything we did was a necessary means to seal your magic away. Nothing personal, Finn.¡± She giggled.


    Wait¡­ What?


    A second later, my eyes traveled towards the young prince, who fell to his knees, gasping for air.


    ¡°Finn!¡± I dropped on mine, trying to help him but couldn¡¯t.


    Everything I did just passed right through him. Serah, however, could.


    ¡°Finn?!¡± she yelled, grabbing him by his shoulders.


    I felt helpless.


    Just like when my father¡­


    ¡°That¡¯s enough! This is still my home, and you¡¯ll obey my rules!¡± Astrid made some hand maneuvers to manifest a spell, yet nothing happened.


    Shocked, she gazed at her hands. ¡°What?¡±


    Her magic was also gone as more red knights gathered around them.


    Where are they coming from?!


    It was like they were teleporting in. Yet I didn¡¯t see any vortex open.


    ¡°Oh, did I say his magic alone? No, no, I meant all who are united by blood have been neutered by my spell.¡± Lillia smirked, eyes devoid of any emotion.


    Felix suddenly fell from Finn¡¯s shoulder, struggling to find air. Familiars were only alive because of their connection to their summoners; if that was ever cut away, then¡­


    Oh¡­ my god¡­


    ¡°Please stop! You¡¯re killing him!¡± the young prince screamed, picking up the small dragon from the floor.


    Instead of mercy, all he was met with was a boot to the face from a knight.


    ¡°Finn!¡± Serah gripped her brother, who held his dragon close to his chest as the blow left him stunned.


    ¡°Oh, husband, what gave you the idea that I care at all?¡± Lillia smirked, watching the familiar suffocate after having his connection broken.


    ¡°You¡¯re a monster!¡± she snapped before one guard grabbed her by her hair, ¡°Let me go!¡± she screamed, being dragged away from her brother.


    A mage without his magic was easy pickings for these wolves. Ageth walked over to the deceased King, tipping him from the chair he was on. Once on the floor, he kicked the body on the head until it had a dent in it.


    ¡°With this, your bloodline will be forever lost, Shinra. Too bad you aren¡¯t here to see it.¡± He scoffed, turning towards the prince, who struggled to recover from the hit to the face.


    Blood dripped from his lip onto the floor. However, his worries weren¡¯t for him, focusing on Serah, who was fighting the knight with every tooth and nail.


    ¡°Let her¡ª¡± he started, only to be met with Ageth¡¯s boot this time.


    He stomped the prince¡¯s head onto the floor as a knight went on top of his back.


    ¡°Stop!¡± I yelled, fearing the madman would do the same as he did to the king.


    It wasn¡¯t like he could hear me, but he halted as this wasn¡¯t the end he wanted for this prince.


    ¡°My men will have a field day with the women in your life. You don¡¯t mind, do you?¡± The dreadful king informed.


    Having had enough, I stood up.


    ¡°Stop it and get off him!¡± I snarled, attempting to shove the knight off Finn, but my hands went right through him.


    Nothing¡­ there¡¯s nothing I can do to help you!


    ¡°Father, I¡¯ll go ensure that all the vortexes have opened. I placed all the relics myself, but better to be sure than sorry.¡± Lillia excused herself, handing him a shimmering pendant.


    Grabbing Finn by his hair, Ageth turned to her. ¡°Sure, daughter, welcome your real husband to the takeover. He¡¯ll be glad to see his pregnant fianc¨¦e.¡±


    Those words were like another stab into the poor prince¡¯s heart.


    Pregnant?! This bitch!


    Walking past the beaten prince, she smirked. ¡°Sorry, Finn. Perhaps in another life. At least I rocked your world for one night.¡±


    Love and hate were always a fine line. In an instant, his love turned into one of the darkest emotions.


    ¡°Lillia!¡± Finn snarled, trying to get up, only to be dragged by the king to the lower floor by his hair.


    There, Nyla, Gael, Brielle, Rizak, and other hostages were held with their hands bound. His cousin was the only one who had significant injuries as she had tried to keep others safe while the rest barely had any. It wasn¡¯t a coincidence that those who Finn and his family had close bonds with were hand-picked to live.


    ¡°Oh, by the gods¡­¡± Gael gasped, seeing his friend''s condition.


    Ageth dragged the poor prince, dropping him in a pool of blood from the people murdered there. It was stomach-turning, yet I tried to remain by Finn¡¯s side, who could barely think clearly, retreating within himself to cope.


    ¡°For such a pretty boy, you sure are na?ve. Falling for a distressed princess whose father is an ogre, right? Such an easy sell.¡± The king snickered, walking towards the middle of the room.


    Finn struggled to sit, only to see his wife walk out of the room and into the castle before the doors closed behind her.


    ¡°If only you knew how many men my little Lillia has conquered. Of course, she¡¯ll marry the lieutenant leading my army after you die and have a healthy child while your line rots.¡± Ageth belittled the prince.


    ¡°Fuck you!¡± the prince snarled, only for his eyes to open wide, noticing Ageth had someone he adored in his grip.


    In his hands, he had Felix¡¯s limp body. If he was alive or dead, I couldn¡¯t tell, but it didn¡¯t look good. All the vibrant color from his scales had turned pale.


    ¡°I bet the city is a blood bath. Lillia was right, though. The only way to take a fortress down is through the inside. It would¡¯ve taken us years to take it down normally.¡± Ageth continued to rant, holding the dragon by his neck.


    Everything that forsaken princess said was wrong. If anyone was a bore, it was her father. His voice irritated every fiber of my being. Yet I would stand firm, accepting everything Finn would show me even if it would change me.


    Once again, I faced monsters that looked nothing like them. No, the true ones were the ones who hid in our skin, waiting to prey on the innocent for their gain.

 Chapter 29: Nightmare

    I thought I knew what monsters were, but this man¡¯s heart was darker than any demon''s. Heck, he was worse than my stepfather or anyone who ignored me. Ageth was a terror to Finn and those around him. Of course, women were the ones who suffered the most, reminding me of some Viking tale I¡¯d seen.


    They were known for pillaging a village while raping whoever they wanted. I had to force myself to watch next to Finn as I tried to comfort the prince, even though my hands phased right through him.


    Tears were rolling down my eyes when I saw Serah and his mother ravished by the knights, turning my stomach into knots. Brielle and Nyla were also victims of their unwanted affections. However, the knights quickly bored of them, turning back to the queen and princess.


    The queen started strong, telling the knights to use her instead of her daughter, but her will was quickly broken after being passed around like a rag. However, what broke her the most was her having to watch them ravish her daughter, who wasn¡¯t one to go down, even as they forced themselves on her.


    At one point, she bit a man¡¯s dick off, only to be cut by their sword. That was where the many gashes on her body had come from, and none of them were deep enough to kill her. All the while, Finn had to watch everything hands-tied.


    He couldn¡¯t say anything thanks to the rope on his mouth, forced to sit silently. None of the hostages could do anything as their magic was taken away thanks to a draining crystal, known as a giant¡¯s eye, which one of the knights had in his hands.


    They were activated by using the victims'' blood on them, but it didn¡¯t matter. Even if they could, they were outnumbered, and the only one alive to know combat was Brielle, who was in no condition to fight. After a few rounds, the poor girl was left unconscious while the knights used her as a rag doll for their desires.


    The queen cried for mercy at one point, but it never came. She was raw from all the things the knights had done. There wasn¡¯t a spot in her body where they didn¡¯t touch. Instead of joining, Ageth watched everything unfold from their throne, holding the dragon''s body in his hand.


    Shivers ran down my spine, glaring at the man, who smirked, enjoying the show before him. All while Finn¡¯s eyes slowly lost all life. Every cry his mother made dug more profound than any knife. In his mind, all of this was because he had bedded a girl before the wedding.


    All for a marriage everyone was opposed to and one he fought his father for. It took him two entire years to convince both his parents to agree. They would¡¯ve still had their magic if he hadn''t pursued her.


    ¡°No! This isn¡¯t your fault! You¡¯re a victim! Please stop blaming yourself!¡± I pleaded while his mind became a storm total of resentment.


    Rizak and Gael looked away from what was happening, unable to stomach what was happening to the women they loved. However, Finn was memorizing every little detail he saw.


    I¡¯ll kill you¡­. I¡¯ll kill you all if I live through this! I swear it!


    Everything changed when a knight kicked Astrid, who had fallen limp on the floor.


    ¡°Fuck, the bitch bit off her tongue.¡± He announced, triggering Serah to scream.


    At that moment, Finn¡¯s thoughts turned chaotic. Nothing made sense. However, the word kill constantly echoed in his mind. However, if he wanted to end his life or others were mixed. However, tears were visible on his face, streaking down his cheeks.


    Seeing him like that broke me in ways I didn¡¯t know I could feel. All the envy I felt from before washed away as my past was nothing like his.


    ¡°Well, why don¡¯t you take the men, too? That should satisfy your hunger. I know some of you like it. Plus, the prince has a pretty face, don¡¯t you all think?¡± Ageth smirked.


    His red hair was thicker than blood, and his eyes were crazed with power. He was a worse monster than my rapist, murderous father. The only difference was that my father did the deed, while this man enjoyed watching others do it.


    Ah¡­ Lillia and I have similar¡­ No! I¡¯m not you! I¡¯ll never be you!


    ¡°No! Leave him alone!¡± I screamed, standing in between him and them.


    None deserved what would happen next when a knight went through me and grabbed Finn¡¯s hair.


    ¡°Stop!¡± I shrieked, wanting nothing more than the pain to end.


    The prince¡¯s expression was one of pure rage.


    Kill... Kill¡­ His voice erupted in my head.


    ¡°Na, his swollen face is a turnoff,¡± he shoved the prince down, gazing at the other hostages.


    All the living hostages left untouched were males, while the other females were passed around, much to their horror.


    ¡°This one right here might pass for a woman.¡± The knight smirked, grabbing onto Gael before dragging him into where the girls were ravished.


    Unable to keep up with anything, Finn was utterly defeated by what was happening. He lost his father, mother, some of his friends, and familiar in less than a few hours. Then he had to watch them ravish everything he had left to care about, leaving his heart to grow dark with every moment that passed.


    I couldn¡¯t help but sob next to Finn, whose eyes were soulless before Ageth had his fun. All the warmth in them was extinguished. This kingdom was full of joy moments before, but it was in ruins, and the horror was far from over.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    After a few hours of watching, Ageth had enough of standing on the sidelines, especially when a knight came in to announce victory from outside of the walls. The Fathal kingdom had fallen into Traedan¡¯s hands.


    ¡°Enough, secure the hall for the ritual!¡± the dreaded king commanded, standing from his new throne before approaching the battered prince and grabbing his hair.


    Again, he dragged him on the floor towards the middle of the room, dropping Felix right before the broken prince. Most knights stopped assaulting everyone and headed towards the door to join the others in their victory lap.


    That alone probably entailed many more horrors I wished never to know about.


    ¡°Well, let¡¯s end this. Bring the saint we summoned. It¡¯s time for her to do her part.¡± The mad king ordered one of his knights.


    All I could do was follow them until the door opened again. There walked a girl with a staff. The surrounding air differed from everyone else¡¯s as she gazed around the room with her green eyes, shaking her head.


    She took a deep breath and fixed her brown hair away from her face, uninterested in what was happening, although seeing it made her lips curl down as her nostrils flared. Partly, it was because she had to step into the room.


    ¡°How horrible¡­¡± she sighed, shifting he gaze to Ageth. ¡°If I do this, you¡¯ll send me back home, right?¡± she asked, not wanting to take another step closer to the horror in this room.


    Behind them, Serah took a knife one knight had left behind after he took it off to fuck her. Even though her hands were tied, they were on the front rather than the back. It was something I caught from the corner of my eye.


    ¡°Of course, dear, we¡¯ll be able to send you home,¡± The king smirked, pushing Finn onto the ground before him.


    The sight of the prince caused the girl to wince, but she had a goal in mind¡ªone she needed to achieve at all costs.


    ¡°Good¡­ My mom needs me.¡± She sighed, getting closer to the prince.


    What?! How can you doom all these people for one person?!


    Then again, I wondered if that individual was as important as how these people have become to me. Perhaps that was worth dooming them. Yet I couldn¡¯t stand it.  I would¡¯ve chosen death over helping a mad murderer hurt so many.


    ¡°Yes, just do as I taught you, and you¡¯ll be home before you know it,¡± Ageth smirked.


    A knight dragged Serah towards us, dropping her right next to Finn. She used some rags to hide the knife she picked up on the way there. Even though she had been ripped into, this girl had a fighting spirit I could never match.


    Finn, on the other hand, was lost. His eyes lacked any life or fighting spirit. They crushed all his hope when he saw his mother and sister violated. It didn¡¯t help all his friends suffer similar fates. However, the desire to kill all of them was echoing within him, getting louder with every second that passed.


    Undoubtedly, if he had gotten his connection to his magic, there would¡¯ve been a massacre. The poor prince¡¯s sanity was waving. Tapping onto the ground, the saint began gathering energy around herself.


    Soon enough, shadows emerged from her, surrounding everything.


    ¡°Finn¡­¡± Serah called, holding onto her scraps.


    He gazed at her with barely any life, yet her voice reached him.


    ¡°You¡¯ve always been so gentle. It¡¯s okay. You don¡¯t have to be strong. All I want is for you to be you. I love you.¡± She whispered, grabbing tighter to the weapon she hid from everyone.


    Somehow, this girl found the will to comfort her brother, allowing some life to show in his eyes. However, he couldn¡¯t say anything to her.


    I love you, too. I¡¯m sorry¡­ so sorry, Serah. I should¡¯ve listened to your worries. He wished from within.


    The gag on him didn¡¯t let him say anything to her. Yet¡­


    ¡°I know.¡± She smiled, shifting her gaze towards the saint who swung off her staff, creating even more circles to appear around the room.


    Unlike me, this saint wasn¡¯t unless.


    Incantations were unstable before someone fully cast them, meaning any little thing could cause something to go wrong¡ªsometimes even explode, as Rizak cautioned in one of his many lessons. In this case, there was the shock of electricity before the spell cracked in places.


    ¡°What the¡­ Something¡¯s hindering their power.¡± The saint announced, struggling to keep the spell up.


    A soft sigh left Ageth¡¯s lips. ¡°Good thing I don¡¯t need Lillia to remove the seal on you. Without your familiar, you''re useless, and your sister¡¯s even more so.¡±


    ¡°Fuck you!¡± Serah snapped as a soft growl left Finn


    Grabbing her by her hair, Ageth dragged her up to meet with his face. Finn attempted to help her, only to be slammed by a knight onto the floor.


    ¡°You¡¯ve had so many dicks in you, and you still fight? If only you didn¡¯t have to die, I¡¯d make you my fourth wife.¡± The king smirked, eyeing her down.


    Spitting on his face, she huffed. ¡°I¡¯d rather choke on an old man¡¯s dick than ever be yours!¡±


    Her action was received with a slap on her face, sending her to the floor. A soft scream left Finn, who couldn¡¯t do anything to help her.


    ¡°Little bitch,¡± Ageth scoffed, wiping the spit off his cheek before taking out the pendant Lillia had given him.


    He crushed it a second later, triggering all the magic to return to the twins. Taking the moment, Ageth was facing away from them. Serah used all the strength she had to launch herself at the Saint.


    Finn had called her spontaneously once before, as her magic was much like mine. Rather than coming out on command, it came out in bursts of emotions. So, the moment the knife found the saint¡¯s heart, all mana broke loose in one surge.


    The dreadful king had underestimated the princess of this kingdom. Her action shook the entire building, triggering the knight to back off Finn. At that moment, he also took the prince''s binding, which hooked into his armor.


    The saint¡¯s body fell onto the floor as the shadows merged with Serah¡¯s body. The energy was synergizing with hers instead of canceling. Taking off his gag, Finn couldn¡¯t even stand upright when he felt a sword go through him.


    It went right through his abdomen, piecing his stomach and any organ on the way there. There was no doubt in my mind that if anyone pulled it out, the prince would bleed out in minutes. The first thing he tasted was blood before falling onto his knees.


    Seeing an opportunity that chaos was breaking loose, Rizak rushed towards the knight, knocking him away from the impaled prince. Within all the discord, no one was looking at Serah, whose magic was going out of control.


    The saint¡¯s incantation broke, turning into something else. Crystals erupted everywhere around her as that dark crimson aura pooled under her. Getting up from the floor, Finn held onto the sword on his abdomen.


    However, he froze when he saw his sister. Behind her, shadows once again formed. The saint wasn¡¯t dead.


    ¡°Finn!¡± she reached for her brother, only for the shadows behind her to transform into monsters.


    Her heart was ripped out in a second, completing the saint¡¯s last action before she left this world. At that moment, a crystal erupted, engulfing Serah before blowing everyone away. The black, smoky shadows turned into the purple miasma surrounding Fathal.


    It swiftly spread from the throne room and into the halls. The boom had blown away the sword from Finn¡¯s body. Each gasp of air filled his lungs with the haze surrounding him.


    I¡¯ll destroy them! I¡¯ll fucking slaughter them all! No, I won¡¯t die until I do! His words, filled with hatred, surged through my mind.


    Running to him, I quickly stopped when his body erupted with a red aura that pooled under Serah in her final moments before everything faded to black.


    Bewildered, I stared at Finn, whose eyes stopped glowing. I was back in my room with more emotions surging within me than I could comprehend. Though one thing was sure, that was nothing more than an utter nightmare.


    One he lived through.


    How can I ever save you from that?!

 Chapter 30: Determination

    Finn gazed at me, tugging away from me.


    ¡°Does that answer your questions?¡± he asked, sitting by the end of the bed.


    Instantly, I launched myself into him before wrapping my arms around him and refusing to let go. It caused the demon to stiffen up. Tears stung my eyes as I soon found myself weeping for him. All the tears he didn¡¯t shed, I would. Everything I saw was probably a second spent, yet I was hours in his memories, and all it did was make me more determined to help him.


    ¡°Finn¡­ I¡¯m so sorry!¡± I mumbled between my sobs.


    He remained silent, making me hug him even tighter.


    ¡°I¡­¡± I trailed off, closing my eyes.


    I love you. I¡¯ll love you even if all you want to do is use me if you discard me later, as long as you''re happy. There must be a way to free you without tying you to me. I just need to find it!


    Words I couldn¡¯t say unless I wanted to hurt him. Not after those memories. He wouldn¡¯t believe me even if I said it.


    ¡°I¡¯m here for you and accept everything about you.¡± I cried.


    Perhaps I was a crybaby, but I''d rather be one than not feel. One thing I learned from them was that I needed to feel. Even if they didn¡¯t believe it themselves, I wouldn¡¯t stop trying to breathe life into this demon.


    Even if it robs me of mine.


    Finn cupped my cheeks into his palms, whipping my tears away.


    ¡°Sparky, I was a coward and na?ve idiot who let his emotions destroy his family. How can you say you accept me?¡± Finn asked, eyes devoid of emotions.


    Is that how you see yourself?! You big idiot!


    Grabbing onto his hair, I drew his lips into mine lightly. When I kissed them tenderly, his radiant blue eyes were wide open. Everything that happened led him to me, just as everything I went through led me to him.


    Old Gwen¡¯s right.


    She was always the wisest in my home world and the old man¡¯s late wife.


    Everything happens for a reason. Her words resonated with me.


    Yes¡­ everything led me to this moment with you.


    My pain had to mean something, and so did his.


    Tugging away from his lips, I shook my head, ¡°Coward?! Are you insane?! Your reaction was normal! So, what if you hesitated?!¡± I cupped his cheeks, too.


    What you lived through¡­ everything you felt afterward¡­ It all has to have a meaning! We have to mean something!


    ¡°After so much loss, so much pain, of course, you froze. Some people fight, others run, and some freeze. So, what if you froze? If you did anything, they would¡¯ve killed you! No one that cares about you wants that!¡± I declared, letting go of his cheeks only to grab his hand.


    It was the same one I had wanted to hold the whole time I was there. Instinctively, I pulled them up to my chest as tears refused to stop streaming down my cheeks.


    ¡°You know, I wanted to hold your hand through it all. No, I wanted to hold you so badly, and now I can.¡± I simpered, triggering him to place his hand on my cheek.


    I saw a slimmer of life return to his eyes for the first time. The warmth of his hand filled my core.


    Please, let me heal your wounds like you did mine. Yet I can¡¯t let you know you¡¯ve won. You¡¯ll throw me away as soon as you use me, which won¡¯t help you move on!


    ¡°I¡­ don¡¯t understand,¡± He whispered, caressing my cheeks.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to understand.¡± I smiled, leaning into his touch, ¡°Though I could¡¯ve done it without having to see you shove your tongue into another woman¡¯s mouth. Geez, are you sure you want me to marry you?¡± I huffed.


    His eyes shifted from me and towards Solas, who tilted his head.


    ¡°Sylvia¡­ I don¡¯t want to hide anything from you. Including why I...¡± He sighed, shaking his head.


    ¡°I know. I¡¯m not angry.¡± A soft shrug came from me. ¡°No, I just wish someone would love me as you did for her,¡± I mumbled, closing my eyes.


    That would be¡­ a dream.


    The next moment, I was on the bed again as his hands entwined with mine. He was so close that it made my heart drum in my ears.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. All I can promise is to be faithful to you alone.¡± Finn whispered.


    His words stung my heart.


    ¡°What if you regret being me?¡± I mumbled, remembering what he felt for Lillia.


    It was almost shocking to see how fast his love turned into hate.


    Yet, who wouldn¡¯t after experiencing that type of betrayal?You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    ¡°Sparky, that¡¯ll never happen.¡± He assured me, pressing his forehead against mine.


    All I ever brought to my family was bring misfortune.


    Why will it be any different for you? I don¡¯t want to hurt you. Ever¡­ Yet¡­ I must remind you of her.


    ¡°You say that now.¡± I sighed, grabbing onto his shirt.


    However, a knock came on the door before he could say anything.


    ¡°My lord, the generals are back,¡± Brielle announced.


    It caused Finn to shake his head. ¡°Perfect timing, as always.¡±


    Grabbing onto him tighter, I didn¡¯t want to let him go.


    ¡°Please stay,¡± I mumbled.


    A soft chuckle erupted from Finn. ¡°Oh, sweets. Eat and come back to your room to rest, okay? I¡¯ll be back before you know it.¡±


    Nothing I said would keep him with me, especially not after the attack that ended with me losing an arm. I nodded, triggering him to lean into me, kissing me lightly on my lips. A second later, he vanished, leaving me empty-handed.


    There were so many things I wanted to say to him, but I didn¡¯t know what would trigger him. Serah''s image haunted me every time I closed my eyes. Those people were monsters.


    No, psychopathic beasts with nothing but gain in their minds.


    The thought of them alone made my blood boil, but I could do nothing about them. This wasn¡¯t like the homeless guy I gave money to on the way home. No, this was something else. Getting up, I got ready for the day before leaving the room with Solas.


    When I saw Nyla, I ran into her arms, giving her the biggest hug I could muster. She didn¡¯t ask why I did that; instead, a soft hum left her lips as she held me back. This was something I¡¯d do to everyone I saw today. Gael was the funniest reaction, though. I thought he would try to make a pass at me, but instead, he froze like a popsicle.


    However, it wasn¡¯t long until he returned the simple act of affection. I even ran to Rizak, whom I had seen down the hall after my meal, before holding him, interrupting his time with a document he had in his feathers.


    ¡°Lady Sylvia? May I help you?¡± he asked, tilting his head.


    Taking a deep breath, I gazed up at him.


    After seeing what you¡¯ve all been through¡­


    ¡°No, how can I help?¡± I asked, gazing at him straight on.


    Those big red eyes of his widened upon hearing me. He quickly shook his head, shifting his eyes slightly away from me.


    ¡°Did Lord Finn tell you about what happened here?¡± Rizak asked as I nodded.


    The demon king had shown me the horror, and I would do everything to wipe it clean, at least to do what I could.


    ¡°I see. Still, you should rest for this week before we do anything.¡± The white owl informed, closing his book.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± I declared.


    I¡¯m no reason to delay anything.


    He gazed towards my arm, reaching for it.


    ¡°No, sweety. The spell holding your arm is still unstable. Any magic that affects it may cause it to fall off.¡± Rizak sighed, tapping my arm.


    It caused me to wince, thanks to an ache that arose with his touch.


    ¡°See, if we make you cast, anything can make it more. So, until you¡¯re stable, you will have no magic lessons or practice it. Are we clear?¡± The owl quickly shut me down.


    Rolling my eyes, I grabbed onto my numb arm. ¡°It isn¡¯t like my magic listens to me,¡± I mumbled.


    Unlike Serah, I wasn¡¯t as strong-willed as her. If what happened to her happened to me, I surely would¡¯ve been like the mother.


    No, I don¡¯t resemble the queen, either.


    My first choice was to jump out of this life without giving the new changes a chance.


    Something has to change. No, something has changed. I didn¡¯t notice it until now.


    Since I reached Finn in that enraged state, my heart was filled with hope that my life could mean something.


    Perhaps my mother had me, knowing I would achieve something.


    Even if it wasn¡¯t in our home, she knew I would break the cycle of death my father gave me.


    At least¡­ that¡¯s why you had me, right? Please¡­ let my life mean something.


    ¡°Then¡­ tell me how I helped that demon. You called it a lost one. What is that?¡± I pressed on.


    A soft sigh came from the owl. ¡°Very well¡­¡±


    The lost ones were demons who couldn¡¯t recall their human part, reveling in their cardinal desires as their sense of reason was out of their reach. Most of them couldn¡¯t talk or express any emotion other than their desire to kill and eat.


    Most of the population in Fathal was like this; only a few thousand demons managed to regain their sanity. Sometimes, it didn¡¯t matter if they were fed; the curse still held them, leaving Rizak to believe it was more than a good source of food that brought them back to reason.


    These lost demons were why I would be swarmed if I ever left the castle alone. They were easy to control with higher-ranking demons, but even that sometimes didn¡¯t work.


    How they knew, probably, was because they experimented with everything before summoning me here.


    A doctor, Maxwell, who lived in the town, experimented on them, trying to bring them back to their humanity. Sadly, nothing they did ever helped the lost. They sometimes made it worse as the demon turned hostile towards them.


    However, the potion I made with the poisonous plans somehow brought one of them back. The owl didn¡¯t notice it wasn¡¯t his until the demon drank it, bringing clarity. Rizak tried to make an identical one with the plants I used since it was easy for him to identify with his magic.


    However, my magic wasn¡¯t something he could replicate. He let me be instead of asking me why I used those plants. No doubt in my mind, he knew I was clueless about how this happened. My magic was unpredictable, so producing the same results would take time.


    After that quick lesson, Rizak excused himself, leaving me alone with Solas. Even though I was stuck, I wouldn¡¯t stay still.


    This castle¡­ shouldn¡¯t¡­


    Something the little goblin said before resonated within me.


    ¡°Nyla¡­ can you call Phoebe again?¡± I asked, shifting my gaze towards her.


    She had been there the entire time Rizak was informing me.


    ¡°Yes, yes, Sylvia, I can. She¡¯ll be here by tomorrow if I summon her.¡± The goblin assured.


    ¡°Thank you. Also, call any demons who are good at carving and restoring things. Heck, bring some painters, too. This castle shouldn¡¯t look like a tomb anymore.¡± I announced, smiling at her.


    ¡°Yes! Are you finally becoming the lady of the castle?¡± Nyla questioned with the biggest grin on her lips.


    Her eyes were full of hope, something that made me wince.


    ¡°No, nothing like that. You all don¡¯t deserve to live in this condition, and if I can help, I will. I want to save my friends from their pain if I can.¡± I declared, trailing my hands down the walls.


    They were still filled with dust and reminders of the horrors within these walls.


    I won¡¯t be Finn¡¯s wife, but I¡¯ll bring life into this place even though I don¡¯t know where to start.


    ¡°We¡¯re friends?¡± the little goblin asked, walking closer to me.


    ¡°Of course. All of you are. Gael, Rizak, you, Finn, and even that she-wolf that doesn¡¯t like me. I¡¯ll befriend all of you somehow.¡± I giggled, feeling hope fill me.


    Yes¡­ that has to be the reason I came here. I refuse to be like that other saint.


    Unlike her, I had no one waiting for me back in my world.


    No, this is my home now.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget me!¡± Solas whined, placing his snout on my shoulder.


    ¡°You¡¯re more than a friend. You¡¯re like my baby boy.¡± I tittered again, coiling my hand in his fur.


    The severity of my words only hit me soon after I said them, marking my cheeks rosy. This pup had come from Finn and me.


    Ah¡­ don¡¯t think that!


    Unaware of the thoughts erupting in my head, Solas¡¯s tail wagged, panting happily.


    ¡°I love you, Sylvia!¡± Solas howled, triggering me to continue simpered at him.


    At least you¡¯ll love me. I guess I can¡¯t complain at all.


    ¡°We have a lot to do,¡± I smirked, feeling like I finally found my footing.


    Yes¡­ I¡¯ll save them all. This nightmare will end even if it¡¯s the last thing I do.

 Chapter 31: Sebastian

    Nyla quickly departed to do everything I asked as I headed toward the bathroom. Before entering the shower, I was delighted to see I wasn¡¯t bleeding. No more rags until the next one came. Thanks to being passed out for the worst days, I barely felt anything.


    Though staring at myself in the mirror, I saw the mark on my body. Those moments when my arm was ripped off were a blur. All I remember was Finn¡¯s form and how magnificent a beast he was. After that, the pain was too much for me to focus on anything else.


    Yet, I don¡¯t mind if this reminds me that I reached you in a state where it shouldn¡¯t have been possible.


    A hum left my lips as I washed my body before closing my eyes and allowing the warm water to wash away my worries. Well, until I felt something behind me, yet this time, it wasn¡¯t a presence I had come to know.


    Startled, I turned around to see a man I had never seen before. He had two tusks out of his mouth, deep red hair, and big pointy ears that reminded me of an elf. His hazel orbs were studying me, and his appearance was one of an orc, thanks to his light green skin.


    Yet what worried me was¡­


    Where¡¯s Solas?


    The pup hadn¡¯t said a single thing. Even though my heart was pounding in my ears, I tried to hold in the desire to scream as if this demon wasn¡¯t friendly; my attempt for help would¡¯ve set him off.


    ¡°Can I help you?¡± I mumbled, using one arm to cover my chest as the other reached for the towel nearby, but the orc leaned closer before I could get it.


    ¡°Your familiar is taking a nap. Don¡¯t worry about him.¡± He announced, leaving me shivering when I recognized that voice.


    You¡¯re the one who told Finn to eat me!


    Forgetting the towel, I pressed my back to the wall, wanting as much distance between him and me as possible. This was no mistake; this demon had come to find me.


    ¡°Fi¡ª¡± I tried to scream, only to feel my voice leave me.


    His eyes shimmered, raising his finger to his lips.


    ¡°No need for that. I was just jealous that my other fellows got to meet you.¡± He walked into the stall, grabbing me by my right arm. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s a shame; you¡¯re already damaged. One ritual won¡¯t work.¡±


    A soft smirk rose on his lips as his touch triggered ripples of mana to rush through me. The agony that erupted from my injured arm was overwhelming. I wanted to scream, but the charm he had me under didn¡¯t let me say a single sound.


    Instead, tears rolled down my eyes, unable to do anything else to cope with the agony coming in waves. This demon wasn¡¯t like all the others I met. He was colder than ice and didn¡¯t care about what I felt.


    However, he wouldn¡¯t shake me.


    I won¡¯t bow to a bully ever again!


    I glared at the orc through the pain, whose eyes shimmered even brighter.


    ¡°This won¡¯t do. If he can¡¯t bend you, then you¡¯re no good. What to do?¡± he reached for my throat only to stop centimeters away.


    Instantly, his charm was undone as a hand was sticking out of his chest. The smirk on his lips grew as blood dripped down from his lips. I gasped, grabbing onto my arm as the pain still rushed through me.


    Yet my eyes quickly caught the red aura that erupted from behind him.


    ¡°My lord, you¡¯re too vigilant of your saint.¡± Sebastian sighed, unfazed by the pain.


    Soon, an angered Finn launched him into the wall before me. His aura wasn¡¯t as thick as the other day, but it was close. Blood dripped onto the floor from his hand as I struggled to get a grip.


    ¡°What the fuck do you think you''re doing, Sebastian?!¡± his voice was colder than a winter storm.


    ¡°I just wanted to meet her. She smote Vorex and Vabaru. So, I had to make sure it was true.¡± The orc sighed, standing up from the floor.


    A sharp growl left Finn, obscuring his view of me by standing between me and him.


    ¡°Though I have to say they were wrong about this one. Her power¡¯s insignificant enough to do anything. She¡¯s nothing but a waste of¡ª¡± he continued, triggering Finn¡¯s hand to twitch.


    A second later, gargling was the only sound that Sebastian made. The demon lord had cut his throat open without moving an inch. Finn¡¯s magic was extraordinary and chaotic to witness.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    ¡°You forget yourself. The only reason you¡¯re here is that you have numerous demons in your domain. Other than that, your opinions are invalid.¡± The demon king scoffed as Sebastian soon vanished from sight.


    Releasing a sigh, Finn turned to me to see me holding onto my arm. It was throbbing so much that I could barely concentrate.


    ¡°Sylvia, are you okay?¡± he shifted gears, cupping my cheeks into his palms.


    The warm water washed the blood away. His aura slowly decreased significantly when he touched me.


    ¡°It hurts, I can¡¯t move it.¡± I winced, feeling like my arm was about to fall off.


    A growl left his lips, turning off the water before taking off his cloak and covering me with it. My body shivered, resting my forehead on his chest.


    ¡°Okay, breathe. This should help.¡± Finn whispered as a gentle blue light came from the hand hovering over my arm.


    It instantly relieved the pain, allowing me to focus on what Sebastian said.


    ¡°What did that jerk do to Solas?!¡± I huffed, grabbing onto Finn¡¯s shirt with my healthy hand.


    The other refused to respond to me, leaving it limp on my side.


    ¡°He put him in a charm, same as you. However, he¡¯s the one who alerted me. I would¡¯ve known sooner if Vorex and Vabaru hadn¡¯t distracted me with their bickering. I didn¡¯t see him fucking leave.¡± Finn clicked his tongue as a soft whine came from beside him, bringing me relief.


    ¡°Let¡¯s take you back to your room and have Rizak take a look at you.¡± Finn sighed, leading me out of the bathroom.


    The walk to there was a quiet one. However, I still wore Finn¡¯s cloak since I couldn''t put on my clothes. Nyla went to fetch Rizak¡ªhowever, the entire way to my room. Sebastian¡¯s cold eyes remained on my mind.


    He¡¯s¡­


    Once in the room, I sat on the bed, snuggling into Finn¡¯s warm coat.


    ¡°That man¡¯s full of hate, isn¡¯t he?¡± I sighed.


    Finn sat beside me, allowing me to plop right onto his lap.


    ¡°He is, but he hates everyone, so don¡¯t feel bad,¡± he said, trailing his fingertips in my hair.


    It caused me to tingle.


    ¡°Why are you so nice to me? Don¡¯t you hate what I am, too?¡± I mumbled.


    A soft hum came from him. ¡°You aren¡¯t like other humans, and you¡¯re crazy enough to call a mad dragon that ripped your arm off a friend.¡±


    I gazed at him to notice a smile on his lips.


    ¡°Nyla told you?¡± I puffed my cheeks, feeling flustered in his gaze.


    He nodded, not shifting his blue orbs from me. ¡°She doesn¡¯t have a filter for those things.¡±


    Ah¡­ that makes me want to tease you. Smile more¡­ please¡­


    ¡°You¡¯re more than a friend.¡± I declared, gazing away from him and towards the door.


    A chuckle left him, clearing my hair from my face. ¡°Hm, Am I?¡±


    ¡°Mhm, you¡¯re my savior.¡± I declared, knowing that wasn¡¯t what he wanted to hear.


    A soft sigh left his lips. ¡°Right.¡±


    The tone in his voice triggered my eyes to shift back onto him as I saw a soft frown on his lips.


    Giggling, I grabbed onto his shirt. ¡°Hey, Finn, do you think you can ever take me out on a flight in your dragon form?¡± I asked.


    My question left his eyes wide open. ¡°Are you crazy? You aren¡¯t scared of my real self?¡±


    I reached to touch his cheek with my left hand.


    ¡°No, I think Sebastian was scarier than you,¡± I assured him, triggering his eyes to twitch.


    ¡°Okay, Sparky, you¡¯re officially insane.¡± He sighed, shaking his head.


    I simpered, ¡°No, I just want to see the world you see.¡±


    Clasping my arm, he leaned into my touch.


    ¡°You''re really trying to stir me up, aren¡¯t you?¡± He huffed.


    I caressed his cheek with my thumb. His warmth seeped into my skin, making me feel like there were knots in my tummy.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m just being truthful to you,¡± I confessed, tugging away from him.


    I don¡¯t know what I¡¯m expecting from you.


    I saw his eyes twitch again, though his cheeks were rosy.


    ¡°Oi, are you sure that charm didn¡¯t mess with your brain?¡± he asked, gazing away from me.


    Struggling to sit up, I couldn¡¯t stop messing with him, especially when he reacted so cutely.


    ¡°Nope, hold me. It¡¯s chilly with no clothes on.¡± I announced, gazing at the demon lord go stiff.


    ¡°S-shouldn¡¯t you p-put some c-clothes on then?¡± he stuttered, triggering me to smirk.


    Of course, I turned away before he saw my sly smile.


    Who¡¯s the virgin here? Serah, your brother¡¯s adorable.


    I knew he was terrifying when out of control, but even then, he didn¡¯t kill me when he had the chance.


    ¡°I can¡¯t move my arm,¡± I informed, glancing back at him.


    That wasn¡¯t a lie; it still refused to move for anything even though I wanted to touch him.


    ¡°Should I help you get dressed?¡± Finn asked, gazing back at me.


    ¡°But your coat¡¯s cozy,¡± I snuggled into it.


    It was warmer than my usual clothes. Even though my skin and hair were still slightly damp, I could barely feel the night breeze.


    ¡°Oi, you have nothing under it.¡± He sighed, shaking his head.


    I shrugged. ¡°Does that bother you? I mean, I think three people have seen my body. One of them is you. So, I have nothing to hide anymore.¡±


    His eyes twitched, grabbing me by my left arm before pinning me to the bed. Suddenly, he was on me, caging me under him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you remember what I said about playing with fire?¡± he warned, trailing his hand down the cloak instead of my skin.


    Serah... your brother is a gentle giant with me.


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°Vaguely. I also remember giving you an in, but you didn¡¯t take it.¡±


    His cheeks turned redder, eyes narrowing.


    ¡°Oi, I¡¯m still¡ª¡± he started for me to reach to his lips with my finger.


    It quickly silenced him, especially when my movement exposed part of my chest.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t be doing anything I didn¡¯t want,¡± I confessed, simpering.


    It almost appeared like something snapped within him when he pressed his forehead against mine.


    ¡°By the gods, you¡¯re lucky Rizak is right outside.¡± He breathed, hovering his lips above mine.


    There wasn¡¯t any reason to hold back anymore. However, I wouldn¡¯t let Finn win without pulling out all the stops. Even though he said, he wouldn¡¯t love me. That was something no one could control. I had to make him fall for me before he knew how much I cared.


    Easy, right?


    ¡°Am I lucky?¡± I mumbled, leaning into his lips.


    Butterflies flew in my stomach, leaving me wanting to give everything to this demon. However, before I touched them, a knock came from the door, stopping our sweet moment from continuing. Finn cleared his throat, speechless, before exiting the bed and heading for the door.


    My health was the most important thing to him, making me love him even more.


    Can I win your heart, too? Or is all of this only lust for you?

 Chapter 32: Anything But A Beast

    When Rizak came in, I carefully exposed my arm without showing the rest of my body. Even though three people had seen it, it didn¡¯t mean everyone had to. Invoking a spell, he assessed what was wrong with my arm.


    A white light sprouted from his wings, slowly guiding them down the dark mark. His eyes twitched as Finn stood next to him.


    ¡°My lord, can I kill Sebastian?¡± the owl sighed.


    His eyes glowed brightly as a slight red aura came from the owl. It was nowhere near as deep as Finn¡¯s, though.


    ¡°Did the orc do irreparable damage?¡± The demon king questioned, aura seeping out of him, too.


    Instantly, it was darker and thicker than Rizak¡¯s and more overpowering.


    ¡°No, luckily, he didn¡¯t. It should stabilize with time. Though that Orc always fucks with everything. He set back Sylvia¡¯s recovery time, too.¡± The owl answered, shaking his head.


    That means I can¡¯t do magic longer than I was comfortable with. Damn it, just as I wanted to help too.


    Tugging his feathers away from my arm, he patted my head.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t overdo it. You¡¯ll be fine in a couple of days.¡± His touch left me feeling fulfilled in ways I had never been before.


    You¡¯re like the father I never had.


    ¡°Thank you. I¡¯ll try not to.¡± I simpered.


    Trouble seems to find me all the time, though. So, I don¡¯t know if I can¡­ Well, we¡¯ll figure that out as it comes.


    It triggered the owl to glance away, clearing his throat.


    ¡°Well, this old bird should take his leave. I don¡¯t want to take time from you two younglings.¡± Rizak chuckled, heading for the door only for Finn to grab onto him.


    ¡°W-wait, the charm d-did it do something to her?¡± the demon king asked, voice squeaky.


    The slight pitch caused him to clear his throat, too.


    Charm? Isn¡¯t that what Sebastian¡­


    ¡°What? No, she¡¯s free of any influence.¡± Rizak answered, tilting his head.


    Pulling away from him, the king appeared jittery.


    ¡°A-are you s-sure?¡± Finn struggled with his words, shifting his glance toward me.


    His cheeks were bright pink, reaching past his ears.


    Do you really think I''m charmed into wanting you? Dummy¡­ you¡¯re worth more than what you give yourself credit for.


    A heavy sigh left me, leaving me shaking my head.


    How can I¡­


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m sure. Is something bothering you, m¡¯lord?¡± Rizak tilted his head, only to be shoved out of the room.


    ¡°N-no, nothing!¡± the demon lord closed the door.


    Turning back to me, I saw those deep blue eyes give off a shimmering hue while they studied me.


    ¡°Are you insane?¡± he sighed.


    It was the first time I saw him like that. There was that spark of life again in his eyes, too, which would¡¯ve been a moment of celebration if my right arm wasn¡¯t immobile.


    ¡°What? I think you lost me somewhere.¡± I tilted my head.


    There was no red aura sprouting from him.


    So, you aren¡¯t angry.


    Closing the gap between us, the next moment, he was on top of me, straddling me.


    ¡°Saying those things earlier. Did you mean them or?¡± he clarified, leaving me oddly.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    My stomach felt like there were knots in them when he caged me under him.


    Is it always this hard to talk to you? Still, I have to¡­


    ¡°I-I meant them.¡± I tried to keep my heart steady.


    His eyes widened, biting onto his lips. ¡°You¡¯re crazy. You want to be held by a monster?¡±


    No¡­ You¡¯re mistaken.


    Those words rubbed me the wrong way.


    You aren¡¯t a monster. A real one almost held me a month ago, and you¡¯re nothing like him!


    Before anyone else tried to take me, I would rather give it to someone I chose.


    Plus, people say it feels nice. So, how good will it feel with someone I genuinely like?


    This would be a choice I wouldn¡¯t regret. The humans probably had a reason to hate him, but I didn¡¯t share it. I never hated my stepfather for what he did.


    That man probably had his reasons for treating me that way. Whether he was sick or something else, but you¡­


    ¡°You aren¡¯t one¡ªnot in my eyes, and you¡¯ll never be. What everyone else thinks about you, I don¡¯t care.¡± I faced him head-on.


    Please don¡¯t run away.


    Much to my surprise, he wasn¡¯t. No, he was facing me head-on.


    ¡°Sylvia¡­ You¡­¡± A second later, his lips clashed with mine.


    A flurry of kisses followed, leaving me humming under him. His tongue tangoed with mine, triggering me to grab onto his arm with my good hand. Deeping in it, he caressed every feature of my mouth, leaving nothing untouched.


    It left me a panting mess when he tugged away to see a string connecting with us. Saliva dripped from my lips when he licked it away. Warmth was erupting from my core, making me jittery. It only got worse when I saw Finn¡¯s expression.


    It was one full of lust and desire, eyes shimmering brightly.


    ¡°Fuck. When you cry, don¡¯t forget I gave you many outs.¡± He breathed into my ear, trailing his lips on my jawline and down my neck.


    His hands traveled down my curves. However, he froze when he opened the cloak covering the rest of my body. His eyes were set on the arm he severed. Reaching to him with my left hand, I tugged him back towards my lips.


    Licking his lips, he allowed me in, only to feel him push against my tongue, winning dominance again. Tugging away from my lips, he bit into his. Those eyes were full of a different emotion from before.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay,¡± I whispered, brushing his hair with my fingertips.


    Shaking his head, he sighed. ¡°No, let¡¯s wait until you''re healed.¡±


    I giggled, triggering him to growl. ¡°And he says he¡¯s nothing but a beast,¡± I smirked, letting my hand fall onto the bed.


    Always running away. If this is all an act, then fuck me. There isn¡¯t a way I can¡¯t fall for this. You¡¯re¡­ too much for my heart to deny.


    ¡°Oi, I¡¯m trying my hardest not to hurt you.¡± He huffed; cheeks were rosy.


    ¡°I know.¡± I simpered, feeling cared for.


    You¡¯re a gentle giant, indeed, and it¡¯s making me love you even more. Fuck, what am I going to do with all these feelings?


    His cheeks flared up again. My giggles would soon die out by his following words, though. Perhaps I had pushed one too many buttons on this demon.


    ¡°You keep making me trip over myself. I think I need to show you my fangs. How about I show you what I meant by eating you in a different way?¡± he suddenly declared.


    ¡°What?¡± I mumbled, unable to keep up.


    A second later, he dragged me to the edge of the bed. A yelp left me because of the sudden jerk. However, when he got on his knees, my heart stopped. His wings spread wide to avoid dragging them on the floor.


    ¡°W-wait, what are you d-doing?¡± I stuttered, finally on the other end of the tease.


    A sly smirk rose on his lip, his cheeks redder than before. When he backed off, I thought he would run away, but it appeared I ticked him off. There was no red aura coming from him. No, instead, a soft blue hue emerged from him.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to eat you, sweets. It¡¯s also a perfect way to prepare you for the main banquet later.¡± He informed, lifting the cloak that covered my lady bits.


    My heart left the building instantly, and my cheeks felt like they would fall off any moment. For all my bravado, I wasn¡¯t prepared for that, especially when his hands gripped me at my hips, leaning closer to me. When I felt his breath on my tights, I held my legs together as he grabbed onto them to spread them.


    ¡°Wa¡ª¡± I started, only to be interrupted by a knock on the door.


    It startled both of us.


    ¡°M¡¯lord, Astrid¡¯s demanding an audience with you. It¡¯s about Soren.¡± Brielle announced from the locked door.


    The red aura sprouted from him when that man¡¯s name erupted from her lips, wiping away any remaining blue hue. In an instant, our moment was ruined.


    ¡°What perfect timing you have, Brie. I¡¯ll be there soon.¡± Finn grumbled, pulling away from me.


    Although flustered, I couldn¡¯t help but feel disappointed when he withdrew. I quickly followed, covering myself with his cloak again.


    ¡°Safe, for now, Sparky.¡± He glanced back at me.


    His aura was still radiating.


    ¡°Was I saved?¡± I mumbled, getting cozy in his cloak again.


    It was warm and smelled like him.


    I like it.


    ¡°Oi¡­ I almost¡ª¡± his eyes twitched.


    Before he could finish, I announced with a smirk on my lips. ¡°I¡¯m keeping your cloak.¡±


    It caused his eyes to widen before a nervous chuckle came from him. The red aura was nowhere to be seen again.


    ¡°Keep it. I¡¯ll come to rip it off you later.¡± Finn smiled.


    It caused my heart to skip a beat as butterflies threatened to erupt from me. However, this was no time to back down.


    ¡°Promise?¡± I whispered, feeling my cheeks heat up.


    A second later, his hand grabbed me by the back of my head, pulling me to his lips. He was so fast I couldn¡¯t comprehend what happened. However, he held me for a passionate kiss. Our tongues tangoed against one another as his warmth seeped into me, leaving me jittery.


    Sadly, this was a moment I wished lasted longer.


    Tugging away from me, he smirked. ¡°Where did you get this cheeky?¡±


    However, he vanished before a word left me, leaving me a breathless mess. I couldn¡¯t help but fall back on the bed, covering myself with his cloak. Biting onto my lip, I giggled, feeling like a schoolgirl with her crush.


    Solas laid his head on the bed, allowing me to pet him with my left hand. My thoughts filled with Finn; I didn¡¯t even realize it when I drifted off into a dream with the man I had come to love.

 Chapter 33: The Warning

    My sweet dreams were suddenly taken away when I found myself in a dark room.


    ¡°Hello? Finn, where did you go?¡± I mumbled, unable to translate well between states.


    I was with him a moment ago, holding hands while looking at the sunset at a beach back in my world. Suddenly, I didn¡¯t know where I was. However, I didn¡¯t realize it was a dream until this point.


    ¡°The demon king isn¡¯t here, dear.¡± A voice I recognized erupted from the shadows.


    Soon after, the same light from when I came into this world materialized before me.


    ¡°You¡­¡± I trailed off, taking a step back.


    In an instant, Serena was visible in all her splendor.


    ¡°Hi, chosen one. We meet again.¡± She giggled, taking a step towards me.


    ¡°Stay back,¡± I warned, hitting a wall behind me.


    The last time I was with her, she didn¡¯t care for my wishes.


    Laughter broke out from her. ¡°Oh ho, what? You don¡¯t fear a demon, but you do a god?¡±


    Don¡¯t you dare compare yourself to him!


    Even though my hands shook with anger, I had to stay civilized, especially to someone who could fuck with everyone I cared about in a single whim. I wasn¡¯t about to lose what I had gained.


    Ah¡­ I finally have something to lose. I¡­ No focus!


    ¡°You gave me something I didn¡¯t want! Forced it on me! Now I¡­¡± I trailed off, leaning into the wall.


    Everyone I care about is depending on me while I can¡¯t even¡­


    Again, I wanted nothing she would give.


    ¡°And he tore your arm. Is there any difference between us?¡± she questioned, shifting her gaze towards my injured arm.


    How dare you?!


    ¡°That was my choice! Don¡¯t you dare put that on him!¡± I snapped, feeling something surge within me.


    It triggered her to laugh again as she waved her hand to summon a chair before sitting on it.


    At least you¡¯re not getting any closer, but this... Why are you here?


    That golden hair glowed brighter than the last time we met, and her husband was nowhere to be seen.


    ¡°Haha, you really fell for him¡ªpoor innocent Finn, driven mad by vengeance. There isn¡¯t any cure for their curse. I hope you know that.¡± She informed, blowing her nails soon after.


    ¡°I¡¯ll find it,¡± I assured, clenching my hands into fists.


    I could use my bad arm in this place, allowing me to clench both into fists.


    ¡°And what if the only way to save everyone is to kill Finn and destroy the crystal?¡± she tested my resolve.


    That can never¡­


    ¡°I¡¯ll find another way.¡± I declared, not backing down.


    ¡°Silly child, why? That man has killed many people. Even that poor prince¡¯s family was all gone in one of the demon rage sprees.¡± Serena huffed.


    What prince?


    ¡°He can¡¯t control it,¡± I informed.


    ¡°Honey, he loves it when he loses it. It¡¯s like a beast being released from his chains. He barely has any humanity in him.¡± Serena smirked.


    Lies¡­ The Finn I know¡­


    ¡°No, that isn¡¯t true. He tries so hard not to lose himself! Don¡¯t squander his efforts!¡± I growled, not liking how she put everything.


    You aren¡¯t a beast.


    ¡°Funny thing, he didn¡¯t show you any more of what happened after that dreadful party.¡± She added, tapping her hands on the chair¡¯s armrest.


    Even if I didn¡¯t see, I knew how much he suffered.


    How alone you must¡¯ve felt while in that enraged state, the pain that you were in¡­ No, I don¡¯t need to see to know how you killed off your emotions to survive. All the things you did are the reason why we met that day!


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter to me!¡± I huffed, steeling my resolve.


    Serena tilted her head, giggling. ¡°Really? Have you asked him what¡¯s in the castle''s dungeon you live in?¡±


    That was the other restricted area I hadn¡¯t seen, with the scent of death lingering.


    If it¡¯s anything like the throne room, I¡­


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to know,¡± I answered, shaking my head.


    There was no doubt that place also held other horrors, but after seeing everything he went through. I couldn¡¯t blame him. Not when they screwed him so badly.


    A man with nothing to lose is more dangerous than the one with everything to lose.


    Honestly, I wasn¡¯t the right person to be righteous, too. Before I came to this world, I wanted nothing more than death until Finn broke through everything with his gentleness. Something that wasn¡¯t easy for him, especially when I was part of the same kind that took everything away from him.


    Unless all of it is an act, even so, you¡¯ve treated me better than those before you.


    ¡°Of course, you wouldn¡¯t want to know anything that changes your view.¡± She challenged.


    You¡­ bitch¡­


    ¡°Hey, tell me something. Why didn¡¯t you stop that massacre?¡± I questioned, glaring at the goddess.


    She smirked, getting up from her chair. ¡°Why should I, a god, do anything else but look at the mess mortals do?¡± she countered.


    Placing one hand on my face, I smirked.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    I really am no saint. Not that I wanted to be one. Who the fuck would pray to you? A waste of¡­


    ¡°Typical. You¡¯re just like the one in my world. It does nothing but look at people who starve, suffer, and die! Who the fuck are you to judge Finn¡¯s pain?! Or the path he takes?!¡± I snarled, facing her head-on.


    If we¡¯re the villains, so be it. I¡¯ll help you destroy the world if it saves you, but it won¡¯t. Serah isn¡¯t wrong.


    ¡°What?¡± she questioned, making me step towards her.


    This bitch is the same as all those righteous bastards that speak the word of god but then look the other way when it benefits them.


    ¡°Those who ignore pain and suffering shouldn¡¯t have a say in anything that happens! So, fuck you! I owe you nothing!¡± I declared.


    Her eyes widened before bursting out into laughter.


    ¡°Ah¡­ I was right. You¡¯re so very interesting. Perhaps once you die, I¡¯ll make you one of my slaves. I¡¯m sure my husband and I can show you a good time.¡± She licked her lips.


    It caused me to shiver right where I stood.


    ¡°That¡¯s disgusting! Fuck you!¡± I snapped again.


    Again, laughter erupted from her before she closed the gap between us. I struggled not to flinch, but I couldn¡¯t help it. I thought she was about to hit me. Instead, her hands touched me gently.


    ¡°I thought since you were being so docile towards the demons, you changed, but you genuinely like them.¡± She smiled, tilting her head to the side.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care what you have to say!¡± I went to slap her hand away, only for it to phase through.


    It surprised me. However, I tried not to show it. These beings loved to fuck with us, and the last thing she needed was more ammo.


    ¡°Ah well, you don¡¯t want to know what I came to tell you?¡± she smirked, trailing her hands down my cheek.


    Her touch was nothing compared to Finn¡¯s, who I enjoyed always leaving me tingly, while hers left me cold as stone.


    ¡°I have no interest in what you have to say,¡± I announced, pulling away from her.


    I would rather go back to my dream with the demon king. It was nicer than whatever this is.


    ¡°Even if it involves what the humans want to do to Finn and Serah?¡± she questioned.


    Instantly, I turned around.


    ¡°What?¡± I mumbled, feeling my core grow cold.


    The last time Soren appeared, Finn lost himself to his curse.


    That can¡¯t happen again. I was lucky to bring him back once, but who knows how long it would¡¯ve taken him if I hadn¡¯t done it? Or if I can even do it again.


    Having my attention again made her smile.


    ¡°The humans plan to use Evelyn¡¯s power to destroy Serah. If that happens, all the demons will die too. Though your sister is still far from learning how to use her magic, she can use it, unlike you.¡± She informed.


    I glowered at her.


    They can¡¯t¡­ I won¡¯t let them!


    ¡°Such a scary face. They have a reason to do this, so you know.¡± She shrugged, tugging away from me.


    ¡°Nothing could justify killing them all!¡± I growled.


    She hummed, shifting her eyes towards the side. ¡°The miasma started spreading again five years ago. Before then, it had been contained in Fathal. By now, it has already taken over the elven groves. Now, all that¡¯s left is Traedan. The barrier holds the haze at bay for now, but soon enough, that¡¯ll fail too.¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°Sounds to me that their past actions are catching up to them.¡± I huffed.


    She raised her eyebrows before smirking. ¡°Should the new generations suffer from the actions of the past ones?¡±


    ¡°If they follow their steps, I don¡¯t see why they should be saved.¡± I declared.


    If their salvation came from Finn¡¯s death, I¡­


    ¡°Well, how about this? If the miasma takes over, everyone will be demons. If that happens, there will be no one left to feed on. The demons will go mad with hunger, too. Nyla, Ryker, Gael, Brielle, and Finn will all be monsters you can¡¯t control.¡± She informed, triggering me to clench my fists.


    That¡¯s¡­


    ¡°You don¡¯t know this, but some generals have human farms. Sebastian¡¯s one of them, but is that any way to live? Heck, it won¡¯t even sustain everyone. Just a selected few, and who to say that orc will share once the rest of the food source is out.¡± She sighed, shaking her head.


    That will give him more leverage over Finn. No, it can¡¯t happen.


    From my short interaction with Sebastian, I knew he wasn¡¯t on Finn¡¯s side. Serena walked away from me, creating an image of what being part of that farm would look like. They were nothing more than enslaved people.


    Much like cows to slaughter.


    Chills ran down my spine as I shifted my eyes, unable to endure those conditions.


    Sometimes, death is sweet mercy.


    ¡°Finn¡¯s sweet to you. He has Gael to feed off whores to add essence to his food, but he can only feed those in the castle. His magic isn¡¯t infinite, and without brothels in the human lands, well¡­¡± She warped the image to show Gael in the act.


    ¡°Sorry, ladies and gentlemen, I¡¯m too much for you again.¡± The blue-haired man smirked at the bodies lying around in the room.


    All the surrounding humans begged him to stay, but he kept walking, paying the toll without looking back. His harem consisted of both females and males. He didn¡¯t kill his victims, but anyone else would rarely satisfy them after spending a night with him.


    Such was the touch of an incubus or succubus.


    One of the many things I learned from reading bestiaries in Rizak¡¯s library.


    ¡°Can you imagine what it would be like to ingest another¡¯s bodily fluids? Or if he had been anything like your father?¡± she questioned, leaving me feeling off.


    The thought alone left me feeling cold, trembling where I stood. Yet something else caught my attention.


    ¡°How?¡± I mumbled.


    She smirked. ¡°Evelyn¡¯s memories are ours. So, we know everything through her eyes. However, we aren¡¯t as biased as her. We can see how wicked the man supposed to protect you was.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± I trailed off, dragging my gaze to the floor.


    Serena sighed, ¡°Hey, will you be like those who ignored you? Or will you care and destroy the demons before they end the world? They¡¯re nothing more than a plague.¡±


    I glared at the goddess. ¡°No¡­ If anything, I¡¯ll save them all.¡±


    It triggered her to chuckle like a mad woman.


    ¡°With what? You don¡¯t have control of your magic! Having both has made you unstable. I thought you¡¯d be amazing, but you¡¯re turning out to be nothing.¡± she pointed out.


    ¡°I¡¯ll find a fucking way!¡± I declared, holding my shirt.


    There has to be a way for Finn and the others to survive.


    Serena appeared amused by my words before flicking her hair to the side and stepping closer to me.


    ¡°Hah, good luck. Oh, one more thing. That pesky bracelet connects your life to the demon king. You¡¯re essentially immortal to the passage of time.¡± She informed, pointing towards it.


    Raising my left hand to inspect it, I saw it still hadn¡¯t changed.


    This makes me immortal. What?


    This was one confusion that would clear up quickly.


    ¡°Of course, you still can die by physical or biological means. The humans haven¡¯t realized it yet, but you¡¯re another way to get Finn killed. If they use it right.¡± She clarified, making my heart drop.


    What? No¡­ It¡­


    ¡°Does Finn¡­¡± I trailed off, feeling like a hole opened in my chest.


    Serena nodded, gazing towards the side. In the image, Finn and Rizak appeared.


    ¡°He knows. Well, only he and the owl are aware of this, though. Suppose the other generals find out. They might try to kill you to get rid of him. He¡¯s the only reason the demons haven¡¯t feasted on all the humans or turned them into farms.¡± She continued.


    Ah¡­ I knew Finn wasn¡¯t heartless.


    However, that raised another question, which had more urgency than everything else.


    Not only Solas¡­ but¡­


    ¡°Why would Finn link himself to me in that way?!¡± I questioned.


    A sting in my chest grew more prominent than before. It was probably what kept him from killing me that first day¡ªa contingency plan in case I did precisely what I did when I met him.


    But you never told me! Did you save my arm because of it, too? No¡­ I wouldn¡¯t have died if I lost an arm.


    If they had stopped the bleeding, I would¡¯ve lived. They saved my arm because they wanted to.


    ¡°Sylvia, it¡¯s because you¡¯re the last hope they have. They¡¯re gambling everything on you. Their last chance to be free of their nightmares.¡± She announced, pointing towards me.


    ¡°This is because they want me to lift the miasma?¡± I mumbled, shaking my head.


    Can I even do that? No¡­ you just said I¡¯m a failure! How can I¡­


    I clasped onto my chest, feeling like the world''s weight was on my shoulders.


    ¡°Correct. So, if you fail, all is lost for those you care about, and if the humans win, they die too either way. It isn¡¯t looking good for both sides, and my husband is growing impatient.¡± Serena warned.


    You¡­ You could¡¯ve stopped this!


    ¡°All while you do nothing but watch,¡± I growled, glaring at her.


    Her eyes narrowed as I knew there was much more she wasn¡¯t telling.


    ¡°Oh, but I sent you to them. What more can you ask from me?¡± She scoffed, reaching towards me.  ¡°Tell me, Sylvia, will you be a failure or the wildcard that saves everyone? Salvation or damnation, which will you be? Ah, I can¡¯t wait to see!¡± she smirked.


    ¡°I¡­¡± I mumbled, not knowing what to say to her.


    Before I could say anything, everything became blurry. Our time was up again.


    ¡°Will you save Finn before he¡¯s crucified? I wonder. Will you lose your heart again?¡± Her words echoed around me as I reached for her.


    ¡°Wait!¡± I screamed, jolting awake.


    It was still the middle of the night, and I startled poor Solas awake, too. He quickly scoured our surroundings, thinking there was danger, but no one was there. However, when my eyes traveled to the mirror, there was a mark on my face. Where she touched, there was a faint yellow glow.


    A sign Solas couldn¡¯t see, as he was none the wiser. Yet it alerted me that the goddess visited me and that everything she said wasn¡¯t a dream¡ªa warning I couldn¡¯t forget.

 Chapter 34: A Promise

    Still in Finn''s fluffy cloak, I allowed myself to fall back onto the bed, unable to shake the feeling the dream had left on me. Closing my eyes, I tried to think of everything I learned. Serah''s words were the clearest, though.


    "You can''t let him kill the humans." That was what she said.


    She and Serena both echoed the same thing.


    If all the humans turned into demons, their food supply would be gone.


    However, that meant that Finn was planning on ending all of them at one point, too.


    Did Rizak steer you from that path?


    The owl was always the wisest of us, though he also had his secrets. The city below was his and Maxwell''s experimentation grounds, and thinking about the human farms made me shiver.


    Do they really exist?


    It wasn''t like Gael could feed all of them by himself, and he was the only one willing to go into the human world for the castle residents. The others had to feed themselves. Luckily, it wasn''t as frequent as humans needed it, and they could spend weeks without feeding, though their temper would be affected.


    The more I learn, the less it makes sense to me.


    Finn loved eating whatever I made, even though it wasn''t nutritious.


    Why are you like this with me?


    You aren''t like other humans. His voice echoed within me.


    In what sense, you stupid demon? Let me in your world. I need to understand why I''m not like them.


    Though those words gave me hope, perhaps I could change something. Even though I told Serena I would, there was only doubt within me.


    All talk and no bark, but I''ll try not to be.


    Once my arm healed, I had to learn how to use my magic.


    I can''t be a failure! There must be something we are missing.


    I lacked a lot of information, but the only way to get it would be through Finn. If he trusted me enough for it, that was.


    First, I must conquer the demon king or at least make you trust me enough to tell me your plans. Yes, let''s focus on that.


    Not that I would''ve minded if he loved me, too.


    That would be a dream come true.


    Even though my mind was in chaos, it wasn''t long before I found comfort in Finn''s scent. Closing my eyes, I drifted off again. However, I felt someone trail their hand down my arm the following day.


    A soft voice called for me, yet the hours I spent thinking about everything made me lag to wake. No, the pillow was too comforting. I wanted more of its warmth, but eventually, the soft voice won, tugging me away from my dreamless sleep and into the light.


    Mumbling, I turned towards the voice to notice Finn lying next to me. Those blueish eyes were gazing at me so gently that I hadn''t realized if I was still asleep or awake.


    "Hey, sleepyhead. How''s your arm?" he whispered, smiling softly at me.


    Slowly blinking at him, I tried to move my right hand, only for my fingers to twitch.


    "I don''t think I can move it yet," I mumbled, cuddling myself in his chest.


    My arm dragged, but I didn''t care; his warmth was all I sought.


    "You want to sleep more?" he chuckled, welcoming me in.


    "Mhm, can you hold me to get me warmer?" I asked, turning around for air.


    His arm was comfy, though.


    "You''d be warmer with clothes on." He held me tightly to him.


    Winter was arriving, and the cold from before was just the autumn breeze. It was significantly colder than the previous days, but his warmth washed everything away. My back was to his chest, though his cloak still covered me like it did the entire night.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    "Hm¡­ clothes?" I mumbled.


    A soft chuckle came from the dragon, who lifted his body slightly. "Yes, clothes, love." He trailed his hand into the cloak and onto my belly.


    Instantly, my eyes flew open, realizing this was no dream.


    "Finn?!" I yelped, feeling warmth where I had never felt it before.


    Another cackle came from him, trailing his hand down my navel before pulling away from where he was going.


    "Morning, Sparky. You slept in so long that I had to wake you." He informed


    "D-did I?" I felt my heart race, turning my head to him only to see him lick his fingers.


    "Mhm, you did. Now, I hope you remember my promise." His tail coiled around my left thigh, pulling it apart slightly.


    Feeling my cheeks flush red, I turned to him slightly. "You''d come to rip off your cloak from me, right?"


    A playful smile rose on his lips, leaning closer to me.


    "Mhm, what a good girl." He murmured, pressing his lips against mine.


    Using his tongue to distract me, I didn''t notice where his other hand was. Well, until I felt his fingers brushing against my navel. There, he led a trail of saliva down to my groin with them, yet he stopped before touching my vulva.


    Pulling away from my lips, I managed to see his rosy cheeks.


    "Fuck, I haven''t thought about someone like this in so long. If ever really." He sighed.


    His eyes flickered full of conflict. Something bothered him, and I wouldn''t know why unless¡­


    "Like what?" I mumbled, feeling small in his hungry gaze.


    Do I look like that, too, or something else?


    "I want to be gentle with you. That''s not something I''ve felt in a long time. So, I¡­" he trailed off, biting onto his lips.


    "Finn, I won''t break if you touch me," I assured him, grabbing his hand.


    "Oi, I¡ª" he started, only to stop when I led his hand into my lady bits.


    I simpered, feeling skittish simultaneously, but we would only go in circles if I ran away. One of us had to stand our ground, and I would do it if he weren''t going to.


    "Touch me," I murmured.


    His eyes widened before he drew me closer to him with the arm I used as a pillow. The hand that I advanced, though, stayed in place without moving.


    You''re too gentle with me.


    "You¡­ are making me lose my mind, you know that? Even the generals note that my head''s in the clouds." He sighed, burying his face in my hair.


    In the clouds? Do you mean you''ve been thinking of me? My mind is full of you, too. Even when you aren''t around, you''re all that fills me. It''s how I know you''ve conquered my heart. I mean, what else can this feeling be?


    "Because of me?" I shivered, feeling his finger trace my vulva.


    In his trial, he left a warmth I had never felt before.


    "Who else has been making a mess of me, Sparky?" he whispered.


    However, before I could answer him, I gasped, feeling a sensation I had never felt when he brushed against my bell. It caused me to stiffen up, feeling an itch I had never felt before.


    "What was that?" I mumbled, clasping onto the arm that held me to him.


    Licking the back of my neck, a soft hum came from him. "Hm? This?"


    He rubbed my sensitive bell again, triggering me to release a soft mewl from my lips. Nodding my head, I gazed toward him. The surprise in his eyes when I glanced at him like an innocent girl was almost too much to bear.


    His pupils narrowed as a soft blue aura came from him.


    "Oh, love, you''ve never touched yourself?" he asked, tugging away with fingers away from my vulva.


    It must be such a drag to teach someone as inexperienced as me.


    Closing my eyes, I braced for whatever came next.


    "No¡­ I never had the time to do anything like it. Most of the time, I had an ache somewhere, so I just fell asleep whenever I was home. If Dad didn''t¡­" I trailed off, remembering all the times he beat me silly.


    Shivers rushed down my spine as he shifted his position. Suddenly, I was on the bed with him on top of me.


    "And even when you got here?" he continued to query, triggering me to shift my eyes from his blue eyes.


    That blue aura was getting thicker, too.


    Are you annoyed? But it isn''t red. I can''t tell what you''re feeling.


    "I was too busy learning from Rizak to think about things like that, and the only time I ever wanted to was¡­" I trailed off, biting my bottom lip.


    If he was feeling something negative, I¡­


    "Was?" he echoed the word.


    "When you are around." I felt my voice crack.


    A moment of silence went by before he leaned close to me.


    "Hey, look at me, Sparky." He murmured close to my ear.


    When I did, it left me in awe. His expression was gentle, and he had a genuine smile on his lip. It was brighter than the light shining in through the window. Leaning into me, he gave me the most mellow kiss I had ever had.


    His tongue left me feeling just as warm as his touch did. Tugging away from my lips, he pressed his forehead against mine.


    "Are you sure?" he breathed.


    "What?" I mumbled, not knowing what he was going on about.


    "That you want me. Are you sure?" he clarified.


    Like his dragon form, his pupils were still narrow, yet I wasn''t scared.


    "Finn, I want to walk in your world if you let me." I declared.


    A soft chuckle left him before he brushed his lips against my forehead. "Then let''s not rush this. I want you to enjoy it as much as I do."


    My heart raced as my mind struggled to keep up with the demon in front of me.


    Huh?


    "But I was enjoying it," I mumbled, shifting my thighs as he had left me tingling in my core.


    His cheeks turned bright pink upon hearing me.


    "Ah, n-not what I mean. T-tonight¡­ l-let''s go on a date." Finn suddenly declared.


    My eyes widened before a giggle erupted from me. "The demon king does dates?!"


    How can I ever think you''re a monster?


    Perhaps towards others, but to me, he was something else.


    Yes, more human than myself¡­ Such an adorable little dragon.


    His eyes twitched, though that blue aura didn''t change.


    "Oi¡­ You said you like roses, right?" he rolled his eyes, sitting beside me.


    Did I say that? No¡­ I only said it because you smell like them. But¡­


    "I do. I love them," I confirmed, leaning into him.


    You''re running away again, but that''s fine. I''ll chase you, and I''ll save you. Somehow¡­ I¡­


    "Then tonight¡­ I''ll take you somewhere." The flustered dragon declared, clearing his throat soon after.


    "Where?" I reached to touch his lips, triggering him to gaze back at me.


    "You''ll see." He kissed my forehead.


    I hummed, leaning into his lips. "Hm¡­ I look forward to it."


    What followed was a passionate kiss that led me to fall onto the bed with him on top of me. However, we didn''t move from there. No, we indulged in each other through the lock of our lips. Well, until a knock came from the door.


    This time, Nyla came to look for me, breaking our union. What followed was an experience I never thought I would have.

 Chapter 35: Daring

    After the knock, Nyla announced Phoebe and the others would be there within the hour. Finn parted from me with a swift kiss on my forehead before sitting beside me. Grabbing onto his cloak, he leaned into my ear.


    ¡°Can I have this now?¡± he asked, tugging it slightly.


    If he pulled it off, he¡¯d see me bare. However, it wouldn¡¯t be anything new to him.


    ¡°Are you going to see your generals?¡± I mumbled, feeling envious.


    Finn gazed towards the window, nodding.


    ¡°Levaira and Astrid should be back soon.¡± He informed.


    Of course¡­ it must be those two out of the five.


    ¡°You¡¯ve slept with them, right?¡± I grumbled.


    It made him shift his blue orbs back onto me. He was surprised by the tone of my voice.


    Did it have hostility in it? Crap¡­


    ¡°I¡¯ve had sex with many people. Some who I devoured right after.¡± He confessed.


    Again, he hid nothing from me.


    Yet¡­ you won¡¯t do it with me? Always running from me¡­ why?


    ¡°I guess humans are easy prey for your pretty face.¡± I sighed, feeling dejected.


    I wasn¡¯t pretty like Lillia or any other girl in his life. No, I was skinny and barely had any meat on me, which meant my chest was flat compared to other females. It even lacked the curves, thanks to my malnutrition, before I got to this place.


    Thanks to Gael, I had been gaining some weight, but it wasn¡¯t enough.


    ¡°Well, it helped when I didn¡¯t have anyone to rely on.¡± He shrugged.


    Before the incubus, he had to feed himself, much like me. I shouldn¡¯t have been comparing our different lifetimes. After all, he had lived more than a few hundred years. Yet my nerves were getting the best of me.


    What if I can¡¯t match all the girls in your life?


    Silently, I gazed down at the bed. My hand refused even to make a fist. He grabbed me by my chin and tugged me to meet with his blue orbs.


    ¡°Does it bother you I have a high body count?¡± he asked.


    His eyes had gone cold, and his azure aura from before was gone, too.


    Ah¡­ Are you worried like me?


    Shaking my head, I grabbed onto his hand. ¡°No, but it makes me wonder if there¡¯s something wrong with me. Every time, you always pull away.¡±


    Cupping my cheeks in his palms, I saw those deep blue eyes of his widen in shock.


    ¡°What?! No, love. You don¡¯t know how much I want to ravish you. Fuck! Every instinct tells me to rip this cloak and make you mine. Unlike all the women before you, I want to cherish you.¡± He bit his lip, pressing his forehead against mine.


    I was a moth caught by a bright light. This man always said all the right things. However, before I could speak, he continued.


    ¡°I want us to be more than a simple fuck. It¡¯s all I¡¯ve ever had, but I don¡¯t even know if it¡¯s possible.¡± He sighed, tugging away from me.


    Before he could speak, I grabbed his shirt, pulling him into a sweet kiss. It was a short brush.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    ¡°I wish to be more, too!¡± I declared, holding onto him.


    Leaning into me, he locked his lips with me again, allowing his tongue to caress mine. Tugging away from me, he shook his head.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to let you go to Phoebe.¡± He breathed, struggling with his morals.


    His pupils again were narrow, with a faint blue aura coming from his core.


    ¡°Finn¡­ does your cloak smell like me?¡± I asked, snuggling myself into it again.


    He gazed away from me.


    ¡°Hm? It does. It smells like I was in bed with you all night.¡± He hummed with rosy cheeks.


    If that was the case, then¡­


    ¡°Take it and make sure those two get a good whiff of it.¡± I pouted, allowing it to fall from my shoulders.


    It exposed my chest when he wasn¡¯t gazing towards me.


    ¡°Oh, love, they know I¡¯m yours.¡± He chuckled, glancing back at me.


    The moment his gaze rested on me, his cheeks turned bright red, and his eyes shimmered, appearing hungry.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t sound like it last time,¡± I mumbled, feeling my face burn.


    I wasn¡¯t backing down, though.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take it and wear it, but how about you add something else?¡± he suddenly suggested, voice shaking a bit.


    I tilted my head. ¡°Hm?¡±


    ¡°Mark me.¡± He announced.


    ¡°W-what?¡± I stumbled out.


    It almost felt like my brain fried.


    ¡°Give me kiss marks, sweets.¡± Finn smiled playfully, undoing the buttons on his shirt.


    My eyes followed his moments, unable to pry them off.


    Who knew I was so thirsty for this demon? Get a grip!


    ¡°Won¡¯t it heal?¡± I asked, feeling my heart pop out of my chest, especially when he removed his shirt.


    I gawked at his features before he clasped onto my hand, guiding it to his chest. The feeling of his skin on my palm left me tingly, and I felt him shiver under it. Gazing up his face, I saw an expression I hadn¡¯t seen before.


    He wanted me to touch him more, and it made my heart throb like never before. At that moment, he was mine, and I wanted to dominate him.


    ¡°It won¡¯t if I don¡¯t want to.¡± He let out a small sigh when I trailed my hand down his chest.


    Unlike him, I wouldn¡¯t run away.


    Skin this fair will be easily marked.


    ¡°Won¡¯t it be embarrassing?¡± I asked, leaning into him.


    ¡°Not when it comes from you.¡± His voice squeaked when he felt me press my lips against his pec.


    I didn¡¯t know what I was doing, but it wasn¡¯t hard to make a hickey. Sucking his skin in my mouth, I left a light mark with a simple pop of my lips. Grabbing me by the back of my head, he let out a small groan when I continued to leave light marks on his fair skin, trailing my way up his chest.


    Unable to hold it, I pushed Finn, wanting him to go down onto the bed. Allowing me to take the lead, he let himself fall on me, allowing me to straddle him, dragging the cloak with me quickly. It hooked to my hips, covering my lady bits from him.


    However, something poked me from below when I pressed my lips on his neck. Licking it, I smirked, knowing a tent was in his pants.


    If I leave a mark here, everyone will see it.


    Instead of pulling away from me, he stayed where he was. One of his hands was on my hips while his tail coiled around one of my legs. The arm that lagged rested on his chest as I used the other to hold myself up.


    Leaning into him more, my chest brushed against him, driving him shivering again. Peeking at him, I noticed him gazing away from me, cheeks flushed. He bit into his other hand, trying to hold himself in place.


    Oi! Oi! Oi! I feel like a vixen now! Can this demon be any cuter?! How dare that ugly woman call you a bore?! You¡­ are adorable! Ah¡­ her loss is my gain! Yes¡­ my fucking gain!


    ¡°Don¡¯t hold back,¡± I whispered near his ear.


    Again, he shivered, tugging his hand away from his mouth.


    ¡°If I don¡¯t, I¡¯ll¡­ Fuck!¡± he cursed, feeling me lick his neck again.


    The tone in his voice pitched, making me want to bully him more. Tightening his hand on my hip, I sucked his skin in my mouth, leaving a mark behind. Tugging away from it, I relished the sight of everything I did.


    Underneath me was a Finn who was close to losing his sanity. His eyes glowed so brightly when he followed me. It wasn¡¯t the first time anyone had looked at me with that desire, yet he was different. He wouldn¡¯t hurt me even when he wanted to have me.


    Cherish me. At the same time, I¡¯ll make you lose your senses to me.


    Leaning onto my chest, he licked the side of my left breast before leaving a light mark on it, too. It burned hotter than my lips did with every kiss he left on my skin. A soft sigh left him before burying his face in my bosom.


    ¡°You should get dressed before I make you not show up.¡± He warned, causing me to frown.


    I twirled his hair on my fingertips, wishing for more than this demon was willing to give.


    ¡°Hm¡­ you¡¯re all talk and no bite.¡± I shrugged.


    His blue aura was erupting from him, and it was getting thicker.


    ¡°Only to you, Sparky. Well, to a point.¡± He breathed, gazing at me with eyes I thought I would never see.


    There was some life in them. It was still far from how he was, but this was a start. A soft smile rose on my lips.


    If it were up to me, he wouldn¡¯t leave. But¡­


    ¡°I¡¯ll let you escape for now, little king,¡± I simpered.


    A nervous chuckle left his lips. ¡°You¡¯re really one of a fucking kind.¡±


    Kissing me one last time, he vanished a second later, leaving me alone in the bed. His cloak was missing, too. However, Solas''s tail wagged when I gazed towards him. I had completely forgotten he was around.


    Shaking my head, I asked him to help me dress as my right arm refused to listen. Struggling to dress, it wasn¡¯t long before Nyla had to come to help me. Phoebe and everyone else were already waiting downstairs.

 Chapter 36: New Beginning

    Once dressed, I stepped outside the room to notice a change. Nyla had her goblin friends clean the entire castle. All the dust from before was gone, yet I hadn''t heard a sound while I slept. However, it sunk in that these demons didn''t sleep as I did.


    I ate a quick meal before apologizing multiple times to Phoebe for making her wait. However, she couldn''t care less about them. Instead, she insisted on starting with what I called her for. She, along with what looked like a brightly colored slime and three furry gremlins, were there waiting for me.


    The fur balls were small, making me doubt why they were there. One was green, another brown, and the smallest one was red. Nyla had also brought her colleagues of smaller goblins to help clean. We were in a small room I had picked for testing purposes.


    Noticing my intense gaze on them, one of the gremlins spoke up.


    "Name''s Mika!" the green announced, shimmering brown eyes much like the one who followed him.


    It sounded female.


    The brown one followed with. "Name''s Milo!"


    This one was a boy, from his tone.


    "Mine''s Lulu!" the red one squeaked.


    Another female with bright amber eyes was almost mesmerizing.


    "We''re siblin''!" the three said at the same time.


    Okay¡­ cute¡­ Yet why do I smell trouble from you?


    "We''re the bestests carpentars'' in the worl''!" the green and brown followed.


    "Maybes, not the worl''." Maki sighed, shaking her head.


    Milo huffed. "Hush! You shouldn''ts scares the customers!"


    Lulu breathed again, shrugging. "We already freaks her out. Don''t you sees?"


    She interrupted the duo''s argument.


    "Nos, we don''t! We''re all well-feds and won''ts eats your dreams! We promises!" the little green one assured me as I shifted my gaze.


    Not so sure about you three.


    Gazing to the side, I noticed a big bear man walking on two legs. It shouldn''t have been a shock since Rizak was a walking owl, but I couldn''t help but be wary of him. Nyla noticed, nudging me on my side.


    "That''s Jack, and he''s the blacksmith. The slime''s name is Monica. She''ll paint the walls within seconds." She beamed, making me unsure of everything.


    I didn''t know what to expect, but surely it wasn''t the group that was brought in front of me. Sadly, it didn''t help that I wasn''t used to Phoebe. Every time she got near, I couldn''t help but take two steps away, feeling all the hair on my skin rise because of her.


    "So, what do you want us to do?" the spider asked, prompting me to meet with her gaze.


    However, I didn''t know with which eyes she was staring at me. Every time I did, goosebumps rose on my skin. It wasn''t her fault, and that made me feel bad. They were nothing but pleasant for me to react this way.


    "D-decorate the c-castle." I spat out through the nerves that were consuming me.


    All of them nodded.


    "Hehe, shall we get started?" Nyla asked.


    I could barely do anything with my lazy arm, but it wasn''t like they would allow me to do anything other than observe.


    "I have a feeling this will fail because I have no idea what I''m doing, but we might as well try to have fun, no?" I giggled, only to be met with one of Nyla''s famous smiles.


    "We won''ts fails. We''ll bedazzles this place!" Lulu announced.


    Oh no¡­ wait, that didn''t sound right!


    Before I knew it, everything turned different colors as the three gremlins made decorations without directions. The walls turned bright pink, making me gaze towards Monica, who had somehow moved towards them.


    How?!


    "Wait! Uh¡­ No, please, no bright colors." I tried to get their attention, but they let their creative juices go wild.


    Jack sat on the floor by a corner, scratching one of his ears. "Let me know when you younglings get a hang of things."


    "Pinks and yellows everywhere!" Mika and Milo squealed, triggering different wooden decorations to turn various colors.


    Their magic was something unique, yet it was out of control.


    "No¡­ please don''t." I tried once again, in vain.


    "Neons colors!" Milo announced.


    I didn''t have the energy to keep up with the duo.


    "No, please¡ª" I tried to speak, only to be drowned by the trio.


    Lulu finally joined the energy balls.


    "Greens!" Milo declared, turning everything of that color.


    "No! Blues!" Lulu tapped the wood, turning it to that.


    "No! Reds!" Maki huffed, turning everything crimson.


    The red gremlin stepped up. "No! Pinks!"


    However, someone had enough of their disrespect towards me.


    "You''re all annoying, Sylvia! Quiet!" Solas growled louder than I had ever heard him go.


    In an instant, everyone quieted as the wolf radiated that same red aura as Finn did before it dimmed.


    "Solas¡­" I mumbled, shaking my head.


    No, you gave me an opportunity. I shouldn''t waste it.


    "Okay¡­ How about we try to bring colors out without making the castle into a rainbow?" I smiled, trying to keep everyone calm.


    "That''s so dulls!" Mika huffed.


    "So very borings!" Milo rolled his eyes.


    These little things were brats.


    "I want to modernize it, not make it into another horror show." I frowned, grabbing onto my right arm.


    I still felt nothing and could barely move it, yet it was still my arm, and I found comfort in simply holding it. Nyla had made me a sling to wear so that it would not hang, which could''ve gotten me caught and injured without me knowing.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    "Hm¡­ I see what you''re saying. So, would you like for this room?" Phoebe asked before the gremlins went ham again.


    "I think some nice lavender curtains, with nice grey walls. Maybe some white tiles or shades of grey on different walls would look nice. You know, to give each room a vibe without having anyone go blind with horror." I answered, gazing towards the broken windows.


    There was so much to fix. Back in Finn''s memory, I didn''t see a fire, but there was no doubt that he did this when he rampaged around soon after transforming.


    You or one of the many other demons doomed to this fate. It doesn''t matter how it happened; it just needs to disappear.


    I already knew what type of king he was by how he treated me. It wasn''t just me; everyone cared for him, alerting me he was only a tyrant when he raged.


    "We have to restore so much, and for decorations, I was thinking of mirrors, glass figurines, nice dark wood furniture¡ªOh! And some nice comfy cotton cushions. Things like that. So, the past can be that and nothing more." I sighed, gazing away from the scorch marks.


    "I don''t want the people I''ve come to care about to live in the aftermath of that nightmare anymore. This is my home base, but I plan to help Finn rebuild this kingdom with time. You all deserve better." I paused, gazing at the bracelet.


    With this, I''m immortal until I get sick or get killed. Does that mean my aging has also stopped? Ah¡­ the only one who can tell me is¡­


    I had all the time in the world to do this, yet I didn''t want to wait another moment, primarily because tomorrow was never secured. This meant I had to live in the moment, move forward, and leave a legacy for these people to follow.


    However, I was inexperienced. Half my actions would probably fail, but I wasn''t afraid of failure; I feared losing what little I finally had.


    But as long as I stay useful. You won''t abandon me, right? As long as this tool does her job¡­ You promised to give me what I wanted at the end of this.


    I hope you remember that. However, what I want and what you desire may be different. Is it selfish to ask for your heart?


    "I want to make Fathal a place where you all can live without the scars to remind you at every turn you take." I shook my head, biting my bottom lip.


    I''m rambling.


    My eyes locked on the floor, not wanting to see their expressions.


    "I''m probably blabbering about things I don''t¡ª" I started, only to be interrupted by Jack standing up and walking towards me.


    Oh, no¡­ did I say something I shouldn''t have? Surely¡­


    "M''lady, may I be blunt?" he asked, standing before me.


    The bear was enormous compared to me. He was probably as tall as Rizak, yet beefier. His fur was pure black, and his eyes were emerald.


    "What?" I mumbled.


    His voice was so rough that I couldn''t even answer him straight. However, the following words would leave me wide open.


    "When I came here, I thought you would order us around and treat us as monsters. It''s been a long time since a human has treated us with the courtesy of speech. Let alone work with us." He started as I fiddled with my sleeves.


    "Nobles tend to be full of themselves, so I didn''t expect much of the saints when Nyla called for me. I mean, you''re a mortal enemy and all, but now I see how mistaken I was." He chuckled, sitting in front of me.


    He was more on my level. There was no doubt this man was another beast, yet his soul was¡­


    "I¡­" I couldn''t find any words to say anything to him.


    However, he noted my hesitation and nerves.


    "M''lord has found himself an excellent bride. Now, how can this humble blacksmith be of service to accomplish this goal of yours?" He smiled, leaving my eyes stinging with tears.


    "I¡­" I trailed off, barely able to hold my composure.


    Shifting his eyes toward the windows, he pointed towards it. "May I suggest mosaic windows to replace the broken ones and silver lanterns to update the old ones? This used to be known as the dragon castle, so perhaps we can bring that back again." He smiled, leaving me open wide.


    Before I could even gather myself properly, Phoebe giggled on the side.


    "Yes, how can we all be of service, my lady?" she asked, gazing at me with the same as the bear.


    "You''re not angry at me?" I mumbled.


    These people weren''t the monsters the humans thought them to be. No, they were all trying to survive. None of them asked to be turned into monsters by an outsider.


    "What? No! Why would I even get angry with someone caring about my community? I haven''t had that since I woke in two thousand years." He chuckled.


    Compared to the others, he was relatively new to his humanity. Even though I knew he fed on humans, I couldn''t find fault in them trying to survive. Without their food, they would lose themselves in the curse that made them into what they were.


    If anything, that mad king is the one to blame for everyone''s suffering.


    Surely, if cannibalism were the only way for humans to keep their rational, then they would eat each other until there were none left.


    The human farms, as appalling as they must be, I can understand them for making them.


    Luckily, demons only needed to eat once a month in most cases. Gael had to feast on humans multiple times to keep everyone fed, but he was a particular case. Even so, he tried to minimize the casualties by already going to sex-orientated places.


    The cycle in this world was deplorable even to think of. There had to be a way to break it.


    "You demons have been more humanity in you than most of my kind that I''ve met," I confessed, feeling more comfortable with monsters.


    Jack chuckled, shaking his head. "Don''t get me wrong. Most of us would kill you without a second thought if we were hungry enough." He warned.


    It caused me to giggle, much to their surprise.


    "I''m sure that humans would eat me, too, with little thought if I were the only food around." I simpered, clasping onto my shirt.


    Not that it matters. I wouldn''t be alive today if you hadn''t saved me that day.


    "What a fine bride Finn has. A sweet girl with a big heart to match his." Jack smiled, patting my head like I was a small child.


    The others said similar things, leaving aches in my chest. I wouldn''t correct them, as that would pressure Finn, but the thought of being his wife wasn''t as unappealing as when I first got here. Yet it was too soon for anything like that.


    There would be no wedding bells until they were all free. Even though my feelings had turned toward the demon king, I couldn''t accept Finn''s proposal when it wasn''t genuine.


    If anything, it was made during duress.


    We spent the rest of the day decorating the castle, turning it into something it used to be long ago.


    Now, it''s a proper home for those who live here.


    Of course, with magic, everything went by quicker than I thought. And with everyone''s suggestions and colors, everything ended up being perfect. The floor had new tiles of different sizes and shades of white or black.


    All the walls were grey, along with alternating colors for d¨¦cor. Some were wine red, while others were baby blue. Every room had different curtains and decorations matching the various themes of this world, and each hall had its variety, too.


    It was finally a place of royalty once again. The central premise of the castle alluded to its original name, which Nyla let loose once we were done.


    "Dragon Heart Manor is back in business! I knew our future lady would be the best for this!" The little goblin cheered as the rest followed suit.


    Even Gael, hesitant at first, loved how his kitchen looked¡ªblack glossy gravel for his workstation, which was larger once I was done. The cabinets were all dark wood, with carvings representing different fruits, flowers, and trees, as well as fairies, which were known to inhabit the elven forests before being displaced by the haze.


    With winter coming, I kept the colors pale even though the gremlins wanted them neon.


    I can''t say they didn''t get their way in some things, but those little happy accidents made the castle feel homier than anything else.


    There was also new silverware and plates, along with new gadgets I designed with Jack, using my memory from my other world. I never thought I would see an incubus have a moment with a kitchen, but it was love at first sight for him, especially the new spatulas and whisk I had made for him in mind.


    Using a fork was fun, but it was tiresome to whip egg whites with them. For Rizak, it was all about restoring rather than changing. Though I changed the burnt curtains, placing some beautiful snow-white ones that matched him perfectly.


    Designs of the stars were also all over the walls, bringing the room closer to its celestial vibes. When I was done, the owl''s eyes sparkled. The walls were also deep blue to match his aesthetic of the cosmos.


    Nyla''s room was the only one I did light pink at her request. However, I modeled it to resemble a flower. When we got to Brielle''s room, it was an utter mess. No one had ever been there in centuries, yet I remodeled it to look simple.


    The wolf and I had never gotten along, but she was devoted to Finn.


    For so long, I thought you were a scorned lover when you were his cousin and knight. Thank you for fighting for him for so long.


    I left some pretty feminine colors and wolf sculptures around. With the endless mana demons had, they didn''t even want to be compensated for their work.


    "Anything for our lord and lady," they reassured me.


    Yet the entire ordeal left a nasty feeling in my stomach. It was like I used them, but they assured me they wanted to help, which took me a while to get comfortable. With that, we were done¡ªall but the restricted areas, such as where Finn was with his generals and one room.


    It wasn''t limited to me, but it was the one in front of me. Before calling it a day, I asked everyone to make extra things I wanted for the room we didn''t touch. After seeing them off, I took a shower, readying myself for the date I would have.


    Walking to the room in front of mine, I opened it before using a lantern to light the room to see if it was clean. No one had used this room in years, as Finn''s scent was nowhere to be found. Heck, my room had more of him than this one did.


    I closed the door and headed towards the bed before placing a dragon figurine on it. It wasn''t one of Finn''s, but his familiar. Jack had made it for me with my guidance as I tried to recall Felix from my memories.


    Sitting on his bed, I gazed out towards the window. Solas lay in front of me, resting his head on my lap. All that was left was for the demon lord to find me, which wouldn''t take long.

 Chapter 37: All Ill Give You

    Finn¡¯s room was so dark compared to the others. There were old claw marks on some walls, too.


    Is this where you ran away when you came back to your senses? Ah¡­ How lonely were you?


    When a new presence became known, I gazed at Finn standing before me.


    ¡°What are you doing in here, sweets?¡± he asked.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been to my room so many times that I thought I¡¯d visit yours,¡± I answered, touching the bed sheets.


    In this room was where you¡­ No, there¡¯s no use in thinking that.


    Sitting next to me, he leaned onto my shoulder.


    ¡°I saw what you did. It caused quite a stir within the generals who saw the new changes. It shocked me Nyla didn¡¯t tell me anything about it either.¡± He closed his eyes, resting his head on my shoulder. ¡°Oh, and Brie says she loves what you did with her room. Not that she will ever tell you that.¡±


    A soft chuckle left his lips as I laid my head on his. The warmth this man gave me was out of this world. I wore a warm, long, blue-sleeved dress for our date that reached my ankles. It had decorative flowers on it¡ªone he had made for me.


    Underneath it, I wore leggings as it was cold at night. My bad arm was still in a sling.


    ¡°Well, I wanted to lighten up the mood around this murky castle. Hope I didn¡¯t stir them too much.¡± I offered him the figurine in my hands.


    ¡°Na, they''re fine. The only one who had snarky comments was Astred, and she is irrelevant.¡± He assured me, noticing the gift.


    ¡°Wait, what¡¯s this?¡± he tilted his head, grabbing it.


    The moment he had it in his palm, his eyes widened. Unable to read his expression, I gazed towards Solas as his tail wagged. Unlike the demon, the pup was easy to read, though he didn¡¯t reflect Finn¡¯s emotions.


    ¡°Back in my world, people have pictures to remind them of¡­¡± I mumbled, fidgeting with my shirt.


    Everything he had burned down or was destroyed in the carnage after the miasma, including all his family portraits. Yet that didn¡¯t mean they had to be forgotten.


    ¡°I thought he was too pretty not to be represented here. Though I don¡¯t know if I stepped out of the comfort zone.¡± I continued, hoping I hadn¡¯t hurt him with it.


    However, running away wouldn¡¯t help either. Working up the courage, I turned to him to see a soft smile on his lips.


    ¡°No, I love it. Thanks.¡± He closed his hand, causing it to disappear and appear on the nightstand next to me.


    He seemed genuinely happy, making me jittery, especially considering what I would say next.


    ¡°Hey, Finn¡­¡± I began, triggering him to gaze at me.


    ¡°Hm?¡± he hummed, grabbing onto my left hand.


    Your touch is so warm.


    ¡°Once my hand¡¯s better. Do you think I can fix up your room? And¡­¡± I trailed off, not knowing how to finish it.


    It felt like a big ask, but¡­


    ¡°You can do whatever you want in my room. What was the other thing?¡± he answered, caressing my hand with his thumb.


    My hand was so small in his. It was hard to speak, thanks to all the butterflies fluttering in my belly.


    ¡°Serah¡­ c-can I make her resting place more comfortable?¡± I asked, bracing for an argument.


    Not that I would argue, but I couldn¡¯t shake the state of her resting place, especially when she was stuck in the in-between. However, it would hurt him to know if he didn¡¯t already know, and I didn¡¯t have the heart to tell him.


    Not when he would probably rage because of it. Serah had said she couldn¡¯t reach him. So, perhaps this was something better off staying that way.


    ¡°I¡­¡± he sighed.


    Please¡­ I don¡¯t want to leave someone so precious to you like that.


    ¡°It¡¯ll just be me and Nyla doing it the old-fashioned way. So, there won¡¯t be other people there.¡± I continued to ramble.


    In response, he grabbed me by my cheeks, tugging me up to a kiss. It was so warm and gentle that it melted me on the spot. Drawing away from my lips, he gazed at me with such affection that I froze.


    ¡°I think she¡¯ll love that.¡± Finn simpered, pressing his forehead against mine.


    A soft hum left me, enjoying the warmth emanating from him.


    I thought you¡¯d be more reluctant. Thank you for trusting me enough for this.


    ¡°I think so, too.¡± I smiled, triggering him to gaze away.


    His eyes were set on the figurine next to us.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    ¡°Just let me know when you got in there. I don¡¯t want to hurt you again. That room¡¯s tied to my nature.¡± He sighed, shifting his orbs into his left hand.


    It was the one that held me to the floor and ripped my arm.


    It isn¡¯t your fault. That was just an accident.


    ¡°Well, in my defense, I didn¡¯t even know I went there the first time. I wouldn¡¯t have gone in otherwise, even if I was curious about what you were hiding.¡± I confessed, gazing to the side.


    Like the catacombs¡­ No¡­  I¡¯ll wait until you¡¯re ready to tell me.


    He shook his head, touching my cheek, prompting me to gaze at him.


    ¡°I know. You found a secret chamber my grandfather had made to escape his wife. It didn¡¯t do him much good since he got caught by her on the way out. Grandma didn¡¯t tolerate him slacking on his duties. When I was ten, she chased him around the castle.¡± He chuckled.


    His expression was one of a man who held to that memory fondly.


    ¡°I hope you tell me more about your family one day. They seem lovely.¡± I simpered, enjoying his company more than I should have, but I couldn¡¯t help it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you mean to show you?¡± he grabbed my hand.


    ¡°No, I want to see your expression when you think of something nice. Plus, I like your voice so much. You should be a singer or something like that.¡± I leaned into him.


    It caused him to chuckle again. ¡°Only you would think that.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure I¡¯m not the only one.¡± I huffed, enjoying his warmth.


    Hearing him cackle next to me was all I needed to know that he was enjoying his time with me.


    That¡¯s what we do on dates, right? Did it even start?


    I honestly didn¡¯t know the first thing about them. All I knew was how my sister went out with boys until she found her fianc¨¦.


    I guess that dinner was a family date? Eh? Maybe?


    ¡°Hey, Finn¡­¡± I mumbled, gazing towards the figurine.


    ¡°Yes, Sparky?¡± he urged me on.


    ¡°Where will we be going tonight?¡± I asked.


    He gazed at the window, trying to judge the time. Unlike in my world, the inhabitants of this world used the phases of the sun and moon to tell time, something I wasn¡¯t good at.


    ¡°Hm¡­ it should be up already; if it isn¡¯t, we¡¯ll wait a bit when we get there.¡± He informed.


    It left me none the wiser.


    ¡°What is?¡± I mumbled, tilting my head.


    Instead of answering me, he grabbed onto my left hand.


    ¡°Come,¡± Finn smiled, leading me out into the hall.


    Quietly, I followed him through the castle¡¯s halls and onto one of the top towers¡¯ roofs. Once there, he let me go, walking towards the edge. The vast sky was above us, and while the mist was lighter at these heights, it still reached higher than I expected.


    ¡°What are we doing here?¡± I gazed around, unable to see anything else than the purple miasma below.


    However, Unlike me, Finn was staring up at the sky.


    ¡°We¡¯re making one of your wishes come true.¡± He simpered, standing on the edge.


    ¡°Hm?¡± I hummed, ¡°What?¡±


    A second later, the demon lord smirked, triggering the same explosion of feathers as before. The gust of wind that came with it. I was so close that I put my arm up to protect my eyes. However, that was short-lived.


    When the wind died, I lowered my arm to see the same beast from that day. This time, there was no red aura coming from him. However, he released a roar that rang in everyone¡¯s ears, triggering lights in the city below.


    Sticking to the edge, he slowly glanced at me, leaning his snout towards me. My heart was racing, yet it wasn¡¯t in fear but anticipation. Unable to help myself, I gawked at his magnificence.


    Why am I not afraid? Ah¡­ Some fight, run, and freeze, but some give up on everything.


    I was one of those; whoever got angry at an animal for acting on instinct was a fool.


    I can¡¯t blame a shark for biting someone in their domain or a lion who kills someone for getting too close.


    Whoever hunted them for tasting human blood were the actual murderers.


    We always act like we own everything.


    In reality, we wouldn¡¯t survive five seconds in the conditions they thrive in.


    ¡°Afraid?¡± Finn asked.


    His voice was nothing like the other time. It wasn¡¯t the one I was used to, but there wasn¡¯t any malice in it.


    I shook my head. ¡°No, can I¡­¡± I trailed off, not knowing if I could.


    He said a wish, but I didn¡¯t know which one.


    Is it my death? I don¡¯t think¡­


    I didn¡¯t want that anymore, especially if he came with me, too. Solas sat beside me, gazing at Finn. The last time he saw this form, it squished him against the ground, yet the pup stood firm. I guess we were two of a kind.


    ¡°Can you what?¡± the dragon asked, leaning closer.


    Now that I wasn¡¯t running for my life or in any distress, I could see details that eluded me the last time I saw him. I could see his snout and body were just like a canine. Even his nose was one of a cat or dog rather than a lizard.


    Perhaps you¡¯re more feline than a dog, I thought. And from my vague memory, I remember your feathers are¡­


    ¡°Touch you?¡± I announced, gazing at him straight on.


    His eyes widened again, tilting his head as a soft chuckle soon followed.


    ¡°You don¡¯t even have to ask. I told you before, I¡¯m yours.¡± Finn declared, spreading his wings wide.


    Instantly, I ran to him, crashing into one of his arms. The sudden action caused the enormous dragon to stiffen up.


    ¡°You¡¯re so beautiful, Finn. Soft, too.¡± I hummed, smothering myself into his arm.


    His feathers were more like fluffs, much like Solas''s. Their texture reminded me of the silky chickens back home. I didn''t have one, but I saw one in a pet store once. Clearing his throat, the dragon turned to the pup beside us, avoiding my comments about him.


    Though the effects of my compliments showed in his voice, ¡°S-Solas, you¡¯ll have to shrink for what comes next.¡± His voice squeaked.


    All it did was make me hug him tighter. Though, even if I could use both my arms, I wouldn¡¯t have been able to get around his arm.


    ¡°Shrink?! I can do that?!¡± Solas gasped, unaware of this ability.


    Ah¡­ right, Felix could do it.


    However, Finn¡¯s softness was too hard to pull away from to speak to the wolf.


    ¡°Oi, you¡¯re too slow for your good.¡± He huffed at the pup.


    It triggered me to puff up, tugging away from him. ¡°Hey! Don¡¯t be mean to him!¡± I pouted.


    A soft sigh left the dragon before rolling his eyes. ¡°Fine, fine. Let me show you.¡±


    In that instant, his eyes glowed, making Solas respond with a similar hue. A second later, the pup was the size of a toy Yorkie or poodle.


    ¡°Oh! Yay! Now I can sleep with Sylvia again!¡± he beamed, jumping around happily.


    ¡°I swear you spoil him.¡± Finn breathed, shaking his head.


    Picking up Solas from the floor, I placed him in my bag.


    God, I missed this! You¡¯re too cute!


    ¡°But I love him. So, of course, I¡¯ll spoil him.¡± I simpered.


    ¡°Oi, you trying to make me jealous?¡± Finn growled.


    Hm¡­? Why¡­ oh¡­


    Another opportunity rose to mess with the dragon that stole more than my arm. He had my heart and didn¡¯t know it yet.


    ¡°Hm? Shouldn¡¯t you be happy? He has a part of you in him, doesn¡¯t he?¡± I pointed out, gazing away from the dragon.


    In my hand, one of his feathers remained.


    Another bookmark. Well, a bigger one.


    Although big, it was lighter than a page of paper.


    ¡°So, you love me?¡± Finn asked, leaning his snout closer to me.


    ¡°Oh? Now we¡¯re moving too fast.¡± I giggled, knowing I was throwing him for a loop.


    ¡°Hm? What do you mean?¡± his tone dropped.


    I could imagine him frowning. Pushing his buttons was always the best, yet recently, there was no red aura attached whenever I did¡ªnothing like when we first met.


    ¡°I like you, but that¡¯s all I¡¯m giving you right now.¡± I declared, closing my eyes.


    It''s a simple lie. I love you, but I can¡¯t let you win. Not until I know you¡¯ll be fine.


    ¡°Okay, baby steps.¡± He chuckled.


    Yes¡­ baby steps. How close can I get to your heart before I can¡¯t contain my feelings anymore?


    The night was still young, after all.

 Chapter 38: Night Sky

    Feeling movement behind me, I turned to Finn.


    "What are you doing?" I asked, watching him tilt his wing to me.


    It was like he made a ladder for me to climb onto his back.


    "You''re going to ride me, Sparky." He announced, triggering a flutter of butterflies to erupt in my belly.


    It was like sparkles went up in my eyes.


    "Really?! Wait... won''t I be blown off?" I asked, slowly walking towards him and securing my bag onto me.


    For my question, I surely didn''t seem like I was backing down from riding him, which caused him to chuckle.


    "Are you doubting me?" He cackled. "I''d never let anything happen to you."


    "Hm... Okay!" I smiled, stepping onto his wing only to feel him lift it.


    Instantly, I was in free fall as a slight squeal left me before his other wing prevented me from tumbling off him. Somehow, I found myself in between them and on his back. However, my heart was in my throat.


    It wouldn''t be my first leap off a great height, but it was the first time it would be without my intention.


    "You jerk! I could''ve fallen off!" I growled, feeling the adrenaline rush through me.


    It was like electricity coursed through every nerve, raising my temperature as sharp huffs left my lips.


    "Hm... so you do have a danger sense on you. Just one that goes off late." He burst into laughter.


    Slapping his back, I couldn''t help when my eyes twitched, "It works just fine! You fucking jerk!"


    "Ah, don''t you like my teases when you constantly make me a mess? If you fell, I would''ve caught you, Sparky." He was unbothered by my aggression.


    Though I felt like plucking his feathers out because of what he did, for once, I was at the end of all the teases.


    "Oi, little king! If that happens, I might die of a heart attack!" I huffed, pouting, worming my way close to his neck.


    "That be bad. I wouldn''t have a future wife if that happened." He cackled.


    Oi, aren''t you enjoying this too much? You''d probably go too, or will you?


    That thought caused my heart to ache, withering all the anger into oblivion.


    Ah... fine, laugh at me. I''ll get my payback later. After all, you were so cute under me earlier.


    "If I ever marry you, idiot." I sighed, letting myself fall against the base of his neck.


    This was also adorable.


    "Hm... we''ll see." The dragon hummed happily.


    It made me shake my head.


    "Mhm. I guess we''ll see what happens." I grumbled, feeling exhausted after that rush of adrenaline.


    "Ready?" he asked, clinging to the edge.


    "As ready as I''ll ever be, hubby." I huffed.


    "Ah, I like the sound of that." He breathed before launching himself off the edge a second later and into a free fall.


    Instinctively, I held on to dear life, thinking it would blow me off, but the wind didn''t even hit me. While I was on his back, not even his movements affected me. The bracelet on my left wrist was glowing, locking me into him.


    Ah... you enchanted...


    Spreading his wings, he glided before flapping them, which took us up and above the castle. He circled it once, allowing me to see its state of ruin. I had fixed the interior, but the outer parts were still in the same state as the inside.


    This wasn''t his intention, though. No, he let me get used to the feeling before he got higher up.This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Heights were never my fear, though.


    Are you okay? Finn''s voice radiated within me.


    "You''re in my head?!" I gasped, jaw-dropping.


    But that means! No! You can''t!


    Solas popped his head out of the bag to see what was happening.


    "Wow! We''re so high up!" the pup wagged his little tail.


    Oh, don''t worry. I can''t read your thoughts but can transfer mine to yours. It''s hard to speak with the wind hitting my face and all. Finn informed, gaining altitude.


    Unlike me, he could feel the full gust of the wind. Caressing his feathers, I felt a tingly sensation grow within me.


    So, this was the wish...


    "I''m fine, Finn. Thank you for everything." I answered, smiling soon after.


    Nothing should surprise me, but it did. It wasn''t long before the castle was nothing but a tiny spec behind us. He was above in the clouds a second later, erasing the world under us. At that moment, it was the first time I had taken fresh air into my lungs since I got into this world.


    The miasma was below us, giving Fathal''s lands a purple hue. However, what stole my sight was the beautiful sky above us. Blow, the miasma always covered it, making the stars hard to see. However, this was more beautiful compared to the starry night I saw before I fell into this world.


    Perhaps it was because, unlike back then, I was happier than ever, and it simply took my breath away. The breathtaking array of colors shimmered like a tapestry woven from stars and stardust. No photograph of the Milky Way could capture its true beauty. The world seemed utterly majestic from high above the clouds, transporting me to another realm.


    Even the moon appeared to be bathed in a mesmerizing bluish glow. I didn''t even know what it was called in this world, and unlike the other world, there were two. One was red and was behind the other. The way the light glistened on Finn''s feathers was also extraordinary.


    It almost appeared like he was shimmering under me. I was riding a beautiful shooting star.


    "Finn... this... your world''s beautiful." I giggled, unable to take my eyes off the glistening dragon.


    Seeing him glide against the clouds made me reach for one. My fingers went through it like nothing. They always appeared so solid from below, but they were puffs of moisture. We flew for a while before leaving the mist behind, meaning we were in human territory.


    Brace, Finn warned, hitting a barrier soon after.


    Going through it was easy enough, but it caused him and Solas to groan. A second later, we both plunged towards a clearing. Everything was so blinding that I didn''t see anything until we hit the floor.


    Although it was a rough landing, Finn''s magic protected me from it. Worried, I got off him when he panted, shaking his head. A second later, he shifted into his humanoid form. He grabbed his head as a soft yellow aura radiated from him.


    "Are you okay?" I gripped his shirt.


    Solas appeared the same as him while was the same as when the night started.


    "Yeah, I''m okay, sweety. That barrier drains demons to cross it. It seems the current saint has made it stronger. What an annoying bug she is." Finn grumbled, triggering me to hug him.


    "I don''t like that feeling. It was like I was being ripped apart!" Solas whined, settling in his bag.


    Is that how you felt, too?! Evelyn''s getting stronger while I''m...


    "Why are we here?" I mumbled, snuggling in his chest.


    I wished I could help him, but my magic never came at command.


    "For our date, sweets." He chuckled, recovering faster than I thought he would.


    Solas was still shivering in the bag.


    This isn''t necessary, but I don''t want to sound like a brat after you went through all the trouble to get me here.


    Back in Fathal, every place was crawling with demons, so he probably thought it was no place for a date.


    How thoughtful can you be?


    "Hm... Does Gael have to come through it every time he comes here?" I asked, trying to think of something else.


    Finn shook his head. "No, he and other demons use tunnels and caves surrounding the border, but I can''t have you go through that; those can be dangerous around the human side. Though he''s a slippery snake, so don''t worry about him."


    Reaching to touch his cheek, ensuring those blue eyes were on me.


    "Are you really okay?" I asked.


    There was still a shimmer of gold on him. Instead of answering me, he leaned into me for a kiss, which I gladly gave him. For a few seconds, we indulged in one another. Though he eventually tugged away from me.


    "What do you think?" he smiled.


    "Pervert." I huffed, going to kiss him again.


    However, instead of letting me, my lips met with his fingers.


    "We should go, or we might miss the event." He tugged away from me.


    Leaving me feeling dejected, I sighed. This demon wasn''t easy to win. Not while he had something in mind to do.


    "Where?" I grumbled, watching him point towards where there were lights.


    A town? Why?


    "To the village there," Finn announced, smiling.


    It left me confused, gazing at him like he was crazy. When we went down, everything was a blur. I hadn''t seen the town there.


    Wait, they didn''t see us crash, right?!


    There weren''t any alarms blaring off or screaming. Surely, they would''ve been frightened if they saw a dragon crash down. Another concern grew, too. This dragon would surely...


    "But won''t they see you?" I asked.


    "Oh, sparky, who do you think you''re talking to?" he smirked, eyes shimmering.


    But... you have wings, a tail, and horns!


    "But¡ª" I began, only to stop when he snapped his fingers.


    In an instant, all the features that made him a demon were gone. My heart skipped when I saw the Finn, which I thought I would never see. It was like I was back when he was cheerful, but those eyes were the same ones I used to see, though they were starting to have a sparkle of life within them.


    "What? You look like you want to kiss me now more than before. Should I indulge in that desire of yours?" He smirked, grabbing onto my left hand.


    "How..." I mumbled, amazed.


    "Magic sweets. Though maintaining this drains me, but before you worry, I''ll be fine, I promise." Finn pressed his lips against my hand, triggering me to simper.


    There was no use in fighting him. Not while he was out to charm me. Instead, I followed him out as Solas hid in my bag. It wasn''t long until we walked in between humans. They were none the wiser that a demon lurked in their numbers.

 Chapter 39: Rose Festival

    There were roses everywhere as it was their yearly harvest festival. The entrance to the village known as Floria was decorated with various floral arrangements of varying colors¡ªsome I had never seen before.


    Walking into the small village, an older man stopped us by the entrance.


    ¡°Well, well, I didn¡¯t expect to have a lord and his lady attending this humble festival. Should we prepare an inn for you?¡± he asked, judging us by our appearance.


    Ah¡­ Do they think we¡¯re nobles?


    I glanced over to Finn, who was coldly staring at the man. The king was wearing his fur cloak, though instead of his usual comfier clothes, he wore a fancy white blouse with black pants. His shoes were made from black leather.


    Well, you¡¯re a lord, but I¡¯m not.


    Compared to the dirt on the older man¡¯s clothes, I guess I was royalty, too, which didn¡¯t make me comfortable. I used to look like him not too long ago.


    ¡°No, we won¡¯t be staying the night.¡± Finn sighed, reaching for his pocket with his free hand.


    He wouldn¡¯t let me go, no matter what, as his right hand was tightly entwined around mine, yet his hold was gentle.


    ¡°Ah, just here for the festivities, but the trek here was long? Even if you came by vortex, the lady will tire by night¡¯s end. It¡¯s a shame to leave so fast after such a travel.¡± The older man hooted, shifting his eyes toward me.


    ¡°Though, I¡¯m sad to say there¡¯s a fee to enter, my lord.¡± He continued.


    This old man was no fool; he knew we hadn¡¯t vortexed. After all, according to Rizak, all human settlements had alarms when people would teleport in. However, only humans holding runes could vortex from Fathal.


    The barrier prevented the demons from doing so. Well, without forcing their way in and alerting everyone of their arrival.


    ¡°Nothing magic can¡¯t fix. Here for your troubles.¡± The demon king pulled out ten gold coins, opening the old man¡¯s jaw.


    The older man picked up the coins and pocketed them before moving out of the way.


    ¡°Yes, my lord, please enjoy the festivities!¡± he bowed, letting us through.


    Once inside, Finn sighed, shaking his head. Though he gazed back at me to make sure I was keeping up. A second later, I was in awe. There were wooden stalls everywhere, filled with merchandise out of this world.


    Others had set up mini-games for anyone to try. Tiki lamps and other festive decorations made everything so colorful. I could tell why Nyla told me to wear shoes instead of sandals. All the roads were made of dirt, unlike the castle, which was made of stone.


    Even so, it reminded me of festivals back home. I never went to them, but my sister always brought home stuffed animals when she went with her boyfriends.


    Wait¡­ is that what Finn and I are?! Boyfriend and girlfriend?!


    My brain couldn¡¯t adjust fast enough when I smelled a delicious scent that allured me. I hadn¡¯t eaten dinner at the king¡¯s request.


    ¡°Hungry?¡± The demon king asked, watching my eyes travel to the stall with food.


    I turned to him, nodding as a soft chuckle left him before leading me towards it. There were so many tasty treats to try, but I settled to eat a weird bun I had never seen before. It melted in my mouth and was stuffed with a custard of some sort.


    Watching me eat it happily made him tell the clerk to pack up twenty to take home. I told him it was too much, but he insisted it wasn¡¯t. Dropping five gold coins into the seller¡¯s hand, I saw her pack much more than he requested.


    Not that Finn minded. With a swipe of his hand, he made it disappear.


    ¡°A simple storage spell.¡± He called it.


    I stared at him, unimpressed.


    There¡¯s no doubt you¡¯re overpaying for everything.


    I couldn¡¯t help when the sellers probably needed it. It reminded me of the tips I got back home, though I doubted that was why he was doing it. Sometimes, that extra cash would be why I ate or didn¡¯t.


    However, something from behind him caught my attention. Eating the second bun, I ran towards the merchant selling pretty accessories. I never had anything like it.


    I¡¯m used to window shopping whenever I go home, but this is so cute!The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°Want one?¡± Finn suddenly whispered close to me, startling me.


    A soft squeal left me, triggering him to laugh. The merchant joined in, too. My cheeks turned redder than before, especially with the better lighting, which allowed me to see the kiss mark I had left on him.


    So embarrassing! How can you show it off and not heal it?!


    Shifting my eyes away, I landed back on the stall.


    ¡°N-no, it¡¯ll be a waste on me. I¡¯m not pretty or girly enough for them.¡± I assured him, moving away.


    He clicked his tongue, turning his attention to the merchant.


    ¡°Which one was she looking at?¡± he asked, tone cold as ice.


    It caused the seller to stiffen up.


    ¡°O-oh, t-this one.¡± The poor man stuttered out.


    It caused me to gaze back at Finn, who picked it up¡ªa pin with a crescent moon and sun. Dropping six coins, he fixed it in my hair, picking up the bangs that usually covered my face.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take all the ones you think will be beautiful on her,¡± Finn announced, shocking me to my core.


    ¡°No, you don¡¯t have to do that!¡± I huffed, shaking my head.


    A soft smile rose on his lips. ¡°I have nothing else to waste my fortune on but you, sweetheart.¡±


    In an instant, I was defeated.


    Arg¡­ what can I say to that?!


    ¡°Don¡¯t spoil me, stupid!¡± I hugged him, trying to hide my flustered appearance.


    His money or power were things I didn¡¯t want. None of that mattered to me.


    ¡°Oh, please spoil the lady. They love it when you do. It¡¯s one way into their hearts.¡± The merchant declared.


    Finn was already overpaying for everything, which made me glare at him. Though, a slight red aura came from the king I was embracing. It caused me to shift my glance up to his face to see his lips curl downward as his eyes twitched.


    ¡°My girl isn¡¯t like that. Don¡¯t put her at the same level as your whore, worm.¡± He snapped, triggering the merchant to quickly pack trinkets in a box before handing them to him.


    I sighed, snuggling into him and prompting his gaze to come back to me.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay; don¡¯t get angry because of something so silly as that, though I¡¯ll still complain. I¡¯m not used to getting any gifts.¡± I informed, not letting go.


    His hand wrapped around my waist, tugging me closer.


    ¡°I know, sweets. I don¡¯t mind you. The only one I don¡¯t.¡± He smiled.


    His aura dissipated.


    I hummed, giggling. ¡°Does that mean I get a free pass for most things?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡± He chuckled, disappearing the box the merchant handed him.


    Behind him, I spotted an excellent little game to try.


    ¡°Want to play something with me?¡± I smiled.


    He cocked his head. ¡°What?¡± he mumbled.


    Tugging away from him, I pointed towards a stand with pots we had to knock with rubber balls.


    ¡°That. One thing, though. No magic or superpowers, okay?¡± I declared, walking to it.


    It was the only place he couldn¡¯t buy anything that caught my attention.


    ¡°Oi, you think I can¡¯t aim?¡± Finn huffed, following me.


    I giggled, almost skipping in my steps. There had never been a time when I had felt this fulfilled.


    I¡¯ve never had anyone to do this with. If there were a Ferris wheel, this date would have the perfect ending!


    ¡°We¡¯ll see¡­¡± I trailed off, not being able to call him my usual nickname.


    Little king¡­ isn¡¯t appropriate to use in the human lands.


    I didn¡¯t want him to catch unwanted attention, though, with his spending, we were already. Every merchant around wanted us to stop by.


    ¡°Oh? Challenge accepted.¡± He chuckled.


    Paying the fee, I went to throw with my left hand, only to miss right away. I wasn¡¯t used to using this hand for anything.


    A soft sigh came from me. ¡°I guess I¡¯m not as good at handling things with this one as my right.¡±


    ¡°That was your dominant?¡± Finn asked, tossing one, only to miss too.


    His failure caused me to giggle.


    ¡°Hah, see, no magic, and you can¡¯t aim!¡± I snickered, ignoring his question.


    I didn¡¯t mean for him to feel bad when I said that.


    It kind of slipped. So, just let it go.


    ¡°Oi, answer.¡± He huffed, crossing his arms.


    Crap¡­ why not take my bait?


    I shrugged, ¡°It isn¡¯t a big deal. I¡¯ll have to get better at using my left.¡±


    Seeing a frown growing on his lips, I cackled again, shaking my head.


    Such a silly demon.


    ¡°Plus, I¡¯m sure I can still kick your ass in this. Probably.¡± I smirked at him, hurling another, only to fail.


    My eyes twitched.


    I thought this was easier than this.


    A soft sigh came from him, ¡°What¡¯s the prize you want?¡± throwing another one, finally knocking all the pots down.


    Ah¡­ you were feeling sorry for me earlier.


    I shook my head, rolling my eyes.


    ¡°I already won my prize. It¡¯s playing a game with you. Somethings you can¡¯t buy.¡± I simpered, triggering his cheeks to flush pink.


    ¡°By the gods, what will I do with you?¡± Finn smiled.


    My heart throbbed, feeling something I knew I wouldn¡¯t never have returned. It wanted to pour out of me, no matter how hard I tried. Gazing away from him, I gripped my chest as he picked a prize¡ªa rose kit with perfumes, soaps, and other lovely things made from the flower.


    ¡°Love me?¡± I mumbled to myself.


    How I wish you would look at me like you did, Lillia. But I know that¡¯s¡ª


    The next moment, I found my hand in his.


    ¡°Sylvia, come.¡± He sighed, leading me away from the stall.


    Oh¡­ did you hear me? I didn¡¯t¡­


    Before I knew it, he led me away from the festivities and towards what appeared like a garden. There was a person outside, sitting at a table with a jar.


    ¡°Farmer, are all your flowers in bloom?¡± Finn asked, startling the woman.


    It appeared she was about to close for the day. Even the night sky shone bright enough for her harvest to be enjoyed, but everyone else was focused on the festivities.


    ¡°Y-yes... they are.¡± She stumbled, unable to shake off the sudden appearance.


    Dropping a bag of gold onto her table prompted her to jump again. I couldn¡¯t see his expression, but the woman appeared jittery because of it.


    ¡°Let me borrow them for tonight and ensure no one comes in.¡± The demon lord declared.


    Holding the bag in her hands, she nodded.


    ¡°Oh, yes, my lord. Please take as long as you want. I¡¯m closing for the night either way.¡± She bowed, opening the gate.


    He tugged me inside, surrounded by rose bushes¡ªall the flowers were blue. It was the most beautiful field I had ever seen¡ªand the first one I had ever seen. Leading me to the middle, he picked up a blue rose from the bush, disarming its thorns before offering it to me.


    I gazed at him, hopeful, not knowing why I was there. Grabbing onto the rose, I brought it up to my chest while he had a gentle smile on his lips. I didn¡¯t know what would be said, but I hoped things would go my way.


    If at least once in my life, I could have something...


    Anything¡­


    The only thing I wanted was this demon¡¯s heart¡ªthe one thing I couldn''t have unless he gave it to me freely.

 Chapter 40: Point of No Return

    Petals blew into the sky and around us from the sudden gust of wind.


    Finn gazed towards the side, chuckling nervously. "So, how did I do?" he asked, clenching his hands into fists.


    Why are you avoiding looking at me?


    "On the date?" I mumbled, tilting my head.


    "Mhm." He nodded, refusing to gaze at me.


    "I''ve never been on one, so I''m not the best judge," I informed him, taking a step toward him.


    Even if I was, anything with you is a dream.


    "Ah, well, neither have I. This is my first time out with anyone." He confessed, shocking me to my core.


    For a moment, I stood there, unable to say a single word.


    Especially since...


    "But¡­" I trailed off, gazing towards the side.


    Mentioning her wasn''t the best idea, though he got the message.


    "We only met in fleeting moments. Most of our interactions were through letters." He sighed, clasping his cloak.


    Right¡­ someone at the party said that. Wait¡­ wait! Does this mean this is your first date ever?!


    Realizing I got one of his first made me happier than I thought I would ever get. It was like a rush of excitement and ecstasy as my eyes sparkled.


    Hey, Finn, how many more of those can I have?


    Gazing straight at him, I waited until those blue orbs were on me again before I spoke.


    "Well, if I have to rate it, then this day has been the best thing that has ever happened to me." I beamed.


    His eyes widened, triggering him to grab onto his chest with one of his hands.


    "I''m glad you had fun." He smiled, though it wasn''t a genuine one.


    No, it was one to hide the pain as his eyes glossed before he shook his head. I never knew words could turn the happiest moment of my life into a bittersweet experience. Before I could speak, he started.


    "Sylvia, y-you have a choice to m-make right now." His voice quivered as he avoided my gaze again.


    The sudden change made me anxious.


    "What? What do you mean by a choice?" I asked, feeling knots form on my chest.


    In an instant, all the warmth from before waned, unable to rid myself of the impending doom within me.


    "Ah, you can stay here and have a normal life. You''ll be able to find a man that''ll adore you. One that can give you a better, happier life than I ever will." He began, biting onto his lip.


    "What are you¡­" I trailed off, feeling my heart drop.


    Ah¡­ Are you tired of me, or am I too broken to be used anymore?


    "I wanted to show you a different life. The world I walk in is ugly and full of horrors. It''s nothing like these humans who aren''t bound by blood lust." He sighed, shaking his head, "I won''t make you happy. Fuck! I can''t even promise I won''t rip you apart."


    My heart stung in ways I never thought it would.


    You mean the same humans that were about to kill me before you saved me? The same ones who never did anything to help me. Hey¡­ Finn.. Are you throwing me away? I thought you said we had a lifetime to figure everything out! Why are you going back on your word?!


    "Finn¡­" I mumbled, trying to speak while holding the tears inside.


    It was like a knot forming at the back of my throat, making every word bolder. This morning''s moments were becoming darker, finding myself in unstable waters that threatened to consume me.


    Ah¡­ Did I do all that while you hated it? I thought¡­ you wouldn''t take me back to the humans. I thought¡­ I was your hope. No¡­ I''m¡­


    Tears were stinging my eyes.


    Is this how it feels to be dumped before it even starts? I must''ve screwed up somewhere.


    "Sylvia, here, you can live a happy life. You won''t owe anyone anything, and I''ll leave you with more gold than you know what to do." He continued.


    Every word was like a dagger to my heart. Soon enough, there wouldn''t be anything left to shatter. I had to be strong, but I wasn''t.


    Not when it comes to you. I''m¡­


    "What about the generals and you?" I asked, voice shaking.


    Maybe¡­ if you want to be rid of me¡­ this is the best way. Yet my heart¡­ it''s so painful! My chest is an open void! I would''ve taken it if I had never known you, but now¡­ Why ?!


    I planted my eyes on the floor. Suddenly, it was like it sucked the color out of the scenery. What was once beautiful became dull, much like every walk I took back home. Something I was so used to when I was back in my world.


    Sebastian''s earlier words rang in my ears.


    Ah¡­ I''ve made a mistake. You''re throwing me out because I''m nothing but a broken tool!


    "Fuck the generals. I''ll ensure they never find you and don''t worry about me. I''ll be fine." He declared, leaving me feeling bitter.You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    Such a lair¡­ the Saint will kill you. Then I''ll also die, but that''s a blessing. Damn it! I don''t have a reason if you aren''t there! But I can''t kill myself if you and Solas are going with me too! I''m trapped!


    "Why say all these things?" I was breaking as the tears finally broke away and ran down my cheeks.


    The knot was slowly weakening, allowing my voice to go through.


    Nothing matters.


    "What?" he mumbled.


    Clenching my hands into fists, I noticed my right hand was finally responding to me.


    Ah¡­ this is so pathetic. Now you want to work?! He''s throwing me out already! Too fucking late!


    Pulling my arm out of the sling, I gazed at the demon king. Darkness was coming from me. There, I saw those eyes wide open, wary of me.


    Don''t look so surprised. You''re throwing me away. Of course, my emotions would go haywire.


    "I thought you said you wouldn''t do this. Are you throwing me away because I''m not useful to you?! Is that it?! If it''s magic you need, I''ll fucking cast it!" I declared, glaring at him.


    I''ll try harder! Please, just don''t ¡­


    His head shook. "No, Sylvia, I want you to have a choice. A real one."


    Choice¡­ Death or life¡­ I choose¡­


    A burst of broken laughter soon left me.


    "What kind of demon gives people a choice?! I never asked you for one!" I snarled soon after.


    His eyes were wide open at the sharpness of my voice.


    I guess I was being too docile, like Serena said. I can''t believe I wished for you to lock me away. Damn it! A demon doesn''t even want me! Why the hell am I even alive?


    This hurt so much more than a broken bone because, at least then, I knew what caused it. On the other hand, it felt like my mind was fracturing in ways I never knew it could.


    I never knew feeling hope could destroy me like this. Ah¡­ I''m such a¡­


    "Sylvia, listen¡ª" he started; I wouldn''t let him finish.


    More shadows formed around us, alerting my emotions all over the place. My right arm was stinging, yet I didn''t care if it fell off.


    "Hey, is it your kink to get into someone''s heart and then rip it apart?" I asked, tilting my head.


    There was no way he would ever care for someone who represented the being that killed Serah.


    I''m a fucking saint. The thing that ruined everyone''s life in Fathal! Of course, you hate me! I''m nothing but a liability to you! Useless! I can''t even do my job right!


    I was such a fool for allowing him in. Everything I did this morning was so humiliating that my blood boiled. Yet getting high on that feeling that would never be reciprocated was my fault. He never once told me it was possible; even so, I¡­


    "No, Sylvia, it isn''t like that. You''ll only see death with me. I might end up killing you, too. So, don''t say I''m in your heart. I won''t¡ª" he tried to get a word in, but I wouldn''t let him lie anymore.


    This fa?ade would end, but not in the way he wanted.


    Ah¡­ I should''ve made you mine at least once while you still tried to court me. At least I wouldn''t have regrets about things I''ll never experience with you. Eh¡­ at least I got this night and the other moments.


    It''s better than nothing.


    "Won''t what? Love me?" I asked, silencing him right where he was.


    He winced, "Sylvia¡ª" I continued before he could say anything.


    "Oh, don''t feel bad. No one ever will. No one ever does." I broke, gripping onto my arms. "So, I fucking know you won''t love me too. You''ve told me multiple times you won''t, and I don''t expect you to!"


    Tears beamed down my cheeks, triggering me to clasp onto my shirt.


    Ah, it hurts so much! You''re no different from all the others. No one will ever love me. Why do I keep hoping for it?! I''m so stupid!


    At that moment, it felt like my world was asunder, especially with all the fake moments he gave me.


    This sweet angel is a devil in disguise.


    I had let myself fall too deep without even realizing it.


    Did I even try to stop it? No¡­ I didn''t. I fell right into it willingly. All while hoping to win your heart. One you told me I would never have. I''m such a fool.


    "What''s there to love about me? I don''t have a redeeming quality! I''m useless to everyone! Not even a demon wants me! How pathetic can I be?!" I snapped, tugging on my dress with my right hand.


    It caused the shadows to thicken around me before freezing where they were.


    "Sylvia, that isn''t true. I¡ª" Again, I wouldn''t let Finn speak.


    No¡­ no more lies¡­ no more hope¡­ no nothing¡­ I''m tired, Finn. Please, just¡­ end my misery.


    "What the fuck are you talking about?! Aren''t you throwing me out?!" I questioned harshly.


    "No, I¡ª" he went on to argue again.


    I wouldn''t let him. His words would only hurt me more.


    No¡­ I''m done hoping for a future that will wither away at a whim.


    "I don''t want your luxury! Take back this bracelet and kill me! End my miserable existence once and for all! I''m done hoping for something better to come! It never does!" I declared, offering my left hand to him.


    Those words alerted him to something other than what I intended.


    "You know?" he mumbled, narrowing his eyes.


    A soft, broken chuckle left me.


    Of course, that''s what you care about.


    "The stupid goddess who gave me this fucking magic visited in my dreams last night. She spoiled me everything. How this world is fucked, and I''m some last-hope bullshit. I''m nothing. So, jokes on her." I answered, feeling hollow inside.


    I made a fool of myself in front of her, too.


    It wasn''t like anything mattered anymore. A second later, Finn cupped my cheeks, leaving me a sobbing mess while I grabbed onto his wrists.


    "Okay, enough, you don''t even let me finish. So, hush and let me speak." He sighed, using his thumbs to wipe my tears away, but more replaced them.


    "No! I don''t want to hear anything!" I cried, shaking my head.


    "Hey, I said a choice, right?" he simpered, calming me down for a moment.


    "What? Why does it matter?!" I mumbled, trying to hold on to myself.


    His warmth radiated into me, triggering the shadows to slowly dissipate and allowing the color to return to my world.


    "Your second choice is to come back with me. I''ll probably end up hurting you in more ways than you deserve." His voice broke a bit before tugging me closer. "Sylvia, you''ll see me do ugly things and might even hate me." He continued, holding me close.


    His grip was firm, yet I didn''t want to run away. Instead, I held onto him for dear life.


    "Even if you do come to hate me, I won''t let you go. So, this is your last chance to run away from the fucking mess I am." His voice cracked, pulling me into his arms.


    Holding me tightly, I felt his hands tremble while his heart was going a million beats per minute. Instantly, my tears were gone as the heavy fog that had settled in my heart lifted.


    "If you don''t push me away right now. I''m going to embrace you in this flower field." He warned.


    Should that make me want to run away? Stupid demon¡­


    Snuggling into his chest, I breathed, trying to get a better grip on myself. My answer was obvious, even to him.


    "Fuck me¡­ and never let me go, please?" I mumbled.


    He held me tighter.


    "Don''t say I didn''t give you a way out." Finn chuckled nervously.


    It triggered me to meet with his blueish eyes to see his pupils narrowed again.


    "I never wanted one," I assured him.


    Once again, we were on the point of no return. This time, though, I was sealing my fate with his. Not that I wanted anything else. No, I welcomed this with my heart and soul and wasn''t taking a no for an answer.


    A soft smile rose on his lips. "You''re more than a hope. Sylvia, you''re the spark that set my dead heart to beat again. I care about you more than I thought I could."


    Again, hope filled my heart, and it wasn''t something I could stop¡ªnot when I wanted it so badly.


    "Please¡­ don''t tell me something you don''t feel." Tears stung my eyes.


    My right shoulder ached, yet I held onto him, not wanting to let go.


    "I don''t know if this is love, but I''ve never felt it since I turned. You''re becoming the most important jewel in my hoard." He simpered, trailing his hand down towards my waist.


    The other was on my cheek, which I leaned into.


    "Baby steps?" I mumbled, feeling bittersweet aches in my chest.


    He nodded, leaning into me.


    "Yeah, baby steps," Finn whispered, brushing his lips against mine.


    I knew our future was filled with hardships, yet this moment would be one of the blissful ones we would have.


    Ah¡­ please, time stop at this moment¡­


    Clasping onto his cheeks, I deepened the kiss, searching for more of his warmth. This demon was something I never wanted to let go of. He quickly responded by placing his cloak on me, and a second later, we fell into a space free of bushes.

 Chapter 41: Roses of Passion

    Under Finn, the moonlight appeared to glisten in his hair. Saliva dripped down my chin when he tugged away from my lips, filling my lungs with air. Rose petals surrounded us as we used his fluffy cloak as a bed. Though with each gust of wind, petals would fly by if not caught by our bodies.


    However, my eyes didn¡¯t part from the demon before me. No, he was the most beautiful thing there.


    ¡°Should I rip your dress off?¡± he smirked, trailing his hands on my covered chest.


    If he wanted, he could¡¯ve ripped it without even asking.


    ¡°No, how will I get home if you do?¡± I huffed, struggling to undo the buttons on his shirt.


    This needs to come off! Now!


    A soft chuckle came from him, grabbing my hands with his.


    ¡°My cloak was perfect for you last night.¡± He smirked, gazing at my right arm.


    It still was twitchy but responding better.


    ¡°But we aren¡¯t home! Plus, it has buttons to undo it on the front.¡± I informed the last bit in a mumble.


    Seconds later, I realized how it sounded¡ªsomething he caught on to.


    ¡°Hm¡­ were you hoping this is where we would end tonight?¡± he hummed with a sly smile.


    In an instant, my cheeks felt like they would burn off.


    You aren¡¯t wrong! But¡­


    ¡°Pervert, I just liked it,¡± I huffed, covering my face with my hands.


    Ah¡­ this can¡¯t be real. After feeling like my heart was about to die, it¡¯s like exploding, and I can¡¯t stop smiling!


    ¡°Hm, right.¡± He chuckled, undoing my dress''s buttons before grabbing my right hand with his left. ¡°Hey, how¡¯s your arm?¡±


    Finn was probably worried that I had destabilized it again, and I probably did. However, this time, it caused the opposite effect. I felt more feeling rushing through it, and it wasn¡¯t stinging anymore.


    ¡°It¡¯s responding now. Still off, though.¡± I answered, gazing at him again.


    Are you going to stop?


    ¡°The surge of magic probably affected it. Let me know if you feel anything, and don¡¯t overdo it.¡± He sighed, entwining my right hand with his left.


    Tugging on the ends of my dress, he exposed my upper body to him, along with my leggings. However, he didn¡¯t let go of my hand when he trailed his fingers on my skin, triggering me to shiver.


    ¡°W-wait, Finn¡­ can you end the illusion for me at least?¡± I suddenly asked, feeling off.


    Although this was his old form, it wasn¡¯t who he was in the present, and I wanted his authentic self to hold me.


    ¡°You¡¯re strange. Don¡¯t you want to be held by something that looks at least human?¡± he cocked his head, cheeks rosy.


    ¡°No, I want you,¡± I announced, grasping his shirt. ¡°Please?¡±


    It caused his cheeks to go red, and the blush reached his ears.


    He cleared his throat, shaking his head, ¡°W-well, the real me might be too big for you. You don¡¯t want to be ripped in two, right?¡±


    His tone was high-pitched by the end.


    ¡°I know, but¡­ at least your demi form,¡± I mumbled, focusing on him.


    A soft sigh left him, pressing his lips against mine for a second before tugging away.


    ¡°You¡¯re adorable. I guess you¡¯ll have to do for this me.¡± He snapped his fingers, breaking the illusion in my eyes.


    He couldn¡¯t dissolve it if someone sneaked by, but it was all I needed.


    ¡°Better?¡± he simpered.


    I nodded, touching his cheek with my left hand. ¡°Perfect.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡± He chuckled, leaning into my touch.


    Shivers ran down my spine, feeling his tail slip into my leggings before pulling them down. Even though the wind was so chilly, I couldn¡¯t feel it. No, all I felt was the blaze Finn left behind whenever he touched me.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let go of this hand. So, you can¡¯t either, okay?¡± he announced.


    I nodded, though I didn¡¯t know why he said that. Undoing the buttons on his shirt that I had failed to get, he grabbed my left hand, placing it on his chest.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡¯m just as nervous as you.¡± He whispered, allowing me to feel his heartbeat through my palm.


    It was going as fast or faster than mine. All the kiss marks were still there on his skin, much like the one he left me was still there. Softly, I dragged my hand down his chest, triggering him to shiver.


    ¡°Cute,¡± I mumbled, watching his reaction to my touch.


    ¡°You really aren¡¯t normal, and that¡¯s okay. I¡¯m going to devour you slowly.¡± A soft smile rose on his lips.


    Trailing his free hand on my breast caused me to tremble before he cupped and squished it, triggering me to whimper. Leaning into my chest, I felt his breath before his tongue lapped my nips. Instinctively, I grabbed onto his hair, feeling a new sensation I hadn¡¯t ever felt before.


    My back arched, feeling his fangs brush against my skin. However, that didn¡¯t stop him from sucking on my sensitive nobs into his mouth as his tongue danced around them. My right hand trembled to hold on to him, yet he never let go.


    Is any of this real? Am I here with Finn, or did I fall asleep somewhere?


    Spreading his wings upward, I noticed that faint blue aura coming from him. Some tips of the feathers were turning purple, which reflected on the base of his horns, too. With every suck, it felt like he was leaving little marks everywhere on my skin.


    Tugging away from my breast, he stole my lips. His tongue roamed my mouth, prompting me to hum when I felt his hand trail down my navel and into my vulva. I didn¡¯t even notice when his tail tugged off my underwear, but it was coiled around my right leg.


    I spread my legs for him thinking it would be better, allowing him to trail his fingers through my sensitive bell and slits. A mewl escaped me while kissing, prompting him to tug away me. Licking his lips, his eyes glowed brighter than I had ever done.


    ¡°So, fucking cute. You¡¯re so wet. I think anything will slip right in.¡± He purred, sliding a finger into me.


    It caused me to wince, prompting him to kiss my forehead.


    ¡°Does it hurt?¡± he asked, pushing it more profoundly.


    I could feel his long nails against my walls, but that wasn¡¯t why I flinched. No, it felt so weird to have anything in me.


    Shaking my head, I grabbed onto his shirt again. ¡°No, it feels weird. I don¡¯t know if I like it or not.¡± I mumbled, feeling jittery.


    ¡°Oh, sweety, it¡¯s only going to worsen as this is your first time.¡± He sighed, shifting his weight.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    However, I grabbed his hand with my left before he could take his finger out.


    ¡°Are you going to run again?¡± I huffed.


    A smirk rose on his lips, grabbing tighter into my right hand.


    ¡°You never react like I think you will. Sweets, you don¡¯t know the ways you stir me in. Fuck it. I¡¯ll let go of my sanity. Now, don¡¯t cry too loudly.¡± Finn warned, filling me with another finger.


    I gasped when I felt them searching for something within my walls. It felt like I reached the stars instantly, triggering a sharp mewl left me.


    ¡°What was that?!¡± I squealed


    He licked his lips, ¡°Found it.¡± before brushing his fingers against it again.


    A softer mewl left me, prompting me to buck my hips into his hand. With every stroke, my world flickered as pleasure came in waves with every push and tug.


    ¡°Finn, I feel weird!¡± I whined, triggering a soft chuckle to come from him.


    The next moment, he was trailing kisses down my neck, onto my bosom, and down my navel. All the while, the rhythm of his fingers never stopped. It was like he left a trail of fire everywhere he touched.


    Each push caused a new feeling to grow at my core, leaving knots to form as a tingling sensation followed them. Unable to help it, my hips searched for more. However, before I could reach my peak, he tugged his fingers out of me, licking them.


    ¡°By the way, you¡¯re the beautiful one here. I hope you know that.¡± Finn lapped his limbs before using that same hand to hold my left leg further apart.


    Ah¡­ You¡¯re still¡­


    His tail tugged on the other one, triggering me to get jittery. I closed my eyes to brace, thinking he would enter me, only for my eyes to fly open, mewling when I felt his tongue trail through my slits.


    ¡°Wait, Finn, that¡¯s not clean!¡± I yelped, attempting to sit up, only to freeze when I felt it go into me.


    We had walked so much that I surely didn¡¯t smell as lovely as I would if I showered. Tugging out his tongue to me, he lapped my bell before sucking on it, prompting me to whine louder than before. A second later, my body twitched, feeling my mind white out as a sensation washed over me.


    All my nerves washed away, leaving me jittery at any touch. My breath came in luxury, as I couldn¡¯t find enough. I hadn¡¯t realized I was clasping Finn¡¯s hair harder than I intended. Not that he minded it.


    Instead of caring for my rough handling, he continued to lap the nectar that came out of me¡ªleaving me tender to every touch that he gave me.


    Oh¡­ If sex feels this good all the time, I can tell why some people get addicted to it. This is¡­ amazing!


    Losing my grip on him, I gazed to the side, trying to set my head in place. Petals had fallen all around us as I reached for one.


    Ah¡­ Did the scenery¡­. Was it always this peaceful?


    However, before I could grab it, he tugged on my right hand, prompting me to glance back at him. The demon lapped his lips like he had a good meal.


    The base of your horns is entirely purple. Why¡­


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t look away. It isn¡¯t over yet.¡± He simpered, undoing his pants.


    Right, you haven¡¯t¡­


    I clasped his hand while he used his tail to tug his pants and underwear down. My eyes widened upon seeing the monstrosity I was supposed to welcome in. It was thicker than a dildo I found once in Evelyn¡¯s room when I cleaned it, and I thought that was big, but this was something else.


    What¡¯s that snake called¡­?


    While the one I saw in my sister¡¯s room was a viper. This one was a python.


    ¡°W-wait. T-that w-won¡¯t f-fit!¡± I squealed, feeling my heart race.


    A smirk formed on his lip like I had complimented him. However, there was also slight annoyance in his eyes.


    ¡°Oh, Sparky, I gave you so many outs. Now you want to run away. Nuh-uh. Not happening. You¡¯ll be fine, trust me.¡± He assured me, stroking himself as his tail coiled again around my leg.


    That¡¯s true¡­ but¡­ I didn¡¯t know you had a weapon down there!


    Before I could speak, though, he mumbled something.  ¡°Well, at first, it will hurt, or so I¡¯ve been told. I¡¯ve never had a virgin before.¡±


    A shrug followed it, causing my eyes to twitch.


    ¡°I-I t-think you¡¯re going to kill me!¡± I yelped, feeling him press his tip against my entrance.


    Although my mind said run, my heart told me to stay. It was a clash of emotions, though deep down, I didn¡¯t want to stop, even if I was scared.


    ¡°Oi, I¡¯m not stopping.¡± He huffed, making me feel both relieved and conflicted.


    Why are my emotions never in control when you¡¯re involved?!


    ¡°B-but¡ª¡± I tried to protest without moving from where I was.


    No, nothing would make me move. However, instead of pushing it in, he rubbed it against my vulva, smothering it in his saliva and my nectar.


    ¡°It¡¯s smaller than a baby''s head, and that comes out of you. So, you¡¯ll be fine. Plus, it¡¯ll fit snugly in your womb.¡± He smirked, caging me under him, still holding my right hand in his as he promised.


    The other was beside my head, holding him up.


    ¡°B-but¡­¡± I trailed off, not having the will to fight.


    I wanted it, too.


    ¡°Scratch me if it hurts too much. I have a spell that would make it feel better, but I can¡¯t cast it on you. Your arm might become even more unstable if I do.¡± He informed me, rubbing himself against my entrance.


    Another moment, I hugged him, wrapping my left arm around his side before planting my hand on his back. All I felt was his feathers since barely any skin was on his back. Not that it made me pull away from it.


    No, I didn¡¯t care that he was a Half-dragon.


    ¡°F-fine! D-do i-it, but if you rip me apart! I¡¯ll cry!¡± I warned, feeling the nerves go haywire.


    Finn chuckled as a soft smile rose on his lips. His body''s aura was even more intensely colored than the rose petals around us, leaving me in awe.


    ¡°You can cry even if I don¡¯t.¡± He kissed my forehead.


    I felt him use his tail to line himself with me a second later. It was also tightly wrapped around my waist to prevent me from jolting away. A sharp cry left me, feeling his tip slide in.


    ¡°It hurts!¡± I yelped, getting tenser with each centimeter it went in.


    It was like I was being torn apart.


    ¡°Relax, baby girl, you¡¯re okay,¡± he whispered, holding my head to his chest.


    My fists were full of his feathers, as my other one held onto his for dear life. Tears welled up in my eyes, feeling every bit of him go into me.


    A soft groan left his lips, ¡°Ah, good girl, just a bit more.¡± he murmured, filling me to the brim soon after.


    Once in me, my legs would quiver if they weren¡¯t being held. The pain of being penetrated for the first time by something was almost too much for me. Yet compared to all the beating I had endured, this pain was sweeter than all the others, especially the warmth that came after when Finn held himself in place, waiting for me to get used to his shape.


    That alone was more filling than anything else I had experienced. When I finally relaxed my hold on him, I fell against the cloak, panting. Blood had seeped into my dress from our union, yet I didn¡¯t care. Gazing at the demon who held me in his sweet embrace, I saw his eyes give a brighter neon blue hue than before.


    There was also a blue tone inside his pupils. Soft pants were coming from him, which looked like¡­


    Is this painful for you, too? I didn¡¯t¡­


    ¡°D-Does it h-hurt too?¡± I mumbled, struggling for air.


    His eyes narrowed, shaking his head. ¡°No, this is the best feeling I¡¯ve ever had, and I¡¯m struggling to control myself, but I don¡¯t want to hurt you.¡±


    Biting onto his lip, a soft sigh left him soon after, ¡°Fuck! I feel like I¡¯m melting in you.¡±


    He leaned into me before I could form coherent thoughts; however, he stopped above my lips.


    ¡°You''re holding me so tightly down there, baby girl; I feel I¡¯m going to fuse into you.¡± He whispered, brushing his with mine.


    I¡¯m glad¡­ You like it.


    The kiss soon turned sloppy as we made out as what felt like seconds turned into minutes. He was using his tongue to draw the desire to fuck me into kissing me. Saliva dripped down my chin, giving away to the pain that melted, leaving behind a feeling I wasn¡¯t used to.


    No, before I knew it, I convulsed under him, triggering him to tug from my lips.


    ¡°Did you¡­?¡± he mumbled, knowing what happened.


    My walls tightened on his member, allowing me to feel him twitch in the rhythm of his heartbeat. This was much more intimate than a kiss, leaving me dazed.


    ¡°Fuck, can I?¡± Finn cursed, reaching his limit.


    I nodded, trailing my hand on my abdomen. ¡°Please indulge yourself in me.¡±


    His eyes widened; it was almost as if something snapped within him. The next moment, I felt him pull out of me before shoving himself into me. Soft curses and groans left him picking up a rhythm soon after. It was rough, but I couldn¡¯t complain.


    Well, I don¡¯t have a reason to when I get to see your expression become a mess, much like me.


    Every push made his tip kiss my womb, while every pull left me feeling empty. Sweat dripped from him and onto me when our skins brushed against each other. The squelching sound filled my senses whenever our skins slapped or tugged away.


    It wasn¡¯t long before I found my peak again, releasing every knot built. All the while, Finn continued to find pleasure in himself. Feeling him tug and shove into me as I rode my high made my voice run wild.


    ¡°Finn!¡± I mewled, sliding my hand from his back onto his pec.


    My reward for calling his name was for him to rob me of my breath with another lock of our lips. His tongue was caressing me in ways I never knew I could feel. I was filled in more ways than I could comprehend, turning my mind mush.


    Tugging away from my lips, a string of saliva connected us. Licking it away, I chased his lips, brushing against them again, feeling him push into me again.


    ¡°Inside or out?¡± he suddenly asked before I could deepen the kiss, not stopping his movements.


    My mind was too muddled to think clearly, focusing on his expressions, which I wanted to memorize.


    ¡°What?¡± I mumbled, mewling right after feeling him pull and shove into me.


    Much like he had said earlier, the pain was almost nowhere to be felt, melting away before leaving behind pleasure.


    ¡°Do you want me to cum inside you or outside, sweets?¡± he clarified, leaning into me and kissing my forehead.


    His tail was still enveloped around my waist. Everything was too warm. My heart spoke before my brain.


    ¡°Inside,¡± I mewled, feeling him pick up his pace.


    Though it was slowly getting sluggish, too, his cheeks were bright pink, and his expression was of a man chasing after his ecstasy.


    Ah¡­ another expression I want you always to have, but this one is for me alone.


    ¡°Okay, you better cum with me too.¡± He murmured, rubbing his tail on my bell.


    A whine left me, feeling everything reaching its peak again.


    ¡°Finn! I can¡¯t hold it in!¡± I mewled, tugging on his shirt.


    It was hard to fight the sensation that had consumed my senses more than once.


    ¡°Fuck! You¡¯re getting tighter. Let it go, I¡¯m going¡ª¡± he started, only to groan soon after.


    My world flickered again, feeling filled by him as he exploded at my core. His member was twitching madly, packing me with his seeds. The sensation caused my body to convulse under him, making him hold me tight.


    Even if this wasn¡¯t love, this was an embrace I didn¡¯t want to let go of. I would gladly accept it if it were all I would ever know, especially when it came from the demon that stole my heart. In this sweet union, the one thing that stuck out was the scent of roses, which reminded me of him alone.


    If only you¡¯d love me, too, but that¡¯s too much for someone like me to wish for. This, whatever it is, must be enough.

 Chapter 42: Turn of Events

    Rough pants left me when Finn tried to catch his breath, too. Any slight movement made me twitch. However, when he pulled out of me, I felt utterly empty. Instinctively, I reached for my lower abdomen, only to feel it tingle under my fingertips.


    Watching me, he finally let go of my right hand.


    "Hey, baby girl, are you okay?" he whispered, leaning into me.


    It caused his heat to rub against my vulva.


    You''re still...


    Even though he was unsatisfied, my novice body couldn''t keep up with him, and he wouldn''t push it either. Softly, I nodded, feeling my lower extremities numb.


    "I see," He sighed, tugging them together before I felt him thrust himself in between my legs.


    His movement rubbed my bell with each push, prompting me to whine.


    "Let me use your thighs for a bit, okay?" He hummed, leaning back as his hips bucked into me, attempting to find pleasure for himself.


    I didn''t mind it. However, the shape of his heat was more apparent when I saw it poke in between my thighs with every push, making me get skittish, especially when I felt him rub me, too.


    His eyes were half open as he licked his lips.


    Best You''ve ever had. How''s that possible? I''m...


    Before I knew it, I reached out for him with my right hand, triggering him to entwine it with his again. A soft smile rose on his lips, using his other one to hold my legs together with his tail.


    "Finn, I..." I mumbled, feeling close again.


    My inexperienced body was going haywire. I didn''t notice how hoarse my voice was until I called out to him.


    "Let it go as many times as you want. I don''t mind." His voice was husky, too.


    A second later, I trembled under him, feeling bliss wash over me again.


    "So, fucking cute. I want to bury myself in you again, but I''m scared to hurt you." He chuckled, letting me ride out my high as I became a panting mess.


    However, he suddenly peered around instead of continuing with what he was doing. It was almost as if something spooked him. His expression broke me from my trance.


    "Finn?" I mumbled, gripping his hand tighter.


    A red aura suddenly erupted from him, washing away the blue that had taken hold before.


    "Sparky, I need you to get decent." He announced, letting go of my legs.


    His disdainful tone caused me to cover myself with his cloak quickly. A bright light shone in the sky a second later, but he didn''t move away from me. I grabbed onto the bag Solas was in before the demon king yanked me into him.


    He held his arm up, creating a barrier of crimson fire around us, repelling the arrows sent our way. His aura grew more prominent with each second as all the parts that had turned purple were back to crimson.


    "Fucking knights..." Finn growled, holding me close.


    The arrows had disappeared, leaving the surrounding area unharmed, unlike his fire, which set the surroundings ablaze. My demon king''s demeanor worsened, yet he didn''t move away from me. However, there was something off about him.


    Finn had been sluggish since we passed the barrier; even Solas had been extremely quiet since we arrived. It was almost as if he was sleeping because there weren''t any movements in his bag.


    Did the barrier do more than you want me to know?


    "Fuck! Is that a fire?! I knew that man was a demon! He probably ate the girl!" the merchant from earlier spoke from the distance.


    Did he report us? But how would he even...


    There was a lot I didn''t know about this world, but I remembered how that elven girl tried to open a portal. There had to be a way for long-distance communication, even if they weren''t called phones.


    "You said he had a girl?" a familiar voice asked.


    Isn''t that... Yes, that man with the shield? Why''s he here?! Wasn''t he part of the Saint''s companions?! Don''t tell me they''re all here. If they are... Finn...Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    They were closer than I felt safe with, and worse was that the demon lord''s aura became thicker with every second that passed. Struggling to get my leggings up, I fell onto his wing, triggering him to gaze at me.


    "Careful, sweets." He sighed, unable wholly to focus on me.


    Luckily, the fire around us hadn''t burned everything down, allowing the tall bushes to hide us from plain view. Wherever they were, they didn''t know where we were since the fire was spreading fast, yet the flames or smoke didn''t bother me.


    The arrows from before had been set to draw us out. Either way, we couldn''t dawdle. Even so, my legs felt like slush. So many questions were ripping through my mind, but they would all have to wait, especially when they continued to speak.


    "Yes, I''m sure she''s either a demon or charmed! It''s a pretty little thing. I feel bad for her. Eaten by a demon isn''t a good way to go." The merchant answered.


    Oi... I don''t need any rescue!


    "Well, it''s a good thing we were camping nearby. We''ll make sure this fire beast won''t eat anyone else." Another familiar voice chuckled.


    That''s the man with the bows and daggers.


    However, their names slipped me by. I tugged on Finn''s loose shirt, triggering those crimson eyes to turn toward me.


    "We have to leave," I whispered, struggling to get my dress in order.


    Luckily, his coat was more than enough to cover me. His eyes quickly traveled back towards where the voices were.


    "If I transform now, I''ll crush you, and I can''t cast an advanced spell on you to teleport us out. Not with your arm like that." He informed me low enough for no one else to hear him.


    Feeling something drip into my underwear, I clasped onto his feathers.


    "Something feels weird," I mumbled, pressing my legs together.


    It almost caused me to tumble over. Luckily, Finn grabbed me before I fell onto the floor.


    "What are you doing, Sparky?" he sighed.


    "It isn''t my fault! Everything''s new to me, and something''s dripping down my tights!" I growled, huffing at him.


    The demon lord softly chuckled, leaning into me before his lips claimed mine again. In an instant, it was almost as if he calmed down my worries, gripping his arm around me while the humans continued to comment.


    "Spread out and find the demon. I''m sure we have it surrounded." The guy with the shield declared.


    They probably thought it was a lesser demon. If they only knew it was the demon king himself. Our night was good until now, and I didn''t want it to end in bloodshed. However, this was what Finn warned me about.


    A life with you will surely surround me with death.


    This was something I wouldn''t run away from. Nor did I want to. However, before I could even see what was happening, Finn''s wings spread wide, picking me up in his arms before jolting into the sky. However, unlike before, the drag of the air was on full blast.


    I saw bright lights follow us in the blur that everything had become as I held onto him for dear life before he suddenly slammed into a wall. The force caused me to slip from him and my bag, which ripped upon impact before falling into the unknown.


    The separation came with the sound of bone-crunching.


    For a brief moment, I could see the barrier he hit up in the air. This time, it was a solid wall instead of an annoyance. However, instead of worrying for him, I plummeted towards the ground. My voice failed me before something grabbed me, saving me from becoming a pancake on the floor.


    Once safe, I saw Solas had broken my fall as Finn dropped straight onto the floor beside us. The pup was injured, too, as blood was visible on his white fur.


    The pain probably was what woke him up. Again, that weird light effect was going through them. Getting off the wolf, I ran to Finn, who was struggling to heal worse. Grabbing onto his cheeks, I could see he was more lethargic. Blood drenched his hair and face as he struggled to breathe. The barrier was weakening him for every second we spent in it.


    Solas was lucky to feed off my magic, keeping him in a better state than the demon king.


    How long... were you feeling this way?!


    Using all that magic to create the illusion hurt him more than he let on. Even though demons had infinite mana, the barrier appeared to affect them differently than it used to. My sister had made it dangerous for them to come and feed.


    Is this what Serena was warning me about?! Ah... I need to heal you! Wait no! My magic is just like... Damn it! I don''t know what to do!


    "Fuck, that bug managed to make something troublesome." Finn winced, trying to get up, but his legs gave out.


    My magic would probably make it worse since it was the cause of his affliction. Even if he was still struggling to heal, I couldn''t do anything to help him. The barrier probably made demons weaker while in it, too. It was only a matter of time before...


    The only way you can...


    "Feed off me to heal yourself!" I announced.


    There was no doubt that they would take a few minutes to find us, and this demon would be hindered with me around.


    "No, I''ll¡ª" he started, but I wouldn''t have it.


    Instead of listening to him, I crashed my lips onto his.


    Licking the blood off his lips, I smirked. "Devour me already, you silly little demon king."


    His eyes glowed brightly. However, before he could do anything, something grabbed me from behind as lights bound both Finn and Solas to the ground soon after they yanked me away.


    "Phew, I got to you in time." The earlier archer smiled.


    I wanted to scream Finn''s name, but somehow, they hadn''t identified him. Probably, the illusion spell he had for everyone else was working, but for how long, I wouldn''t know. All I knew was if I screamed his name, it would''ve been the same as damning him.


    These people had golden weapons, and on top of the demon lord was the man with the shield¡ªa saint''s companion. Yet...


    Why didn''t they try to kill us? Why capture us?


    A question I couldn''t answer.


    "Aw, couldn''t run away with your meal?" he snickered, thinking he was victorious.


    The only reason Finn hadn''t retaliated was that I was too close. His aura erupted from his body as the party was none wiser. It wouldn''t be long before he exploded, and it got worse when they took me away from him.


    The man turned towards me and held me by my shoulders as I struggled to keep the cloak on me. This dream had turned into a nightmare.


    "Are you okay?" He smiled, leaving knots in my belly.


    They didn''t know who I was, which was another blessing in disguise. However, after everything we did, having another man touch me was unsettling. My body still felt jittery, and I wanted to shove him away, but it would''ve put me in the spotlight if I had.


    However, the moment I saw the shield man stab Finn with his sword through his wing and into his back, my mind went blank.

 Chapter 43: Unsuspected

    I lost my mind when I saw the blade go into Finn¡¯s wing and back.


    ¡°Don¡¯t hurt him!¡± I screamed, trying to yank myself away from the man who held me but couldn¡¯t.


    His hand was like a cuff that wouldn¡¯t let go, no matter how hard I tried. Though from up close, I got to see his pointy ears. His green orbs were staring at me as if I was insane.


    Oh, right, this one¡¯s an elf.


    Their sigils were active, shining through their clothes as the darkness of the night revealed them while hiding our authentic selves.


    ¡°Woah, Jasper, is she charmed?¡± the shielded man questioned, stepping off the demon.


    They all looked at me like I was crazy, which I was from their point of view. There wasn¡¯t a human in this land that would protect a demon. Let alone one that was trying to eat them, but I wasn¡¯t a misplaced villager.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Ezekiel. I¡¯m no mage. Is the beast restrained?¡± The elf announced, struggling to hold me.


    However, hearing me scream at them vanished Finn¡¯s aura, and his eyes shimmered wide open because of my defiance.


    ¡°I¡¯m not charmed or a damsel in distress! Get your fucking hands off me!¡± I snapped, triggering shadows to erupt out of me.


    The elf quickly retreated from me, instigating everyone to back away when it spread towards them. However, the moment it touched Finn and Solas, it melted the bonds that held them to melt away.


    Curses left our attackers'' lips when they realized I wasn¡¯t a random village girl. No, I was the saint they sought the last time they invaded my home.


    Yes¡­ I finally have one that won¡¯t be taken from me!


    It was the only place where no one hurt me because they wanted an outlet. The only pain I felt was because I wished for it.


    Because I asked for it!


    After all, I ran towards a mad dragon of my own accord, and what happened in the rose field was because I decided it.


    Yes, I gave myself willing to Finn, who would let me go if I had decided to walk away. For the first time, I wasn¡¯t forced or coerced. It was all my choice. They won¡¯t take you or Solas away from me! I refuse to leave their sides!


    Shadows continued to get thicker, responding to my emotions, allowing me to run towards where the demon king was before it went dark. Something yanked me down towards the floor, only to find myself in the arms of who I wanted.


    I could hear Solas and the other soldiers screaming and growling. The wolf kept them busy, which was a new side to him as I never knew he could be so fierce.


    ¡°Sparky, you''re something.¡± Finn chuckled, holding me close to him.


    Fresh blood was dripping from his shoulder where the sword went. I felt tears sting in my eyes, and even though I knew he was fine, I couldn¡¯t stop myself from crying.


    ¡°What?! Is this the time to say that?! You stupid demon, how could you let them hurt you?!¡± I growled, tugging away from his embrace.


    This was probably no big deal to an immortal like him, but it was terrifying. I didn¡¯t want him to get hurt, especially after our night, but this was probably our future¡ªconstant fighting, wars, and bloodshed.


    Even if it was, I couldn¡¯t care less. All I wanted was to be with him, helping him however I could.


    ¡°Sorry to worry you, but if they knew who I was while they had you. It wouldn¡¯t have been good for you or me. If they hurt you, I would¡¯ve lost it.¡± He placed one of his palms on my cheek.


    ¡°They know who I am now!¡± I huffed, grabbing hold of it.


    At least he was healthier than before.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    ¡°I know. I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d defend me so fiercely. At least you¡¯re in my arms right now and not theirs.¡± He smirked.


    Though he appeared more relieved than anything else, I gazed around, not being able to know if they were coming or not. Although my shadows covered us, they also blinded us.


    ¡°Shut up and feed on me already,¡± I grumbled, glancing back at him.


    Solas was keeping the knights at bay, but for how long, I didn¡¯t know.


    Worse yet, this barrier is bad news. If it took Finn by surprise, then it must have happened recently. Serena, you know more than what you told me, don¡¯t you? Arg... stupid gods!


    This change would change everything for everyone in Fathal, including¡­


    I hope Gael¡¯s alright.


    The incubus would go into the Traedan to feast tonight, too.


    ¡°Just¡­ a bit.¡± Finn sighed, grabbing me by the back of my head.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care if you eat me whole.¡± I simpered.


    He shook his head. ¡°That would be an unfortunate turn of events. Then I wouldn¡¯t have my sparky future wife.¡± He whispered, closing the gap between our lips.


    For a moment, I felt the warmth his kisses always gave me, but soon after, I felt a throb course through my body. All the energy I had slowly drained from me before he tugged away from me, allowing me to fall on him.


    I could barely move, feeling weak in every aspect of the word. Even my eyes felt heavy.


    ¡°You, okay?¡± Finn murmured, holding me close.


    His touch warmed my stiff body. All while his voice soothed me. I tried to nod, but all I could do was lay on him, struggling to keep my eyes open.


    Is this what it feels like to have a demon feed off me? No¡­ it could be much worse. I could be dead. Like¡­


    Images of that man Finn drained more than a week ago came through my mind. He left nothing but a husk behind. The shadows surrounding us slowly dissipated before I knew it; I was on Solas¡¯s soft fur when the demon king stood.


    How did¡­


    Unable to do anything, the demon king confronted the knights, bewildered by what was happening. However, they would soon situate themselves. After all, he wasn¡¯t hiding anymore. Again, his aura was erupting from him, but it also had a hint of purple on his core, unlike the typical crimson one.


    His eyes were shining blue instead of the usual red that consumed them. Unlike the day when he attacked me, he was entirely in control, but that didn¡¯t make him more merciful. No, he was ready to murder every one of them.


    ¡°I¡¯m in a fucking good mood. So, how about I kill only half of you and call it a night? Hm?¡± he smirked, already having the merchant from earlier in his hands.


    After feeding on me, he wasn¡¯t satisfied; a  second later, the man in his hands was a husk. Finn¡¯s favorite meal was a human¡¯s vitality, which he took from me.


    There were so many different types of demons, which meant there was one that consumed each part of a human. I guess the less dangerous ones were the emotional ones, but that would still be scary, much like Finn was being a terror to the humans within his grip.


    A chorus of horror erupted, realizing the demon king was on human lands.


    ¡°Summon, Soren!¡± the elf screamed, going invisible as the shield man cast a spell to make it glow white.


    ¡°Stand behind me!¡± Ezekiel yelled to his comrades.


    Much like the previous flower field, the surrounding forest was ablaze a second later. Solas cuddled me, protecting me from everything that was happening around us. Unable to move, I held on to the wolf, especially when more screeches erupted along with the sound of metal bending against force.


    Wherever the demon touched, death soon followed. Closing my eyes, I shivered, hearing Finn laugh, enjoying the pain he was inflicting. It was almost as if he fed off it more than anything else. However, as soon as it started, it was over.


    Before I knew it, he touched my cheek. ¡°Still awake?¡±


    A soft hum left me unable to do much less.


    ¡°You okay, baby girl?¡± he asked, triggering me groggily to gaze at him.


    He was covered in blood. His red aura was gone, leaving behind his horns with a red hue as always. However, his eyes were still that addictive blue I was so used to seeing. Sadly, around us were the corpses of our attackers, including Ezekiel, who was impaled to a tree.


    Other bodies cut his shield in half as the elf, Jasper, was nowhere to be found. He probably got away or was in pieces somewhere in the carnage. Weakly, I nodded, reaching for Finn.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sleepy. I tried to stay awake for you.¡± I mumbled, struggling to keep my eyes open.


    Before, the screaming kept me awake, but it was gone. Fighting the sleep that wanted to consume me was hard.


    Tracing his fingers on my cheek, he simpered. ¡°I know. You¡¯ll be fine by tomorrow. I promise. Go to sleep. When you wake up, you¡¯ll be back¡ª¡±


    ¡°Home?¡± I mumbled.


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯ll be home.¡± He chuckled.


    Even my hands were heavy when I grabbed onto his blood-soaked shirt.


    ¡°A kiss first.¡± I hummed, feeling Solas¡¯s fur comfier by the minute.


    Finn¡¯s eyes widened, and he soon shook his head with a soft smile.


    ¡°You say nothing normal, do you?¡± he leaned into me.


    The next moment, I felt his lips on mine. I probably should¡¯ve felt bad for all the people he ended, but in our defense, they came for us first. Even if they wanted to save me, it wasn¡¯t their decision.


    Some of us don¡¯t want to be saved.


    However, if I were on the other side, I probably wouldn¡¯t have thought of it like that, but that didn¡¯t matter to me as I was at Fathal¡¯s camp. Finn even tried to leave before everything got too intense, and they were the ones who kept us there.


    I didn¡¯t mind if we were the villains in this since I had finally found my place. One where I was wanted, even if it was for a tool. The taste of blood never tasted sweeter than when it came from this demon.


    Perhaps doing a deal with the devil wouldn¡¯t be so bad, especially when it was this addictive.


    I guess I was always meant to be evil. So, my father was right. I bring nothing but misfortune.


    Yet I hoped I could be more for these forsaken demons like me.


    Unwanted and forgotten. I won¡¯t forget them, though. Not for a second.

 Chapter 44: Im One Of You

    Opening my eyes, I found myself next to Solas on my bed. Sitting up, I remembered everything that had happened the night before, yet I wasn¡¯t in the clothes I had last night. Instead, I was in one of my sleeping gowns. With each slight moment, tiny stings came from my abdomen and groin.


    Solas¡¯s fur still had red stains from the night before as he didn¡¯t leave my side. However, he was the size of a plush. As Finn said in his last words, I was back in the castle I knew as my home, but he was nowhere to be found.


    This allowed me to realize everything that happened, especially the warmth I felt from everything we did. Getting jittery, I got up from bed to start the day. Unlike the day before, my legs weren¡¯t jelly, and I felt refreshed.


    Solas was quick to follow me up when I headed to the bathroom. Much to my surprise, Nyla wasn¡¯t around when I walked down the hall. She was always there to greet me in the mornings, but no one was around.


    Solas didn¡¯t know where they were, either. Instead of trying to find them, I carried on with my day.


    They¡¯re probably busy, and something tells me it has to do with what happened last night.


    Taking the chance to shower, I noticed a bunch of little bruises on my skin. They were the same thing I did to Finn the prior morning. Even the one he did to me then was there, but there were some in places I didn¡¯t remember him sucking on, which included my inner thighs.


    I was so into it that I didn¡¯t pay attention to everything he did, though seeing them made me feel claimed.


    You don¡¯t want anyone to mistake what I am for you. Gosh¡­ Demon, you don¡¯t have to dig yourself more into me.


    Even if it was as a ruse, the simple act filled me with joy. Getting ready for the day, I walked around the empty castle. My right arm was still twitchy, but I could finally move it. After fixing a meal, I quickly headed to Rizak¡¯s library, where I read most of the day.


    I didn¡¯t see Finn¡¯s or anyone else¡¯s faces for the entire day. Since we fucked the day before, he didn¡¯t need to kiss me today. Rizak had said it could last up to three days. Yet I felt off, especially since no one was around.


    Not even the owl himself was in his study.


    Is this how it¡¯s going to be when we do it? No, don¡¯t be clingy. You¡¯ll be fine on your own. Like always¡­ Yet, has being alone always been this lonely?


    Concentrating on a book was nearly impossible as my mind wandered into other things, mostly on everyone else. When I ate dinner, I still hadn¡¯t seen a soul around. Well, other than Solas, who trailed behind me everywhere we went.


    Releasing a sigh, I stood up, leaving behind the dining hall. I never knew that demons filling my every day would be something I missed; it was like I saw them everywhere I looked. After another shower, I opened Finn¡¯s room instead of going into my room.


    There, I dropped onto his bed. A sharp sigh left me when Solas joined me, lying beside me. He finally had a handle on shrinking to different sizes, allowing him to be where he pleased. However, he loved it when I carried him in my bag.


    The present I gave Finn was next to his bed. Getting up from his bed, I headed to his wardrobe. Before looking through his clothes, I quickly spotted a cloak. He had three different ones: black, red, and blue. Last night, he was wearing his black one.


    Though all his clothes had his scent, picking out the blue one, I quickly wore it. The frosty night wouldn¡¯t bother me tonight with it on. Dropping again next to Solas, he wagged his head, happy to have me join him again.


    A cheerful hum left me feeling warm, surrounded by Finn¡¯s scent, as I closed my eyes, allowing myself to drift. However, I felt someone¡¯s weight sink on the bed before I could, jolting me awake. I quickly spotted Finn gazing at me; his eyes were shining brightly.


    When his name left my lips, he smiled. ¡°Hey, Sparky. Why do I keep finding you in my room?¡±


    I launched myself at him when I realized it wasn¡¯t a dream. He was so warm.


    ¡°Where were you?!¡± I growled.


    ¡°I was with the generals. We have a problem, but it¡¯s going to be fixed. Just not in the way I hoped.¡± He sighed.


    ¡°Does it have to do with the barrier?¡± I mumbled.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    I wasn¡¯t pleased with how long he was gone, but it was understandable. With that thing up, all the demons would have a more challenging time getting fed.


    Surely, things outside of the castle are getting restless.


    ¡°Yes, Gael barely made it back yesterday. Luckily, Sebastian has¡­¡± Finn trailed off, shaking his head.


    He preferred not to know about it, but I already did.


    The farm¡­


    Shivers ran down my spine just thinking about it.


    I reached to touch his cheek, ¡°It¡¯s okay, I know.¡±


    ¡°How do you know that?¡± he asked, grabbing my chin so I couldn¡¯t run away.


    It was silly since I had been waiting all day for him. There was no way I¡¯d run from this demon who owned more than I was willing to accept.


    ¡°The goddess spoiled everything, remember?¡± I answered, feeling the warmth of his hand radiated into my skin.


    ¡°Hah¡­ Yeah, human farms. Does that bother you?¡± he continued to query.


    His blue eyes flickered a bit before they began to lock emotions behind them. Grabbing onto his hand, I tugged it towards my cheek before nuzzling it.


    ¡°I would lie if I didn¡¯t say I find it disturbing, but you need it to survive. So, I won¡¯t say anything about it when lives hang in the balance. It¡¯s not like you asked for this.¡± I simpered.


    It wasn¡¯t my place to tell them how to survive, especially when one of their gateways was locked away.


    ¡°You¡¯re so weird for a human, sparks.¡± Finn chuckled, shaking his head.


    ¡°That¡¯s because¡­¡± I trailed off, gazing towards the side.


    ¡°Hm?¡± he hummed, trailing his thumb on my cheek.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t I one of you?¡± I asked, glancing back at him.


    There, I saw his eyes widen before he leaned closer to me.


    ¡°Yes, you are.¡± He answered, smiling gently.


    Resting against his palm, I simpered.


    ¡°Then never leave me behind. I was so lonely today. I¡¯ve never felt like that before.¡± I informed, holding onto him.


    I don¡¯t like it.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Everyone had to feed today, and I was with the generals all day. Demons don¡¯t have the same feeling of time as humans do.¡± He sighed, gazing away from me.


    ¡°But you usually come to find me for the kiss,¡± I grumbled.


    ¡°Ah¡­ I knew you would be fine because of what we did last night. So, time escaped me.¡± Finn clarified.


    I tugged away from his warmth, feeling a sting in my chest.


    ¡°So¡­ that means I won¡¯t see you as often if we do that?¡± I mumbled, snuggling into the cloak I wore.


    He was wearing his black¡ªthe same one we made love on the prior night. It was probably clean, though.


    ¡°Oi, don¡¯t get me wrong. I wanted to come to you so badly. Do you even know how you haunt my waking moments?¡± he sighed.


    It was almost as if he didn¡¯t want me to get the wrong idea, but I¡­


    ¡°You should get me, then! I already told you I want to walk in your world, Finn!¡± I huffed, feeling dejected.


    Though, it wasn¡¯t only that. I wasn¡¯t fond of the fact he was spending time with those two girls. He had a physical relationship with them before, too. I couldn¡¯t help but feel insecure, even though it had been years since he last laid with them.


    ¡°Sparky, the generals aren¡¯t friends or foes. Do you understand what I mean by that?¡± he declared, leaning into me.


    I didn¡¯t even see his approach. No, I was too heated in trying to convince him. There was no way I would spend another day alone. Not when I wanted to be with him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care. Sebastian already has it for me. I might as well be all over his stupid tusk face.¡± I pouted, puffing my cheeks.


    This was probably immature of me, but it felt like if I said nothing, then I would¡¯ve been left behind. My words appeared to tickle the demon king, though. He had the biggest smirk on his lips I had seen.


    When did you get this close?


    He was only centimeters away from my face.


    ¡°You¡¯d be my perfect bride, you know that?¡± he assured, hovering his lips over mine.


    ¡°One step at a time, little king.¡± I pressed my finger to his lips.


    They were always so soft.


    For a demon, you¡¯re too much for me to handle.


    ¡°Sure, we have an eternity to figure this out.¡± He smiled, making me respond the same way.


    It quickly reminded me of what we did the prior night, especially with how close he was. My cheeks suddenly felt like they would fall off as I shifted my sight to the sleeping wolf.


    ¡°Hey, Finn, will it be okay since you¡­ you know.¡± I mumbled.


    He gazed at me, cocking his head as his tail wrapped around my left leg. ¡°What will be okay?¡±


    I had to be more precise, but it was embarrassing to mention. I grabbed onto his loose shirt, tugging on it.


    ¡°You know¡­ what you¡­ released inside of me,¡± I grumbled, feeling overwhelmed by it.


    ¡°Oh!¡± he suddenly declared, making me jump.


    A soft, broken chuckle came from him soon after, triggering me to tap him on the arm.


    ¡°Jerk!¡± I huffed.


    He grabbed me, pulling me into his embrace.


    ¡°It should be fine. Your body will concentrate more on absorbing it to survive than conceiving, at least we think so.¡± He informed.


    How can you be so carefree?


    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t have any unlucky bastards out there?¡± I sighed, gazing at him.


    ¡°No, sparks, I don¡¯t. Don¡¯t worry. There hasn¡¯t been a demon-human hybrid or any demon born after the miasma. Though, you¡¯re the only human I¡¯ve finished in and lived.¡± He chuckled, enjoying me on him.


    Not that I didn¡¯t. I loved being with him, yet¡­


    Does that mean demons are sterile? Or is something else at play here?


    ¡°What if I¡¯m the first?¡± I mumbled, snuggling in his chest.


    A second later, I felt him cling to me as his tail protectively wrapped around me, and his wings shielded me from the world. I had never felt safer than in this dragon¡¯s grip.


    ¡°If you do, you¡¯d be more special than you already are. I don¡¯t know what I¡¯ll do with myself if you do.¡± He whispered, not relenting on his hold.


    A giggle left me, feeling pleased to be in his embrace. ¡°Only to you,¡± I assured him.


    It was the first time anyone had called me that.


    ¡°Do we need anyone else?¡± he huffed, releasing me.


    I poked my head out, seeing those blue eyes on me¡ªstill cold.


    ¡°Don¡¯t leave me tonight.¡± I wrapped my arms around his neck, leaning closer to him.


    A soft smile rose on his lips as his gaze slowly showed an emotion I wished to see.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t planning on it.¡± He smiled, closing the gap between us.


    A passionate kiss followed, leaving little room for anything else, and what would come out of that would leave me in the clouds. Of course, I could never get enough of this demon.

 Chapter 45: Desires

    Before I knew it, I was against the bed. Finn towered over me, causing Solas to roll off to the side. Tugging away from my lips, he leaned into my ears while pulling up my dress. His hands traveled up my curves and onto my breast.


    This demon wasn¡¯t hesitant anymore.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to make you mine again. Does anything hurt from our first encounter?¡± he asked, fondling my left lump in his hand.


    A soft sigh left me, reaching up to tug on his shirt.


    ¡°No, surprisingly, you didn¡¯t rip me apart. Now take this off.¡± I huffed, causing him to chuckle.


    Drawing away from me, he dropped his cloak before unbuttoning his shirt. Sitting up with him, my hands trailed on his features. This was the room where he first fucked Lillia, and part of me wanted to replace those memories with me.


    Luckily, I wasn¡¯t the only eager one, as his pants were already tented.


    This is more alluring than I first thought.


    ¡°Mmhm, no aches?¡± He asked, raising his eyebrows.


    A soft frown formed on my lips. He knew how much I squealed in pain under him. It hurt so bad at first, but it changed into something else in the middle.


    ¡°Only a bit, but that¡¯s normal, right? I mean, you¡¯re the first¡­¡± I trailed off, grabbing onto his tented pants.


    Oh¡­ you aren¡¯t running away anymore.


    My action caused him to shiver, watching me. Last time, he was the one who¡­


    ¡°I want to suck on you, can I?¡± I mumbled, triggering his eyes to fly open.


    His cheeks were dark red, too.


    ¡°Y-yes,¡± Softly, he nodded, helping me undo his pants.


    The moment I saw it up close, I was shocked. This wasn¡¯t the standard size of a human.


    It¡¯s a miracle we girls can endure, but most importantly, it felt good to do that with you.


    Though surely, after being with him. No average human could ever come close. Not that I wanted anyone else other than him. Though¡­


    ¡°Will it fit in my mouth?¡± I asked.


    My words almost broke Finn, who burst into laughter. I stared at him, eyes twitching.


    ¡°Oi! This isn¡¯t funny! This is serious!¡± I pouted.


    To me, this was a serious concern. I didn¡¯t want my jaw to dislocate or hurt him.


    ¡°Oh fuck! Sorry, love, you never say what I think you will.¡± He cackled, prompting me to puff my cheeks.


    Stupid demon¡­ This is serious! I¡¯ve never done this before!


    There was only one way to shut him: to act. Without thinking twice, I went for the attack. Lapping his tip with my tongue, I swiftly stopped his laughter. Instead, he grabbed onto my hair, letting out a small gasp from him.


    I shouldn¡¯t use my teeth, right? No¡­ that¡¯ll hurt.


    Instead of sucking him into my mouth, I kept licking his tip like a lollipop.


    ¡°Baby girl, take off your gown. I want to enjoy the view.¡± He breathed.


    Tugging away from his heat, I took off my dress before grabbing onto it again. Lapping it again with my tongue, he clasped onto my hair with one hand, using the other to pump himself.


    This is more intimate than I thought. Should I¡­


    Opening my mouth, I attempted to suck him into it as slurping noises came from me when I tried to wrap my tongue around it. However, it was hard with how thick he was. Only soft sighs left the demon who held me tenderly as he stoked heat.


    Saliva dripped down my chin as a salty yet bitter taste danced in my taste buds with every bob of my head.


    Am I doing this right?


    Gazing up at his face, I saw his eyes were barely open, yet shimmering brightly as a low groan came from his lips.


    Hey, Finn, did I look at you the same way when you went down on me? I wonder how I look to you now.


    Attempting to mimic him, I grabbed his length. Unlike his big hand, I needed both to wrap around it fully. However, I realized how soft his skin felt on my palms there, though it was hard enough to hold its shape.


    The male anatomy was extraordinary even though it appeared simple. When I pumped it like he had before, it quickly rewarded me with a soft moan.


    ¡°Ah, you¡¯re adorable,¡± he chuckled, holding my hair out of my face.


    It wasn¡¯t long before my jaw ached. Finn''s soft hum triggered my eyes to gaze towards him.


    ¡°Need a bit of help, sweets?¡± he trailed his fingers down my hair.


    Tugging away from his heat, I nodded. Saliva dripped down my lips and chin. It was also leaking from his member and into the bed.


    Teaching someone like me must be difficult, especially when you¡¯ve had much better.


    Grabbing onto my hands, he tightened my grip on his length.


    ¡°Hold it tighter. It won¡¯t break. I promise.¡± He simpered, cheeks rosy.


    I nodded, using my hands to pump him again.


    ¡°Good, just like that¡­ now suck it like you were doing before.¡± He murmured, voice husky.


    His raspy breaths allured me, creating an almost unbearable tingling sensation in my lady bits.


    ¡°Was I doing it right?¡± I mumbled.


    It was hard to hold my gaze on him thanks to the embarrassment running through me, yet the smile on his lips allowed me to stay glued to him.


    ¡°Mhm,¡± he nodded, cheeks rosy.


    At that moment, a spark in me lit again, which made the ache in my jaw irrelevant. Sucking him into my mouth again, I did what he told me to. Pumping him with the intent of draining him of his seeds, I twirled my tongue around his tip, which caused a soft whine to leave his lips.


    Gripping me tighter on my hair, Finn licked his lips. ¡°Oh, fuck,¡± he breathed as his tail found its way around my arm.


    It only took a couple more bobs of my head and winding of my tongue before¡­


    ¡°Let go, sweets. I¡¯m going to¡­¡± he trailed off.


    I didn¡¯t relent, much like he had not the prior night. A sharp groan left him before I felt an explosion in my mouth, which filled my senses with a salty yet bitter taste. It was more overpowering than before, but I didn¡¯t mind it.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.


    However, before I could claim victory, I almost choked on his thick fluid, making it come up my nose. Tugging away from his heat, I could only cough as embarrassment filled me when I saw Finn¡¯s eyes open wide and jaw drop.


    However, he quickly came down to my level to help me. If I weren¡¯t coughing, I would¡¯ve hidden under the sheets, which were the same ones he used to clean me.


    ¡°Silly girl, don¡¯t breathe while I¡¯m cum like that. Are you okay?¡± He chuckled, enjoying my expression.


    Stupid demon!


    ¡°You should have¡ª¡± A cough interrupted me as I growled soon after it, ¡°Just push it deeper next time!¡±


    I learned this from eavesdropping on my sister by mistake. Her room was so close to mine that whenever she brought her boyfriend over, I usually overheard everything they did.


    ¡°Wait, you wanted me to deep-throat you?¡± The demon lord asked, cocking his head.


    His eyes were wide open, though there was amusement in them too.


    ¡°No! That¡­¡± I stopped myself, shaking my head.


    I¡¯m just digging my grave deeper.


    However, I wouldn¡¯t have minded it from him if he had done that. Not even what happened was a big deal unless it was for him.


    The last thing I want is to be a turn-off for you, but I can¡¯t help it. This is all a first for me!


    Blowing my nose on the sheets, he shook his head before dropping them.


    ¡°Fuck, Sylvia, you¡¯re driving me insane. I hope you know that.¡± He sighed, shoving me onto the bed.


    ¡°What?¡± I gazed at him.


    However, before I could say anything else, his lips crashed into mine, allowing his tongue to invade my cavity, leaving me mewling into our kiss. His taste in me didn¡¯t make him pull away. Though when he tugged away, I took a chance to speak.


    ¡°Was it good?¡± I mumbled, feeling my heart want to beat out of my chest.


    Licking his lips, he smirked. ¡°It was amazing. Thank you for your service, Sparky. Now, shall I return the favor?¡±


    I nodded my head, leaning into the bed. A soft smile formed on his lips before trailing kisses from my chin to my breast. There, he suckled on them, prompting my nips to perk up, allowing his tongue to dance around them. All the while, his hand traced down my navel, leaving a wake of heat on his path.


    Shivers ran down my spine, feeling him trace my features much like I had done to him. However, it wasn¡¯t long until he ended up in my groin. His tail wrapped around one of my legs before tugging it to separate them. Using that chance, he trailed my vulva, slipping right under my underwear.


    A whine left me feeling sore from the day before. Tugging away from my breast, he gazed at me, studying me. There was a string of saliva connecting him to my nob, which he cut by licking his lips.


    ¡°Are you okay, sweetheart?¡± he asked, pressing my entrance with the tip of his finger.


    He was watching my reaction to the pressure his member placed on me.


    ¡°Stupid, I already told you I¡¯m sore,¡± I mumbled, glancing down at him.


    Finn tilted his head. ¡°Should I stop?¡± he sighed, drawing away from my vulva.


    Instinctively, I grabbed onto his hand.


    ¡°No¡­ I never said that. Don¡¯t you dare run away!¡± I huffed, wanting him to hold me.


    A soft sigh left his lips before he spread my legs open.


    ¡°As you wish, Sparks. Don¡¯t cry this time.¡± He smirked, leaning down on my groin.


    Feeling his breath against my sensitive spots caused me to shiver. A second later, he lapped my slits with his tongue. The warmth caused me to hum, reaching for his hair with my hands. This time, he wasn¡¯t holding my right hand in his.


    He gazed up with a sly smile when I clasped his hair in my palms. I didn¡¯t know what expression I was showing him, but I wanted him to continue. Closing my eyes, I allowed myself to fall into the pleasure.


    His fingers soon found my walls as his lips sucked on my bell while his tongue danced on it. I could feel him lift the small folds around it, making me tremble every time his soft member flicked it. A sharp yelp left me, but he didn¡¯t stop this time.


    His fingers kept caressing my walls before they found a spot that made me gasp.


    ¡°Finn!¡± I whined, feeling my body get hotter with everything he did.


    The discomfort soon turned into pure pleasure, giving away to a knot forming in my core, which triggered me to buck my hips into him. His wings spread wide, prompting my eyes to shift towards them. Again, the crimson tips were slowly turning purple.


    Why is¡­


    The tips of his horns were changing, too. His eyes shimmered a bright blue, just like the prior night. This demon had captivated me in ways I had yet to realize. The way his nails never pierced me, even though they rapidly caressed me, alerted me to how gentle he was, especially his fangs; I felt them pinch my skin at times but never drew blood.


    His hand and tail that held my legs apart never bruised me. The only discolorations on my skin were from his love bites. Even though this demon had the strength to crush bones with them, every time he held me, there wasn¡¯t a single injury sustained by me.


    You treat me like a doll made of glass.


    The knot tightened to the point I tugged on his hair, wanting him to gaze at me.


    ¡°Finn, I think I¡¯m going to¡ª" A sharp mewl left me when he suddenly sucked on my sensitive bell, flicking it with his tongue.


    In an instant, I reached my peak, convulsing in his grip. Instead of tugging away, he lapped everything that came from me again. My body twitched, feeling him lick my slits when he pulled away his fingers from my walls.


    It was like I whited out for a couple of seconds before crashing back into reality as he withdrew from my vulva. Lapping his fingers clean, he caged me under him as I rested my legs against his hips. My mind traveled to the thought of when Lillia and he made love.


    Did you hold her like this?


    When Finn gazed at me, I couldn¡¯t help pushing myself up to meet with his lips.


    I want to replace her in every way there is.


    My taste in him, instead of being a repellent, was more of an assurance. At this moment, he was mine, and I relished it, especially since we were in the room where memories collided. I didn¡¯t know who he was thinking about.


    It didn''t matter if it was me or Lillia. To me, all that mattered was that he was with me, and when my name left him, it assured me even more. I desired this demon to leave his past love behind, but I knew it wasn¡¯t easy.


    Serah was still a prisoner, and so was he. He had freed me from my previous life, but he was still stuck in hell. It wouldn''t change anything even if I told him my feelings. Withdrawing away from his lips, I gazed down to where his member was rubbing against my vulva.


    ¡°Finn,¡± I trailed off, grabbing onto his heat.


    There, I lined it up at my entrance. Even though it still scared me to remember the pain I felt when he first went in the day before. I¡­


    ¡°Please?¡± I mumbled.


    A soft smile rose on his lips before he pressed his forehead against mine. Replacing my hand with his, he pushed his tip against my slits.


    ¡°No need to beg. I¡¯m yours, remember? I¡¯ll always give it to you whenever you want it. All you have to do is look at me like you are now.¡± He murmured, thrusting himself into me with ease.


    Again, the discomfort was present, but it quickly melted away. Feeling him fill me to the brim, I couldn¡¯t help but hum while shivering under him.


    ¡°O-only m-mine?¡± I whined.


    ¡°Mhm, only yours.¡± He assured me, kissing my cheek while waiting for me to get used to his shape.


    Even though I had found my release recently, my body quickly found its peak again while feeling him in me. It wasn¡¯t as intense as the first one, but it still made me tremble under him. A small nervous chuckle came from the demon when he felt me tighten on him.


    ¡°Are you trying to rip my dick off, Sparks?¡± he sighed, struggling not to move.


    ¡°I can¡¯t help it! You¡¯re so big!¡± I yelped, feeling him thrust into me.


    I gazed up at him, only to be met by his lips. It was the only thing that stopped my mewls from erupting. Instead, a soft whine left me while his hands met with mine, entwining them before they ended against the bed.


    Feeling his skin brush against mine filled me with ecstasy with each pull and shove. However, when he drew away from my lips, he pressed his lips against my temple, allowing his pants to fill my ears.


    With each thrust, I couldn¡¯t help but squeal his name as I wrapped my legs around his hips.


    ¡°Fuck! Sylvia, please don¡¯t do that. I won¡¯t last if you do.¡± He moaned in my ear.


    I didn¡¯t even know what I was doing. However, seeing his face warped in pleasure made me clasp tightly to his hands. His movements were steady and at a rapid pace. He wasn¡¯t being as gentle as he was the previous day.


    Finn¡¯s tail wrapped around my waist, making sure I stayed in place as every push made me feel him up to my womb''s entrance. It was like he was kissing it every time he shoved into me while his skin pressed against my sensitive bell.


    Tears were dripping down my eyes, not of pain but pure ecstasy. It wasn¡¯t long until that tingly sensation grew within me again. Feeling our skins slap against one another made me want it even more as I clenched tightly against his hands.


    Our sweat mixed while slurping sounds came from our connection¡ªone which he deepened every time he thrust himself into me. Before I knew it, my hips moved to his rhythm, grinding on him any time he was close. Soft mewls left me, wanting to deepen the feeling I was slowly consumed by.


    Is this how sex really feels? Or is it because I¡¯m with you?


    ¡°D-does it f-feel good f-for you?¡± I asked, trembling under him.


    Tugging away from my left hand, he pressed himself against the bed for a better grip. His movements stayed consistent, though.


    ¡°So, fucking good. I fucking love it.¡± He huffed, gripping the beddings tighter than he had my hand.


    You love it?


    With my free hand, I gripped his arm firmly before trailing it up to his shoulder, which made him kiss me again. The suddenness made my mind white out, releasing the knot that had formed in my core. My voice went erratic, convulsing under him, prompting him to tug away from my lips.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± He cursed as I felt him twitch within me before an explosion that filled me with his seeds followed it.


    Huffing for air was the only thing I could do, trying to locate my mind. This feeling was something I could get addicted to¡ªsomething I wanted to keep repeating. Licking my neck, Finn pushed himself into me again.


    It almost caused everything he pumped into me to gush out. Though, at the same time, it made it slipperier than his saliva and my lubricant alone.


    ¡°Another round?¡± he murmured into my ear.


    Softly nodding, I gazed at him in a haze, prompting him to smirk. Letting go of my other hand, he thrust into me again, staring at the same rhythm as before. That night, I spent it under him. Not that I would¡¯ve had it any other way.


    Even though everything was so intimate, there came a time when my body couldn¡¯t keep up with the insatiable demon. After a couple of more times, eventually, my body became all numb, and I couldn¡¯t keep my eyes open.


    Drawing me into his embrace, I closed my eyes, using his arm as my pillow. There was no knowing what daylight would bring, but one thing was certain. I desired to keep my new life and would do that at all costs.

 Chapter 46: Warm Morning

    When my eyes flew open the following day, I noticed Finn was still with me. His wing was on me, much like a blanket. I couldn''t shift towards any side without alerting him, and I didn''t want him to know I was awake; instead, I snuggled myself where I was.


    Much to my disappointment, I remembered he didn''t ever sleep. A soft chuckle left him, tugging me closer as I realized we were both naked under the blanket.


    "Are you getting comfier or trying to entice me?" Finn murmured into my ear.


    Instantly, my cheeks burst with heat as I shifted my gaze towards him. That wasn''t my intention, but I wouldn''t have minded it.


    "Both, did it work?" I smirked, prompting his eyes to widen before one rose on his lips.


    A second later, I was caged under him.


    "Oh, you little vixen. What am I going to do with you?" He chuckled, towering over me.


    "You made me like this." I pointed out, wrapping my arms around his neck.


    "Did I?" he asked, biting his lip.


    It was unfair how enticing he was with those plump lips.


    "Mhm," I simpered, triggering him to lean into me before kissing me.


    When knocking sounds erupted from the door, his tongue lightly touched mine. A sharp growl left him, tugging away from me.


    Turning towards the door, he sighed. "What?"


    "My lord, I hate to interrupt you, but General Sebastian''s back," Brielle answered.


    Rolling his eyes, the demon king focused on me instead.


    "Tell him I''m busy." he huffed, shifting his sight back onto me before licking my neck.


    His tail tugged my leg, allowing him to snuggle between them. The next moment, I felt pressure on my entrance, making me cover my mouth with my hands.


    Are you going to do it while she''s there?!


    Not that I minded it. However, I didn''t want anyone else to hear us.


    "But the others are here too. They want a meeting with you." The she-wolf grumbled.


    Instead of listening to her, he continued to make me his priority. However, the moment I felt him fill me, a sharp gasp left me. His thickness was too much to handle, which didn''t hurt, but it made me feel jittery.


    Instead of letting my voice escape, he sealed my lips with his. My hands clasped onto his hair when his rhythm began. Brielle''s voice was nowhere to be heard. No, all I felt was him. Tugging away from our kiss, he pulled his length out of me before slamming it in.


    "You feel so fucking good. I can''t get enough of you. It was so hard to keep off you when you were asleep." Finn murmured in my ear.


    "W-what about y-your king d-duty?" I stuttered in a low voice, fearing the wolf would hear all this.


    A soft chuckle came from him, pushing himself into me.


    "Hm? Do I need to be at their beck and call? I''d much rather spend my eternity with you." He smirked, licking my cheek as he kept up this steady pace.


    "Such a flirt!" I squealed, gripping his hair tighter.


    Not for a moment did he stop thrusting into me. Squelching noises came from our connection, all while he showed affection to my ears. Breathing near them, he groaned, making sure I knew how much he liked it.


    Unable to help, I kissed his cheek, triggering him to steal my lips again. In an instant, my tongue found his entwining with it. Saliva dripped both our chins as I pursued his caress as much as he did. The intensity of our tango triggered him to tug away from me, allowing me to breathe.


    Once free, mewls erupted from me, unable to hold them back, especially when he continued to brush his tip against my womb. A knot soon formed, triggering me to clasp into Finn''s arms. Using his tail to tug me up, he grabbed onto my hips before plunging his heat into me.


    A sharp whine left me when his tail rubbed against my bell, which was surprisingly soft, almost like his fingers. There was a new sensation built within me. One I hadn''t felt before. Perhaps it was because my bladder was full, but it felt like I was about to explode differently.


    "W-wait! F-Finn! S-something feels weird!" I squealed, fearing I would go without being able to control it.


    He hummed, not stopping his movements. If anything, he shoved himself into me deeper. It felt like he was pushing my womb each time. A sharp gasp left me when he didn''t stop as his movements got rougher, and a sly smirk rose on his lips.


    "You''re getting tighter. Is it because you''re about to cum for me?" he trailed off, focusing on me. "Cum for me, Sylvia."


    His eyes were glowing, and the tips of his spiky horns were a solid purple, along with the tips of the feathers that used to be crimson.


    "No! I''m going to¡ª" I clashed my lips with him before finishing.


    Screw it... It''s your fault if I...


    His tongue tangoed with mine again, gripping me tighter to him. However, I tugged away from his lips, mewling loudly before I knew what was happening. Water squirted from me onto our connection, leaving me twitching as my entire world went black before returning.


    "Fuck, fuck, I''m¡ª" Slamming into me, he moaned, letting loose in me.


    Tears filled my eyes, feeling like I wet myself on him. Instead of pulling away in disgust, he kept close to me, pumping me full of his seeds.


    "So, fucking cute. Sparky, I can''t with you." He breathed.


    It was almost like he enjoyed that I splashed him with my...


    Struggling for air, I huffed, "It''s your fault!"


    A soft chuckle came from him.


    "I know, love, but for you to squirt like that. It was hot. I want you to do it again." He smirked, cheeks rosy.


    This demon was pleased with what he made me do, and I couldn''t help but feel satisfied with it, too. It hadn''t happened last night or the prior time we were together.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    "If you say so," I mumbled.


    A soft hum came from his lips, trailing his fingers on my cheek before he tugged out of me. It left me feeling empty as our union dripped down my bum.


    "Shall we shower?" he simpered, picking me up in his arms bridal style.


    "Wait, does that mean you''ll take me with you?!" I beamed, wrapping my hands around his neck.


    It was like all the soreness from my body left me as I cuddled myself into his chest.


    "Mhm, might as well keep you next to me. Isn''t that what you wanted?" he chuckled.


    A soft hum came from me. "Yes, I feel safer with you," I assured him.


    Solas whined, getting closer to us. He didn''t want to be left behind. Not that we would. A second later, the little pup was on my belly.


    "How''s your arm?" Finn kissed my forehead.


    "It''s better," I smiled.


    "Let me know if anything changes." He cooed, triggering me to brush my lips against his.


    Is this how lovers are?


    This demon was too much for me to handle, yet I couldn''t help but feel that perhaps this was all an act.


    If all of this is an act, I wish you''d end me before you break me, though something told me he wouldn''t, especially after what he said the first day I arrived. After this was over, he would give me whatever I wanted.


    But what if what I desire is you? Will you give yourself to me even if you don''t want me?


    Black smoke covered us before we were suddenly in the bathroom. I noticed there were clothes for both of us there. Nyla was around, yet I hadn''t seen her. My legs were jelly when he set me down. However, I stayed up while he turned on the shower for one stall.


    Once in the running water, all we did was make out, feeling the warm water run down our bodies. This demon''s body wasn''t entirely human, as the feathers were scattered around his body. The bathroom lighting allowed me to see better than when it was night.


    Whenever he let me go for air, I trailed my fingers down his features, and every time, he would shiver. His cheeks were bright pink, watching me enjoy myself with him. Solas was by the pool, enjoying basking in it.


    Finn''s feathers on his wings and tail were water-repellant. However, his hair was soaked. It made me wonder if his dragon form was a mix of both.


    "Finn, you''re beautiful." I cupped his cheeks as they turned deeper pink before he leaned onto my touch.


    "Only to you, Sparky." He simpered.


    "I doubt it. If you weren''t murderous, I''m sure all the females in this world would be after you." I leaned for another kiss.


    "That doesn''t interest me at all." He huffed, letting me claim his lips.


    More for me, then.


    Finn''s true nature was one of a gentleman. This world made him into the monster he was, yet I couldn''t and wouldn''t judge him.


    Why am I so selfish? Why do I keep wanting more?


    He licked his lips when I drew away from him.


    "Finn, this... isn''t a lie, right? You aren''t doing this to fuck with me, right?" I asked without holding back.


    A soft sigh came from him. "No, I''m not fucking with you. Well, other than doing it with you." He assured me, taking my hands in his before tugging them up to his lips and kissing them.


    Even though my body was warm, my insecurities grew each minute. It didn''t help that I was falling for him more profoundly than I could''ve predicted.


    Will you be different from everyone else or destroy me in ways no one else has ever had?


    "But this isn''t a genuine affection you have for me, right? You''ll leave me after everything''s done." I tried to hide the pain it caused me to say that.


    After all, I already loved him, but our time would have been shorter if I had said it.


    Ah... I''m selfish. I don''t want to let go of you.


    Finn shook his head, "Sylvia, the only reason I ever leave you is because you want me to. Otherwise, my eternity is yours."


    No! That isn''t what I...


    Leaning my head against his chest, I tried to hold the tears that wanted to come out of me.


    Finn... I love you, yet I won''t trap you like that. If I''m the only one happy, then it''s no good! It''ll eventually show, and I''ll resent you because of it.


    "That doesn''t sound like a happy ending for you," I mumbled, smothering myself into his chest.


    "What?" Finn mumbled.


    A soft hum left me, wanting to memorize his heartbeat.


    This... is a disaster waiting to happen. I''m happy you held me, but... why... am I being so greedy?


    "I''ll surely fall for you. I don''t doubt that I''ll love you before this all ends, but you won''t love me. So, I''ll be caging you, and I don''t want that! The only thing I want is for you to be happy, too!" I declared, gazing at him straight on.


    Even if... I''m not... it.... No... if I''m not it... then...


    There, I saw him wince, shaking his head. "Sylvia..." he sighed, shifting his gaze towards the arm he had severed before.


    If... I''m not your happy ending, then, please...


    "Please eat me instead when all of this is done." I simpered, pulling one of his hands to my cheek.


    This warmth can''t last forever. No, everyone''s always better off without me.


    Even so, my body still tingled thanks to his heat, feeling it seep into my core. I couldn''t live without it anymore.


    Ah... I''ve been spoiled.


    "No, I won''t." He refused, gazing towards the side.


    I can''t!


    "Please! I don''t want to be your cage! No... I don''t want to live without¡ª" Before I could finish, his lips sealed mine together.


    It was so forceful that a soft whine came when he pressed me against the wall. However, he didn''t stop there as he picked me up, allowing my legs to wrap around his hips. Before I knew it, his tip was pressing against my entrance as the pressure built.


    A sharp yelp left me a second later when it slipped into me. Thrusting into me, I hadn''t felt him so violently before. However, he didn''t stop as his tongue robbed me of my voice. Placing my hands on his chest, I noticed my bracelet was blossoming.


    It was barely open, though. I didn''t realize it would respond if I admitted my emotions in any way. In an instant, my body ran cold as I felt all the pleasure coursing through me change into something else.


    No! I don''t want this to end! I can''t lose this fast!


    He kissed me so feverishly that he didn''t notice the jewelry change. Instead, he continued to ravish me, making my voice escape even though my lips were sealed with his. Tugging away from my lips, he cursed loudly without stopping the rocking of his hips.


    "I wanted to treat you gently! Don''t fuck with me like this! I''ll never kill you! You''re the only human I''ll never kill!" he huffed, plunging into me repeatedly.


    Ah... I made you angry.


    However, there wasn''t any red aura spilling from him like before. This fit had come with no warming, and perhaps he wasn''t enraged, yet my doubt was instilled in me. It had nothing to do with him but myself.


    This demon had told me everything straight up without lying about his intentions. So, I knew he would keep his word about staying with me if that was what I wished, but I didn''t want him because of a sense of duty.


    No, I wanted his heart, and if that wasn''t available, then...


    I... don''t want you to be with me for an eternity if you don''t love me.


    His cheeks were bright pink as he moved into me, yet my eyes got teary, thinking how all of this was without emotion. He would never love me, even if he could hold me like this.


    I want your heart and your world. If not... then please put me out of my misery once I save you.


    "Finn!" I whined, feeling him grind himself into me.


    It caused him to glance at me before he kissed me again, though he tugged away soon after, which left me craving more. His kisses had become my air¡ªwell, almost.


    "You''re mine forever, Sylvia. I told you. I''m a cruel man. Once you''re part of my hoard, I''ll never let you go." he declared, shoving himself into me.


    Clasping into him, I felt him explode within my depths, triggering me to find my release, too. It was almost as if my mind was wiped out again. When everything got clearer, his lips were leaning closer to mine.


    His cheeks were redder than before.


    "I... want to be with you for an eternity, Sparky. Please, don''t ask me to kill you." He murmured, triggering me to simper at his words.


    His warmth was dripping onto me in every way possible, yet if it was the affection I sought or something else, I didn''t know. After all, I didn''t even know what love looked like. All I knew was that I cared for this demon.


    What I felt for him was undoubtedly something close to love or devotion.


    Perhaps both.


    All that mattered was that I felt happy to be in his arms, but it also made me greedy.


    You''re such a cruel demon not to grant me my wish.


    Reaching to touch his face, he leaned into my warmth. We were still connected, too.


    "If you don''t eat me. Then give me your heart. Please?" I begged, enjoying him in the palm of my hand.


    "It''s yours. All of me is yours, sweets." He gazed at me in such a way that it caused my heart to skip.


    Yet his eyes were still dead, even if there was a spark of life in them.


    "I don''t mean the physical one, you stupid demon!" I growled, tapping on his shoulder.


    A soft smile rose on his lips. "I know, love."


    "No lies?" I mumbled.


    Shaking his head, he leaned to kiss my forehead.


    "Never. When have I lied to you?" he breathed, tugging away from me.


    Letting me down on the floor, I felt him pull out of me, making me shiver. It was odd not to have him connected to me, yet his presence next to me was more filling than anything else.


    "You just keep things from me." I huffed, hugging him.


    "Oi," he sighed, making me giggle.


    Those simple words made me happier than I had ever felt. If they were true, I wouldn''t know, but I would fight for it, especially if he wouldn''t kill me when this all ended. Little did I know I was about to be thrust into his world in a way I never expected.


    This moment was peaceful. It was a calm breeze before the storm arrived. After all, if I wanted his heart. I needed to conquer his people, too, and that included the...

 Chapter 47: Generals

    After our shower, I ate a meal I had to prepare for myself. Gael was still recovering and feeding at one of Sebastian¡¯s human farms after the changes in Traedan. I tried not to think about that as I ate, though. Finn stayed with me, ignoring Brielle¡¯s stares.


    Though she said nothing, enjoying the smile he had while watching me. Part of me felt subconscious, feeling his eyes on me, but we had already done worse.


    After all, your stuff came up my nose the previous night. We have already left the boat with how comfortable we¡¯re with each other. Not that I¡¯ll have it any other way.


    When it happened, it appeared to turn him on more.


    I even saw your tail wag, too, yet your eyes haven¡¯t changed much.


    ¡°Your face is going to stay like that,¡± I mumbled, taking another bite of the sandwich.


    ¡°Hm?¡± Finn hummed, tilting his head.


    It appeared this demon was unaware that a smile had been planted on his lips since we had arrived. Solas chuckled and laid his head on my lap.


    ¡°Never mind.¡± I sighed.


    Another cackle erupted from the she-wolf, who quickly teased her king.


    ¡°She means your smile, my lord. You¡¯ve been smiling since you got here.¡± She pointed out, shifting her stance to rest against the wall.


    It was the first time I had seen her show emotion other than annoyance, which was usually directed at me.


    ¡°Oh? Have I? Is that bad?¡± He asked, tapping his finger on my arm.


    It caused me to tingle.


    ¡°No¡­ I like it. But¡­¡± I mumbled, gazing to the side.


    I don¡¯t want anyone else to see it.


    He hummed again, noticing my hesitance.


    That doesn¡¯t sound good. Now, will it? What the heck are you turning me into?!


    ¡°What is it, sweets?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Ah, no, how about you stop flirting and hurry to the generals, my lord? They¡¯ve been waiting for hours now.¡± The wolf sighed, shaking her head.


    She had been with us since we left the bathroom. Finn didn¡¯t mind her, but I wasn¡¯t comfortable around her, which probably had to do with the fact that we hardly ever interacted.


    ¡°Brie, I honestly couldn''t give more of a fuck what they want. They can wait.¡± He huffed, leaning closer to me.


    I was all that mattered to him, yet the affection he was giving me made me greedier.


    Can I really ask you to be with me until death do us part? No¡­ it¡¯s too early for that.


    The she-wolf¡¯s eyes twitched. ¡°My lord, they¡¯re pestering me until you finally show yourself to them.¡±


    ¡°You can block them out, you know.¡± He pointed out.


    Rolling her eyes, she crossed her arms. ¡°I dislike cutting myself off. Unlike you, someone needs to be updated with every development.¡±


    Wait, what? You can hear others in your head like you used on me? Hm¡­ That would explain how Nyla knows everything you want without her being nearby.


    Finn shrugged, ¡°Hm¡­ Well, they can wait. I¡¯m trying to woo my future wife. They¡¯ll understand.¡±


    ¡°Oi! I¡¯m being serious here! Ever since she got here, your mind has been elsewhere! Don¡¯t you remember we¡¯re at war! We can be invaded at any moment, or one of the generals may decide to move against us!¡± Brielle snapped, causing me to flinch.


    It had been a while since I heard any of them scream. The shrieks from the humans Finn destroyed were silenced because of what he did to me. Noticing my reaction to her tone, he grabbed onto my hand.


    ¡°Watch your tone, Brie.¡± His voice went colder than ice.


    It triggered me to gaze at him, only to follow his frosty gaze towards Brielle. She appeared to be frozen where she was.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry. I-I didn¡¯t m-mean anything by it.¡± She stumbled over her words, wincing.


    Instantly, I stood up, tugging Finn¡¯s hand with me.


    ¡°I¡¯m not a damsel in distress, idiot. Treat your subjects better. She¡¯s just looking out for you.¡± I huffed.


    He appeared surprised by my burst, though it only defined his smile.


    ¡°Hah, yes, sparky.¡± He breathed, gazing at me with none of the iciness from before.


    Brielle, on the other hand, appeared utterly surprised. ¡°Hah?! Did you just call our king an idiot?!¡± she burst, triggering me to gaze at her.


    This wolf had a knightly air about her. Whenever I insulted her king, it flared her up like a cracker going off.


    ¡°Yes, she did,¡± Solas answered, wagging his tail.


    The she-wolf appeared utterly taken aback before gazing at Finn, who was smiling at me again.


    ¡°Okay! Who are you?! What have you done with our King?!¡± Brielle gasped, sitting on a chair, unable to adjust to this new cousin of hers.


    Her words didn¡¯t bounce off him this time as his gaze locked on her.


    ¡°Oi, what¡¯s that supposed to mean?!¡± he huffed, getting up from his chair.


    Nyla opened the door at that moment, interrupting the bickering for a few seconds before running over to me.


    ¡°Good morning, my lady!¡± She simpered, triggering me to hug her in response.


    The two other demons continued to banter with each other while I basked in her warmth. It had only been a day, and I missed her terribly.


    This little goblin was the closest thing I had to a mother. Not that she minded my sudden affection. No, she let me hold her all I desired. Once filled, I separated from her only to receive a brilliant smile.


    ¡°How are you, Sylvia?¡± she asked, holding my hands.


    ¡°I¡¯m finding more reasons to get up daily,¡± I answered blissfully.


    Finn¡¯s warmth still surrounded me.


    ¡°Yes, yes, that¡¯s good! I hope you find many more!¡± she nodded, shifting her red eyes towards the door, which opened again, revealing Gael.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    When I saw him, I ran to him and hugged him tightly. Finn growled upon seeing me, but I was happy to see the incubus. We spoke little, but he was still essential to my mornings.


    ¡°I¡¯m so glad you''re back and well.¡± I breathed, pleased to have what I considered my family together again.


    He made me some of the best things I had ever tasted whenever he was around. Just thinking about him injured made my blood boil, especially when he didn¡¯t take his life to feed others.


    Letting him go, I saw a soft smile rise on his lips before he patted my head. ¡°Hey, little shrimp, happy to see you¡¯re fine, too.¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t the one injured.¡± I pouted, shifting away from him.


    It was gentle and different from how Finn made me feel. I guess you could say Gael was the older brother I never had. These demons all turned into a family I never had.


    We¡¯ve only been together for a little more than a month. How more important can you all become?


    I couldn¡¯t possibly think how much closer they could get.


    ¡°No, but you could¡¯ve been. Thankfully, Finn brought you back in one piece.¡± He pointed out, prompting me to sigh.


    So, you know all about what happened that night.


    ¡°Oi! Like I would let her get hurt on my watch.¡± The demon lord growled at the incubus.


    ¡°Excuse me, weren¡¯t you the one who ripped her arm off?¡± Gael held no punches back.


    His words caused Finn to flinch.


    ¡°Ah... I¡­¡± he trailed off, gazing to the side.


    ¡°Hm, thought so.¡± His friend walked past him, relishing his victory.


    However, before Finn could feel worse, I tugged on his shirt. He turned to me a second later, allowing me to hug him, too.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯m fine, too.¡± I smiled.


    ¡°Ah, Sylvia¡­ Are you getting brighter with every second, or is it me?¡± he simpered, touching my cheek.


    ¡°It¡¯s you.¡± Brielle rolled her eyes, but he ignored her comment this time and focused on me.


    ¡°Now, now! Brielly, be nice to your cousin!¡± Nyla slapped her thigh, triggering her to sigh.


    ¡°I can¡¯t help but worry about our kind, Nelly.¡± The she-wolf shrugged.


    ¡°Ah, he¡¯s just falling in love with our princess, that¡¯s all.¡± The little goblin quickly added, stopping my heart right where it was.


    Finn¡¯s falling for me?! Impossible¡­ You said you¡­


    Gazing up from our embrace, I saw his cheeks bright pink.


    Are you falling for me too?


    The demon lord winced before shifting his gaze towards the two women.


    ¡°Love¡¯s such a strong word.¡± He sighed, biting his lip.


    Stings rose in my chest, prompting me to bury my face once again in his chest.


    Ah¡­ right¡­ that¡¯s impossible for you to love me. Maybe you like me and lust for me, but will that be enough?


    Feeling his hand on my head, he held me in place.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll mind falling for another if it¡¯s with you,¡± Finn assured me.


    He knew exactly how I felt about the matter, so his words didn¡¯t have the weight they should¡¯ve had, which hurt.


    You¡¯re only saying that because of what I said earlier. Damn it, Finn, I told you not to tell me lies!


    It was hard to hold it in, but somehow, I kept my tears. However, my mood was souring.


    ¡°That¡¯s what you thought the first time.¡± Gael rolled his eyes, ¡°Look where we ended up.¡±


    It was like a knife to my heart; even though the incubus didn¡¯t mean it that way, I couldn¡¯t forget I was still a wild card for them.


    I hate that woman. How I wish I could erase her existence within all of you!


    ¡°Oi! Shut up!¡± Finn growled at him, who was unaware of my emotions.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we get going? You said you¡¯d introduce me to the generals, right?¡± I announced, tugging away from him.


    There isn¡¯t any space for me in your heart. So why won¡¯t you eat me? Why fill me with all these fake hopes?!


    My words appeared to rub the she-wolf the wrong way. Before Finn could even respond to me, she squealed.


    ¡°You what?! Are you insane?!¡± She gasped, covering her mouth.


    I didn¡¯t even gaze at her when she said that. No, I planted my glance on the ground. It was the same when my father was screaming at me.


    ¡°Oh¡­ is it impossible?¡± my voice shook.


    In an instant, Finn grabbed my hand, tugging me at him.


    ¡°No, you¡¯re coming with me.¡± He declared, prompting my orbs to meet with him.


    I didn¡¯t know my expression, but his eyes widened before biting his lip. Alerted by the mana flowing around the king, Solas jumped into my bag, shrinking to a teacup size. A second later, we weren¡¯t in the diner anymore, but in a room, I hadn¡¯t seen before.


    Once there, I found myself on the wall, pinned by Finn, or at least I thought. Everything was so dark there as there weren¡¯t candles lit up to allow me to see. Leaning into me, his lips claimed mine, triggering my heart to ache.


    However, I couldn¡¯t push him away. No, I didn¡¯t know when the last kiss would ever be. So, I sought to enjoy every single one, and those lips were ones I would never refuse. Tugging away from me, he lapped my lips, only to be met with my tongue, which triggered him to deepen the kiss.


    It wasn¡¯t long until he drew away, licking them again as my mind became muddled.


    ¡°I was serious when I said that.¡± He announced, trailing his hand down my cheek.


    ¡°What?¡± I mumbled, feeling heated as flutters were radiating within me.


    The darkness had heightened my senses. It was hard to focus on anything other than the heat coming from where he touched me.


    ¡°When I said¡ª¡± he stopped.


    That was when I heard footsteps headed our way.


    ¡°Oh! There you are, Finn! Do you know how long I¡¯ve been waiting for you?!¡± a girl¡¯s voice erupted behind us.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± he muttered, tugging away from me.


    In an instant, all the old candles in the room were lit, allowing the light to reach my eyes.


    ¡°Astred, what the fuck are you doing here?!¡± he snapped, standing between us.


    His wings kept me out of view.


    Ah¡­ you¡¯re the one who slept with him before I came here.


    ¡°I missed you! Why else would I risk angering you by coming here before you summon us?¡± she beamed, triggering me to hold onto his cloak.


    ¡°Get out. I¡¯ll summon you when I¡¯m fucking ready. Not before.¡± He growled, starting to emanate a red aura.


    ¡°But all of us have been waiting for five hours!¡± She complained, pouting.


    ¡°You, fucks, don¡¯t have a measure of time. So, you can wait!¡± he snapped.


    However, the tone of voice made me hug him from behind. I didn¡¯t like it, not after having kissed me like that, which caused him to stiffen up.


    ¡°Oh? Are you hiding something from me?¡± The demon asked, noticing his response.


    Her voice sent shivers down my spine.


    ¡°Did I stutter? Get the fuck out.¡± Finn snapped his fingers.


    A second later, it was like blood-splattered where she stood. I didn¡¯t see what happened, but everything was deathly silent after that. A soft sigh came from him, turning towards me.


    ¡°Who¡­¡± I trailed off, shivering where I stood.


    ¡°Astred, one of the generals you need to look out for. Well, she and Sebastian. The rest are harmless to a point.¡± Finn shook his head, pulling me into his chest.


    ¡°Oh¡­ fuck¡­ it felt like she wanted to suffocate me.¡± I trembled in his arms.


    ¡°She probably would if given the chance. Do you want to return to your room?¡± he worried about my well-being.


    Shaking my head, I held onto him. ¡°No! I¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    It was a blatant lie, yet I didn¡¯t want to leave him alone with them anymore. The parts that had turned purple had receded to crimson again.


    ¡°Stay near me. Okay?¡± he sighed.


    I nodded, following him to the main room. Where Astred had stood, there was a pool of blood. I could only imagine what he did to her. Sitting on a throne, he summoned a chair beside him for me. This room was worse than any other one, as blood was everywhere.


    From fresh to dried ones.


    ¡°To be completely honest, Sylvia, none can be trusted. Not even Vabaru or Vorex, who helped you last time. Understand?¡± He sighed, focusing his blue eyes on me.


    I nodded, acknowledging everything he said.


    He shook his head, ¡°I can also get very violent with them. Don¡¯t step between me and them, okay?¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± I mumbled, grabbing onto his hand. ¡°I won¡¯t do anything that you think will be dangerous.¡±


    Another soft sigh left him, ¡°There¡¯s one more thing. They sometimes bring snacks with them. So, be prepared for that.¡±


    ¡°I understand, Finn; I won¡¯t judge any of you.¡± I simpered, triggering him to lean into me and brush his lips against mine before tugging away.


    ¡°Okay, love.¡± He breathed, ¡°Brielle, bring the others in.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure about this?¡± she asked, gazing at me.


    ¡°She¡¯ll be fine. They won¡¯t dare touch her while I¡¯m here.¡± Finn assured her.


    The only reason I was there was because I wanted to be. I had to prove myself if I wanted to walk in his world and if I wanted this to be my home.


    I won¡¯t back down.


    A second later, five demons came in. Vorex, Sebastian, and Vabaru are with whom I was acquainted. However, the orc wasn¡¯t on friendly terms. I couldn¡¯t help but wince, remembering the pain he made me go through as I reached for my right arm.


    The other two females were unknown to me; however, thanks to the blood on her clothes, I knew which one was Astred. Her green eyes only showed adoration toward her king, even though he had been violent towards her.


    There wasn¡¯t a single hint of anger in the beautiful white-haired woman¡¯s expression. The other showed the same in her yellow eyes, yet her green hair was scaly. Heck, part of her body was snake-like as only her upper body was humanoid, leaving the rest to appear like a snake lady. Unfortunately, her lady bits were intact and out on display.


    A lamia.


    Luckily, she had her breasts covered in a green bra-like thing. The other girl wore regular, revealing clothes¡ªnothing like the armor Brielle had.


    The she-wolf is a priestess compared to these two.


    It almost seemed like they were trying to seduce all the men there. The only thing Astred stood out from a regular human was her pointy ears and horns sticking out of her head. However, I quickly noticed she also had wings, more petite than Finn''s, and unlike him, hers were scaly.


    This wouldn¡¯t be easy, especially since I already felt drowning, yet knowing Finn was right next to me comforted me.


    An orc, vampire, lamia, succubus, chimera, wolf, and dragon are all under one roof.


    Just how much I could handle was yet to be seen. Especially when that girl¡¯s eyes landed on me, it was like I was her prey, and at any moment, she would eat me. How I would stand my ground against these five demons was unknown to me, but I wouldn¡¯t back down.


    No, the only way is forward. If I want to walk in your world. I have to be one of you!

 Chapter 48: Astred

    In a second, I was the main attraction in the room, as all eyes were on me. It froze me until Finn shifted his stance to lean towards them. They wouldn¡¯t dare address me with him around.


    ¡°What did you want from me?¡± he sighed.


    His wing was right beside me, allowing me to feel more comfortable knowing he was within arm¡¯s reach.


    ¡°My lord, I wanted to see you, but you have a fly hovering around you,¡± Astred commented.


    My eyes twitched as I swallowed every word that wanted to come out of me.


    If anyone¡¯s a bug, it¡¯s you.


    However, voicing that would¡¯ve made me seem petty, and I wouldn¡¯t swoop down to her level even though it was what I wished to do the most.


    ¡°Oh, my, my Lady Sylvia isn¡¯t a fly, Astred. You confuse her with yourself. She¡¯s the lord''s soon-to-be wife and beautiful in more ways than one.¡± The handsome vampire smirked, winking at me.


    Oi¡­ I don¡¯t need defending!


    It seemed I had landed some points with the generals who saw me bring Finn back.


    ¡°Shut up, Vorex! No one asked you!¡± she hissed, stabbing him with her tail.


    I hadn¡¯t seen she had one until it was pocking out of his rib cage. The vampire fell to his knees, unable to say a word thanks to the ruptured lung she had given him. There was the violence Finn warned me about, which all appeared unphased by.


    The snake lady snickered, slithering past the bickering demons.


    ¡°You two are shameful.¡± She cackled, shaking her head and shifting her eyes towards me.


    Though to me, she appeared the same as they were.


    ¡°Levaira, you aren¡¯t any better. You have your sex organs out for display.¡± Vabaru sighed, rolling his eyes.


    The snake shot a glare at the chimera.


    ¡°Oh? You weren¡¯t complaining earlier when I let you¡ª¡± she wouldn¡¯t finish when their lord appeared to snap.


    ¡°Enough of your bullshit. Hurry and give me your report or get the fuck out. I have better things to do than to entertain you all.¡± Finn growled, showing that same red aura as before.


    All the generals were silenced, shivering where they stood. Even though they couldn¡¯t see it, it didn¡¯t mean they couldn¡¯t sense his murderous intent.


    ¡°Finally, some order.¡± Sebastian huffed, taking a step toward us.


    When his eyes fell on me, I saw his lip curl and nasal flare. This orc loathed the fact that I was there, which made me want to sit there more. I still hadn¡¯t thanked him for the pain he made me endure, and I wasn¡¯t going to run away from a challenge.


    ¡°Can I assume that the marriage is on its way?¡± he asked, glancing over at Finn.


    ¡°I said give me the report. Our personal lives have nothing to do with you.¡± The demon king answered.


    However, this was something Sebastian wasn¡¯t taking lying down.


    ¡°On the contrary. It has to do with all of us.¡± He argued, triggering Finn¡¯s aura to erupt.


    ¡°Does she even know?¡± Astred asked, smirking at me like a small child in a room full of predators.


    In terms of age, I was a child compared to them, but I wasn¡¯t. Finn knew this, especially since I wasn¡¯t terrified of them.


    ¡°She knows.¡± I huffed.


    A soft chuckle left the demon lord¡¯s mouth. I could hear him saying I didn¡¯t have a sense of danger, but I did. I knew these generals weren¡¯t my friends.


    But when it comes to you, maybe it¡¯s broken.


    ¡°For a human, you seem unwary of us. Don¡¯t you know you¡¯re nothing more than food?¡± she scowled.


    Why are you all so determined to look so scary? Isn¡¯t it tiresome?


    ¡°Oh, so I¡¯m food? You¡¯d feast on the person who will either damn you or save you? That¡¯s funny.¡± I smirked, tapping my fingers on the chair.


    My voice quivered, but it wasn¡¯t because of them. No, the cold was getting to me. The moment they came in, a winter storm started inside the room. However, I enjoyed Astred¡¯s murderous glare.


    ¡°Oh, spicy. I like her.¡± Levaira cackled, slithering by her.


    I shrugged, leaning into Finn, who quickly met my gaze.


    ¡°What are you doing, Sparky?¡± he asked.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    His tone while directing me differed from theirs, yet his eyes were the same.


    ¡°It¡¯s a bit chilly,¡± I mumbled.


    Again, my voice quivered, shivering where I sat. I didn¡¯t know where this room was located, but for some reason, the cold permeated there more than other places. My sweater wasn¡¯t helping at all, although it was fluffy.


    ¡°Hm? You want to come on me?¡± he tilted his head.


    It almost sounded like I wanted to claim my territory, partly I did, especially since Astred''s eyes twitched every second I got near him.


    ¡°Well¡­ you¡¯re like a giant heater,¡± I puffed my cheeks.


    It caused him to chuckle. In a second, his aura was gone again.


    ¡°I can¡¯t have you near me right now, but want my cloak?¡± He smiled.


    I nodded, feeling bliss when he covered me with it. All the warmth he had slipped into it radiated into me.


    He got close enough to whisper something against my ear. ¡°So, cute¡­ I want to eat you up as soon as we get back.¡±


    His words caused my heart to skip as my cheeks burned off, thanks to a different heat. I snuggled myself into his cloak as he sat back beside me. Again, his wing was behind me. Solas shifted in the bag to pop his head out as I felt satisfied, especially with Astred¡¯s expression.


    Who knew I could be so possessive of Finn?


    Turning her gaze towards Finn, she appeared to snap like a twig.


    ¡°She isn¡¯t a permanent thing, right?! You¡¯ve never looked at anyone like that!¡± she stepped towards him.


    His expression once again became icier than ice.


    ¡°What the fuck are you on about? All I want is the report, nothing else.¡± he sighed, radiating crimson again, yet it was fainter than before.


    ¡°You never treated me that gently before!¡± She growled, whipping her tail. ¡°That girl can¡¯t please your primal urges as I can!¡± she declared, glaring at me.


    Primal urges?


    It caused me to glance at Finn, who rolled his eyes at her.


    ¡°And what are those? Enlighten me, Astred.¡± He sighed, leaning towards them.


    ¡°The rough sex we had! Remember?! When you beat me to a plump to make your anger quell! She¡¯ll break if you ever are real with her.¡± she announced, pointing towards him.


    A soft growl came from the demon lord, standing up from his chair, but someone else beat him to the punch before he spoke.


    ¡°Oh? Didn¡¯t you hear me when I said Sylvia brought Finn back without going through that? She brought him back with a simple touch, something you¡¯ll never be able to replicate.¡± Vorex snickered, having healed from her treatment.


    ¡°I mean, she lost part of her arm, but she still brought him back. It was the bravest thing I have ever seen a human do, bravo.¡± Vabaru added, clapping his hands.


    ¡°Shut up! Once you lay with a succubus, there isn¡¯t any turning back! Right, my lord?! Her hole must feel like a plastic toy at best!¡± Astred snapped, turning her gaze back to Finn.


    Everything she said was right. Well, for an average human, who would lose themselves much like Gael¡¯s victims. I didn¡¯t know if it was the same for demons who slept with them.


    Does that mean all that dirty talk was just that? I¡­


    I clasped onto my shirt, feeling aches rise in my chest. Luckily, with the cloak on me, she couldn¡¯t see my reaction. However, she noted my gaze shifting away from her onto the floor. A burst of broken laughter erupted from her soon after.


    ¡°Astred¡ª¡± Finn started, only to be interrupted by her.


    ¡°Ah¡­ you didn¡¯t know he slept with me? I lost count of how many times we¡¯ve fucked! Everything he knows he learned from me!¡± She stood confident in what erupted from her mouth.


    ¡°So, what?¡± I growled.


    Am I supposed to feel different because you had him first?! I just¡­


    I already knew I wouldn¡¯t be able to please the demon next to me. Her hammering it home wasn¡¯t necessary.


    Yet I won¡¯t share you with her or anyone else! If you don¡¯t want me, all you have to do is kill me.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about any of that! What matters is what happens next, not the past!¡± I snapped, triggering her to giggle.


    ¡°Oh? So, what hope do you¡ª¡± she wouldn¡¯t finish when Finn stood up, narrowing his eyes.


    He had enough of the charade as his aura broke thicker this time.


    ¡°Enough! If another word comes out of you, that isn¡¯t the fucking report. I swear I¡¯ll make sure your tongue is busy growing for years to come.¡± He warned, eyes full of anger.


    ¡°Yes, my lord.¡± She quickly backed off, narrowing he eyes at me.


    Sebastian snickered, taking a stand. ¡°So, wedding bells?¡±


    I couldn¡¯t help but scowl at the demon. In an instant, he was on his knees, gasping for air. Blood dripped from his mouth as Finn stepped into the room.


    ¡°Now that goes to all of you. Understood?¡± he sighed.


    His voice was monotone, showing none of the warmth from before.


    ¡°Yes, my lord.¡± They all answered, bowing down to him.


    ¡°Now report,¡± he commanded, taking a step towards them.


    This place was much like a throne room, even with all the bloodstains everywhere.


    ¡°Soren wants to meet, my lord.¡± Levaira started, triggering his aura to become thicker.


    The purple from his horns was going away again, too.


    ¡°What? Why the fuck does that red hair want to meet with me?¡± he cackled, tilting his head.


    The psychopathic tendencies within him were showing their ugly face, and that made me wary. Not because he was scary to me but because he could lose himself in that anger¡ªsomething Astred wanted.


    There was a smirk on her lips, noticing her king¡¯s demeanor.


    ¡°The saint, my lord. He wants to know if you¡¯ve bewitched her.¡± She answered, knowing that would tick him off.


    ¡°And why would that matter to him? Didn¡¯t he learn the last time he strolled here?¡± he huffed, clenching his hands into fists.


    ¡°You know how he is. He wants to save all the humans, even the ones on my farm. His occasional raids are bothersome.¡± Sebastian finally recovered enough to speak.


    ¡°You also killed one of his friends, so he¡¯s pretty pissed off.¡± Astred got closer to Finn, triggering him to take a step back.


    ¡°Ah, the shield man. Well, he came onto me; I had to return the favor.¡± He snickered as flashes of what happened that night flowed through me.


    All I could remember was my frustration with them interrupting us. Thanks to what he did to me, I didn¡¯t witness or hear anything other than muffled voices, yet I didn¡¯t want to see a malicious expression on his face like the one he currently had.


    Astred¡¯s earlier words repeated in my mind, leaving me unsure what to think.


    Can I really please you? I mean, you finished in me every time, and I still can feel the liquid you poured into me trail into my underwear, but¡­ I can¡¯t tell if all of this is an act to get me to marry you.


    It wasn¡¯t like he had argued with her, but at the same time, if he had, there was no doubt it would¡¯ve been a go-around between the two. Not saying anything at all was better for shutting her up quicker, yet part of me wished he had fought her.


    Though Finn wanted to keep our relationship status under wraps, it was best for them not to know we were fucking. If it were all up to him, I wouldn¡¯t be there either. So, I had to suck it up or wait until I had time to mark my territory.


    ¡°Oh, I know, my lord, but he doesn¡¯t see it like that.¡± Astred tried to reach for him, causing him to grab onto her hand.


    At that moment, I felt my emotions spike.


    Don¡¯t touch him! He¡¯s mine!


    I wanted to scream it, yet I couldn¡¯t. However, he pushed her off, which triggered her to smirk.


    ¡°This is why we should kill them all and be done with it. Break the barrier and let the miasma do all the work for us.¡± Sebastian huffed on the side, triggering my eyes to fly towards him.


    You can¡¯t mean¡­ No! I can¡¯t let you do that!

 Chapter 49: Brewing Issue

    No one seemed to care about what Sebastian said when he opened his mouth, yet it was the only thing that mattered to me.


    ¡°Wait, doesn¡¯t the miasma make more demons?¡± I mumbled, gazing at the orc.


    In a second, all eyes were back on me as I stood from my chair and walked closer to Finn, who was with them.


    ¡°Not all the time, child. It kills most who can¡¯t withstand the change. Usually, the elderly die, which is why Rizak is such a rare find. Old fool beat the odds more than once.¡± He informed, shrugging.


    Oi, I¡¯m not a child. I haven¡¯t been since I was ten when Dad beat me to a pulp.


    That word didn¡¯t match me, nor did the victim''s name. These demons underestimated me, yet recklessness like that was something that could injure Finn and everyone I cared about.


    Since¡­


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t breaking the barrier place a bigger burden on all of you, or are you so blinded by your hatred to see it?¡± I huffed, taking a step toward the man who threatened my home.


    However, before I could get closer, Finn grabbed onto his cloak, preventing me from getting any closer to him.


    ¡°What?¡± Sebastian cocked his head.


    He hadn¡¯t expected me to speak, let alone defy him.


    ¡°Your farms¡­ how big are they?¡± I asked, clasping my hands into fists.


    This orc¡­ if you have your way¡­


    ¡°We have about five million humans, which is plenty to feed all of Traedan and more.¡± He answered.


    Too little¡­ You don¡¯t even feed the ones here already.


    ¡°And how many humans live within the barrier?¡± I continued to query.


    You¡¯ll all starve.


    ¡°Around ten billion, perhaps more,¡± Finn answered, tugging me towards him.


    He didn¡¯t want me near them, yet Astred, who had been close to him before, scowled when he drew me closer.


    ¡°How do you intend for all this to be feasible then?¡± I sighed, shaking my head.


    Of course, you¡¯ll just let all those who don¡¯t matter suffer, but how long will that work? Years? Months¡­ Days¡­


    Chaos would break when the masses realized they never were part of the equation.


    How full of yourself do you have to be?


    ¡°What?¡± the orc scoffed. ¡°You know nothing of what you speak off.¡±


    ¡°Hah¡­ and you¡¯re dumber than you realize.¡± I sighed, shaking my head.


    His eyes narrowed as I crossed my arms.


    ¡°Tell me, what will you do if those billions turn into demons? Let¡¯s count the old folk who won¡¯t survive; that still leaves you with millions to deal with. How will you sustain yourselves, then, with a measly 5 million humans?¡± I confronted, knowing that wasn¡¯t possible.


    You can barely keep up now. If any more turn¡­ Then¡­


    Every demon fed off different things; a few could do what Gael did, which wasn''t sustainable.


    The demand will be too much to handle. Heck, many are still in Fathal.


    It didn¡¯t help that humans weren¡¯t like regular cattle and took years to mature. They weren¡¯t like cows, which took two years to mature, or pigs, which took less than a year.


    Sustaining that scenario is impossible. Even our current one will not be good if we can¡¯t pass through the barrier.


    We had to keep the rest of the humans from dying off to survive.


    It¡¯s why Finn hasn¡¯t destroyed the barrier to this date. One true enemy within this mess was the miasma that covered all Fathal. Why can¡¯t you all see that?Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    This end was apparent, but perhaps they were too full of themselves to notice the danger, or they welcomed it.


    ¡°Right now, the demons Fathal are already out of control and can barely feed freely. So, will you choose who gets fed and who doesn¡¯t? Until when will that be viable?¡± I huffed, shaking away the feeling that wanted to emerge from me.


    I was talking about human lives like livestock, yet there was no way for them to survive. So, I had to force myself to see the others as nothing more than food for them, yet part of me wished to find another way.


    There has to be¡­ This can¡¯t be the end game for everything.


    However, Sebastian¡¯s attitude towards this made me wonder how the others felt about it, too. I grabbed onto the hand that held me captive.


    Is this what you want too? No¡­ Serah said not to let this happen. All the other demons would be lost, too. You must know that. Right, Finn? That¡¯s why you haven¡¯t killed everyone in Traedan, right?


    I needed to figure out how to return them to their humanity without feeding them humans for years. Rizak¡¯s way was the only way to do this. I wanted to meet the generals to learn who they were, but this was more than I could chew.


    These people want¡­


    ¡°Or maybe you¡¯ll somehow make your millions of humans feed everyone? Let¡¯s even say you get a billion humans from the fall of Traedan. There are still demons in Fathal that are starving. It won¡¯t be sustainable. Your farms will fall eventually.¡± I declared, knowing that if I ever ended up in one of them, I would look for a way out, even if it meant the end.


    The demons outside would be the catalyst the humans used to break free from their chains.


    ¡°Oh, please, child, they¡¯re pests, nothing more,¡± Sebastian assured me.


    For now, they¡¯re bugs. If ignored, they would become a plague! Look at me. I was ignored until I broke and brought down an entire family with me.


    At that time, I had no superpowers or magical abilities, yet I found a way to destroy my old life. The people here...


    ¡°Those same ones can overwhelm even the best countermeasures. What will you do if one of your farms falls?¡± I countered, not stopping for a second.


    This demon wasn¡¯t analyzing everything or was too full of himself to see the danger ahead. Power was nothing when there was an army at the doors. Perhaps he was powerful enough to protect himself, but everything around him would burn.


    ¡°That would never happen, unlike you humans. Power rules demons; even the mad ones bow to it. None would dare to hit my lands. It¡¯s why Fathal is in five sectors controlled by a general.¡± He huffed.


    ¡°Can you say that to demons who are rabid with hunger? To those who can¡¯t even think, let alone feel such a thing as fear?! Everyone has a breaking point! There comes a point when we have nothing to lose and everything to gain!¡± I snapped, triggering him to scowl at me.


    Right¡­ just like that day I stood at that ledge. I had nothing to close and freedom to gain if it came true.


    The orc would¡¯ve touched me if Finn hadn''t been there, yet I wasn¡¯t scared. Luckily, this wasn¡¯t like when he caught me by surprise.


    I should be trembling because of what you did to me last time, but I won¡¯t let you hurt those who I care about. Not while your hatred blinds you.


    ¡°What the fuck do you know about us? A human who isn¡¯t even from this world.¡± he scoffed, licking the blood from his lips as his eyes shimmered brightly.


    A soft cackle left me as I shrugged, ¡°Nothing at all. I know jack-shit of your kind, but I know what you were before you became this.¡±


    I tugged away from Finn¡¯s warmth to face the orc, who was eager to meet death.


    ¡°What?¡± Sebastian appeared surprised to have me stand in front of him.


    There wasn¡¯t a hint of fear in my eyes towards him or anyone in this room.


    ¡°There are only two things you could¡¯ve been¡ªa human or elf.¡± I started, shaking my head lightly. ¡°I¡¯ll guess an elf since you seem extra hateful towards me, but I doubt they¡¯re different from my kin. Am I right? Do we bleed the same, feel the same?¡±


    Elves could live longer than humans, according to Rizak, and had more magical energy than them. However, Finn still held the title of the strongest mage even in his time as a human¡ªsomething that made me wonder if, in his lineage, there used to be some elf in them, too.


    My words surprised Sebastian, who stayed with his eyes wide open as the aura that radiated from them dissipated.


    A soft chuckle came from Finn, ¡°Watch yourself, he bites, sparky.¡±


    ¡°Ah, he won¡¯t bite me. He needs me, much like all the others.¡± I assured, standing off against the orc.


    Coming to this world filled with strangers made me want to ensure I didn¡¯t regret anything. Befriending these demons would take more than playing their part. After all, my sole goal was to save them from themselves.


    ¡°How¡ª?¡± he couldn¡¯t finish when I reached my hand to him.


    It seems listening to Ryzak''s lectures wasn''t a waste of time; I¡¯ve been able to identify most of my foes correctly.


    At that moment, his eyes widened again, taking a step back.


    ¡°I know how terrifying we mortals can be when pushed. I¡¯ve been there at the point of breaking and lashing. That alone should still be in your immortal core, as for my guess. Your ears are pointer than anyone else¡¯s here. That¡¯s an elf trait, right?¡± I offered my right hand to him.


    Finn had some, too. All the humanoid beings on this side of the fence did, but Sebastian''s were more significant than anyone else. I could¡¯ve been wrong, but I hit the right nail this time.


    Astred was another who had them, too, yet hers were slightly shorter.


    Perhaps a half-elf, but that¡¯s for another day.


    ¡°Sparky, careful.¡± Finn sighed, standing behind me.


    It was almost as if he was hovering over me.


    ¡°I¡¯m not scared to look at death in the eye. She and I have a common dance, yet I¡¯ve been victorious every other time; why not this one?¡± I held my hand in place, waiting for the orc to make his move.


    ¡°Oh, little love, that¡¯s the problem.¡± He huffed, grabbing hold of my shoulder.


    A soft sigh left me, ¡°Look, I¡¯ll help you find a way out of this mess. The only way I turn on you is if you are a self-destructive idiot. If that happens, I¡¯ll do everything possible to stop you.¡± I declared, triggering his gaze to slump down to my hand.


    ¡°Is that why you¡¯re offering me your hand?¡± he gazed down towards it, unsure what to do with it.


    ¡°What do you think? Aren¡¯t you an old demon? Get a clue already.¡± I rolled my eyes.


    Sebastian glanced towards the side as laughter erupted from the others.


    Wait¡­ are your cheeks pink?

 Chapter 50: Just a Human

    For a moment, I stared at a flustered orc who was hesitant to shake my hand. A soft chuckle came from Finn, who grabbed my extended right hand, pulling it to himself.


    ¡°I told him if he touches you, I¡¯ll kill him until eternity parts away.¡± He informed.


    I tilted my head, gazing at him weirdly.


    All I want is a handshake, nothing else.


    ¡°Oh, is that why?¡± I mumbled, pulling away from the orc and towards the demon lord''s warmth.


    Sebastian sighed softly, though before he could speak, Vorex came closer to me and his king.


    ¡°Mhm,¡± Finn answered, shifting his blue gaze onto the vampire.


    ¡°My lord, can I be bold?¡± the new invader suddenly asked.


    ¡°What is it?¡± the demon king huffed, narrowing his eyes at him.


    I was unaware, but this vampire was explosive, much like a colorful firework. A second later, he yanked me away from his liege, clasping my hands in his.


    ¡°I think I¡¯ve fallen for you! Will you marry me instead?! I would love for you to have my babies!¡± he suddenly confessed as I felt something break within me.


    My eyes couldn¡¯t go wider than they were, fluttering while my mind lacked the speed to keep up with his words.


    ¡°What?!¡± I yelped, feeling my cheeks suddenly burn.


    It was the first time anyone had confessed to me in that manner, and I couldn¡¯t process it.


    Fallen for me? Does that mean this vampire loves me?!


    ¡°Oi!¡± Finn snapped, aura erupting from him again.


    It caused the vampire to gaze at his king''s eyes, squinting like he regretted saying that.


    ¡°Hey! Hey! Remember! I asked for permission!¡± he squealed, stepping away from me and leaving me frozen in place.


    Mayhem was soon to follow as bickering started between the generals again.


    Ah¡­ After dealing with these clowns who don¡¯t mean half the things they say, I can see why you''re in a bad mood most of the time.


    Yet there was no doubt that these were the strongest demons around. They acted like fools, but I knew in a second that could all change, especially when they saved me from Finn itself.


    ¡°Are you brain dead?!¡± Vabaru slapped Vorex¡¯s back, triggering the vampire to yelp.


    That singular blow was probably less pain than what Finn would¡¯ve dished out, yet it was almost as if the vampire couldn¡¯t help himself.


    ¡°Oh, please! I know you want her too! We all do! She¡¯s a lovely flower that doesn¡¯t bloom that often!¡± Vorex swooned over me, triggering me to take a step back.


    You¡¯re making my skin crawl.


    Shivers ran down my spine as I felt my eyes twitch. This had never happened to me before, and I wanted nothing to do with his conflict. I hadn¡¯t noticed Sebastian behind me when I moved, though. The orc didn¡¯t budge from where he was, even when I brushed against him.


    ¡°Sorry¡­¡± I mumbled, gazing back at the other two.


    ¡°Stop talking like you know everything!¡± Vabaru huffed, shifting his eyes towards me as his cheeks appeared rosy.


    Eh?! What¡¯s going on here?!


    ¡°Oi,¡± Finn sighed, seeing the train wreck unfold.


    The tone in his voice caused me to gaze back at him. His eyes were slowly going red, yet I saw something else that bothered me. Astred hovered over him before hugging him from behind and holding herself close.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. If the human hitches with one of the generals, you always have me, my lord.¡± She purred as Finn was focused on the others to care for what she did.


    Yet I snapped, ¡°Oh, fuck no! He¡¯s mine!¡± I growled, launching myself at the demon king.


    In an instant, everything silenced, including the aura that erupted from the demon king. Before I knew it, Astred was against a wall before I reached him, allowing me to wrap my arms around him. It was like gravity pinned her to the wall.


    I hadn¡¯t caused that, though. No, that was¡­


    ¡°Oh, the heartbreak!¡± Levaira snickered, watching the two other demons who shifted their eyes away from the moment of affection their king and I had.


    ¡°Sparky, you never stop surprising me.¡± Finn chuckled, returning the embrace.


    Sadly, I couldn¡¯t help myself when I saw that succubi hold him. I had to claim him as mine before she did. He could get rid of me if he didn¡¯t want this, but he held me back gently instead.


    Pressing his lips against my ear, he whispered. ¡°There hasn¡¯t been a moment since you came that I wasn¡¯t yours.¡±


    When those words erupted from him, his tail wrapped around my hips. Thanks to the cloak, no one could see it. Not even Astred, who was glued to the wall., could see us. She couldn¡¯t even talk, thanks to the pressure the spell placed on her.


    ¡°Then don¡¯t let her touch you!¡± I grumbled, holding him even tighter.


    I wish I could melt into you; that way, I¡¯ll never have to worry about not being with you.


    ¡°Is our king tamed?¡± Sebastian rasped.


    A soft chuckle left Finn, who didn¡¯t let me go.


    ¡°Want to see for yourself? It seems you¡¯ve recovered from your stumbling. Let me ask you. Did my future wife take your heart, too?¡± he didn¡¯t let me see his expression.


    Yet the three males behind me were silent.


    ¡°Hah, I¡¯m sure he fell for our saint, too. She¡¯s a demon magnet, and even I want a piece of her.¡± Levaira answered.


    Is that supposed to be a fucking compliment?! The only demon I want in the end is¡­


    It would¡¯ve been a mistake to believe her, though. Sebastian¡¯s eyes only showed hatred towards me. Vorex, although a jester, wasn¡¯t someone to be trusted with his words of affection. Neither was the chimera known as Vabaru.


    These demons aren¡¯t capable of love in their current state, but does that include you, too, Finn?


    There was no doubt Astred would kill me without a second thought to claim her king back. A soft sigh left me when I snuggled myself to his chest. This was the only demon who wouldn¡¯t hurt me at first glance, yet I also knew it would¡¯ve been a mistake to believe that.


    Solas¡¯s eyes were glowing within the cloak, leaving me to wonder if Finn radiated that menacing aura again. I didn¡¯t feel it while being so close to him. Brielle had been quiet the entire time, yet her hand was on the blade that rested on her belt.


    Out of all the demons, she was the most level-headed and disciplined, though it wouldn¡¯t be something I¡¯d admit.


    ¡°Levaira, tell Soren I¡¯ll meet him in this castle if he wants to meet the saint so badly. This saint is the most priceless jewel in my hoard. I¡¯ll make sure he knows that by the time he leaves.¡± Finn suddenly announced, holding me in place.


    ¡°Yes, my liege.¡± She acknowledged before disappearing.


    ¡°As for you, Sebastian, keep studying the barrier. Sylvia has valid points. We don¡¯t know how many demons will come from this disaster, and we aren¡¯t doing well right now either, but that isn¡¯t new.¡± He sighed, shifting my gaze toward his face.Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!


    However, what they said next yanked me away from the warmth I had claimed for myself.


    ¡°That¡¯s because those humans locked us in here! I don¡¯t see why they should be treated any differently.¡± Sebastian growled, clenching his hands into fists.


    ¡°What?¡± I mumbled, tugging away from the demon king''s embrace.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know what your kin did to us?¡± the orc huffed, crossing his arms.


    Whenever anyone threw that question around, nothing good ever followed it. Yet¡­


    ¡°History isn¡¯t something I know a lot about. Rizak has filled me in bits and pieces, but learning his world¡¯s history will take years. Oh, and they aren¡¯t my kin, or did you forget I¡¯m not from this world, orc.¡± I rolled my eyes, shaking my head.


    It''s not like I chose to be born a human. We never decide what happens to us, but we can choose how to react.


    The only thing that kept me from becoming a demon was Finn and their need for me. Not that it was a pleasant idea to become one.


    ¡°Well, how wonderful. I get to play teacher today.¡± He huffed, shrugging before waving his hand and summoning a holographic map. ¡°You know how the elves separated the two countries?¡±


    The sudden illusion he had created caused me to smile.


    It¡¯s an accurate representation of the world I¡¯m in.


    I had yet to explore it physically, yet I had looked at its picture before. Rizak had a big map in his study, yet it wasn¡¯t as detailed as this one was. The enormous forest area between the two civilizations was known as the elven groves, the Misty Forest.


    ¡°Yes¡­ before the miasma claimed your homelands. Right?¡± I walked over to his map, followed by Finn, who allowed Astred to fall onto the floor once I had some distance from her.


    The succubi gasped for air when she was finally free.


    ¡°Well, before that happened, when the humans of Traedan noticed the miasma was spreading, they locked their borders to most elves. They had no use to those who couldn¡¯t contribute to their society.¡± Sebastian scoffed, ¡°They had plenty of space for all of us, yet human greed is unsustainable.¡±


    Ah¡­ that¡¯s where your hate stems from. I wonder¡­ how¡­


    Rizak had told me humans once saw elves as lesser beings. However, before the fall of Fathal, the current king was trying to mend their relations. Sadly, this sparked Traedan to act, fearing a union between the two.


    ¡°They even used to send prisoners to become demons or die there. Their groves are nothing but a tombstone for the many. There was no worse fate than turning into a monster without reason or getting torn to bits by them. They didn¡¯t know that some of us would eventually find it again.¡± Finn sighed, grabbing me from behind before scowling at the orc.


    He didn¡¯t like that I was too close to his general again. Seeing him lurking around me was cute, especially with his tail around my waist and leg. The cloak hid everything, but if anyone got close, they would see what he was doing.


    Luckily, they were too busy with matters in their hands.


    ¡°They realized their major fuck up when we started to get smarter.¡± Sebastian shrugged.


    ¡°That¡¯s cruel,¡± I mumbled, wincing at the thought.


    Just how many of you were¡­


    ¡°Oh, you humans always are.¡± The orc huffed, glaring at me once again.


    Any effect I had on him earlier had deflected. It would take much more to win any of these demons'' hearts, including the flirt, who stopped trying to jest.


    ¡°Don¡¯t line me up with them.¡± I huffed, crossing my arms.


    The humans in this world thought it was a blessing to be one, but I didn¡¯t feel the same. At first, the only thing that kept me from turning was the fear of reliving my horrors repeatedly, but that had changed into something else. If I turned, I wouldn¡¯t have been helpful to anyone stuck on this side of the barrier.


    I didn¡¯t want to lose my home, and my time with Finn depended on my intact humanity.


    ¡°Hm? Even if you come from another world, you are still one of them.¡± Sebastian cocked his head before smirking. ¡°Yes, you¡¯re nothing but food, broken saint.¡±


    ¡°The only reason I am is that you need me this way, broken or not. Isn¡¯t that right?¡± I sighed, glancing at Finn, who avoided my gaze.


    It caused me to ache in my heart.


    You won¡¯t lie to me. So, I know¡­ that the only reason you bedded me was to conquer my heart. At least that¡¯s how it started; it has to be different now, right?


    Yet I wasn''t ready to hear the answer to that question.


    ¡°Correct. Though I suspect my king¡¯s having second thoughts on everything. I know Rizak wants peace, but there isn¡¯t such a thing. Not after everything they did!¡± Sebastian growled, clenching his hands into fists.


    A red aura was arising from him, too. Yet it was weaker than Finn¡¯s. It had to be connected, but to what?


    ¡°What? About our goal? No, I¡¯m with you. Even if we lift the miasma or the limit is reached. I¡¯ll still destroy the humans, but what shape or form that takes is yet to be seen.¡± The demon king smirked, radiating the same menacing aura from before.


    What?! No, you can¡¯t!


    These words were ones I couldn¡¯t say out loud without creating more discord, yet they resonated within me, wanting to erupt. However, if they ever escaped me, these demons would label me as their enemy.


    A human sympathizer like Rizak, or at least that¡¯s what they call you, but why do I feel like there is something more there?


    ¡°Good to see that old fool¡¯s idiotic idealistic views haven¡¯t deviated from your correct ideals, my liege. Even if our curse is lifted, they must pay for everything they caused!¡± The orc declared, bowing to his king.


    ¡°That old owl wants something that¡¯ll never happen. Traedan deserves nothing more than to fall, much like our kingdom did. If they can build something from the ashes, that will be for them to decide.¡± Finn shrugged, stepping towards them.


    ¡°So, Maxwell was right then. These changes are permanent.¡± Vabaru sighed, shaking his head.


    ¡°Yes, we¡¯ll never be humans or elves again, even if the curse is lifted. Yet, we can still evolve like we¡¯ve been doing. Without the curse, that might happen more rapidly.¡± The demon king informed, tugging me towards him with his tail.


    Even though he was addressing everyone, he wanted me close. It probably had to do with Astred still in the room, radiating the same crimson hue as the rest. Sebastian¡¯s was the one with the deepest color aside from Finn''s.


    I could only imagine the elves'' pain when turned away and left to rot or die within the cursed fog.


    ¡°Perhaps with the hex lifted. We¡¯ll have less dependency on humans and might establish ourselves as a normal race if our immortality goes. Reproduce and all that life-changing stuff we¡¯ve been missing out on.¡± Finn added, making me feel stings in my chest.


    Ah¡­ when that day comes, will your life still be intertwined with mine? Or will you feel trapped because you¡¯re a man of your word?


    ¡°A baby¡­¡± Astred muttered, wincing at the thought.


    ¡°We can only hope. Yet if the day comes, we are free from our binds, I¡¯ll devour them just for fun.¡± Sebastian smirked, licking his lips.


    ¡°Boo¡­ I enjoy drinking their blood. So, leave some alive for me.¡± Vorex frowned, rolling his eyes before snickering.


    ¡°Well, we¡¯ll always have my farms, which will be for pleasure rather than necessity. You can feed on them as much as you¡¯d like.¡± The orc declared, followed by a sinister laugh.


    There was a flaw in all of this¡ªone they were aware of, yet I¡­


    ¡°This is all speculation. What if you¡¯re still bound to feed on them?¡± I mumbled, trying to keep up with their banter.


    However, the person who responded wasn¡¯t the general before me. No, Finn gazed at me with a wicked smirk on his lips.


    ¡°Then, I¡¯ll enslave them all. Does that bother you?¡± he asked, eyes still giving off the same bright crimson hue.


    The people who lived in Traedan ruined him in more ways than I could count. I couldn¡¯t forget even though I didn¡¯t want to be one¡­


    I¡¯m a human, which represents all you¡¯ve endured.


    ¡°Rizak won¡¯t be happy if it turns out like that,¡± I sighed, gazing away from the demon king.


    I didn¡¯t like it when he appeared to lose himself in the hate. At least he wasn¡¯t violent, but his thoughts were chaotic, without a doubt.


    ¡°Rizak or you?¡± Sebastian huffed.


    ¡°Ah, for fucks sake, look, I couldn¡¯t care less how you survive. I don¡¯t have a say in that, but cruelty¡­ won¡¯t that make you the same as them?¡± I clasped my left hand onto my sweater.


    ¡°So, what do you want? A world like the old owl wants with peace and all that crap that doesn¡¯t exist.¡± Vabaru asked, glaring at me.


    A soft sigh left my lips, shifting my eyes towards the ground.


    ¡°No, that¡¯s a fantasy. It won¡¯t happen even if I wanted it to.¡± I answered wearily.


    ¡°Then, what¡¯s your goal in this saint?¡± the orc urged me to give my input.


    It was probably payback from fighting about the sustainability of his farms, but that point was still valid. It was perhaps something Finn had already thought about, too, but as things were, that situation was almost unavoidable.


    It wasn¡¯t like I was brighter than ancient demons who had years over me. No, I was just a baby compared to them.


    Heck, I''m nothing more than an embryo against you all, to be honest.


    ¡°Like I know! I¡¯m still trying to figure out this whole magic thing! Haven¡¯t you all had the time to figure out this mess?! What have you all been doing for the past years?!¡± I snapped, glaring at the three demons in front of me.


    You¡¯ve been focused on getting your way rather than a way out.


    Astred was deathly silent behind me while the demon king was beside me. I could feel his eyes on me, which I slowly met with.


    ¡°If you want to destroy them. Then I¡¯ll help you. You¡¯re the best thing I¡¯ve ever gotten, and I would do anything for you.¡± I announced, clasping my hands into fists.


    I¡¯ll do anything to stay with you, but at the same time, I won¡¯t let you destroy yourself. You have to be alive by the end of this!


    ¡°But¡­ as I said before, I¡¯ll stop you if I see it be self-destructive. All of you must be alive by the end of this. Otherwise¡­ why do it in the first place?¡± I questioned, shaking my head.


    ¡°Sylvia, we¡ª¡± I didn¡¯t let Finn finish that sentence.


    It didn¡¯t matter.


    ¡°No! I don¡¯t want to lose my home again, and all of you, whether you want it or not, are it! Even that fucking succubus that hates me in the back. Heck! Even Sebastian, who seems to have a stick up his ass, is part of it!¡± I growled, making Solas hop out of his bag.


    A second later, I had a wolf next to me. He was glowing white, resonating with my spontaneous magic. It wasn¡¯t like I could control it. Luckily, I didn''t threaten them¡ªespecially Finn, who still had his tail on me.


    ¡°I¡¯m just a human in your eyes, and I honestly don¡¯t care. Just don¡¯t self-destruct.¡± I growled, narrowing my eyes at the king, who smirked.


    It was simple for me.


    ¡°Oh? What will you do if we are set on that?¡± Sebastian asked, studying my every move.


    The magic around me was showing I was more than what they saw me for.


    Oh¡­ I won¡¯t play with you there. My thoughts are mine alone. There isn¡¯t a single reason you should know¡­


    I didn¡¯t know how to stop them, but that had to lie with Rizak. He was the only one who wanted to prevent this with the least bloodshed.


    Yet¡­ Why are you the only one who¡­


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll grab a few strawberry buns and watch you all burn. I¡¯ll make it a festivity before the apocalypse ends everything.¡± I smirked, not wishing to let him into my thoughts.


    In response, a grin rose on their lips as all these demons knew was power and pain. However, I wished I could change it like they did for me.


    But that isn¡¯t happening today, and I can¡¯t allow you to think I¡¯m your enemy.


    ¡°I can see why you like her so much, my king.¡± Vabaru snickered, gazing at me like I did something amusing.


    ¡°Mhm, my precious jewel has no fear. Though, I don¡¯t know if that¡¯s good or bad.¡± Finn sighed, shrugging.


    I didn¡¯t know what he meant when he called me that, yet what happened next would send questions rumbling through me.

 Chapter 51: A New Part Of Me

    Slowly, Finn turned away from me and towards Astred, who was scowling at me.


    "Are you going to stay there all day? Or are you going to be useful?" he questioned, making the succubi stand up instantly.


    She stood up with her tail tugged between her legs, reminding me of a dog I once saw back in my world.


    Thinking about it, that''s probably close to what you are to Finn.


    I gazed up at the demon king to see his eyes were emotionless.


    If... you gazed at me that way. I wouldn''t... How could she lay with you like that?


    At least when he was with me, there was a hint of gentleness in them, and while under him, he treated me with the utmost care.


    Perhaps that''s why. You aren''t like that with your conquest, are you? Well, unlike them, you need me for something, and unlike Astred, I''m breakable.


    More doubts than what I had before were swelling within me.


    Ah.... Why do I... Spot it, Sylvia! This isn''t helping it!


    "But m''lord¡ª" she quickly stopped when he glared at her.


    It was a mistake if she thought he was giving her an option to stay. She swiftly gazed away from him, nodding in acknowledgment.


    "Yes, m''lord. I''ll go help Levaira." She vanished.


    There was a pain in her voice, but I couldn''t care enough about it. She was my rival when it came to Finn.


    That''s if you can be called that. Unlike you, he needed me. That''s the only difference. But... Am I... any better? No... I''m not. No, you just want to woo me, and I''m falling already.


    Glancing over to Solas, I went to reach for his fur when Finn suddenly tugged me onto him. I was on the demon lord''s lap before I knew it. It caught me by surprise since he had been a bit distant. Well, until I claimed him as mine.


    "Ah, I never thought she would leave." He sighed, holding me close.


    Eh?! What?!


    I tried to draw away from him to gaze at the demons behind us, but I couldn''t. His grip on me was too firm, which caused my eyes to glue onto my captor. The moment they landed on him, he leaned to kiss me.


    My eyes widened, especially when I felt his tail coil around my waist. We weren''t alone there, but it didn''t appear like he cared anymore. No, he was marking his territory much as I had. However, this way was more embarrassing than my declaration and hug.


    Yet I didn''t have the strength to move away when I felt his tongue dance along with mine. Something I would never admit, and my pride would make me say otherwise, too. Instinctively, I pushed his face away, feeling like my cheeks would melt if I didn''t.


    "What are you doing?!" I squealed.


    A soft chuckle came from him before he licked my palm, sending shivers down my spine.


    "I can''t show you affection while Astred''s around, or else she becomes a bit more annoying than a fly, but she''s gone now," Finn answered.


    Huh? Isn''t she like Gael? Or does she feed on this?


    "What?" I mumbled, tugging my hand away from his lips.


    "Not that I would allow anyone else to feed off you, Sparky. No, you''re mine alone." He smirked, glaring at Vorex.


    Oh... you really are making your territory.


    From how he gazed at the other males in the room, I could tell the earlier events had made him uncomfortable. The vampire''s sudden declaration of love for me was a tipping point for this demon king, especially when he knew how much I wanted to be loved.


    Oh... Silly little king, I''m not a fool. Vorex''s words were empty and meant nothing. There isn''t any need to feel protective over me, but I can''t help but feel fulfilled when you seem like you care.


    Finn''s need for me was more geared toward love than the desire the others possessed. After all, they didn''t know a thing about me, while this demon knew everything. The vampire behind me was probably trembling where he was.


    Even though the demon who held me was terrifying, to me, he was anything but that. Smothering myself in his chest, I hummed, finding comfort in this monster''s hands. Not for a moment was I delusional to think he was anything but that.


    Even so, he was the one who took me and gave me a home when no one else did.


    Yes... for you, I''d do anything.


    "I see, I''m all yours. You already know that." I mumbled, feeling flutters in my belly.


    As long as I''m helpful, you won''t throw me away, right? I... have to stay that way. But how?


    I was useless in the eyes of the generals, which made my footing crack.


    At any moment, fissures can form on the floor I stand on, making me tumble into the unknown.


    That goddess warned me that some were looking to get rid of Finn. With this simple interaction, I couldn''t tell which one wanted it the most, but it wasn''t like the demon king didn''t know they were after his crown.


    By how he treated them, it was evident that he saw them all as necessary pawns¡ªprobably how he had seen everyone except those he knew before Fathal fell.


    So, why would you think any differently of me?


    There was no reason for it. I stayed close to him while the other three gave their reports. According to Sebastian, the barrier could collapse at any given moment. The barrier was formed by sacrificing the life of a saint to create a crystal in the catacombs of Traeden''s castle.


    This was done before Finn ever got his humanity back, and the miasma was gaining territory. Luckily for my sister, it was a one-time ritual, which would cost them too many resources to do again. Much to her duty, she strengthened the barrier, but it did nothing to repair the cracks it had suffered.


    Evelyn had holy power, but not the repairing or healing type, yet she could kill everyone on this side of the barrier if she ever mastered her magic. Though, if it would be before the cracks finally gave away, there was no way to know.


    It seems my sister is also struggling to grasp this world''s rules.


    "If you''re set to save us and the humans, you''ll have to break the curse before that happens. You know that, right?" Sebastian took a jab at me.


    It was like a knife had sliced into me. Much like the goddess had informed me, the barrier was decaying, and Finn''s intervention to get us out appeared to destabilize it even more. I didn''t want to hear this as it placed more pressure on me.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    Me... the girl who doesn''t know how to cast a spell right. Damn it! The only things I know I do too well are sigils and that little lighting spell that a toddler can do!


    However, this time, it appeared both sides had incompetent saints. Though, unlike me, my sister could put up a fight. I probably couldn''t harm a fucking fly on the wall, and it irritated me.


    "I have little doubt Sparky here will save us all. Won''t you?" Finn put me in the spotlight, which made me want to strangle him.


    However, it was apparent that he did it on purpose by how his lips curled into a smirk.


    "I..." I trailed off, shaking my head.


    Of course, I know! But... but can I?! I can''t even control my magic!


    My sister wasn''t doing any better either, which made me wonder why Finn hadn''t said anything to me. All of it made me flip. I didn''t want to be responsible, even if I wanted to help them.


    "Why do I have to save you all from the hole you dug yourself in?!" I snapped, feeling too much pressure.


    I had said I would help them, but like this, it felt like the world was on my shoulders, and it was. Sebastian wasn''t wrong. I was the only one who wanted to lift the miasma instead of destroying it.


    Even lifting it could affect them in ways we didn''t know, yet having all the humans turn into beasts wasn''t the best option either. Vorex and Vabaru were two generals who didn''t want that to happen. Of course, it wasn''t because of how much they loved humanity.


    In their case, it''s self-preservation. Without us, they can''t live if the miasma wins out at the end. Arg! I just don''t know!


    Going to feast in the human lands wasn''t feasible for any demon in Fathal. Every time they went into Traedan, their power would drain, thanks to the saint''s buffs to the barrier. Of course, that didn''t stop them from wanting to go.


    It only weakened Finn to that extent because he hadn''t fed. He was going the day after our date when Gael returned from the human lands. The barrier was normal until that day, too. He said it felt off the moment he went through it.


    Then he had to use his magic to keep a disguise up, which made me wonder if, when he was holding me, he was feeling the struggle to feed on me.


    "Oh, sweety. I didn''t mean it like that." Finn chuckled, petting my head like I was a pet.


    That was probably what I am to you, yet why is your touch so gentle?


    It soothed me and my worries while minor grumbles left me.


    I just can''t win, can I?


    "Well, it''s a good thing the humans have an incompetent Saint, too." Sebastian sighed, triggering my eyes to twitch.


    Sadly, I couldn''t argue with him.


    You''re right. I''m inept at this task.


    "Sorry for not being born in this world," I growled, prompting Finn to tug me into his chest.


    "Don''t fight with him, dear. He feeds off it, and not in the literal sense." The demon king huffed as his body shimmered that red aura I had gotten accustomed to.


    Though the fog was thin compared to the other times, it had erupted out of him.


    "Now, if berating one of my precious jewels is all you''ll do. How about you three become useful and study the barrier? It''ll be nice to know when it''ll fall instead of being caught by surprise." Finn scowled, holding me close.


    "That''s impossible to know, m''lord." Vabaru sighed, shaking his head.


    "Then turn your studies to the human reactions. We need to know every one of their moves. I don''t want to be retaken by surprise. Fool me once; shame on you. Fool me twice; shame on me. The third time, I''ll kill every single one of them." The demon king sighed, rolling his eyes.


    Stupid fool, you can''t, but how can I stop you from killing yourself?


    Solas rested beside us, placing his head on the arm of the chair. He knew I was safe in Finn''s lap, but he always wanted me in his sight. Reaching to him, I pet his fluffy head, prompting his tail to wag rapidly.


    "Yes, m''lord." The chimera soon disappeared after those words.


    His eyes landed instantly on Vorex, who appeared like a fish out of water.


    "Vorex, make yourself useful, too. I''m sure your army needs tending." Sebastian commented on the side, triggering the vampire to smirk.


    "Nah, I''m going to bug our girls." The vampire soon disappeared before Finn could say anything to him.


    A soft sigh erupted from him, shaking his head. "And you?"


    "I''ll go tend to my farms. Excuse me, m''lord. I''ll let you know if anything comes up. Unlike the others, I always get results." Sebastian announced, glancing over to me.


    "It was nice to meet you, m''lady." He bowed.


    "Yes, then do that." Finn huffed.


    It was obvious he was done with them. A second later, the orc was gone too. A heavy sigh left the demon king when Brielle chuckled on the side.


    "I didn''t even have to draw my sword. That went better than I thought." She cackled.


    "Huh?" I mumbled, unable to switch gears fast enough.


    "Well, they behaved better than usual. I guess my future wife has her ways with our kin." He smiled, leaning into me.


    "I have no such gifts." I huffed, getting off his lap before he could kiss me.


    "I agree. I don''t know what they see in you. You''re nothing but a human meat bag." Brielle took a jab at me.


    It caused my eyes to twitch.


    Oi! You don''t need to be insufferable, too!


    "Excuse me? I don''t think I asked for your opinion." I crossed my arms, staring at her.


    All the earlier emotions were still surging within me, too. At that moment, I saw her flick her sword attached to her belt. I saw the steel within it momentarily, and it attracted me. With a couple of steps, I was before the wolf, staring at the sheathed weapon.


    "Wait, what''s that blade made from, and where can I get one?" my eyes glistened, remembering my dream of having a sword.


    Of course, back in my world, I only wanted it for decorative purposes. Even though I used to practice Kendo, it didn''t mean I wanted to use a steel one on someone. It probably was why I was studying to be a medical student back when I was in college.


    "It''s my fang, and you can''t. Blades like these are only for knights." The she-wolf drew the blade away from me.


    "What? Is my luck so crappy to find another demon with morals?" I frowned.


    "You want a sword, sweets?" Finn suddenly asked, making me squeak before my gaze landed on him.


    "Oh... Oh! Yes, of course I do. I used to practice Kendo in my world. Uh, wait, you don''t know what that is." I couldn''t take my eyes off Brie''s sheathed blade.


    "Hm... Is that when you practiced that weird sport?"


    "Ah, right, you saw all my memories. So you probably know everything." I sighed, shaking my head.


    "Silly girl, just because I saw doesn''t mean I understand it. Why don''t you tell me more?" he continued.


    "Well, it''s Japanese-style martial arts. Oh wait, you know nothing about that." I bit my lip as the demon lord tilted his head.


    It was hard to assimilate into this world, especially when I forgot they knew nothing of mine.


    "Is that like a different culture?" Finn wrapped his tail around my waist again.


    "Mhm, it is. I lived in a place where they all melted together. I used to be pretty good with the Shinai, the bamboo sword we use for it." I simpered, remembering those moments fondly.


    They were the only times when I was free from anything else. It was the only time my bruises meant something more than surviving.


    "Why did you stop?" Brielle suddenly questioned, prompting me to shift my sight onto her.


    It should''ve been an easy question, yet all it did for me was resurface the moments when my dad sent me into debt. Even though I was so close to a scholarship for college because of my practice, I had to drop everything and put more hours into the restaurant.


    After all, my academic grades were already covering my tuition, so I couldn''t afford to lose them even if I was close to going competitive.


    "Well, that doesn''t matter," I mumbled, clenching my hands into fists.


    "So snotty, I bet you quit because it got too hard." the she-wolf huffed, crossing her arms.


    "Oi..." Finn growled, triggering me to shake my head.


    "Anyway, can I see your sword?" I rolled my eyes, trying to change the subject.


    If I wanted to befriend her, I had to be less hostile, yet the thought of my stepfather soured everything. I hadn''t thought of him in weeks. For a moment, it looked like she wouldn''t give it to me.


    However, when she looked at Finn, her expression changed.


    "Uh... sure," she struggled to come to terms with that choice but quickly drew her blade.


    It was different from the Katana that the Shanai was modeled after. If anything, it was a long sword, yet it was the most beautiful blade I had ever seen.


    Not that I''ve seen many in person.


    There was a sword fanatic who had many in the Kendo team. I had only seen pictures, but the real thing was something else.


    "It''s lighter than the ones I''m used to. So, I thought metal would be heavier." I gripped it tightly before raising it to the ceiling.


    "How was it?" Brielle asked, watching me.


    I wondered if she thought I would injure myself with it.


    "Slender and thinner than this one. In my world, it''s called a shinai, but it''s only a representation of the real thing, a Katana, yet it''s heavier than this one, which surprises me. I thought it''d make me drop it." I giggled, bringing the blade down.


    "Well, it''s enchanted to be like that." She answered. "We use animal parts to make them easier to wield."


    Of course, it is. Is there anything in this world that doesn''t exist to make it easier?


    "It isn''t like that in my world." I reminded, shrugging.


    Holding it in my hands made me want to swing it, but that would''ve been irresponsible.


    "So, you know your way around a blade?" Brielle huffed, impressed by the way I was holding it.


    "Yeah, but nothing like you, I bet." I shrugged, relaxing my stance.


    There was no point in trying to swing when it could harm someone, yet I...


    "You never stop surprising me, Sparky." Finn chuckled, still curling his tail on me.


    "Hey, is there any more open where I can swing?" I asked, unable to hold the desire.


    "No, you might kill someone with it. Who knows how your magic might react to it." She growled.


    Another heavy sigh left me.


    I never realized how much I miss practicing these things, but it isn''t mine to play with.


    "Shame," I mumbled, going to hand it back to her.


    However, before I did, a light shone on the blade, repelling her and Finn away from me. The only one who wasn''t repelled was Solas, who stood by me as energy waves erupted from the weapon in my hands, and I didn''t know how to stop it.

 Chapter 52: A Breakthrough

    Energy erupted from the blade in my hands, repelling everyone but Solas. Brielle slammed against the wall, and Finn caught himself before he hit it. Dropping the sword like a hot potato, I took a few steps back, shocked at what happened.


    It only took a second for the sword to stop radiating that weird white energy. Everything in the room had been tossed around too. I quickly gazed at Finn, who had his eyes wide open. So did Brille, but the one I cared about the most was him.


    I feared he thought I was trying to kill him.


    "I-I... I d-didn''t mean to do that!" my voice shuttered, clasping onto my shirt.


    Fear gripped me in such a way that I didn''t know what to do. Brielle cursed, getting up from the floor. However, instead of anger, Finn''s face was filled with amusement. He quickly closed the gap between us to reach for me.


    I flinched, thinking he would be angry, but he stopped gazing at me weirdly. My expression must''ve told him everything he needed to know. A soft frown formed on his lips.


    "You know, I''d never hurt you in my right mind, right?" he sighed, holding his hands in place.


    I was so used to being beaten when I did something I shouldn''t. It was all I expected. After all, I had made them go flying off. There was no one else who could''ve done that either. It even harmed Brielle, who hit the wall pretty hard.


    There was blood coming from her head.


    "I-I..." I struggled to say, shaking where I was.


    Every time my stepdad hit me; I wasn''t as scared as I was with Finn. I always felt indifferent after I learned my father didn''t care for me. But with this king, it was different. It was probably because I didn''t want to be apart from him.


    I feared my lack of usefulness would anger him. Or if what I did made him throw me away. Instead of that, I felt his fingers trail down my cheeks.


    "I know. You''re used to people hitting you every time you did something they didn''t approve of." He sighed, trailing his finger down my cheek.


    "What?" Brielle mumbled, gazing at us.


    No one knew of my past. No, only Finn witnessed it all. Yet it didn''t stop him from continuing, though.


    "But I''ll never do that." He paused, wincing.


    His anger was something he could barely control.


    "Not to you, at least. Not while I''m in my right mind." He assured, triggering me to glance at him.


    In an instant, he leaned down to kiss my lips lightly. Brielle shook her head, joining us. All the while, Solas sat behind me, gazing at the sword on the floor.


    "Damn it! Do you have to keep showing off like that?!" the she-wolf growled, reaching down to her sword.


    However, the moment her skin touched the weapon. She flinched back as something stung her. It caused Finn to gaze at her.


    "Fuck! She blessed it by simply touching it!" Brielle huffed, waving her hand as something burned her.


    "No, she didn''t bless it. She infused her magic through it. It''ll wear off in a bit." The demon king announced, leaving me confused.


    However, while in his arms, I felt safe. Turning back to me, he cupped my cheeks in his hands.


    "Geez, you never stop seizing to surprise me, Sparky. You''re amazing." He chuckled, tracing my cheeks with his thumbs.


    "I don''t even know what I did," I mumbled, comforted by his warmth.


    "Well, that display showed you''re a certain type of mage. One that can channel magic through enchanted objects." He informed me.


    Yet it left me as I started.


    I tilted my head, gazing at him. "What?"


    A soft smile rose on his lips.


    "You''re a sorceress. Meaning, that if you have an enchanted object in your hands. Your magic will be easier to channel. Like a focal point to condense it. It can be destructive if not controlled right, though. And extremely rare." He warned, gazing towards the sword on the floor.


    "So, I''m a bomb that can''t touch enchanted weapons. Got it." I sighed, taking a peek at the sword again.


    Shaking my head, I tugged away from the demon lord. However, before I could, he pulled my hand back to him.


    "That isn''t what I meant. This is a way for you to control your powers. Just have to find an artifact strong enough to hold your magic. Or well, that happens." Fin announced, gazing at me with those blue orbs of his.


    They were still lacking warmth. However, the parts that had turned purple still were. It quickly broke away from my eyes from him with the words said next.


    "Shit! She shattered my fang!" Brielle growled, finally picking up the sword from the floor.


    It had a slight crack in the center. I hadn''t seen it. Yet somehow he saw it while it repelled him. It caused the magical surge we saw.


    "Of course, she did. Her magic rivals mine. Of that, I do not doubt of." The demon king declared, making gaze towards him again.


    There was a sly smile on his lips. He was more than amused. There was something he saw I didn''t.


    "I rival you. Impossible," I huffed.


    There was no way I was as powerful as the demon king. Did I have magic to combat him? Yes. But was I more potent? No. He was deadlier than I in every way possible. If I happened to be on the other side.


    I would''ve been only roadkill to him.


    "Yes, Sparky. You do. I don''t like how you sell yourself short. There isn''t a doubt in my mind that I would''ve been in trouble if you were my enemy." He chuckled, reaching to touch my cheek again.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    Every time he did, it lit a fire within me. One that left everywhere he touched burning with a warmth that consumed me. After being held by him, the thought of being enemies didn''t please me. When I first got there that was something I thought we would be.


    But all I wanted was his heart. No matter how closed off it was to me.


    "Brie, train her. Rizak''s lectures won''t do a damn thing with her gift. She''s more practical than academic." He suddenly announced, turning to the wolf.


    My eyes widened, shaking my head.


    Wait?! What?!


    "What?! Do you want to dump your load on me?! I don''t even know how to teach!" the she-wolf growled.


    She really couldn''t stand me. Even though I tried to make amends with her. This woman didn''t want to interact with me.


    "Who else has the talent to train my betrothed? I wouldn''t trust my generals with that task. No, the only one I have is you, Brie." Finn sighed.


    Brielle took a glance at me, as I didn''t know what was happening.


    I''m changing teachers!? Wait... no...


    "Cousin, we''re oil and water. Even though I''m more patient than you. I can snap too." She warned, crossing her arms.


    "Oi... Thanks for that." I huffed, triggering her to glare at me.


    She wanted no part in training me. And I didn''t want to be a burden to her or anyone. A soft sigh left him. Once again, he was dealing with children who didn''t get along.


    "Rizak''s ways won''t work. And I can''t train her. I''m no good with enchanted items." He pointed out.


    The wolf appeared close to cracking. This was a direct request from her precious king and family. That was something I couldn''t forget. These two were connected in ways I never knew.


    "Arg! Fine! But I''m not explaining shit to her. She''ll have to learn through bruises and mistakes!" the she-wolf howled, turning away from us.


    Finn chuckled, shaking his head. "That''s fine. Rizak and I will deal with that part. You teach her how to use it."


    She huffed, growling where she stood. "Practical only. Though, I think she won''t make it through my training. So, I say this will be a waste of time."


    Her words rubbed me the wrong way. After all, I...


    "Oi, I''m not a demon. I don''t have your infinite stamina. And I need to sleep, eat, and rest!" I pouted.


    "We know, love. She means it differently than it sounds." Finn assured.


    Yet I wasn''t happy with that. To me, it was exactly like it was.


    "And how''s that?" I huffed, gazing at him, unimpressed.


    "It''s the training I did when I was a human. I know things can go fast for your tiny brain but try to keep up. We aren''t stupid beings, like you." Brielle growled, gazing at me like I was nothing more than a bother.


    She probably disliked me since I never respected Finn as I should''ve. However, there was more to her distrust. Everyone there thought I would harm the king. Yet I didn''t understand why it fell on me to gain their trust.


    After all, they didn''t know me. And the only one who could harm anyone in this relationship was him. Though, in their eyes, they knew how damaged his heart was. Even Gael still gazed at me with worry.


    Yet her calling me a moron wasn''t helping the cause, either.


    "What?!" I snapped.


    We truly were like oil and water, never to mix. There was no way this would be a good idea.


    "Peace now. Don''t make me angry, Brie." The demon king scowled.


    The she-wolf went stiff.


    "Ah, I..." she trailed off, glaring at me.


    It appeared every time I was around, she would find herself in trouble with her king.


    "Fine," she sighed, shaking her head.


    "She''ll need a blade, staff, crystal orb, or whatever weapon she pleases before she can start. I suggest a staff or an orb. Less to hurt yourself with." She gibed.


    "Oi! I''ll be fine with anything!" I assured her, seeing her as a challenge to overcome.


    "Ah, well, I''ve got an idea for that." Finn chuckled, pushing me towards Brielle.


    A second later, he shifted into his dragon form before snapping one of his large fangs. When I saw blood, I tried to rush to him, but I was stopped by Solas standing in my way.


    "Wait, you''re going to use one of your fangs? Isn''t that a bit much?" Brielle asked, gazing at her king like he lost his mind.


    To her, I wasn''t worth the effort he was placing. She saw me much as Gael did. However, the incubus had more interactions with me than this wolf had. I had only seen her a few times, and it was usually her fetching the king.


    Shifting back, the demon lord was already healed. The dragon fang was on the floor, though.


    "Well, If I can''t hold her power in one place. Nothing can." He declared, leaving me confused.


    Then again, Brielle had said her sword had her fang in it. Something I didn''t take it literally. But it appeared it was.


    "Don''t humans usually use mystical beasts for their enchantments? Shouldn''t we hunt one instead of using yours? It can lead to worse magic. One she can''t hold." Brielle questioned, gazing at her king.


    I stared at the fang on the floor, utterly confused by everything that was happening. The only thing I got from the entire thing was that I could control my magic like this. But how it was yet to be seen. It was honestly causing me a headache.


    "I have a feeling a unicorn horn wouldn''t hold her power. Heck, not even a normal dragon fang or horn would." Finn replied, licking his lips.


    The taste of blood was probably present in them. However, his words caused my orbs to travel towards him.


    "Wait, you guys have those here?" I asked.


    It was like my childhood dreams lit up. All of a sudden, all those mythical beasts were potentially real. I mean, I saw a dragon, chimera, and even vampires. But something about a unicorn had its ring on me.


    Perhaps because it was the last nice memory I had of my sister. One where she gave me her plushie a night I was crying. It was all before she saw the horror I could cause.


    "Are those not in your world, sweets?" the demon lord chuckled, watching my face light up.


    In an instant, there was a gentleness in those cold eyes of his.


    "No... my world''s boring compared to yours. Well, not true. It has its moments, too." I mumbled, remembering the sky I saw the night I came into this world.


    If only it hadn''t been bittersweet. There were probably more places to see like that. Yet the life I led cut it short.


    "Do you miss your realm?" Brielle asked, watching my reaction.


    Her question caused Finn to turn his gaze away from me. I didn''t know why, but I focused on her instead. It sounded like she was testing me. The previous saint had...


    "No," I shrugged.


    The only thing left for me there was nothing pretty.


    Jail or debt us all that''s looking at me in the future. While here... I don''t even know what life has for me. Yet... I want to be here.


    This wasn''t something I was willing to share with everyone, though.


    "So cold. Isn''t it strange to not miss your homeland? What type of loyalties do you have?" the she-wolf huffed.


    I couldn''t help but scowl at her. There was no doubt in my mind this was a bad idea. Her being my teacher would only end in disaster. I probably was better off by my own devices.


    Probably...


    "Brie... Enough, sometimes you don''t know what you''re talking about." Finn growled.


    His aura was erupting again.


    "Fine, I''ll take the fang to the blacksmith. Let me know what she decides to make with it." She gazed away before disappearing.


    All of these demons could make their getaways so easily. Yet I hadn''t seen her pick up her sword nor the fang, but they were both gone. I sighed, shaking my head, turning to the last demon in the room.


    "I don''t think this is a good idea. She hates me." I pointed out.


    Solas shrunk enough to fit in my bag. Picking him up, I placed him in it, only to be grabbed from behind by Finn.


    "She doesn''t hate you, love. She doesn''t trust you. It doesn''t come easy for her." He reassured me.


    I shook my head, gazing towards the side.


    "Does it come easy for you?" I mumbled, gazing at the demon king''s eyes.


    They were still so cold.


    "Of course, I trust you. Not that it comes easy. But I had little choice in the matter. And I''m glad I did." He answered, holding me tightly to him.


    A simple answer. One that didn''t fully please me with everything that happened today. Perhaps it was my impatience. Yet I struggled to face him.


    "Why did you do that? Didn''t it hurt?" I asked, glancing towards where the fang was.


    There was still blood there. A soft hum came from Finn as the fang disappeared from my sight.


    "Why did you run to me, knowing I could hurt you?" he countered.


    "Because... I couldn''t bear to see you like that." I answered, turning around to face him.


    "And I want you to reach your greatest potential, Sparky. I''ll do everything in my power to make sure you do." He smiled.


    I couldn''t help but smile back at him. Yet...


    Is this for you and your country or me?


    There I was met by his lips crashing into mine. I couldn''t help but feel like all of this was forced on his part. Even if I welcomed the affection, I...


    Are you trying to make me feel better? Or do you actually want to kiss me?


    Either way, I couldn''t keep myself from kissing him back. Unlike Vorex, who was easier to read, this demon wasn''t. Even so, he ensnared me. It didn''t matter if I was a precious jewel to him or not.


    All that did was that I remained by his side at all costs.

 Chapter 53: A Breather

    Not long after our kiss began, it quickly ended when my stomach started rumbling. I hadn¡¯t realized how much time had passed while we were with the generals.


    I guess that¡¯s why demons don¡¯t have the feel of the passage of time that we humans do. They don¡¯t need to sleep or eat like I do.


    Finn chuckled softly, hearing my guts rebellious before he led me to the dining room again.


    We didn¡¯t vortex there. No, we walked, holding hands, the way there!


    It left me feeling like a schoolgirl once again. This demon knew how to win my heart without even trying to do it. After arriving at the feasting hall, I ate a meal Gael had prepared. Of course, the incubus¡¯s teasing of his friend didn¡¯t stop, which allowed me to see a new side to the fearsome demon king.


    The generals couldn¡¯t provoke him like Gael, and all without violence, too. Luckily, his banter ended up being innocent, at least towards me.


    Though you and Astred are nothing alike, is it a personality thing of a species trait?


    The conversation quickly turned toward me when Finn¡­


    ¡°Have you thought about what you would like to use?¡± he suddenly asked, turning his attention towards me.


    I almost choked on the water I was drinking when he did. Coughing, I saw him tilt his head, confused about why I was distressed. I hadn¡¯t thought of it at all.


    ¡°Use what?¡± Gael asked from the side before I could answer.


    Nyla huffed on the side, getting in between him and us.


    ¡°Yes, yes! A weapon to channel Sylvia¡¯s magic. She¡¯s a sorceress!¡± she pointed out.


    It almost sounded like she was proud of everything I did. Not that I did anything other than hurt Finn and Brielle.


    ¡°Sorceress? Wow, I didn¡¯t expect that from you, shrimp. I thought you¡¯d keep being a cute little doll for us.¡± Gael smirked, gazing at me.


    His crimson orbs appeared to have amusement in them.


    ¡°I said to be nice to our lady!¡± The little goblin hopped, slapping him on the back of his head.


    ¡°Oi! I was being nice!¡± he growled back.


    This type of interaction was something I was already accustomed to. Instead of paying attention, I glanced at Finn, who had his blue eyes on me rather than on them.


    ¡°I¡¯d like a Katana,¡± I announced, placing the cup on the table.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if we know what blade type that is.¡± Finn tapped his hands on the table, leaning closer to me.


    I tilted my head, ¡°Well, you can look at my memories, right? Unless you also think I should use something that can¡¯t hurt me.¡± I huffed, narrowing my eyes at him.


    ¡°Oh, no, sweets. I know you¡¯ll be fine with anything you decide.¡± He assured me, dropping one of his hands under the table as a second later, it was on my thigh. ¡°I¡¯ll see it later though.¡±


    His sudden touch made me jittery.


    ¡°So, are you going to hunt her a mythical beast? Shall we hunt like the old days?¡± Gael asked, smirking.


    How his expression lit up showed me that he was fondly thinking of something.


    ¡°Oh, no. I¡¯m going to use myself. Any lowly creature would fracture in her essence. Brielle¡¯s fang couldn¡¯t withstand it. Let¡¯s see if mine does.¡± Finn answered.


    Gael quickly placed his hands on the table. ¡°Hah?! Are you insane?!¡±


    His eyes flashed with worry¡ªsomething was happening, and I wasn''t fully aware of its depth.


    ¡°You worry too much, Gael. It¡¯ll be fine.¡± The demon king sighed, tightening his grip on my thigh.


    His tail also wrapped around my waist, securing me to my chair. I still wore his cloak, which prevented anyone from noticing his protective hold on me, though the incubus words had me glued to him.


    ¡°Look, I know she¡¯s a lovely girl, but I think you¡¯re giving too much of yourself in a short time! What if she ends up being like¡­ The gods forgive me¡­ What if she¡¯s like Lillia?!¡± he confronted Finn.


    A sharp red aura came from the demon lord upon hearing that name. However, he didn¡¯t pull away from me.


    ¡°She won¡¯t be.¡± Finn huffed, tightening his grip again on me, prompting me to grab his hand.


    ¡°Oh, like we found out so quickly last time! It took her five years to show her colors! No offense, Sylvia, you¡¯re a sweet girl, but we barely know each other.¡± He didn¡¯t back down.


    I froze upon hearing my name. We had been together for more than a month.


    It¡¯s close to two months¡­ Is it?


    It may have seemed like a short time for them, but we had spent twenty-four hours a day together most of the time.


    Is that really so short of a time?


    People back in my world usually only went on dates for a couple of hours a day before returning home and not seeing each other for days, perhaps weeks, if it was a long-distance relationship. Most of what they did was talk on the phone, which was nothing compared to living together under the same roof.


    Finn and I had spent countless hours during our friendly chats at night.


    Ah¡­ Perhaps it¡¯s different here?


    Nyla hissed, slapping the incubus¡¯s knee.


    ¡°No, no, no! Gael, you¡¯re out of line! She¡¯s nothing like that witch! I know it, and you do too!¡± she scolded.


    Before Finn could say anything, I stood up. ¡°Look, you might not trust me, but I won¡¯t hurt Finn. If anything, he¡¯ll eat me by the end of this if he wants.¡± I announced, glancing down at the demon king, whose eyes opened wideIf you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    It was like his earlier words fell on deaf ears, but I¡­


    ¡°Right?¡± I added, simpering.


    Following me up, he tugged me towards him. They knew nothing of what happened behind closed doors. The demon in front of me made sure of that. However, even I could be a sly fox when I wanted to be.


    ¡°Oi, no,¡± he huffed, triggering me to smirk


    ¡°Oh? You won¡¯t?¡± I continued, gripping his shirt.


    This little demon had no idea I had trapped him.


    ¡°No,¡± he growled, grabbing onto my hands.


    ¡°Oh, so you didn¡¯t like it. I see; we don¡¯t have to do that again.¡± I sighed, gazing away, but before my eyes drew away, I saw those cheeks of his flush red.


    There, I drew away from him, heading for the door.


    ¡°Wait¡­ W-what?!¡± Finn¡¯s voice pitched, unable to catch on quickly enough.


    I giggled, unable to help the way his reaction tickled me.


    Serves you right for bedding that woman in front of me. At least she never saw that expression of yours. God, it¡¯s glorious.


    Nyla gasped. ¡°Oh, dear!¡±


    ¡°Oi! I don¡¯t need that information. Unless I¡¯m involved!¡± Gael¡¯s eyes twitched, realizing right away what I meant.


    My effort to move the conversation from its tracks worked. I didn¡¯t care if I appeared like a pervert. I just wanted Lillia¡¯s name out of everyone¡¯s lips. This had become my home, yet it was far from it.


    There were too many unhealed scars, and I wouldn¡¯t blame them for it either.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll be on my way.¡± I bid farewell, but Finn grabbed me from behind before I could take a step.


    ¡°Oh! No, you don¡¯t!¡± he huffed.


    A second later, we disappeared, appearing back in my room. The suddenness rattled me as I didn¡¯t expect him to take me away like that. Before I knew it, he threw himself onto the bed, leaving me to sit on him.


    This demon wasn¡¯t scared of hurting me with his magic anymore, either.


    ¡°You¡¯re too much. I swear you¡¯re going to drive me insane.¡± He added, prompting his head onto my shoulder.


    I gazed towards the side.


    It isn¡¯t like you aren¡¯t crazy already.


    With everything he lived through, there was no doubt that he had a few loose screws in there.


    ¡°Well, I didn¡¯t appreciate Gael popping out your ex¡¯s name. Isn¡¯t the demon king already crazy?¡± I pointed out, picking Solas out of my bag.


    He hopped off onto the bed before laying closer to the pillows.


    ¡°Hah, so, you ask me to eat you out in front of everyone because of that?¡± Finn asked.


    ¡°No, I just didn¡¯t know how to hush him. Awkwardness usually makes people go silent.¡± I informed, trying not to read into my words too much.


    ¡°Hah, you almost gave me a heart attack.¡± He sighed, shaking his head.


    Unable to help myself, I turned toward him.


    ¡°But you said you didn¡¯t want to,¡± I mumbled, grabbing his shirt.


    ¡°Oi!¡± he growled, making me lean to kiss his lips.


    It was quick; I didn¡¯t want him to get it over his head.


    ¡°I¡¯m kidding.¡± I pulled away, licking his lips.


    Am I really the only one who can do this to you?


    ¡°You little¡­¡± he sighed, grabbing the back of my head. ¡°Ah, fuck it, let me see what a Katana is.¡± He added, trailing his hand down my hair.


    I shook my head, leaning to rest my forehead against his.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need my permission to see,¡± I assured, basking on the warmth this demon gave me.


    Using his tail to tug my hips closer to him, I found myself straddling him.


    ¡°Oh, sweetheart, I always do. It¡¯s easier when the other party consents.¡± He smirked.


    Wait? Are we still talking about the same thing?!


    I tilted my head, unable to imagine him looking through my memories hurting me. After all, I never felt anything other than my emotions every time he did it.


    ¡°So, it can hurt me if I don¡¯t?¡± I mumbled, gazing at him.


    Nodding his head, he hummed. ¡°Mhm, it can, and I never want to hurt you again.¡±


    Those words caused an ache in my heart. Although there couldn¡¯t be much meaning to them, I always placed more.


    All because I want more than what you¡¯re willing to give me.


    ¡°Why?¡± I asked, only to cover my lip when I realized it hadn¡¯t been a thought.


    Before I knew it, he tugged me up to meet with his gaze.


    ¡°Because I care about you, sweets.¡± He answered.


    There wasn¡¯t an ounce of deceit in his voice or expression, yet my heart was¡­


    ¡°Do you really, or is it a lie?¡± I whispered, feeling something; I tried to drown.


    His eyes shimmered, making me gulp where I was.


    ¡°No, lie. Sparky, I want you to be with me. It¡¯s why I don¡¯t want to kill you after all this is set and done. Even if you ask me to, I won¡¯t do it. Even if you hate me, I won¡¯t let you go ever.¡± He assured me, clasping the back of my head.


    Ah¡­ that¡¯s¡­ the first step towards¡­


    ¡°So, you like me?¡± I prodded further, triggering the demon lord¡¯s cheeks to flush rosy.


    A soft smile rose on his lips. ¡°Of course I do. I wouldn¡¯t fuck you as gently as I do if I didn¡¯t.¡± He leaned to kiss me, only to be met by my fingertips.


    His grip on my hair was firm, though.


    ¡°You were being gentle?¡± I huffed.


    It was obvious since, in his arms, I could be crushed within seconds, yet I wanted to hear more.


    ¡°Very,¡± he buried his face in my neck.


    Feeling his breath hit my skin made me jittery.


    ¡°Hm¡­ aren¡¯t you going to see?¡± I mumbled, feeling skittish at his approach.


    ¡°Already did.¡± He announced, tugging his gaze to meet with mine.


    ¡°Really, when?¡± I asked, touching his nose with mine.


    Again, a rush of warmth invaded my being.


    Yes, there isn¡¯t a doubt that I¡­ love you. I don''t know what I feel if this isn''t love, but it¡¯s so new that I want more.


    ¡°Earlier, when you looked at me straight, I think it¡¯s doable. A slender blade that looks like it would snap if it ever hit a great sword.¡± He announced, letting himself fall onto the bed.


    It left me sitting on him.


    ¡°It¡¯s for more mobility and accurate hits than clashing. Duels with those swords used to be decided in the first few minutes. It¡¯s sharp enough to slice bone in one swing.¡± I assured him, gazing at this demon who treated me like a flower.


    ¡°Well, Jack will make sure it does.¡± He glazed towards the wall.


    ¡°Oh, that reminds me. Can you tell Nyla to call him and the others to come in my free time?¡± I asked, tapping his arms with my fingers.


    The castle¡­


    ¡°Jack will take a few days to weeks to make the blade. Sometimes enchanted items can be a hassle, but the others will be available.¡± He answered, gazing back at me.


    ¡°I see, then please?¡± I simpered.


    There was still much I wanted to change in this castle.


    The outside is dreadful, and I need your world to be more alive.


    ¡°Sweets, no need to do that. All you have to do is command it.¡± He announced. ¡°Nyla will have them here whenever you want to.¡±


    Having everything at command was second nature to him, yet I was still getting used to this life. Even though he wanted me to be his queen, that wouldn¡¯t happen until he was free.


    I¡¯ll never feel comfortable chaining you to me in that way because of circumstances.


    ¡°Hm¡­ so, I¡­¡± I trailed off, clasping his cloak that kept me warm all day.


    ¡°You what?¡± he repeated, sitting up slightly.


    I command you to love me.


    It was stupid, yet something I wanted more than anything.


    ¡°Never mind. It won¡¯t happen either way.¡± I sighed, dropping my sight onto the sheets below us.


    ¡°What won¡¯t?¡± he asked, touching my cheek.


    My gaze shifted to Finn again, only to see his blue eyes studying me.


    Ah¡­ I just¡­


    ¡°I¡­ think I¡­¡± I trailed off, shaking my head before leaning onto the warmth of his palm.


    He hummed, ¡°Hm? What¡¯s the matter, sweets?¡±


    I can¡¯t hold these emotions anymore and can¡¯t tell you. Not until you''re free. Please hold on heart¡­ just until¡­


    ¡°When will Rizak lecture me again? I want to know if I can help with anything.¡± I covered my track, focusing on wanting to free this demon.


    ¡°Ah, tomorrow, you can start again. Your arm seems fine now, so just don¡¯t overdo it.¡±  Finn frowned, narrowing his eyes


    I could tell that wasn''t what he expected to erupt out of me, but I wouldn¡¯t play his tune.


    I won¡¯t let you win¡­ until my heart can¡¯t take it anymore.


    ¡°Like breaking a weapon overdoing it?¡± I giggled, leaning into him.


    ¡°Yes, like that. You¡¯re lucky you dropped it quickly. Though, Solas ate the front of it.¡± He mumbled, much like a child pouting.


    ¡°Oh, so the pup saved me?¡± I let myself fall on Finn.


    From his chest, I could see the sleepy wolf lying down on a pillow. He probably had a buffet out of me because of it.


    ¡°Mhm, he did.¡± The demon assured me.


    I hummed, sitting up slightly again. However, I pressed my lips against his this time, seeking his lingering warmth. It was almost as if my body needed it to survive.


    Can it be I¡¯m feeding off you? I¡¯ve never felt this way before.


    His heat mixed with mine, leaving me wanting more, especially when he opened his mouth to let me in. Exploring his cavity while knowing that, at any moment, he would rip into me made me feel extremely jittery.


    Have your fangs always been this sharp?


    However, he didn¡¯t let me brush against them much. No, he made sure to tangle his soft member with mine. His gentleness with me was surreal, making me realize I was a soft marshmallow in his hands.


    This demon was becoming something so vital to me that I didn¡¯t know how to deal with it.


    Soon, they say, will come when I can¡¯t deny it any longer.

 Chapter 54: A Demon’s Heart

    What started as a kiss to survive turned into so much more. I never thought I would ever feel the emotions stirring within me. After being screwed over so many times, I thought it was a gift taken away from me, but while being with this demon, it blossomed.


    Tugging away from his lips, I gazed at Finn¡¯s blue eyes, only to trail my fingertips on his cheeks. It felt surreal how a demon was more human than most others I had met. I wanted to wash his pain away, much like he gave me this nirvana I currently found myself in.


    It wasn¡¯t perfect, but it was my home. As the night was setting, we were still indulging in one another.


    ¡°You look like you want something. Tell me what it is, Sparky.¡± He simpered, fixing my hair away from my face.


    Every time he touched me, it was so gentle that I couldn¡¯t help but curl my lips upward. However, that smile soon became a smirk when a question filled my mind.


    ¡°Can I do it this time?¡± I asked, gazing at him straight on.


    ¡°Do what?¡± he countered, grinning too.


    Oh, you know exactly what I¡¯m asking for.


    ¡°Don¡¯t play coy with me.¡± I huffed, grabbing onto his pants and prompting him to lean into me.


    ¡°You want to fuck me?¡± he chuckled, tugging off the cloak that was covering me.


    I nodded, leaning into him again. ¡°Yes, I do so very much.¡±


    His cheeks flushed red, even though his sharp smile didn¡¯t wash away.


    ¡°Oh, silly girl, you don¡¯t have to ask me. I¡¯m willing to do anything you want.¡± He assured me, making me shake my head.


    However, I wanted something out of this, and this was the perfect lead.


    ¡°Finn¡­ if you feed off our union. How will it feel?¡± I questioned, undoing his pants.


    However, before I could get them off, he grabbed my hands.


    ¡°Oh, no, sweets. Let¡¯s not do that. I don¡¯t want you to lose your sanity.¡± He sighed, shaking his head.


    ¡°It will make me a sex slave?¡± I mumbled, tilting my head.


    His blue eyes squinted as his lips curled downward.


    ¡°Mhm, it¡¯ll make you lose your mind. It¡¯s why Gael only goes to brothels for his fill. I thought I told you.¡± He informed, tugging me down onto his chest.


    A soft hum left me while I rested on him, hearing the soft beat of his heart.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t it happen to you?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Demons can¡¯t feed on one another. Did that worry you?¡± Finn chuckled, prompting me to pout.


    He might¡¯ve found it charming, but it was a serious concern to me. I wanted him to be satisfied every time we were together.


    ¡°N-No!¡± I stumbled, triggering him to sit up with me.


    I was straddling him again.


    ¡°Cute¡­ I didn¡¯t lie when I said you¡¯ve been the best girl I¡¯ve ever had and will ever have.¡± He confessed, tugging my shirt off.


    I never wore a bra underneath the thick shirts. Though, I didn¡¯t feel embarrassed as he did the same with his. Every time, he used magic to make it go through his wings.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how to feel about that,¡± I mumbled, shivering thanks to his fingertips trailing on my back.


    ¡°Well, don¡¯t worry, Sparks. I¡¯ll show you with my actions. I know words can be empty. Come, make love to me.¡± He leaned back, letting me have the stage.


    ¡°Is it¡­¡± I trailed off, glancing off to the side.


    The bracelet soon caught my eye, making me wince.


    If you see this¡­ how will you act? That¡¯s¡­ if you haven¡¯t seen it already.


    ¡°It will be.¡± He simpered, triggering butterflies to flutter in my belly.


    ¡°Well, get naked then. I want us to be skin to skin.¡± I huffed before getting off him and taking off my pants.


    ¡°As you wish, Sparky.¡± He chuckled.


    When I gazed back at him, he was bare on the bed, allowing me to bask in his features. I reached for him only to be met by his hand, which dragged my eyes back onto his face.


    ¡°Are you sure my appearance doesn¡¯t scare you? I mean, I look humanoid, but¡­¡± He trailed off, referring to all the patches of feathers on his skin.


    A soft giggle left me, ¡°Does my body hair bother you?¡± I countered with my question.


    In an instant, those blue eyes of his opened more expansive than I expected them to go.


    Gosh, you¡¯re adorable, aren¡¯t you?


    ¡°What? No, why would it?¡± he scoffed, shaking his head.


    A sharper cackle left me when his cheeks turned rosy.


    I think you got it.


    ¡°You¡¯re beautiful, Sylvia.¡± He breathed, watching me mount him.


    I just wanted to bask in his warmth before I did anything else.


    ¡°Same goes for me, stupid king. You¡¯re more na?ve than I thought.¡± I smirked as he wrapped his hands around my waist before sitting up slightly.


    ¡°Are you going to fuck me silly now?¡± he murmured, trailing one of his hands to my navel.


    ¡°Hm, what if I just want to be naked with you?¡± I hummed, leaning into him.


    His body heat was slipping into my core, something I enjoyed.


    ¡°We can do that too. Heck, anything you want, Sparky. Though, you¡¯ll have to give a minute to cool down.¡± He sighed, dropping his hand down to my hips again.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    You really are¡­ too kind to me. Why not take me by force? You¡¯re a demon, and I¡¯m tempting you.


    ¡°Oh? Do I have you on the edge?¡± I giggled, pressing my lips against his chest.


    His member was rock rigid under me as it rubbed my vulva slightly with any movement.


    ¡°What do you think?¡± he licked his lips, followed by a quick thrust of his hips, making me whimper.


    It was only a slight rub, yet it left me wanting much more. The way the heat from his penile radiated into me was almost torturous.


    Is this¡­ how you¡¯re feeling?


    I bit my lip, trying to stay steady. ¡°I think I¡¯m tempting you too much.¡±


    All of this was still so new to me, but his warmth was something I had become accustomed to before we even fucked.


    A soft smile rose on his lips. ¡°You¡¯re right. I feel like I might lose my mind at any minute, but I won¡¯t do anything you don¡¯t want me to do. Even if it drives me crazy.¡±


    Finn, I want you to get addicted to me. So, you can¡¯t live without me, much like I can¡¯t think of a life without you anymore. No¡­ I can¡­ I just don¡¯t want to.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you the demon king? Shouldn¡¯t you be able to do everything you want?¡± I huffed, trailing my hands down his chest.


    I wanted to know every one of his features¡ªespecially the scar on his belly.


    It must¡¯ve hurt so much. I¡¯m sorry¡­


    A soft hum came from his lips. ¡°My queen¡¯s the one person who¡¯ll outrule me in everything.¡±


    I shook my head, grabbing onto his hair with both my hands. ¡°Unless you¡¯re a raging dragon, I don¡¯t think anyone can outlast you there.¡±


    His eyes twitched. ¡°Oi¡ª¡± he started, only to stop when my lips found his.


    Swaying my hips caused me to rub him on my vulva as his eyes opened wide before deepening the kiss. His tongue tangoed with my dominance as my hips didn¡¯t stop their movements. Saliva dropped down my chin as my grip on his hair tightened.


    My head felt light with every moment our lips remained locked. Finn only drew away from my lips to let me breathe more freely. Even though my lungs couldn¡¯t fill fast enough, I didn¡¯t stop rocking my hips.


    Trailing kisses down my neck, he stopped, releasing a heavy sigh. ¡°My sanity¡¯s waving, Sparky. I want to be in you so fucking much.¡±


    Huffing for air, I smirked, leaning my lips against his ear. ¡°Why don¡¯t you? Aren¡¯t you the demon king?¡±


    Before I knew it, I was against the bed as Finn radiated a sharp blue color from his body. It was the first time I had seen that color come from him.


    ¡°Oh, sweetheart, you keep playing with fire, but then again, you don¡¯t fear me at all?¡± he chuckled, licking my neck.


    ¡°Should I?¡± I mumbled, enjoying the feeling of him being in control.


    His wings were spread wide, covering the sides of the bed. I couldn¡¯t even see Solas anymore because of how puffed they were. However, his tail was wrapped around my waist.


    ¡°I want to say you don¡¯t, but that would be a lie.¡± He warned, eyes glowing brightly.


    If it isn¡¯t anger that was surging through you, then¡­ Can I believe it¡¯s something else?


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s a good thing. I don¡¯t have a sense of danger,¡± I smirked, reaching to touch his face.


    ¡°That isn¡¯t a good thing, Sparks.¡± He growled, pushing himself into me.


    However, before he went all the way, he drew me up back on him while he sat on the bed. It was like he remembered I wanted the lead¡ªsomething he was struggling to give me, and I didn¡¯t mind.


    I loved to see him wrestle with his desire to have me.


    Surely, that can¡¯t be a trick.


    Cupping his cheeks, I softly simpered before leaning into his lips. There, I was met by his tongue glazing over mine. I quickly allowed him in before letting myself drop on him, prompting a soft mewl to leave my lips as a groan left his.


    However, he didn¡¯t stop kissing me even when he felt me coil around his member tightly. No, his tongue explored my mouth, making sure to leave everything radiating with his warmth. Drawing away from him, I watched him bite his lip before trailing his eyes down to our intimate union.


    ¡°Make love to me, Sylvia,¡± Finn murmured.


    Is it love?


    His cheeks were flushed as his voice was full of anticipation. Clasping onto his shoulder, I softly rocked my hips to a steady pace, triggering a soft chuckle to leave him as he winced in pleasure. Even though it was my first time doing this, he appeared to enjoy it.


    Leaning into me, he licked my neck before suddenly letting himself fall on the bed. The motion dragged me down, leaving my soft lumps to brush against his chest every time I moved.  His hands were lightly against my hips, letting me buck my hips freely.


    His wings spread wide on the bed again as the red feather tips turned purple. However, my gaze was quickly dragged back onto his face when a moan left him. He usually was more quiet when we were together, yet he was letting me know how much he was feeling it.


    I wasn¡¯t the best girl he ever had, but he enjoyed me, that much I could tell, and it was all I needed. Feeling more confident, I continued to sway my hips as best I could, feeling him fill me with each pass.


    It wasn¡¯t long before my body began to feel the tightening of the knot within my core. The closer the tingling got, the more sluggish my movements became.


    A soft smirk rose on his lips. ¡°Are you going to cum, sweets?¡±


    ¡°I-I don¡¯t know!¡± I mumbled, feeling flustered by his question.


    ¡°I feel you tightening on me, and you''re slowing down. Do you need help?¡± he didn¡¯t back down.


    ¡°No! S-stay still!¡± I huffed, trying to keep up, but I was sluggish.


    A soft sigh left him. ¡°Okay.¡±


    He probably didn¡¯t mean it the wrong way, but his slight frustration caused me to halt myself.


    I probably am not¡­


    ¡°Sorry¡­ I¡¯m not good enough.¡± I mumbled, gazing away from those blue orbs of his.


    Lillia had said she rode him that night. I probably was nothing in comparison.


    ¡°What?¡± he breathed.


    I refused to glance back at him, though. My negative thoughts quickly drowned me whenever they emerged. It was like I was standing in a thread where it could give at any moment.


    ¡°Sylvia¡­ look at me.¡± Finn¡¯s voice was softer than at any other time.


    ¡°No¡­¡± I closed my eyes.


    I was probably being annoying and uncooperative, yet¡­


    ¡°Oh, sweets¡­¡± he sat up, bringing me up too.


    However, my eyes remained against the sheets below us.


    ¡°You¡¯re more than I deserve.¡± He murmured into my ear.


    It sent shivers running down my spine, as resisting this demon was impossible for me. Hesitating a little, I slowly shifted my gaze to him. A soft smile on his lips was waiting for me.


    ¡°Nothing about you is a monster, is it?¡± I sighed, giving in to him.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you mean.¡± He cocked his head.


    However, the smile had turned into a soft smirk on his lips.


    ¡°I suck at it. So, fuck me instead.¡± I huffed, wrapping my hands around his neck.


    ¡°How about we do it together?¡± he asked, burning my cheeks hotter.


    ¡°What?¡± I mumbled.


    Instead of answering me, he bucked his hips into me, making me gasp at the unexpected action.


    ¡°Move with me, Sparks. Make love to me like I do to you.¡± He simpered, not stopping his soft thrust.


    It was nothing like the ones he usually dished out when in control. A hum left me before I started to sway my hips, too.


    ¡°Oh, baby girl, I love this.¡± Finn breathed, leaning into my neck.


    Before I knew it, his tongue lapped my nape, making me whine.


    Ah¡­ I don¡¯t want to stop.


    Grabbing onto his hair, I pulled myself closer towards him. Again, the knot started to form, and it wasn¡¯t long until I pushed Finn to fall onto the bed. Of course, he let himself drop, only to feel me grind on him vigorously.


    A soft, nervous chuckle left him, feeling him thrust from below me while I sought my release. However, his expression was something else to be seen.


    ¡°Damn it! Why are you so handsome?!¡± I mewled, unable to keep my eyes off him.


    Though, my hips were unstoppable. My hands held me up as I ground myself into him vigorously.


    ¡°Hush, fuck me more. Take me deeper into your womb, where I¡­¡± He huffed, lifting himself to clash his lips with mine.


    Grabbing onto my hips, he shoved himself into me. His tail wrapped around my right arm, tugging it behind me. The sudden fill made me reach my peak, triggering me to tremble on him.  At the same time, I felt him twitch within me, prompting me to ride the high along with him.


    Soft groans left the demon king panting against my chest as my world flickered. His sharp horn tips were less crimson, as a purple hue consumed all red.


    Huh? Why¡­ are they¡­


    Slowly, I let go of his hair only to reach for one of his horns. However, before I could touch it, he drew away from my chest, gazing at me.


    ¡°Sparky, I¡¯m going to get addicted to you.¡± He chuckled, glancing at me gently.


    ¡°Is that good?¡± I struggled to catch my breath.


    ¡°Hm, if you want me to be with you for an eternity. Yes, it is. I didn¡¯t know sex could feel this good.¡± He smirked, leaning towards my lips.


    ¡°Does that mean I¡¯m winning your heart?¡± I asked, stopping him from kissing me.


    Instead, he grabbed onto my hand, pulling it to his chest. His heart was racing just like mine¡ªsomething I found surprising yet alluring.


    ¡°Oh, sweets, this demon¡¯s heart is yours to do with as you wish. I¡¯ve never felt this way before. It¡¯s¡­ different than anything else I¡¯ve felt.¡± He confessed.


    My eyes widened as a soft light came from where the bracelet was. It was evolving, much like our emotions.


    What it shows, I don¡¯t know.


    All I could do was hide it from the demon who was too immersed in me to care how the jewel was starting to blossom.


    Is all of this real? Can I really believe someone will love me?

 Chapter 55: The Potion

    The following day, I woke up in Finn''s arms. Groggily, I shifted my gaze to meet his face, only to see him with his eyes closed. We were both bare in the bed, yet I could only focus on his face.


    I would''ve thought you were sleeping. Well, if you hadn''t told me, demons don''t sleep at all. What''s a world without dreams?


    Slowly, I reached for his cheek to see his eyes open before meeting with my hand and tugging it to meet with his lips.


    "Awake?" he hummed.


    I nodded softly before pulling myself up to meet with his lips. They were as soft as always and ready to accept me. A short, sweet kiss followed, leaving me tingling inside. Unable to help it, I got closer to the demon who wrapped his tail around my waist.


    Drawing my lips away from him, I smiled, shifting my eyes to his chest.


    "Finn..." I mumbled, cuddling myself into him.


    "What happened, sweetheart?" he asked.


    I hummed, feeling him trail his fingers down my curves.


    "I like saying your name," I confessed, shifting my eyes back to meet his gaze.


    I saw his cheeks turn pink there before he slowly shook his head.


    "You''re going to make my heart flutter so early in the morning?" he huffed, biting his lip.


    "Hm... Maybe." I smiled, leaning on him.


    It wasn''t long until his lips met with mine again.


    This demon is... No, Fin''s something else I never expected ever to meet.


    He had his psychotic moments, but I couldn''t help wondering if the curse was gone and if he would still have those moments. Solas yawned from where he slept when I was pinned to the bed under the demon king.


    The kiss didn''t stop until I felt his heat press against my intimate lips, which were dying to have him bury himself into them. When he held me, there was no more discomfort. No, all I felt was the pleasure of our union.


    Clasping my hands in his, I felt him smile before he pulled away from our kiss.


    "I''m going to make you unable to live without me. A normal human life won''t be enough for you." He cooed, eyes glowing blue.


    "It''s already not enough," I assured him, getting jittery.


    Finding a cooling breath to soothe my mind whenever I was with him was hard.


    "Good... I''m going to mold you to my shape." He smirked, reaching for his cheek.


    Ah... I don''t care if you change me. I mean, you already did when you made me want to live for something. So, anything from you can''t be bad, especially how you make me feel.


    Even as the days began to pass, that feeling didn''t change. No, it grew more prominent with each moment we spent together, and my days weren''t any less busy. Rizak quickly got me back to my lessons as Finn usually found his way to me whenever he could, and what followed usually was passionate and behind closed doors.


    However, it never happened in my lessons, and the owl didn''t hold anything back. He quickly explained how my magic managed to break through the madness. Even though he had been studying my potion, he didn''t know what made the difference.


    At first, he didn''t go into it, allowing me to try and replicate the potion I made, but it never worked. As the weeks went by, none of them could bring anyone back. While that marinated, Brielle started to train me to steel my body, which left me sore in ways I never thought I would be.


    She didn''t give me a break, as no matter what happened, I always stood up and continued forward. The pain was something I was used to, which didn''t stop me from pushing myself. Before I knew it, the weeks turned into months, and I found myself in a new routine.


    However, it was apparent that Rizak was avoiding the topic of the potion. With each failure, it wasn''t long until he...


    "We can''t see to replicate it, which probably has to do with the intention you had when you made it. Any ideas on what it was, m''lady?" Rizak asked, leaving me in the spot.


    By then, I still hadn''t told anyone what I felt when I made their miracle cure, which wasn''t permanent. After ingesting the potion, the demon reverted when he couldn''t feed, thanks to the barrier''s strength. As time passed, the food source for many demons within Fathal dwindled, turning many into rampaging beasts.


    This made them easier pickings for the knights within Traedan, but at the same time, they were unpredictable. Some had even started to move in packs out of instinct alone. The chaos within Fathal kept Finn away more than I liked, which meant the castle grounds were the only safe place for me.


    My nose was mostly stuck in books while I waited for my artifact to be made, so it never occurred to me to leave the castle grounds. It seemed, but the moment that question rose, I could only gaze away from Rizak.


    Ah... I''m... there isn''t any reason to lie, yet...


    "I wanted an escape," I mumbled, biting my lip.


    Will you judge me like all the others?


    "An escape? What do you mean?" he queried, narrowing his eyes.


    "I wanted¡ª" I quickly stopped, feeling a presence I had come to adore.


    It had been almost a full day since I had last seen him. Thanks to our intimate connection, kissing was no longer required daily. My nights were usually full of him, but he was gone, leaving me unsure where he had been.


    Rizak quickly gazed toward his king, noticing him, too.


    "Did I interrupt anything?" Finn asked, stepping towards me.


    This was a saving grace, yet I couldn''t help but feel ticked off by his presence. A sigh left my lips, getting up to meet his icy gaze.


    "Nothing at all. Where have you been?" I huffed, narrowing my eyes at him.


    He let out a soft chuckle, "The generals have been having a hard time keeping their domains in check. I had to go and quell the masses."


    Keeping a country full of demons happy is more complicated than I can comprehend, but can you come more often?


    Even though my body was sore from Brielle''s training, which occurred only three times a week, I still missed his presence.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    I rolled my eyes. "I see."


    Every time he met with them, the look in his eyes always got colder. They erased everything I did, especially when he met them when I wasn''t there. However, the parts that had turned purple still were.


    "Is that anger I sense, Sparky? Did you miss me that much?" he asked, smirking.


    I felt like throwing the bottle in my hands at him. However, before I could, Rizak brought my attention back to him.


    "I''m sorry, m''lord, but I need Lady Sylvia to answer my question." The owl shook his head.


    It was almost like he knew I wanted to avoid the question. I mean, I had been this entire time. Finn gazed back at me, making my heart feel heavier.


    I don''t want...


    "I..." I trailed off, shaking my head.


    A soft whine came from Solas, pressing his paws on my belly. "It''s okay. You don''t have to say a single thing."


    The little pup had been on my lap the entire time, his favorite place while I was in Rizak''s study. Finn reached for my cheek, triggering me to gaze at him.


    "What happened, sweets? Is something wrong?" He asked, trailing his fingertips on my skin.


    A sharp sigh left me.


    I don''t want you to know how much of a coward I am. Yet... I don''t want to lie to you; it isn''t like you didn''t know how I was before I got here.


    "I wanted an out if things didn''t go right with you. That''s why I made that potion." I finally answered.


    "So, you intended it to be a poison for yourself?" Rizak asked, unaware of how it sounded.


    All this owl wanted was to understand how I did it. There wasn''t anything malicious about his words, yet...


    "Yes, I..." I trailed off, feeling a familiar aura erupt from Finn.


    My eyes quickly found their way toward the demon king, who was radiating a deep red color.


    "Hah... Is that how you intend to escape me?" He rasped, eyes shimmering towards his demonic side.


    Ah... I...


    "No, I..." I trailed off, feeling my voice quiver a bit.


    I never thought his rage would be directed at me again. This time, he wasn''t confused by the curse but genuinely bothered by those words. It was much like when we had shared that moment in the bathroom.


    How do I... even... explain it?


    "M''lord, this¡ª" Rizak tried to intervene.


    "Silence!" Finn snapped.


    A second later, the owl was nowhere to be seen. The demon aura was growing thicker with each passing second. I had to fix it, yet my voice failed me. The change of emotions in his eyes froze me.


    "You think I''ll let you escape that easily?" he questioned, cocking his head.


    His eyes, instead of showing pure rage, glossed as he winced as if something had stabbed him.


    No... I don''t... want to¡ª


    Again, my voice failed to come out.


    "You''re mine, Sylvia¡ªthe most priceless jewel in my hoard." He hissed, pinning me against a bookshelf.


    His voice was cracking as if it were in the same knots mine was. I never knew he could sound like that.


    Ah... I''m such a fool.


    "Stupid..." I mumbled, slowly reaching towards his dark red shirt.


    His aura grew upon hearing my assessment of him.


    "What?" he muttered.


    If this pain that was being reflected came from losing me as an individual or as a tool, I didn''t know.


    But I wish it was because of what I mean to you.


    My voice quickly found me.


    "Stupid dragon, that happened before I got to know you!" I erupted, facing him head-on.


    It caused his eyes to open wide.


    "Of course, I wanted to escape back then! I thought I was trapped by another man who only wanted to use me! What do you expect?! I was willing to jump out of a building before I came here!" I held nothing back.


    Though... back then, I also hesitated. I have always wanted to live but never had a reason to. Now... I... have too many.


    In an instant, his red aura disappeared.


    "I didn''t know anyone here, and I was scared shitless! I didn''t want to be used so one-sidedly again! So, yeah, I made poison to get out, or I thought I was." I sighed, shaking my head.


    I''m supposed to be the angry one here! I haven''t seen you in a whole day! This isn''t how I wanted things to go! Argh, when do they ever go my way when it involves you?


    "Instead of that, I guess I made a stupid cure for demon madness while trying to off myself! I don''t know if I can do it again because I don''t feel that way anymore! Don''t arrive at conclusions by yourself!" I declared, tightening my grip on him.


    Stupid demon king!


    "Sylvia," he called out as his eyes returned to the beautiful blue I was used to.


    They were still cold, yet...


    If... I''m going to be honest; I might as well...


    "Now, I just want to be with you, but I''m just scared you''ll throw me out for being useless." My voice quivered, clasping onto my shirt.


    It triggered him to clasp onto my cheeks.


    "That''ll never happen." He reassured me, triggering my eyes to sting as I flung myself to bury my face in his chest.


    His warmth was seeping into me, giving me all the comfort every ache of my body needed.


    "If you say so," I mumbled, holding onto him.


    A soft sigh left him, "I''m sorry."


    Those words...


    "Since when do demons apologize? Where''s the rough makeup sex instead?" I huffed, shifting to meet his gaze.


    A nervous chuckle left Finn, who gripped my hair before softly trailing it. "You never say anything normal, do you, Sparky?"


    "That''d be boring." I giggled.


    "You little vixen," Finn smirked as his tail quickly hooked on my pants.


    A small yelp left me because of the suddenness of it all.


    "Shall I¡ª" the demon king stopped, hearing the owl cough behind him.


    Crap! We aren''t alone!


    A soft squeal left me noticing Rizak had returned from where Finn had sent him. He had mud all over his feathers, scowling at the demon lord, who was back to normal. The poor owl also didn''t seem pleased by what he found brewing in his study.


    The disappointment in Finn''s eyes was enjoyable, thanks to our interruption.


    This demon really wants me.


    "M''lord, may I ask you not to do courtship here? Please, take your merry-making to your respective rooms." Rizak chided, releasing a sigh soon after.


    "Sorry," I mumbled, but I clashed with him before I could pull away from my demon lord.


    His lips found mine before his tongue traced them. In an instant, I let him in, allowing my soft member to touch his for a second before I remembered we weren''t alone. I went to pull away but was quickly stopped when Finn grabbed the back of my head.


    That was when I noticed Rizak was gazing towards the side. There was someone there, but I could see who it was. I hadn''t expected the kiss to be so forceful, yet I couldn''t find it in me to hate it. When the demon king pulled away from me, he left a trailing blaze on my lips as my lungs filled with fresh air.


    My thoughts were all muffled, thanks to his affection.


    "Finn, w-what¡ª" I was quickly interrupted by his lips.


    Another forceful, feverous kiss followed, weakening my knees and causing him to hold me up by my waist. When he opened his eyes, they were pure red as his aura was thicker than before.


    Why... I thought...


    Tugging away from me, he licked my lips, "I have to go. Be a good girl and stay here with Rizak." He announced, taking a step away from me.


    "M''lord, I suggest caution. Something isn''t right here. Why would that man come again after being defeated?" The owl sighed, shaking his head.


    Huh? Who?


    The change in mood was too sudden for me to keep up. At one moment, we were flirting, and now Finn was ready to kill someone. Before he could get away, I grabbed onto his cloak.


    "Wait! Did something happen? Please, take me with you!" I tugged on it, triggering him to gaze back at me.


    Don''t leave me behind, please...


    That was when I noticed Brielle, also in a bad mood, by the door. We rarely interacted other than for our brief sessions, but I could tell she always wore a stone-cold expression from them.


    "No, stay here," he sighed.


    "But..." I mumbled.


    "You''ll be on the way rather than help. You can barely keep up with me even with your sigils active." Brielle huffed from where she was.


    "Hey!" I huffed, "It isn''t my fault your stamina is unlimited."


    Finn shook his head, "No, Sylvia. She''s right, you have to stay. I''m not risking anything happening to you."


    Aches in my chest arose, making me wince as I turned away from him.


    How unfair... I''m trying to keep up! Why won''t you...


    A soft growl came from me, turning away from him. "Sorry for being useless."


    I knew they were right. They couldn''t take care of me always, and it wouldn''t be safe where they went. Even so, I never expected...


    "You aren''t¡ªHah, I don''t have time to make you feel better, Sparks. I have to go." Finn shook his head.


    His words were like a dagger to my heart.


    Ah... I''m just a burden to you.


    "Yes, I''m sorry you''re wasting time for someone like me. You should go." I gibbered, tugging away from him.


    My eyes stung when a click of his tongue was all I heard before he disappeared, leaving me feeling hollow. I expected him to say something back, but to receive nothing in return made me feel even worse.


    Will I ever be anything worth staying for? No, I''ll never amount for anything! You''ll always leave me behind when it counts!


    I heard Rizak call for me when I stormed out of the study. My emotions were going haywire as shadows erupted from my body on the way to my room. I threw my bag on the bed and walked toward the mirror in the room.


    Why doesn''t anyone want to stay with me or take me with them?


    I didn''t even notice when tears started to beam down my cheeks.


    "Sylvia, are you okay?" Solas whined behind me.


    "No, I''m not. This stupid demon king has my heart, and I don''t know what to do." I mumbled, pressing my hand on the mirror.


    My magic flowed into it, causing cracks to form. I wanted to prove them all wrong. Even though he said he wouldn''t throw me away, he wouldn''t include me in his world the way I wanted to if things were like this.


    Will I always be a failure and nothing more? This isn''t fair! I want to be more! How can I...

 Chapter 56: A New Danger

    Staring at the mirror, all I felt was hollow inside.


    Why does no one ever want me next to them?


    Since the general meeting, Finn had kept me in my new routine. However, this new format kept him from me for an entire day. My lips burned from when he kissed me earlier.


    That¡¯s the most forceful kiss you¡¯ve ever given me, and I loved every minute of it.


    I was trying my hardest to adapt to this world, yet nothing I did mattered.


    All that does matter is that my magic is unreliable and dangerous! Why is it taking so long to make my conduit?! Will it even work? Damn it!


    A familiar dread was starting to grow within me.


    What if I can¡¯t do anything, even with an artifact in my hands? What then? Finn, will I still be able to walk in your world?


    The Jack, the blacksmith, hadn¡¯t been able to fuse Finn¡¯s fang into what I wanted. It took too much power, but he didn¡¯t say it was impossible. He was positive he could do it with enough tries.


    ¡°Old Jack is a perfectionist. He¡¯ll get it done.¡± Finn quelled my worries when the deadline came and passed.


    Yet all it did was leave me useless for longer than I wanted. Even though my magic was spontaneous, it sometimes came when I tried to do something. That usually was my holy magic, but my dark magic was more reactive to my negative thoughts, marking me as a danger.


    The shadows surrounded me, unable to help but respond to my emotional state. Solas was so worried about me, yet I¡­


    ¡°Can you give me a moment? I want to be alone for a few minutes.¡± I wipe my cheeks free of tears before gazing at the poor pup.


    His eyes opened wide thanks to my request. ¡°But I can¡¯t.¡± He shook his head.


    All I needed was a moment to myself; perhaps I could¡¯ve picked myself up. This was all new to me.


    I never¡­ depended on others, so why... is the thought of not having you around so¡­ bad?


    ¡°Please, just for a second.¡± I was breaking again.


    I hated how useless I was to control any aspect of my life. Nothing had changed since I fell off that roof with Evelyn. Even though I didn¡¯t know what Finn was doing, I wanted to be there with him.


    I knew he didn¡¯t mean what he said in a bad way, yet my heart ached.


    ¡°No, I refused! I don¡¯t want to be away from you!¡± Solas growled, pushing his head against my chest.


    I couldn¡¯t help but hug him, feeling every wall I ever had break.


    Finn¡­ and you¡­ Solas, you¡¯ll be¡­


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯m sorry.¡± I sobbed, holding onto him for dear life.


    His tail wagged side to side, ¡°No need, and don¡¯t cry. I¡¯ll always be with you.¡± He chuckled, giving me a lick on my cheek.


    A soft smile rose on my lips, cupping his fluffy white cheeks in my hands.


    Ah¡­ At least¡­ have you always, won¡¯t I?


    ¡°Thank¡ª¡± I began, only to stop feeling someone¡¯s presence behind me.


    My body couldn¡¯t turn fast enough to face them. Before I knew it, I was on the floor. Solas was slammed against the wall, pinned by what appeared like spines. I wanted to scream, but the sudden blow had left me with little to no air.


    ¡°Hush, now, m¡¯lady is waiting for you, honored guest.¡± A man snickered.


    The following moment, someone covered my face before everything went dark. It was like I suddenly plunged into the darkness, unable to grasp anything around me. Before the light reclaimed my senses, everything was chaotic. The first thing I felt was the pounding of my head.


    After muffled sounds came, and when my lungs filled with air, they felt like they had burned.


    ¡°Ah, m¡¯lady, the human¡¯s coming around.¡± The same voice from before spoke.


    I struggled to get a hold of myself, unable to recognize it from anywhere.


    ¡°Oh, look at her! She¡¯s like a worm struggling! When do we eat her?¡± another laughed, lapping his lips.


    ¡°Heh, using Soren to lure Finn out of the castle was a brilliant idea, m¡¯lady!¡± the previous voice cooed.


    What¡¯s going on?


    My thoughts were complex to organize as I found myself in a place I knew little about. Even though tiki torches poorly lit the place with purple flames, I could identify one of the faces staring at me.


    ¡°Oh look, the little saint is up,¡± Astred smirked, getting off her the rock she used as a throne.


    What surrounded me appeared to be a cave, and the miasma there was barely noticeable. If I was still in Fathal or somewhere else, I didn¡¯t know.


    Heck, I don¡¯t even know how I got here. All I remembered was getting slammed and seeing¡­ Solas!


    ¡°What did you do with Solas?!¡± I growled, feeling my temperature rise as my body suddenly felt lighter because of it, too.


    Astred smirked upon hearing his name.


    ¡°Oh, the dark hound? My lovely helper left him back at the castle. He should be fine and none the wiser of what happened to him. Everyone will think you ran away after disappearing like that.¡± She informed me, leaving me stunned where I was.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    What? No! I wouldn¡¯t ever¡­ No, they¡¯ve been betrayed so many times that¡­ No! I have to get out of here!


    Even though I wanted to bolt out, my body refused to move. From my fingertips to my toes, all of it felt numb. The only thing I could do was sit up, and even that was a struggle.


    What did they use on me? Why can¡¯t I move like I want to?


    Before I could reply to her, I was back on the floor again. Someone¡¯s foot was on my back, triggering me to struggle to keep my face off the ground.


    ¡°How dare you talk to our mistress like that?!¡± my captor snarled.


    ¡°Now, now, I don¡¯t want her dead. Humans are very delicate, and I need her to be alive for what comes next.¡± She sighed, walking closer to me.


    Where am I? All I need is some type of clue!


    Sadly, there was only one way out, and two other demons stood in its way.


    ¡°Yes, m¡¯lady!¡± he gushed over her.


    A second later, I found myself dangling from the room from one of my feet. Thanks to the room¡¯s lighting, I could barely tell what was holding me, but it appeared to have tentacles.


    ¡°Ah, I want Finn to finally realize how humans aren¡¯t to be trusted, and he will once he sees his beloved saint betray him,¡± Astred smirked, walking towards me.


    Never!


    ¡°I¡¯ll never betray him! Fuck off, you sicko bitch!¡± I snarled, dangling like a piece of meat over the fire.


    The light got brighter in a snap of a finger, allowing me to see the fleshy black tentacle holding me better. It had spikes coming out of it, which were dangerously close to penetrating my calf.


    Before I could see who it was, Astred grabbed my face, forcing my gaze onto her emerald eyes. Her pale white skin was almost ghastly, and I couldn¡¯t help but glare at her.


    ¡°Nicola, hold her right. Like this, I can¡¯t do anything and place her down gently.¡± She sighed, waving her hand at him.


    A second later, I was upright again. The beast''s tentacles now held my arms. Everything was happening too fast for my senses to catch up, which was disorienting. An unprepared human was nothing in comparison to these beasts.


    ¡°Is this better, m¡¯lady?¡± the demon holding me asked.


    A sharper smirk formed on her lips, noticing my dazed expression.


    ¡°Hey, little saint¡­ I¡¯ll make you wish you never came into this world.¡± She declared, shoving her hand down my pants.


    A gasp left me as I snapped back into reality.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t my choice!¡± I growled, wanting to move away from her but couldn¡¯t.


    Sadly, I was at her mercy as my eyes widened when I felt her trace my vulva.


    ¡°What are you¡ª¡± I quickly was interrupted.


    It only took her a second to invade my walls, triggering a sharp gasp to leave me. The shock froze me where I was.


    This feels nothing like when Finn does it. No, this is utterly disgusting.


    My entire body went cold as her eyes were lifeless.


    ¡°Eh, I don¡¯t see the rave about you. There isn¡¯t anything special about this hole. I can¡¯t see why he would only hold you when I can make him see the stars.¡± She huffed, tugging away from me before bringing her fingertips up to her lips and licking them.


    ¡°Ah, you do taste sweet.¡± She smirked.


    Shivers ran down my spine as I felt my body tremble in ways I had never felt it go. When I saw her reach for me again, I flinched.


    ¡°Get away from me!¡± I screamed, closing my eyes.


    My plea was unheard as, a second later, she stuck her hand into my pants again. This time, instead of her fingers going into me again, something burned on my pubic region right below my navel. It caused throbs to rush through me as a gasp left my lips.


    In an instant, my body warmed differently from the previous anger that had flowed through me.


    You¡­ what the hell did you do?!


    Air suddenly became more challenging to come by as my world changed around me.


    ¡°This little hex will make you succumb to your cardinal desires. You won¡¯t care what you fuck if it feels good.¡± She announced, followed by a smirk.


    My breath was shaking, yet¡­


    ¡°Keep your fucking hands off me!¡± I snarled, feeling like tearing those emerald eyes off her sockets.


    My rage emerged victorious over the new sensation that was building within me. All my bravado did was make Astred laugh.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait until he kills you after finding you fucking everything in sight. If he finds you before you expire.¡± She continued searing my skin under her palm.


    ¡°Never! I¡¯ll never do anything you want me to!¡± I snapped before spitting on her face.


    Her green eyes glowed brightly, and wiping her face a second later, I slammed against the floor. Again, the blow knocked the wind out of me, leaving me struggling to catch myself.


    ¡°Nicola, I told you to be gentle.¡± She sighed.


    Every part of my body throbbed as pain swirled inside with something else. Everything was getting hard to follow as the aches mixed with a tingling sensation from my core.


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t stand how she could treat your touch that way, m¡¯lady. She should¡¯ve been happy to even be in your presence!¡± He huffed.


    Struggling to sit up, I managed to stay upright, mumbling incoherently to myself. My forehead hurt as I felt something drop down the right side of my face. At least it didn¡¯t appear like I had any broken bones, yet my body still refused to move.


    Ah¡­ I never knew¡­ how disgusting it would be to have anyone other than you touch me. Finn¡­ I really do¡­ love you, don¡¯t I?


    No matter how my feelings shifted, my shadows were nowhere to be seen. This was a first for me.


    ¡°Oh, and before you get any funny ideas, we¡¯ve sealed your magic temporarily. If that¡¯s what got you so confused.¡± Astred informed, triggering my eyes to lock onto hers.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say I¡¯m useless?¡± I growled, finally getting a grip.


    ¡°Oh, dearie, with you, it¡¯s better to be safe than sorry. Now,  I can''t have a loose cannon break anything important.¡± She smirked, snapping her fingers.


    In an instant, two other humanoid males appeared next to her. They had horns and tails much like she did, alerting me to being surrounded by incubus.


    ¡°These two will keep you company before dumping you in a human village while I comfort Finn¡¯s rage before he turns it onto the humans.¡± She smirked, trailing her hands on her thighs. ¡°Oh, the things he will do to me!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you fucking touch him!¡± I snarled, finding something else swirling within the storm within my mind.


    A wicked laughter rose from her. ¡°Oh, what a stupid child. Do you know how many times he has held me? How many times he has fucked me and me alone? The only intruder here is you. You took him away from me!¡±


    The scorn in her eyes was intimidating, yet I wouldn¡¯t waver.


    I refused to be a victim again! There has to be a way out of this!


    Many of Rizak''s lessons rushed me as a Succubi curse coursed through me. It wouldn¡¯t be long until all I thought about was fucking. Spontaneous magic was hard to control, so the murderous king focused on Finn rather than Serah for his grab at power¡ªsomething Astred was aware of.


    I could see her eyeing me down, wary of my movement, yet my shadows were still nowhere to be seen.


    ¡°Oh! He¡¯s calling us! Well, I¡¯m off to quell Finn! Have fun now!¡± She announced, turning away from me.


    You want to¡­ No!


    Before I could speak, a pulse went through my body, making me gasp. The desire to court was starting to rush through me as my underwear was getting the brunt of it.


    ¡°Remember, this has to all fall on Soren. His camp is near here, Nicola.¡± She added, turning away from me.


    ¡°The perfect fall, man. Don¡¯t worry, my lady; I¡¯ll drop her off as soon as they''re done.¡± The tentacle beast chuckled, walking her to the entrance


    Its touch had left my limbs slimy.


    Utterly disgusting.


    ¡°I¡¯ll destroy you.¡± I huffed, trying to push aside the desire tingling within me.


    The air was hard to come by as I glared at the two other beasts approaching me.


    ¡°A promise from a bug like you is nothing. See you, saint.¡± She smirked, disappearing into the shadows and leaving me alone to my fate.


    Finn had told me that once I bonded with my artifact, I could summon it from anywhere I was. Yet Jack hadn¡¯t finished it, referring that bonding the demon king''s fang to the steel was more challenging than expected.


    The steel had my blood in it, which he had come to collect a few months ago personally. This made it slightly incompatible with Finn¡¯s fang, but that didn¡¯t stop the bear from hammering day and night. Demons didn¡¯t sleep, so he had been working on it since he got the request.


    Nyla had gone the previous week and said there had been progress, but that meant I was alone. I wasn¡¯t prepared to face this new danger but would survive it at all costs. No one would take this home from me.


    Finn¡­ You¡¯re mine to have!

 Chapter 57: Explosion

    Before I knew it, I was on the ground as one of Astred''s henchmen, Nicola, walked outside the cave''s door.


    "Let me know when you two are done. I only have eyes for my beautiful lady of the night." He huffed, closing the door.


    One of my captives grabbed my hands and pulled them upward of my head.


    "Get off me!" I snarled, trying to free myself, but it was no use.


    My body refused to listen to me, and even if it did without a sigil, the demon would easily overpower me.


    One of the incubus licked his grey lips, eyeing me down as I shivered.


    "We get to taste a saint, Ren." He snickered, undoing his clothes before ripping into my shirt.


    When I felt it go, I gasped. I never wore anything under it, so only the straps of my clothes covered my chest.


    "Not any saint, but the king''s flower is ours to have. How lucky are we, brother? A treat like this doesn''t come often." the one holding me captive announced.


    "Fuck off!" I tried to struggle, but my movements were sluggish at best.


    For a moment, the grey incubus stopped, glancing behind him.


    "Was that?" he mumbled, voice shaking.


    He was trembling from where he was.


    "Heh, our king''s pissed off." The other one huffed, glancing the same way.


    Finn!


    "Ren, I''ve never felt him rage like this." Glenn shuttered where he stood.


    No! She can''t have you! I can''t let this happen! Finn! Please!


    "And all because of this tiny human." The one holding me captive gazed back at me.


    I wanted to dig my nails into him but couldn''t. Finn''s rage wasn''t the only one boiling over; mine was reaching its tipping point.


    "Hey, Ren, our lady will calm him, right?" Gleen shook his head.


    He was still shivering where he was. Finn''s connection to every demon out there seemed more potent than I first realized from them to feel him all the way where I was. However, their faces had become irrelevant to me.


    I could barely tell how they appeared anymore. Every breath started to hitch as I struggled to form coherent thoughts.


    "Part of me wonders if we should do this." The startled brother added, gazing back at us. "Maybe we should just..."


    His hand brushed my chest, causing me to shiver. Any touch felt so oddly satisfying, yet I hated that my body craved it.


    Why... does this keep happening to me?! I... I...


    There was a saying that victims tend to continue to be precisely that. Yet I...


    Refuse!


    "If our mistress wants this, it shall be done, Glenn. Don''t waver! The king can''t find us here." Ren growled at his wavering brother.


    Chaos was breaking in between them as the reluctant brother stood up. "If that''s directed at us, we''ll end up like King Ageth. In that horrible dungeon!"


    Just a moment. I need...


    It seemed that demons shared that they didn''t like to be ordered around, especially when it put their lives in danger, just like humans.


    True loyalty is always hard to buy. Demons and humans are the same; these two... are nothing more than...


    "Quiet! You know better than to say that name! It brings nothing but wrath!" Ren let go of me to confront his brother.


    It gave me the chance to turn away from them as I covered my chest with the little bits of clothing I had. This was the only chance I would get, and it was only a matter of time before their bickering stopped.


    My body throbbed in ways I never thought it could. I never knew one could want sex so much that my lady bits were itching and aching for attention. Most of my thoughts were full of moments when Finn held me, muddling everything else.


    I wanted him more than I cared to get away.


    If only you were here, then I... No! Don''t let this bitch win! I can have you plenty once I find my way back to you! Fight it, Sylvia! This isn''t how I truly feel!


    Clenching my hands into fists, I dug my nails into my palms before biting onto my lip hard enough for it to bleed. The pain was a rude awakening to me. Thankfully, I was no sadist.


    Yes... I have to get back to my home! Solas... Finn... Nyla... They''re all waiting for me! I can''t linger here!


    It wasn''t long before my thoughts became muddled again¡ªsomething I remedied by biting into my hand. The taste of iron was another awakening.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    The pain was more intense than before. However, the scent of blood had alerted the two bickering males of what was happening, quickly turning their gazes towards me again.


    "Did the human girl hurt herself?" one asked, bewildered.


    "Shit! Astred will rip us to shreds for days if she dies!"


    A human afflicted with a succubi hex would, without a doubt, have lost their mind. Many would''ve thrown themselves toward the two males, asking for the mercy that came with the pleasure sex would give them.


    Yet I was turning my lust into something else. There were many ways to find pleasure, and Finn''s previous moments of madness made me think of one.


    Revenge!


    "You fucks are dead!" I snarled, triggering my shadows to explode from me.


    The seal weakened, allowing my magic to slip by, shattering what was left. Blood pooled under my left hand as my body still refused to do what I wanted. Any single rub down on my vulva would make me shiver, though.


    "Fuck!" one of them yelled.


    "Don''t worry! All she can do is create smokescreens!" the other assured his brother.


    Smokescreens... I refuse to be as useless as everyone thinks I am! I''ll be someone worthy of walking by your side, Finn! If I need to be someone to be feared, then so be it!


    "Shut up!" I snarled, using the blood to draw a single sigil on my chest.


    All of Rizak''s lessons hadn''t been in vain. Even though I didn''t understand much of it, I listened to all of them diligently. Sigils usually were activated through the mana coursing through one''s body, which was why everyone on the human side had some tattoos on their bodies.


    It didn''t matter if one was a failure or an expert. They would work much like the light spell I had used to go down the corridor, as their only requirement was mana. I drew an emergency sigil, which was acting, yet it wore off just as fast.


    An artifact usually had a name given by the owner when the pact between the two was forged. Even though I had never seen the blade, the surge of magic from me when the sigil activated made me feel something new.


    Words formed in my head before I could even think clearly as one of the incubi sprouted his wings, creating a gust that scattered my shadows to the side. However, I was on my feet, staring down at the one known as Ren.


    He closed the gap briefly, grabbing me by my neck as my body shimmered a gentle white hue.


    "Sorry, but that was a nice try to get away." He smirked.


    My feet were still planted on the floor. A second later, a familiar boom separated the demons from me as the blood on the floor swirled around me.


    Ah... I''ve lost count of how often I''ve tried to get you to come to me without knowing your name.


    Yet this time...


    "Come to me¡ª"


    Time stopped as a figure appeared behind the repelled demons. It was none other than the goddess who gave me this cursed power.


    Serena smirked, "Are you finally going to show me what you''re made off, Sylvia?"


    No, I''ve got nothing to prove to you or anyone! All I want is to go home!


    Her smirk turned into a defined grin, and a second later, she was gone.


    That''s right. I don''t have anything to prove. All I want is to go home and walk beside you, Finn! And for that, I will roar louder than you ever can!


    Time restarted, allowing me to finish my sentence.


    "¡ªblade of chaos, Twilight!" I yelled, triggering the blood to concentrate on my hand, forming a blade that soon consumed the cavern in a bright light.


    It quickly dimmed, leaving behind two stunned demons against the wall. In my hands was a radiant blade, shining brightly like the sun back in my world. Its handles were made of pure black leather, radiating the same black aura from my shadows.


    The two demons quickly found their footing before one launched at me. Unlike before, my eyes could keep up with him thanks to the sigil. Instead of meeting with my flesh, his claws met with my blade. In a split second, his hand and arm were sliced in half.


    He wailed upon feeling the blow, quickly stepping away from me before falling on his bum.


    "It isn''t healing!" Ren cried, holding onto his injured limb.


    It didn''t matter to me if a monster had a face of one or not.


    All that matters is that they are one.


    Using the same rage from the fateful day that led me to this world, I swung my sword one more time, unleashing a shadowy energy slash toward the two. My shadows were more than smoke and mirrors.


    They had their fangs as much as I did.


    No one''s taking advantage of me ever again!


    The slash split them both in half before it went through the rock wall behind them. Blood splattered everywhere from where they stood as the shock in their eyes burned into my head.


    Yes... I''m no saint. Nor do I want to be. All I want to be...


    "I''m going home to my king! Get out of my way!" I snarled, unleashing my shadows in the form of two wolves beside me.


    I didn''t know how I was doing it. Then again, Finn once told me that magic responds to one''s desires.


    "Anyone who gets in my way will be trampled!" I howled, shaking the cave as the door opened to reveal Nicola.


    "What the¡ª" He didn''t finish before withdrawing into the safety of the darkness the save provided.


    This was the first time I had ever felt energy like this. Rizak was right when he said I''d know how it feels when the time came.


    It''s liberating!


    With the sword in my hand, it was like second nature. Nicola wasn''t the only one within the unknown of the cave, and I could feel dozens of demons waiting for me within its depths. My breath hitched at every step I took.


    I had to turn the lust that was surging within me into something else if I wanted to survive in this demonic cavern I found myself in.


    "Seek," I ordered my summons before rushing into the unknown.


    My steps didn''t feel like mine; it was like someone else was piloting my body. However, it wasn''t long before I heard my beast snarl, finding a target to rip into. Wails and screeches followed as I ran through the darkness.


    I would slash through anything I sensed without hesitation, much like Nicola''s tentacles that reached for me before I sliced through it.


    "You bitch! I''ll rip you to shreds!" His scream could be heard as I kept in toe, barely able to stay up.


    Much like a bat, I was relying on my senses other than sight to keep up, as it wasn''t long until I cried out in pain, feeling a sharp ache come from my abdomen. Unable to help it, I stumbled onto the floor, gasping as the adrenaline was the only thing keeping me active.


    I quickly found my footing. However, the moment I gazed towards where the blow had come from, I fell to my knees. Throbs mixed with the pain to create a weird sensation. My lower abdomen burned hotter than before.


    The hex was getting worse with every second that passed, turning the agony that was rushing through my body into something else. I was surrounded by beings I couldn''t see as one grabbed onto my hair.


    "Fuck! I promised to keep you alive for my lady, but you seem to have forced my hand on the matter!" Nicola howled in the darkness before grabbing me by my neck.


    No! If I die here... Finn... Finn!


    Soon, his name filled my mind as my shadows swirled around me again, gripping Twilight tighter.


    That stupid demon king won''t find me in this god-forsaken cave!


    My needs couldn''t be met unless he was where I was, and if I gave up, I would never feel him again¡ªsomething unacceptable.


    "Finn! I''m here! Come find me already!" I screamed, letting go of everything I felt.


    Everything around me melted away in my screech as a burst of energy left me, decaying even the cave''s rocks. A second later, a blinding light consumed everything around me before it dimmed, leaving me in a crater of what used to be the carven.


    I need to...


    Struggling to get up, I expected to get attacked, but when the dust settled, I was shocked to see who was in the distance. Before I knew it, I ran towards them as the gap closed quicker than I realized, thanks to the sigil on my chest.


    Launching myself onto him, I held him dearly.


    Finn!

 Chapter 58: The Red-Haired Man

    Holding onto Finn, I felt at peace. Muffled voices carried behind him, yet I didn¡¯t care. All I desired was to have him next to me. However, I could not help but feel like something was off as the usual scent that filled my senses was gone.


    Sadly, my mind was too muddled to think clearly, and my voice refused to leave me. Nothing more than pants escaped me as all I could do was grip him. He didn¡¯t hold me back, though. Instead, he gazed back at the others before someone handed something to him.


    Covering me with what appeared to be a white cloth, he offered me the bottle that had been handed to him. His voice was muffled, and his wings were missing upon closer inspection.


    This isn¡¯t¡­


    Pushing him away, I quickly fell onto my bum. I needed to get away, but my body refused to listen to me again. Although my thoughts were a mess, I was finally seeing clearly. The illusion faded, leaving behind the red-haired man Finn hated.


    He wasn¡¯t alone; that blue-haired elven girl was there too. Kneeling to me, he said something, but it was too muffled to understand.


    I wanted to tell him to stay back, but he grabbed me by the back of my head. Offering me the bottle, I quickly swiped it away. Shattering into the ground caused the elf girl to yell incoherent words as Soren shook his head, grabbing a second bottle from her before pouring it into his mouth and clashing his lips against mine.


    I never knew a kiss from someone else would give me mixed feelings. I hated that it was someone other than Finn, yet my body craved it, leaving me to struggle to fight against it.


    Thankfully, the awful liquid that filled my senses made me snap into reality. Soren quickly withdrew from me when I sunk my teeth into his lip.


    You¡¯re lucky I didn¡¯t take your tongue!


    Words that I wanted to say, but none left me when he licked his lip before pulling away from me. Suddenly, my world blurred, making it darker as it faded before I could even collect my thoughts. The first thing I felt was my body aching when it came back to me.


    When I opened my eyes, I didn¡¯t recognize where I was. From what I could tell, it was a wooden cabin, and no miasma filled my lungs as the air was pristine.


    Is that the scent of pines?!


    I was no longer in Fathal, and that much was certain.


    Crap! I need to return before Finn thinks I left because I wanted to! I have to¡ª


    Struggling to get up, I felt dizzy as a weird sensation still lingered in my lady bits. The itch from before wasn¡¯t gone, but it was present to a lesser extent than before. The door to my room flew open, revealing Soren as his eyes opened wide upon seeing me up.


    ¡°Ah, I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d wake up so soon. You really are contentious.¡± The red-haired boy smiled.


    In his hands was a cup filled with water and bread.


    What¡­ is¡­ How did I¡­ Argh, all my memories are a mess!


    He didn¡¯t appear hostile, yet my thoughts were still muffled. His voice was gentle to my ears, too.


    ¡°Soon¡­?¡± I mumbled, gazing towards the side.


    I was in the hands of Finn¡¯s greatest enemy, yet I failed to remember how this happened.


    ¡°When we found you in that crater¡ª¡± He didn¡¯t even finish when my memories snapped back together.


    Crater? Ah¡­ This is all because of that fucking succubus!


    A throb pulsed through me, bringing forth all the memories from my encounter with Astred, which included when this man kissed me with that nasty liquid in his mouth. A sharp growl left me as I let another man touch me in my confusion.


    ¡°Shut up and stay away from me!¡± I snarled, raising my hand to summon my blade.


    However, not even a spark left me. Instead, I felt woozy again, triggering me to wince and grab onto my head.


    A soft sigh left his lips, shaking his head. ¡°You used an enormous amount of mana already. You¡¯ll probably pass out again if you try to do any more magic. Thankfully, your body¡¯s limiting you already, but if you push yourself, it won¡¯t be good for you.¡± He announced, standing by the door with his arms crossed.


    That was when I noticed I was in clothes other than the ones Phoebe had made for me.


    ¡°Did you¡ª¡± he didn¡¯t let me finish as his eyebrows raised.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t me. That was Alena, my elf companion. I¡¯d never touch a woman who is under the influence of a hex.¡± He informed, taking a step inside.


    I couldn¡¯t help but growl at him. ¡°Are you implying Finn would?!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know the demon king in the intimate ways you must know him, but don¡¯t kid yourself; that man has no heart to feel with.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t talk to about him like you know him!¡± I huffed, shivering as I felt my body heat up slowly again.


    This man was no friend of ours, yet I was still unharmed. The last time we had met, I had weapons directed at me, but none were visible this time. Even so, I kept my guard up, knowing that Finn would never be the same if I went.


    ¡°Anyways, we have more pressing matters to speak of.¡± Soren shrugged, taking a step towards me as I took one back.


    It wasn¡¯t long until I found myself against the wall.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got a nasty succubus curse. The potion you drank before you lost consciousness should help keep it at bay. Sadly, the only cure is to have loads of, well, you know.¡± He added, pointing towards my abdomen, which still felt like it burned with each movement.


    My body was slowly reminding itself of what it was craving before I fought for my life. I noticed the bandages on my hand from when I sunk my teeth into them, and my head also had a patch.


    Everything really happened. That¡­ bitch screwed me in ways I never thought I¡¯d feel again. Typical¡­


    I had somehow survived all that, yet I wasn¡¯t home free. There were still hurdles in my way, especially when I saw Finn again.


    Will you believe me?


    ¡°Bring me back to Fathal; I don¡¯t belong here,¡± I announced, glaring at Soren.


    His eyes narrowed, ¡°You want to return to that forsaken place?¡±


    ¡°That isn¡¯t any of your concern.¡± I retorted, shifting my sight to the sides.


    The only way out of here was through the door he was blocking.


    Crap¡­


    ¡°Here, I thought you¡¯d be glad to be back with your fellow kin.¡± He shook his head before closing his eyes.


    I stayed silent, gazing towards the side.


    I don¡¯t want to be with my kind. I want to be with¡­ them¡­ with my new family.


    ¡°She must¡¯ve lost her mind if she wants to return to those abominations.¡± Alena suddenly declared behind him.


    When did she¡­ No¡­ focus!


    ¡°The only abomination I see here is you,¡± I huffed, narrowing my eyes at her.


    ¡°What?¡± she scuffed, ¡°Have you lost your mind?¡±


    This blue-haired elf wasn¡¯t a monster but an enemy of the people I cared most about.


    ¡°I¡¯m no damsel in distress, elf. Now drop me off where you found me. I¡¯ll be fine by myself. Why don¡¯t you run along back to my sister?¡± I huffed, crossing my arms.


    Her eyes widened, leaving a soft smirk on her lips. ¡°Ah, tough words until your curse activates again, then you¡¯ll be¡ª¡±


    I didn¡¯t let her finish. ¡°Shut up! I don¡¯t need just anyone¡¯s dick.¡± I fumed.


    That thought was unforgivable, as the words had left me before I realized it. I winced as another pulse rushed through my body, remembering who I wanted most.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    Just yours¡­ Finn¡­ I promise.


    The thought of him made my skin warm, yet it turned ice cold, remembering how Soren had touched my lips. How much my body enjoyed it even though I didn¡¯t want a single ounce of it.


    This curse is troublesome. I¡¯ll break if it happens again.


    I needed to find Finn quickly before my mind was lost to me again.


    ¡°Arg, Soren, we should kill her and be done with it.¡± The elf huffed.


    In her eyes, I was a demon sympathizer; thus, there was no reason to keep me around.


    ¡°No, Alena. Can you just leave me alone with her?¡± Soren sighed, rolling his eyes at her.


    ¡°But we already have our saint. Leaving this traitor alive is a mistake! She¡¯s charmed by them in a nonmagical way. I don¡¯t even know what¡¯s worse!¡± She gibed, grabbing onto her arms while pouting at him


    You¡­ don¡¯t understand a single thing.


    ¡°Traitor? That would be assuming I was on your side to start with. You all tried to kill me when I first got here! I was nothing to you!¡± I snapped, gripping the shirt I had.


    I never wanted to pick a side! All I want is to be with those I care about!


    In my mind, everyone had to be alive by the end of it for it to be successful, but that meant no one would stand with me to make it happen.


    Not even you, Finn, will help in this endeavor. You all think I¡¯m crazy for trying¡­ But¡­


    ¡°Those monsters live on us! You¡¯re a traitor to your existence!¡± she snapped, stepping forward.


    Water droplets were softly twirling around her as her magic started responding to her emotions.


    ¡°They aren¡¯t monsters!¡± I fought back. ¡°So don¡¯t you dare call them that because you¡¯re ignorant to their plea, and that¡¯s fine! We don¡¯t need you! The demons of Fathal have more humanity in them than you ever will!¡±


    The demons knew what it was to be stripped of your reason and act like an animal. They didn¡¯t deserve to be treated as beasts when humans were no better.


    ¡°And why would you say that?¡± Soren asked, triggering my gaze to find their way back to him.


    His eyes were colder than before, and the gentle aura that he had before was also disappearing.


    ¡°They gave me a home when I had none! They treated me with respect and care even when I didn¡¯t.¡± I answered.


    At the start, I was so awful to them, yet they kept their arms open for me, even when their nature didn¡¯t make it easy for them. Nyla¡­ Rizak¡­ even Gael, you were all there for me when I¡­


    ¡°You¡¯re delusional,¡± Alena muttered, fists clenched.


    My words won¡¯t reach them. This is a waste of time. I just want to go home.


    ¡°Then let me rot with those whom you deem the worst. Your saint will kill them all, as you say. Nothing to lose on your part.¡± I shrugged, shifting my eyes towards the side.


    Demons have an eternity, but I don¡¯t. I need to go back to Finn. I need to tell you that I¡­


    Looking outside the room where Alena stood, I could tell it was night. It couldn''t be the same day Astred¡¯s minion abducted me, so it had to be another day.


    Damn it! I don¡¯t want to spend another moment away from you!


    ¡°Kill her and be done with it!¡± Alena stated, looking more hostile with every second that passed.


    There was no way I could let them harm me without knowing what it could do to Finn. I readied myself for a fight, yet¡­


    ¡°No, leave Alena.¡± Soren sighed, waving his companion away.


    ¡°Do you understand who you¡¯re defending?¡± she scowled at him.


    Even though that question wasn¡¯t for me, I¡­


    ¡°Yes, I do. I¡¯m not blind to what demons do for fun, but humans are the same.¡± I sighed, clasping my hands into my chest. ¡°Your ancestors created them; now they are your unfair burden.¡±


    This dress they put on me didn¡¯t fit me at all, and the stupid pink color made me feel off.


    Annoying¡­ I want to¡­


    ¡°You don¡¯t see them as monsters at all?¡± Soren countered.


    I shook my head, pulling on the dress. ¡°No, most kill just to survive. They aren¡¯t different from us as much as you¡¯d like.¡± I announced, glancing back towards them.


    Alena was gone, and the door behind Soren was closed. I didn¡¯t realize when she left, yet I didn¡¯t feel any safer.


    ¡°Do you mean the mad king as well?¡± he questioned, voice running cold.


    I knew what he wanted me to say, and I wouldn¡¯t play to his tune. Fin was a monster; the tingle from my arm ensured I could never deny it.


    ¡°He¡¯s my everything,¡± I answered.


    Even though it probably would¡¯ve been easier to lie. I didn¡¯t want to speak badly about Finn, even if it was to save myself.


    You don¡¯t deserve that, not after all you¡¯ve experienced. This world made you what you are, and I won¡¯t run away from your scars. No... I¡¯ll¡­


    ¡°You dare call that monster your everything? He even ripped off your arm.¡± Soren growled, narrowing his eyes.


    So, he saw my proudest moment and your greatest shame.


    Every time Finn gazed at my arm, I could see hesitation overcome the most powerful demon in all of Fathal.


    Even if this marks a moment where you lost yourself, this man has no right to judge you!


    ¡°This was my choice, and your bloodline made all of them what they are. Where is your redemption?!¡± I scowled, grabbing onto my right shoulder. ¡°What have you done to help them?!¡±


    Soren winced as he shifted his gaze towards the side. ¡°You misunderstand. My mother was a victim of her father. She had no choice in the matter!¡±


    My eyes widened upon realizing that Lillia was his mother. I thought he was just a descendant, not the child of whoever she was set to marry.


    Just how¡­ No focus¡­ this man doesn¡¯t matter.


    ¡°Oh, was she now? From what I saw, she still chose to side with him even though she was alone with Finn!¡± I countered, remembering all the times she felt conflicted.


    If what Soren said had any truth to it, then that woman was nothing more than a victim, but even so¡­


    ¡°Going along was the only way she knew she wouldn¡¯t be beaten down!¡± he added.


    It caused my heart to sting.


    Selfish¡­


    ¡°Bullshit! She could¡¯ve told Finn everything! He would¡¯ve protected her! Instead, she served them all on a platter for your grandfather, the only monster in this story!¡± I snarled.


    There were so many outs, all without hurting a single person, yet she took none. She and I were more alike than I would¡¯ve liked, but I never had a single person reach out to me like Finn had to her.


    Even then, I chose to stand up and get away from my monster rather than hurt someone else. Sadly, it didn¡¯t work like I thought it would.


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t understand.¡± Soren sighed.


    His words fired me up more than I should¡¯ve allowed.


    ¡°You¡¯re the typical man who thinks they know everything! I understand your mother more than you ever will! I know what it¡¯s like to live with a monster every day of your life!¡± I growled, shadows beginning to sprout out of me.


    My sudden words widened his eyes, triggering him to stare at me warily as the darkness crept closer to him.


    ¡°You think you know everything because of Evelyn? What a fucking joke! You know nothing about what I¡¯ve survived!¡± I snapped, clenching my hands into fists.


    All the lies Eve must¡¯ve sprouted about me. For a truth bearer, you surely don¡¯t know a lie when it¡¯s right in front of you!


    ¡°I killed my stepfather, who was about to rape me after I refused to whore myself out to my sister! So don¡¯t you dare tell me I don¡¯t know what it is to be abused! Bruises and soreness are all I¡¯ve known until I came here!¡± I declared, wincing because of the pain radiating from my hands.


    Ah¡­ I want to go back.


    ¡°That woman ruined all those people to please her monster of a father! So, what if she was a victim of his? This all happened because she was a coward!¡± I growled, unable to hold my disdain for her.


    I didn¡¯t know how to hate someone without knowing them, but she caused pain to everyone I cared about, which was unforgivable. Yet, at the same time, I knew some people didn¡¯t have it in them to fight.


    Some froze and let it happen, much like Finn did when he lost his will to fight upon witnessing his world fall apart.


    But to let a whole country fall just to save your ass from a beating. That¡¯s unforgivable!


    ¡°I¡¯m scared of Daddy! Boo hoo! Bitch doomed a country full of innocent people just because she was scared! That isn¡¯t a victim! It¡¯s just another monster in the making!¡± I ranted.


    That woman could¡¯ve stopped the cycle of destruction if she had come to you! I know¡­ you would¡¯ve helped her even if it meant I never met you. Oh¡­ how I wish your smile would¡¯ve never been tarnished.


    Soren appeared unmoved by my words as he had his bias, and I had mine. In his eyes, she was a victim of a madman, but he neglected to see how she fucked Finn and everyone else who welcomed her.


    You probably don¡¯t know their past as I saw it. All of them would¡¯ve protected her if she pleaded for it. Finn would¡¯ve loved her even as broken as she was!


    Stings rose in my chest, making me shake my head.


    Unlike me¡­ You¡¯ll never love¡­ me. No one will¡­ These feelings will always be one-sided because of that damn curse!


    ¡°I don''t pity her or the saint they used to condemn the royals of Fathal.¡± I winced, trying to keep the heat starting to emanate from my core at bay.


    ¡°Not everyone is strong enough to stand up.¡± He sighed, shaking his head.


    ¡°Nothing is wrong with that, but her fears took everyone down a horrid path! That¡¯s the only sin she has that will follow you and everyone in Traedan until that curse is gone!¡± I huffed, shaking my head.


    ¡°How can you talk like that? My mother was only nineteen when she was set to marry that mad king. Her father was abusing her in ways no one ever should.¡± He scoffed.


    His words sent shivers down my spine.


    Ah¡­ was she¡­ how cruel¡­


    ¡°Are you the product of that abuse, Soren?¡± I asked, staring at him straight on, prompting him to bite his lip.


    ¡°I am.¡± He confessed.


    ¡°Ah¡­ it doesn¡¯t change that she¡¯s just a monster born from another. Just like me, but I refuse to hurt anyone else! Let alone damn a nation.¡± I huffed, turning my sight onto the cabin wall.


    ¡°Finn murdered my mother, wife, and son right in front of me. Doesn¡¯t that make him a monster and no longer a victim, too?¡± he coldly stated.


    It was a heartfelt plea, but Finn never gave an excuse for what he was. He always ensured I knew he wasn¡¯t the good one in all of this, but that didn¡¯t change my stance. I would walk beside him without looking back at what he had done.


    You¡¯ve never once said it wasn¡¯t your fault. No, you owned up to everything you ever did and accepted that the world would change for you.


    ¡°If that day never happened, the dragon known as Finn Dragon Heart wouldn¡¯t be around. He never once hid his sins from me or lied to me. That gives me hope he and all the others can be saved from this nightmare!¡±


    If that day... were only a dreadful dream, you would¡¯ve been the sweetest king ever to rise, but that was robbed!


    ¡°Sylvia¡­¡± Soren mumbled, shifting his amber eyes onto me.


    ¡°To you, Finn is a beast beyond redemption, but to me, he¡¯ll always be my everything. He allowed me to see how his world fell apart and showed me his shame in what happened, but that doesn¡¯t make what he did right.¡± I faced the broken man before me.


    He wasn¡¯t an opponent out for my life but my ideals.


    ¡°Even though the demon king has caused you pain, I don¡¯t blame him for making her feel the same pain he felt. Even if it isn¡¯t fair to you, it¡¯s the reconning your family brought down upon themselves.¡± I sighed, shaking my head.


    The curse had made Finn into a ruthless man who had murdered more lives than I could count. Yet, I had only seen him retaliate rather than engage the entire time I had been there. This demon had a gentleness in him that the curse couldn¡¯t erase.


    To these people, you¡¯re a monster who hunts them, but if that¡¯s true, they would have been long dead.


    ¡°So¡­ Please just let me go back to him. I don¡¯t belong on this side.¡± I gazed at him straight on.


    ¡°I can¡¯t give you back to him. You¡¯ll be a weapon in that demon¡¯s hands.¡± He crossed his arms.


    ¡°If he wanted to destroy you. He would¡¯ve already done so.¡± I shot back. ¡°Plus, all I want is to save them!¡±


    ¡°By dooming us?¡± his eyes showed no emotion.


    No, you all have to survive, too, but I feel we¡¯ll just go in circles.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got my sister to help you out. Now let me leave, or I¡¯ll fight my way out.¡± I sighed, having had enough of this roundabout.


    The warmth my mind was fighting off was clawing at me. It wouldn¡¯t be long before the curse consumed my thoughts again. Touching my lips, I¡­


    Will I let someone touch me again? No! I can¡¯t! I won¡¯t!


    ¡°Your sister isn¡¯t what we need,¡± Soren answered, snapping me out of my thoughts.


    ¡°What?¡± I mumbled.


    ¡°She isn¡¯t the real saint. You are.¡± He declared, turning my entire body into a tundra.


    What did you just say?

 Chapter 59: Blazed Reunion

    Before this, I thought Evelyn was living life. There was no way she didn''t have them wrapped around her finger with the way she manipulated the men in her life. Well, all but this man, who wasn''t fond of her.


    "What?" I mumbled, unable to process what Soren said.


    His eyes twitched as he shifted to the side before rolling them.


    "Your sister is only looking after herself. She''s a total liar who only spews venom for her benefit. Gods, I don''t even know why the prince has taken a liking to her." He huffed, shaking his head.


    It appeared I had opened up a can of worms I wasn''t sure how to digest.


    "Eh?" I cocked my head as he took a step towards me.


    "Then there''s you who wants to save others, even though they don''t deserve it. No matter how misguided your intentions are. Aren''t they more saint-like than your groveling sister''s intentions?" He shrugged, leaving me to shake my head.


    "I''m not¡ª" I started, only to be stopped by Soren closing the gap between us.


    His hand touched my cheek, leaving it burning as his amber eyes inspected me. Instinctively, I tugged away, turning my eyes away from him.


    That was dangerous!


    My body craved attention even if I didn''t want it.


    "It''s such a shame you''re charmed by them. You would''ve been a great ally. If only I had protected you better that day." Soren frowned, pulling away from me.


    "There''s no hex influencing me other than the stupid succubi¡ª" I stopped, feeling another throb.


    It caused me to gasp, and I fell onto my knees. Again, the tickle was rising, alerting me that my cravings were worsening.


    "The potion is a one-time thing. It won''t help you anymore. Though I doubt he''ll let this stand for much longer." He shrugged, turning towards the door.


    There were noises outside.


    "Soren! We have trouble." Alena burst in.


    "Is it him?" he turned towards her.


    His voice had run cold, shifting his gaze towards me.


    "Yes, he''s enraged, killing everyone in his path. Everything is burning in a crimson fire!" She answered, shifting her eyes to me.


    A soft sigh came from him. "Well, we can''t win against him like that. Make sure to have Jasper sound the evacuation orders."


    "Yes, but¡ª" Alena shifted her eyes back onto him as he placed his fingertips on her lips.


    "I guess we''ll see if he leaves you alive, Sylvia. Then we''ll see if he has any humanity left in that heart of his." Soren announced, smirking at me.


    What? Are you letting me go home?


    "What?! No! We can''t¡ª" she didn''t finish before suddenly falling into his arms unconscious.


    "Well, now I must take care of her, such a little handful elf." He picked her up before walking towards the door.


    "Well, good luck, Saint of light and darkness. Maybe in a different life, we could''ve been friends. Perhaps even more. If we meet again, I hope it isn''t as foes." He smiled, yet it wasn''t genuine.


    A second later, they were gone as a rune was left where they stood.


    A vortex? Never mind that move, Sylvia!


    I tried to move toward the door, but instead of reaching it, I felt a strong pulse, which caused me to gasp.


    "Damn it! Not now!" I muttered.


    There wasn''t any use to control the curse as it spiked, leaving me shivering where I was.


    No... I don''t want anyone... else!


    Pushing past it, I ran out of the room and into the living room to find it abandoned. The elf had said someone was coming to where I was, alerting me it was probably the demon king himself.


    You''re so close! I must keep moving before someone else finds me!


    Aches rose in my body as my injuries were stung, thanks to my rough movements. Screams were erupting from outside when heavy pants left me while exiting the wooden cabin. Every step was getting hard to make as my world muddled together.


    The moment I walked outside, I fell onto the grass, and a curse left me while I gazed up to see where I was. I could see crimson fires breaking out before the forest I found myself in. It reminded me of the same flames that erupted from Finn the day I almost lost my arm.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    Ah... That''s... you... I need to make it to you. Please...


    Standing up, I instinctively went toward them before stopping when I saw three figures in the distance, running toward me and away from the fire. It wasn''t long before I could make out they were three men from the village close to this cabin.


    "Leave the stubborn fools! This way! We''re almost at the clearing!" one yelled as the others followed close behind.


    How deep into Traedan I am?


    I doubted Soren took me far from Fathal, knowing how Finn would react to having his saint go missing. Shaking my head, I tried to move away from the men, but my sluggish movements made it impossible before they caught up with me.


    Once closer, the first men on the front stopped, gazing at me.


    "What are you doing?! Lord Soren said to evacuate!" the other man yelled, stopping when he saw me.


    Damn it! I can''t... My mind isn''t entirely mine! Focus!


    "Wait, that''s the girl he brought." The first one pointed towards me.


    The other man nodded as I felt another throb, triggering my mind to fill with indecencies.


    Maybe it won''t... No! I don''t want anyone else but you!


    Shaking my head, I didn''t notice when the others had closed the gap between us. Before I knew it, one of them had captured my arm, snapping me out of the train of thought. When they tugged me on my arm, I...


    "Stop!" I yelled, tearing myself away. "Leave me alone!"


    My sudden movement caused me to fall onto the floor as I cried out because of the wound in my abdomen. Luckily, it was enough to snap me out of the chaotic mess my mind was becoming once again.


    "We need to go! Death''s coming!" another warned, reaching for me again.


    No! I''m so close!


    If they took me...


    I''ll probably... end up... No!


    "No! Don''t touch me!" my voice cracked as the tickle in my groin was getting worse.


    I winced as his hands never reached me. Instead, their screams filled the air as my eyes fluttered open to see the closest to me had his head cleanly sliced off. The fires around me gathered around the other two men, setting them on fire.


    A familiar presence suddenly made itself known, making me glance toward it. The red aura radiating from them was too intense to make out who they were. However, a...


    "Sylvia!" a voice I could never forget shouted.


    Tears formed in the corner of my eyes when I saw Solas running towards me from the crimson blob behind him, who was none other than Finn. His eyes were a deep red as everything about him screamed hostility.


    There wasn''t an ounce of emotion in his eyes and face while everything he touched withered into nothing underneath his feet. This left a trail of death behind him, yet I wanted nothing more than to close the gap between us. The only thing that stopped me was that I didn''t know if he recognized me.


    Or if you... I think I left you like Astred...


    However, before I could move or say anything, my body felt limp, triggering me to fall onto my knees. The itch between my legs got worse upon seeing the man I adored. Thanks to my movements, the pink dress was slowly staining red, as all the stitches they had used were probably torn.


    Solas reached me first, and I embraced him. His fur brought me the comfort I never knew existed. His tail wagged uncontrollably, making me unable to hold back my tears.


    "I''m so sorry! I was careless!" he whined before plopping by my lap.


    Before I could say anything, Finn was in front of me. I glanced up to meet with his cold eyes. Another pulse erupted from me; it was an uncontrollable urge to jump him, yet I stayed where I was unsure if he was gazing at me with hate or if he was there at all.


    I hadn''t seen him like this before.


    "Finn?" I called out, triggering him to kneel towards me.


    He studied me briefly with those fridged crimson eyes before touching my cheek. The moment my warmth found his fingertips, his eyes widened.


    "Ah... Finally... I found you." He breathed, pulling me into his embrace.


    The warmth that exploded within me was almost unbearable as I instinctively hugged him, weeping the moment I felt safe.


    "S-stupid demon! Y-You s-shouldn''t have left me b-behind! D-Do you even k-know what I-I''ve been t-through?!" I cried, holding onto him for dear life.


    His aura was still thick as my body gave off a gentle white shine, countering his red hue.


    "It... It won''t happen again." He whispered, holding me tightly against his body.


    His voice was still so cold, and we were probably being watched, yet I couldn''t help myself. Tugging away from his arms slightly, I faced his icy expression, which hadn''t changed. There was blood everywhere I could see, but I didn''t care.


    All I need... All I want...


    A second later, I lifted myself to meet with his lips. Brushing against them gave me a warmth I never thought I would feel again. The flames around me were nothing compared to him. He barely responded to me, but he allowed me in when I licked his lip.


    Tracing his features with my tongue, I couldn''t help but indulge myself in him, allowing myself to fall into the cursed desires enforced on me. However, Finn had no idea why I was kissing him so indulgingly when his tongue pushed on mine, winning dominance.


    Tugging away from my lips, he gazed around, holding me by my shoulders., which prevented me from following him back into another kiss.


    "You smell different. Why?" He questioned.


    That was when I saw his cold eyes towards me, snapping me back into reality. It had been a while since I had seen them like that. This demon was enraged, and even though I was his goal, he didn''t know what had happened.


    For all Finn knew, I could''ve run away from the castle and sought refuge in the human lands.


    Astred... said she would... No... You can''t really believe her, can you?


    My thoughts were muddling with every second as the heat surging through me made my breaths hitch.


    "I-I¡ª" Before I could even finish that sentence, a throb rushed through me, cutting my senses.


    "Something''s wrong!" Solas yelped, feeling something within me grow as everything went black before the lights came back.


    What? Did... I black out?


    My breath had become unsteady and erratic as Finn cupped my cheeks in his hands.


    "Sylvia, breathe slowly." He whispered, darting his eyes and trying to find why I behaved this way.


    Tears ran down my cheeks, feeling overwhelmed by everything.


    You... don''t believe me anymore! How can I... Why can''t I... Huh? What... Why... won''t you hold me?


    I didn''t know if what Astred did to me was getting worse, but I could barely make out a clear thought.


    "I-I can''t b-breathe. It burns! Please! Help me! I can''t hold it anymore, Finn!" I managed to voice, gripping his cloak tightly.


    His eyes glowed as a sharp growl left his lips. "Is this... So, a hex, but what type?"


    A howl came from Solas as Finn smirked. There wasn''t any hint of happiness in his tone or facial expression.


    "These prying eyes have nothing else to witness." His red eyes shone even brighter.


    With a simple movement of his hand, the surrounding fire turned into a vortex, consuming us within.

 Cardinal Desires

    The fire surrounding us became a vortex, blocking everything but Solas and him. Even though it should¡¯ve been scorching, it was anything but that. Grabbing onto his cloak, I found my air slightly.


    ¡°P-please, I-I can¡¯t hold it anymore!¡± I begged for relief.


    ¡°Hah¡­ I know, baby girl. Let¡¯s go home. I¡¯ll help you there better.¡± He whispered, holding onto my cheeks.


    My mind snapped before I clashed my lips with his. The vortex got more intense when I lost myself in the kiss as I wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling myself up. Before I knew it, my legs were around his hips while his hands held me up, allowing me to kiss him feverishly.


    Saliva dripped down his chin as he held me up, indulging my desire to lock tongues with him. When the fire died, we were no longer in that village that reminded me of incense burning. Before I knew it, my back was on a bed.


    I hadn¡¯t realized how we were back in Finn¡¯s room. His eyes were crimson red when he pulled away to let me breathe. My thoughts were so chaotic, yet my body shuddered in anticipation.


    Finally¡­ I¡­


    The scent of roses filled my senses, yet a troubling thought formed at this base. Even though my desires were out of whack¡­


    What if¡­ this is another illusion?


    The simple thought broke me out of my heated stance as Finn¡¯s hands pulled down my underwear after lifting my dress.


    ¡°Wait,¡± I mumbled, unable to confirm if this was reality.


    My mind had played tricks on me before, and I would¡¯ve instead been stabbed than to hold another in a heated moment. This demon¡¯s eyes were still deep red, and his aura was sipping out of him. Instead of listening to me, he towered over me, inspecting everything about me.


    It wasn¡¯t long until he found something alerting. The moment his fingers touched my lower abdomen, my eyes shifted towards it. There, I had a stamp of a big heart with wings coming out of it.


    Huh? Is that¡­


    ¡°This mark¡­ fucking Astred,¡± Finn growled loudly, the aura getting thicker by the second.


    I had never heard him sound like that. There was more than venom in his tone. He intended to make her¡­


    ¡°Finn,¡± I mumbled, shifting his eyes to my face.


    A soft smirk rose on his lips. His eyes glowed brightly. The red in them hadn¡¯t gone away at all. He was enraged, yet at the same time, he was still slightly in control. I didn''t feel his murderous intentions toward me like before.


    Even though I was back in the castle, no one had rushed in to see if I was okay, ensuring me that if anyone else entered this room, he would¡¯ve tortured them. He touched my cheek before narrowing his eyes.


    ¡°Brielle, tell the generals my little mouse is still missing. Keep them searching and scorching the human lands until further notice.¡± He ordered.


    ¡°Yes, my lord.¡± She acknowledged behind the door.


    Ah¡­ This is no illusion; Finn¡¯s really in front of me.


    ¡°Did anyone touch you?¡± He turned his attention back to me.


    I shook my head, finally allowing myself to fall.


    ¡°You sure?¡± he tilted his head, unsure of how I was still sane.


    Tugging away my dress, he exposed all of me. I didn¡¯t know how many days I was missing, and it didn¡¯t matter. However, the moment he spotted the injuries on my hands, his eyes widened. It wasn¡¯t long until he noticed all of them.


    ¡°Did you use pain as¡ª¡± I interrupted him by clashing my lips onto his.


    Enough talk, I just want to¡­


    A feverous kiss followed when he allowed me into his mouth. There, I explored every nook and cranny he had to offer as a soft whine left him when I lifted myself to straddle him. I didn¡¯t know why he ordered Brielle to lie, and I didn¡¯t care.


    I couldn¡¯t hold the desire to be one with him anymore. Swaying my hips on his groin, I sought what I wanted. Wrapping my arms around his neck again, I played with his back feathers, ensuring me this was Finn.


    I saw Solas lying by the end of the bed from the corner of my eyes.


    Ah, I''m honestly back home.


    A soft moan left Finn, continuing to grind me on him as he pressed his hand on the wound on my abdomen. Tugging away from my lips, he leaned back to let me do what I wished. His eyes were still crimson, yet his mannerisms were of my Finn.


    ¡°More¡­¡± I mumbled, feeling his rigid member under his clothes.


    Using his tail, he tugged down his pants and underwear, exposing his heat to me. This allowed me to sway my hips on his member freely. He was observing me, still unsure of what was happening, yet he didn¡¯t deny me my pleasure.


    Grinding on him made my voice start to erupt. Sadly, it only made the itch go deeper within my core. Before I knew it, Finn grabbed me by my hips, stopping me from continuing.


    ¡°Did any man touch you?¡± This time, his voice was almost in a growl.


    He was right to be wary, but it annoyed me.


    ¡°No, I¡¯d kill myself before I let this feeling consume me for another,¡± I huffed, wanting nothing more than to love him.


    ¡°What?¡± he mumbled, still holding onto my side.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want anyone else other than you! Please! I can¡¯t take it, Finn!¡± I begged, feeling sluggish.


    Grinding on him made me feel more sensitive than before. The anticipation was growing, but it wasn¡¯t enough. A soft sigh left him when he grabbed onto my bum, trailing his fingers down to my vulva.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll give you everything you want plus more, but you better talk after the hex is gone.¡± He whispered, pressing his lips onto my ear.


    The next moment, I felt his fingers slip into me, triggering me to mewl. My hips swayed, unable to stay still as his appendages kept caressing my inner walls, making me melt. His lips traveled down my jawline and into my chest.


    There he licked my little nobs before sucking on them, triggering saliva to drip down them. His fangs pinched my skin but never penetrated it. On my side, his hand still was on my injury before tugging the bandages off to see a sealed cut.


    There was a small trail of blood, thanks to my movements, but the stitches hadn¡¯t torn.This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    When he pulled away from my depths, I whined, ¡°More!¡±


    Before I knew it, I was on the bed again. His tail coiled around one of my legs, spreading the other with his hand.


    He gazed toward where my injury was, knowing that one wasn¡¯t self-inflicted, nor were the ones on my legs, forehead, and elbows. For the first time since I came to this world, my body was covered in bruises and cuts again.


    A sharp frown formed on his lips as his eyes shimmered brightly. I didn¡¯t know what was going through his mind, but the pain from wounds was nothing compared to the curse coursing through me.


    ¡°Finn, please¡­ more!¡± I begged, spreading my moist slits to him.


    The only time I felt relief was when he was in me, even if his fingers weren¡¯t enough. His eyes widened upon seeing me want him so badly.


    ¡°Patience, sweetheart.¡± He sighed, cheeks flushed rosy.


    He was asking for the impossible. I had waited long enough for this. However, instead of making me wait, he leaned into my vulva before lapping it with his tongue. Instinctively, I grabbed his hair, feeling his fingers go deep into me.


    A sharp gasp left me, along with his name. Bucking my hips into him, I felt his tongue caress my sensitive bell before sucking in it. My voice went wild, feeling his warmth sip into me. My hips bucked forward, wanting much more than he was giving me.


    Even so, my body responded to his caresses as the knot was getting tighter, making my eyes tear. Tightening my grip on his hair, I mewled loudly, convulsing in his grip. However, he didn¡¯t stop lapping my intimate lips as I whited out in his grip.


    The next thing I knew, Finn was holding my cheeks.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± he breathed, worried about my mental state.


    Huh¡­? Did I¡­ almost faint?


    Although less intense, the burn remained as the itch went deeper into my core. The only cure was¡­


    ¡°I want you buried in me! Hurry!¡± I huffed, grabbing onto his heat.


    His eyes widened as I was never shy about these things, but the hex had made me bolder¡ªsomething he would use to his advantage.


    ¡°Oh, and only me?¡± He pressed his member against my entrance.


    ¡°Yes! Hurry!¡± I whined, wanting more.


    A sly smirk rose on his lips as this demon was about to show his devilish side. His eyes slowly returned to the beautiful blue hue I loved, too.


    ¡°Not unless you tell me why you want only me.¡± He teased, rubbing his heat against my vulva.


    ¡°Because!¡± I whined, feeling pleasure from the friction, yet it wasn¡¯t enough.


    Finn had me right where he wanted me.


    ¡°Hm¡­?¡± he hummed, thrusting his hips to keep the pace.


    With every push, I felt his tip rub against my entrance. With a slight change in direction, it would slip in.


    This is torture¡­ you evil demon¡­


    ¡°I can¡¯t live without you. Please, fill me up with you!¡± I declared, unsure of what I was saying, as this was a victory for the sweet demon that held my heart.


    In an instant, the flower on the bracelet changed again. However, the demon in front of me was more distracted by me.


    ¡°Can¡¯t live without me?¡± A soft chuckle followed those words.


    A second later, I felt him enter me as his wings spread wide, making me hum in pleasure. He was filling me in ways I wanted, bringing me to tears. I hadn¡¯t lied to Soren when I said Finn was my everything.


    Once I had a clearer head, I would have to reflect on many things. However, all that mattered was how this man satisfied me. His name left my lips when he filled me to the brim, yet what he said next wholly ensnared me to him.


    ¡°Ah, Sylvia, I thought I would go crazy again when I lost you, but I didn¡¯t fully lose my reason because of Solas. He kept reminding me of how much I want you.¡± Finn confessed, holding himself in place as my body took to his shape. ¡°Now that I have you. I¡¯ll never let you go.¡±


    Fixing his hair, he gazed at me with his deep blue eyes, allowing me to see his cheeks were deep red. The aura from before was also gone.


    ¡°What?¡± I breathed, reaching to his cheek as he kissed my palm.


    My thoughts were still cluttered, but I heard that as it relit my soul with hope.


    ¡°Much like you can¡¯t live without me, Sparky, I can¡¯t do eternity without you anymore. You¡¯ve become the only thing that holds me into this world besides my hate. Without you¡­ I¡¯m truly lost.¡± He simpered, pulling himself out before shoving it all into me.


    His name left my lips again before he sealed them with his. In an instant, I was consumed by his fucking. It was rough yet caring as the slapping of our skins and squelching noises from our union filled my senses.


    However, all I could do was ride the waves of pleasure as my breath was stolen from me. Letting me breathe wasn¡¯t Finn''s priority. No, fucking the hex out of me was. Though the moments when my lips weren¡¯t stolen from me, I could hear him moan and groan my name.


    His pace was a steady rhythm that didn¡¯t slow, no matter how many times I twitched under him. My voice roamed wild when I felt him overstimulating everything about me. My breasts were tender from him sucking on them constantly, leaving every brush of our skin to leave me whimpering.


    I never knew I could have so many marks on my skin, which were never painful when they came from him.


    ¡°Fuck, I¡¯m going crazy. It feels like I¡¯m going to melt in you.¡± He murmured, keeping up his pace.


    How many times have we¡­ Ah¡­ nothing matters¡­


    Astred¡¯s comment on my hole not being special rushed through me. I was no longer in my right mind as all I cared about was how and when he pushed into me. Every time, I swayed my hips to meet with him, too.


    Each time, I was rewarded with a moan from his lips. Perhaps I was nothing special, but at least I could please this demon, and that was all that mattered. No matter how often I reached my peak, I didn¡¯t stop searching for more.


    Yet when he exploded within me for the fifth time, I mewled loudly as my lower abdomen glowed brightly, making me almost black out. However, my consciousness somehow hung on.


    ¡°Hey, are you okay, baby girl?¡± Finn breathed, pushing himself deeper within me, prompting me to whine.


    However, my mind was clearer than before.


    ¡°I want to destroy that succubus,¡± I growled, short on air.


    Finn chuckled. ¡°Heh, she¡¯ll get what¡¯s coming.¡±


    He didn¡¯t pull away. Instead, he held himself in place, pumping me full of his milk that dripped down my thighs.


    ¡°No, I want her to beg for mercy,¡± I growled.


    Instead of answering me, he kissed me before starting to move again. Even though the mark had diminished, it was still present and would be there for an entire week. One I spent with Finn in my waking moments.


    Food came to me while I rode my demon for pleasure. On the seventh day, I was on top of him, riding him like no tomorrow would come. The mark was barely visible anymore, yet I still sought him.


    He helped me stay up by holding my left hand with his right while covering his mouth with his left. Soft pants were coming from his lips as I swayed my hips, wishing nothing more but to empty him.


    He took the lead until today, when he suddenly let me take it. In the short moment when I had clarity, I filled him in on everything.


    Well, it¡¯s more like you saw everything.


    He didn¡¯t say anything about it, but we would discuss it once I was more clear-minded. I wondered if he saw how I called him my everything or how Soren kissed me to feed me that nasty potion.


    You¡¯re too calm for that, or maybe you don¡¯t care.


    The flower on the bracelet had blossomed into something other than a bud, yet it was still missing half the petals to make it a full bloom. Finn¡¯s mind was elsewhere this time, reminding me that Brielle had said they could connect with others while far away.


    He usually disconnected from everything, but he appeared elsewhere, which annoyed me.


    When you¡¯re with me¡­


    My movements became shallower before coming to a stop.


    ¡°Am I boring you?¡± I huffed, triggering those blue shimmering eyes to set on me.


    They were wide open as he shook his head. ¡°What? No.¡± He answered, cheeks rosy.


    Ah¡­ how can you be so cute?


    ¡°Really? It looked like you were interested in something else.¡± I continued, pressing my hands on his chest.


    A soft growl left his lips, sitting up slightly. ¡°Nothing gets past you, Sparky.¡±


    Before I knew it, he clamped down on my hips before violently thrusting his heat into me. The suddenness of it all caused me to whine loudly.


    ¡°Brie¡¯s informing me about the generals'' activities, but I can multitask.¡± He licked his lips, enjoying the reaction he made me have.


    Again, the sounds from our union overcame everything in the room.


    ¡°Stupid demon,¡± I huffed, falling against his chest.


    Feeling his skin on mine was alluring; I wanted to melt into him. Sadly, that was impossible. The soreness of everything we had done remained, yet I wanted more. My lips pressed against his skin, leaving behind marks everywhere I touched before taking my love to his nips.


    Soft sighs left him, thrusting into me. ¡°Love me more.¡± He breathed, not stopping his movements.


    Pulling myself up, I saw Finn with his eyes slightly open, enjoying the feeling of being inside of me.


    ¡°Finn, I¡­¡± I trailed off.


    How much I want to tell you I love you, how you¡¯re my world.


    In response, he claimed my lips with his.  His movements didn¡¯t stop as he explored my mouth, to his delight. My hips swayed with his thrust, making me feel bliss. It wasn¡¯t long until his heat exploded within me, prompting me to mewl loudly into the kiss.


    He didn¡¯t pull away from my lips, leaving me convulsing on top of him. It continued until I felt the need for air, triggering me to pull away slightly. Rough pants left me as his eyes traveled to my lower abdomen.


    I hadn¡¯t realized how that strange liquid had squirted out of me again. Though what he was gazing at was something else. The mark was fading, finally setting me free, yet I always wanted to repeat the warmth I experienced with him.


    However, I quickly fell on him, exhausted.


    Free...


    ¡°You, okay?¡± he hummed, trailing his fingers on my hair.


    I nodded slightly, struggling to catch my breath. He didn¡¯t hurry me up, nor did he pull out of me. Instead, he held himself in place, filling my core with his seeds. The way he was caressing my hair was soothing.


    I was finally home, but a lot had changed, and I still hadn¡¯t tried to use my newfound magic. The future was unknown, but all that mattered was that I was in his arms again.


    Never leave me alone again, you stupid demon king.

 Chapter 61: A New Change

    Resting on top of Finn became one of my favorite things to do. The way he caressed my hair always left me feeling butterflies in my tummy. Since he brought me back, I hadn¡¯t left his side, at least when I was awake. He was always there when I opened my eyes, usually in the same spot.


    Gazing up at him, I saw a soft smile on his lips.


    ¡°Such a lovin¡¯ you keep giving me.¡± He chuckled, leaning to kiss me.


    Rolling my eyes, I gladly accepted his lips on mine. Another passionate kiss followed there, though it didn¡¯t last long. No, I tugged away, slowly sitting up, making me whine when I felt him kiss my womb.


    A soft hum came from him, enjoying my reactions. I gazed around the room and saw Solas on the floor by the window. His tail wagged when my eyes landed on him, yet he didn¡¯t get up. He was unusually sluggish.


    This entire time, I was in a frenzy. Finally, my thoughts are more my own.


    ¡°My body still feels off,¡± I mumbled, reaching my lower abdomen.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be good soon. I made sure to fill you up enough.¡± He informed, grabbing my hand in his.


    I grumbled, ¡°Perverted demon¡­ You seem to enjoy this.¡±


    His eyebrows rose, chuckling. ¡°First, I¡¯m bored. Now I¡¯m enjoying it? Will I ever win?¡±


    He traced my lips with his thumb as a soft smile rose. ¡°Though I must admit, I did enjoy seeing you want me so much.¡±


    Rolling my eyes, I trailed my free hand down his abdomen. ¡°It was suffocating how much I wanted you.¡±


    It still is¡­


    His features were too much to handle for my muddled mind.


    A soft hum rose from him. ¡°Was it?¡±


    ¡°Yes, when you weren¡¯t there, I felt like I was about to lose my mind. Well, I think I did.¡± I mumbled, shifting my eyes to the hand I had injured to snap out of the hex.


    The wounds were still present, but to a lesser degree. I didn¡¯t doubt that Finn had used his essence to help me again.


    ¡°And you didn¡¯t give in to anyone else? It¡¯s hard to believe with how badly it was affecting you.¡± He questioned, tapping my back with his fingertips.


    I growled, slapping his arm. ¡°No, you stupid demon! You saw it!¡±


    He shook his head, sighing. ¡°Your memories are very blurry from when you got here, dear. I can¡¯t tell what happened to you that day or anything from this world.¡±


    Is that the goddess¡¯s doing?


    ¡°Oh, so, you didn¡¯t see Soren kiss¡ª¡± I was interrupted by his aura breaking out.


    ¡°He what?¡± Finn huffed, glaring at me.


    The anger wasn¡¯t focused on me, though.


    ¡°Oi! Don¡¯t misunderstand! He gave me a nasty potion I didn¡¯t want to drink to keep the curse away. So, he, you know...¡± I trailed off, rolling my eyes.


    His face told me all I needed to know, which meant he probably was thinking of ways to murder Soren.


    Screw this.


    Instead of letting him foster that thought, I clashed my lips with his for a short kiss.


    Tugging away them, I simpered. ¡°Your lips are much more appealing. So soft and plummy.¡±


    His cheeks were so red that, for once, he didn¡¯t seem to know if to be angry or disconcerted by what I said. Not caring about his brittle condition, I leaned into him again, wishing for more than a simple peck.


    ¡°Oi!¡± he huffed.


    ¡°Hush, I want more.¡± I simpered, locking lips with him.


    A soft hum left his lips as our tongues tangoed with one another, only stopping when Nyla came in with food. Her entrance caused me to freeze where I was as Finn tugged away from our kiss to gaze at her.


    Every time the little goblin had nourished me, I was in a frenzy on Finn. I only stopped when he forced me to eat, feeling embarrassed upon realizing that I hid myself by smothering my face to his chest. I was covered away from prying eyes with a simple tug of the sheets.


    Even now, I was naked on top of him, who was still in me.


    I could barely face her, yet she never flinched at seeing us go at it. Though she never stuck around for long.


    ¡°Hungry, sparks?¡± He asked, gazing at the goblin leaving the tray on a table.


    I shook my head, wanting to hide, yet stayed where I was. Every time Finn pulled out of me, I felt utterly empty, which I didn¡¯t quite like. Noticing my hesitance, he sat up, bringing me up with him.


    ¡°You know you have to eat, right?¡± he sighed.


    Nyla had exited, not wanting to impose on us.


    ¡°Can¡¯t I just eat you?¡± I mumbled, not wanting to separate.


    This warmth was all I needed, even if the hex was gone.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    ¡°I think you¡¯ve had your fill of me, sweetheart. You¡¯ve barely eaten the entire time.¡± He sighed.


    I glanced away from his gaze.


    You probably think I¡¯m being annoying and unreasonable.


    Even though I was out of it, it didn¡¯t change the fact I held him hostage for days in this room with me.


    There isn¡¯t any excuse, but I still¡­


    My insecurities were raging within, yet¡­


    ¡°I can never have enough of you,¡± I mumbled, barely audible.


    ¡°Hm?¡± he reached for my cheek.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± I breathed, shaking my head.


    Taking care of me probably is such a drag for you. The hex has faded. So, there¡¯s no excuse for me anymore.


    Slowly, I attempted to lift myself, only for my legs to give in. A sharp mewl left me, feeling his length go into me again as a soft groan escaped his lips. Instead of helping me off, Finn suddenly thrust into me from below.


    ¡°Fuck it, one more round. Don¡¯t cry when the food¡¯s cold.¡± He huffed, not stopping his movements.


    Unable to help it, more whines escaped me, focusing on his expression and rosy cheeks. His eyes were slightly open, enjoying every sensation I gave him again.


    ¡°Do I make you feel good?¡± I asked, struggling to stay up.


    Astred¡­ my hole¡­ he likes it. Are you jealous? Did you ever see this side of him?


    His movements were making it hard to hold myself up as his tongue clicked before I suddenly found myself on the bed. In all this time, we hadn¡¯t moved from Finn¡¯s room. We always came here from the bath instead of heading to my bedroom, not that I minded.


    His scent surrounded me, and that was all that mattered.


    ¡°Now that¡¯s a useless thought.¡± He huffed, shoving himself into me to the brim.


    A sharp squeal left me as my body trembled under him, prompting him to lean into my ear.


    ¡°You make me feel fucking good. I¡¯m addicted to you. If it were up to me, I¡¯d fuck you all day without stopping.¡± He whispered, continuing to pound me soon after.


    If only you¡¯d¡­ make love to me instead.


    I hummed under him, feeling my knot get closer with each stroke he gave me. Even without the hex, my lady bits tingled with every stimulation that came from him. Reaching for his cheek, I was met with his lips clashing with mine.


    Mewling into the kiss that muffled my voice, it wasn¡¯t long until I convulsed under him. The suddenness of my walls clamping down on him triggered him to moan. His heat soon exploded within me, leaving me whining, holding onto his arms.


    My consciousness wavered, causing Finn to press his forehead against mine.


    ¡°Hey, stay with me, baby girl. You have to eat.¡± he breathed, trailing his hand down my cheek before grabbing the back of my head.


    A soft, incoherent mumble left me struggling to fill my lungs with air. Pulling away from me, he went for the cup full of water next to the meal Nyla brought. In an instant, I felt utterly empty with him missing. Reaching for my abdomen, I trailed down it, feeling it tingle under my fingertips.


    Everything is so odd to me.


    Sitting next to me, Finn leaned onto me, sipping water. Pulling the cup away, he clashed his lips with mine again, filling my mouth with refreshing cooling water. Gulping down a fill of it, he tugged away with a soft smile.


    ¡°There, your voice should be a little better.¡± He breathed.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time he had fed me water the entire time we were fucking like bunnies in heat, yet it was the one I was most lucid for. He helped me sit up, only to feel everything he filled me with drip into the bed.


    A soft grumble left me as I gazed towards him only to see how many kiss marks were on his skin.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you heal those?¡± I mumbled.


    He chucked, trailing his hand down his pecs, ¡°And take away all your hard work? No thanks.¡±


    Handing me the cup of water, I grumbled under my breath before chugging it.


    ¡°Plus, you can¡¯t heal yours. So, we match.¡± He added.


    A second later, I gazed at my body to see many little bruises. My side had mostly sealed up, though there was still a fresh scar on it, and my hand was better than it was when I purposely hurt it. My forehead also healed nicely.


    Closing my eyes, I shook my head. ¡°Please don¡¯t ever leave me again.¡±


    A soft sigh left him, ¡°I didn¡¯t think Astred was smart enough to draw me out just to target you. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    That succubus had always been devoted to him, so I could see why he didn¡¯t think she¡¯d go behind his back. Then again, she was jealous of me, and that was dangerous.


    Love and riches are the leading causes of wars.


    ¡°You never told me why you were leaving. Just that I¡¯d be in the way.¡± I huffed, grabbing the tray from Finn¡¯s grasp.


    He had used a spell to bring it to us. Inside, there was a soft bread with jam. Since I hadn¡¯t eaten much, they tried to ease me back into food with simple meals.


    For demons, they¡¯re too caring. I have to apologize to Nyla¡­ later.


    ¡°Vorex said Soren was trying to come into Fathal with an army to attack one of Sebastian¡¯s farms. I kind of lose my head when he¡¯s involved. So, I just saw red, wishing nothing more than to end him.¡± He shook his head, releasing a sigh soon after.


    His blood lust was uncontrollable when it came to that man. I didn¡¯t know all they had done to each other, yet I could guess.


    ¡°Hey, is Soren almost as old as you?¡± I asked, wanting to know if anything that man said was true.


    Finn¡¯s eyes widened, ¡°How¡­¡±


    ¡°When he took me from where Astred left me, he mentioned Lillia was his mother. That can¡¯t be real unless¡­¡± I trailed off, gazing at him.


    A soft sigh left him as he shifted his gaze towards the side.


    ¡°Yes, he¡¯s affected by the same immortality curse, probably because of what his mother did to me before it happened. He isn¡¯t my kid, though. Lillia was pregnant before we¡­¡± He trailed off, shaking his head.


    ¡°He¡¯s also linked to this because of what happened that day.¡± I sighed.


    ¡°Soren¡¯s only immortal to time. I¡¯ve failed to kill him one too many times, though. He¡¯s smart and strong enough to survive me; I¡¯ll give him that.¡± He chuckled.


    Ah¡­ is that a hint of something else other than hate? So maybe you¡­


    ¡°I see. Did you kill his kid?¡± I asked straight on.


    I took some of the bread from the plate while Finn¡¯s gaze remained away. We were both bare in his bed, yet this was the first time those blue eyes ran from me.


    ¡°I can¡¯t remember what happened. I was on a rampage after I woke up from the madness. It was hard to understand reality from a nightmare. The last thing I remember was waking up to Lillia¡¯s dead body on the ground.¡± He shrugged, making me lean on his back.


    You¡¯re always so warm. I knew it; there¡¯s no way you would kill a child in your right mind, but that doesn¡¯t change the fact that you did it.


    This demon could¡¯ve burned down human lands thousands of years ago, yet he hadn¡¯t.


    Even though you always say your humanity is barely hanging on, you¡­ nothing will change how gentle you genuinely are.


    ¡°So, you don¡¯t even know what happened,¡± I mumbled, basking in his warmth.


    ¡°Not that I cared. I was glad the bitch was dead, but to be honest, I didn¡¯t even know she had a kid until I met him years later.¡± He shrugged, shifting his gaze back onto me.


    His tail curled around my waist as I closed my eyes and hummed.


    So¡­ maybe¡­


    That thought wouldn¡¯t fully form when I felt a nudge on my cheek.


    ¡°Oi, eat.¡± Finn huffed, eyes twitching.


    Solas, who had been asleep, groggily got up and laid his head on my lap. A soft yawn came from him, too.


    This warmth¡­ Yes, there isn¡¯t any mistaking it. This demon¡­ deserves¡­


    ¡°Hey, Finn, you said I kept you sane this time. Want to know something?¡± I started, slowly petting Solas¡¯s head.


    With each word that left me, butterflies fluttered in my belly.


    ¡°Hm? What is it?¡± My demon king hummed, making me shift my eyes towards him.


    ¡°You kept me sane through the hex. All I could think about was returning to you, my home, no matter what.¡± I confessed, facing him straight on.


    These feelings¡­ There isn¡¯t any denying them anymore, and I don¡¯t want to reject them anymore.


    ¡°What? I¡¯m your home?¡± he mumbled, eyes opened wide.


    His icy blue eyes¡­ I want to melt them. Can I?


    ¡°Mhm, my home, my everything.¡± I simpered.


    ¡°What?¡± he breathed, cupping my cheeks.


    Suddenly, the food wasn¡¯t necessary anymore. I captured this demon spontaneously and wasn¡¯t about to let him go.


    No, this one is mine alone.


    ¡°You win, Finn.¡±