mydemonispain-blog

[mydemonispain-blog]

When Pain Takes Over

Turns out I was wrong. She was twenty. Four months away from being old enough to drink. Legal enough to take home, though. Not that I had intentions of bedding my target, although she made excellent use of the cab ride back to her apartment. Maybe I had learned a thing or two from Paris after all. Or maybe the chick just really did love Star Wars, who knew. Either way, she was much too busy using that surprisingly sweet tongue of hers to notice when I slipped the cab driver a few bucks through the plastic divider and motioned him to keep going when we turned onto her street. I couldn’t do this at her home, too many people would be expecting her there. She was young, beautiful. She would no doubt have neighbors that listened for her, friends who would call or stop by. Shit… parents. I really hated killing the young ones. /HER HEART IS BEATING SO FAST, I WANT TO WATCH WANT TO WATCH WANT TO WATCH/ Her heart wasn’t the only thing pumping blood hard tonight. Damn, no wonder Finnicken had used her so frequently in his dealings. She was a damn night huntress. /YANK HER HAIR, BEND HER BACK, SLAP HER--/ Gods, Pain, when did you turn into such a pervert? Maybe I was rubbing off on the demon after all. Or Paris was rubbing off on me, and I in turn was rubbing off on the immortal trapped inside me. /YES RUB SLAP SCREAM FUCK HARD/ As if she heard the damn demon, the little minx’s fingernails scratched down my back. I looked down and realized she had me half naked already. Shit, this is /not/ how things were supposed to go. I pointed at the driver, both to indicate he should turn right and to get his eyes back on the road. Then I righted myself, zipping up my fly and using my hand to push her back by the neck. Instead of being disgusted, she purred for more. /SQUEEZESQUEEZESQUEEZE MAKE HER EYES POP/ Now that was more like it. I humored her for a few minutes, firmly but not fatally wringing her throat as she moaned for more. I was focused now, the blood flooding her cheeks making the demon inside me plead as well. No more distractions. The second we reached the part of town I desired for her final moments, I threw some cash at the driver, pulling the female out of the cab. I waited for the taxi to depart, playing along a little longer as her lips met mine in a deep kiss. /BITE BITE BITE BITE BITE BITE BITE/ I refrained, much to Pain’s annoyance. He didn’t quite understand the concept of witnesses. Then again, he was used to being around other demons, especially in Hell. Being a Lord of the Underworld meant he could torture, maim, and kill anything he desired in his realm. Even in the fortress, we were free to show our true selves. We often let our demons play together, whether fighting with Violence or prodding the sleeping bear that was Wrath. But now I was topside and out in public. Discretion was necessary. Once I was sure the area was devoid of all humans, I took the demon’s advice, biting down hard on her tongue and lower lip. Her flesh split,  blood flooding my mouth as she cried out in surprise and pain. It could feel the warm waterfall down my jaw. Then I headbutted her, my forehead smashing into her glossy skin and knocking her out. Before her body could hit the pavement, I caught it, scooping her up and tossing her over my shoulder. As I carried her off to the darkest corner of the darkest alley I could find, I wondered if the male that hired me cared how I killed her. Likely not. All he was concerned with was that it was done and done in a way that couldn’t be traced back to him. Which meant disposing the body in ways the faint of heart wouldn’t appreciate. I didn’t waste any time, setting her down and propping her up against the wall. As I stared down at the female, I could feel Pain getting agitated. He was impatient. I was having second thoughts and he knew it. The demon wanted blood and gore. I wanted to end her quickly because of her young age. /DON’T YOU DARE. YOU SAID I COULD SEE HER INSIDES./ I know, I know, I frowned at myself. /LET ME DO IT./ Turn myself over to you? /LET ME DO IT. IT WILL BE MINDLESS FOR YOU. FUN FOR ME. LET ME DO IT./ I suppose I could… /LET ME DO IT. LET ME DO IT. LET ME DO IT./ You better give me full control the moment she is dead. I need to dispose of the body. /HAHAHAHHAHAHAHAAAA LIKE THEY’LL BE ANYTHING LEFT WHEN I’M DONE./ I’m serious, Pain. Fuck. If you don’t hand it back over to me, this deal is off. /LET ME DO IT. LET ME DO IT. LET ME DO IT./ Gods! Alright, alright. I closed my eyes, letting my mind go someplace even I wouldn’t admit to myself. The demon took over. When I opened my eyes again, it felt like I’d jumped head first into the Underworld, landed in a way that shattered every vertebrae of my spine, then crawled my way back up topside with my bare hands. With a groan, I looked down at my body. It was covered in blood, mucus, and… was that skin? The fucking demon had Chainsaw Massacre’d me, giving me twenty-year-old skin as cow spots. I shook them off my arms and legs, cursing at the idea that I had worn this dead female’s epidermis like a fresh pair of Fruit of the Loom’s. That’s when her teeth started falling out of my hair. So did the tiny bones of her fingers and toes. Her eyeballs were in one of my hands. An ear was tucked in my shirt pocket, like it was being saved for later. Gods in the fucking heavens, Pain. What did you do? /AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH SOOOO GOOOOOOODDDD/ His moan was so deep and sated that my body shuddered in the aftermath of his pleasure. I had that buzz going on, like the kind you get right after some good skin on skin action. Wait. Fuck. Gross. I didn’t even speak to the demon after that. I just wandered the alley, picking up scraps of what remained of my victim’s body. I hoped she didn’t scream too loud. Didn’t hear any sirens though, so that was a good sign. After a while I realized this was a lost cause. She was in so many pieces that there was no way I’d be able to find them all. I kicked through the door of the warehouse to my right, remembering there was a garage attached. I just hoped there was something flammable inside. Then it was a matter of turning over the dumpsters that lined the buildings and pouring the cans of oil and paint I’d proffered across all the debris.  Matches lit and BOOM. One alley fireball with extra stink. I stepped back as everything burned, pulling out my phone and dialing the number I’d been given. “It’s done.”  #WhenPainTakesOver

[mydemonispain-blog]

The Force is Strong With This One

I stood against the wall across the bar from my target. I’d been following all day, tailing, but unable to make my move. I was used to just dragging my victims off, but this was different. I was used to all sorts of dirty, sweaty, overweight criminals. I was used to deadbeats and killers and degenerates. But my orders were clear, and I had a large envelope of cash waiting for me if I got this done in under twenty-four hours. Too bad my victim wasn’t even twenty-four years old. I'd be surprised if she was twenty one, even. Convinced she was using a fake ID as she ordered another rum and diet, her fingers tapped on the empty glass sitting in front of her. I knew I had missed my best chance in abducting her without notice earlier, when she went for an afternoon jog through the preserves nearby. But something about her youth just knocked me off my game a little. I hadn’t taken the life of anyone this young in… gods, in a long time. I knew there were times when Pain got the best of me, but since the first few years when I was lost to the demon completely, I had been able to retain enough control to choose victims that looked at least as old as I did. I knew I’d killed all manner of ages and backgrounds at one point or another, but I tried to let those deaths go, because nothing could be done for them now. The demon had done his little song and dance, and now I was in control again. I crossed my arms, fabric pulling as it stretched over my muscles, and watched as she sipped her drink. Eighteen. Maybe. Nineteen with a bit of rounding. All manner of eyes were on her though, which meant any move I made would be seen. Guess I had to put on the charm and get her to walk out of this bar willingly instead of kicking and screaming. I pushed off the wall and headed over when the seat next to her was vacated, making sure I reached it before anyone else. I slid right in and waited for the bartender to spot me as I pulled out a crisp clean Benjamin. Maybe the cash would get her attention. I rapped the bill on the bartop and waited. Finally service arrived in the form of one very tired looking barkeep. “Gin, neat.” /SHE’S PRETTY, CAN WE CUT HER UP INTO LITTLE PIECES?/ That’s the plan. /NOWNOWNOWNOWNOW./ Hold your horses. I have to convince her to leave with me. And I'm not Paris so it will take more than a glance and a wink. As my drink was served I slid the bill to the bartender. He got my change and I left him a generous tip. He paid as little attention to it as the young female to my right. Okay, money wasn’t the trigger. /TRY SOME OF THOSE TOOTHPICKS IN HER EYES. LIKE OLIVES IN YOUR DRINK./ I’m not having a martini, demon. Where did he even get that from? Oh right. The male from last night. I cleared my throat and tapped my glass with my fingers. Then I noticed the rhythm she was playing with her own hands. It was the march from Star Wars. With a small smirk, I started tapping along. It took a minute, but she finally noticed. Bright blue eyes flashed my way, her blond hair swirling across her shoulders. “I didn’t even realize, I’m sorry,” she laughed. “Got the Dark Side on the brain?” I raised a brow in her direction. Her eyes took in my face for a moment, mouth opening and closing before she recomposed. That's right, luv. Here I am. “Maybe I was hoping for a flash mob of stormtroopers to show up?” she said dryly. My lips twitched in amusement. “Or perhaps a rousing choir version of the march? Fingers all tapping away on glasses and bottles?” “Imagine the force with a chorus like that,” she smiled big and bright. “Could do a lot of damage with an army of finger tappers at your disposal,” I drawled softly. She leaned in a little and whispered. “Maybe I’m interested in what your fingers could do.” Bingo. /SLICE HER CUT HER UP, I WANT TO SEE WHAT HER HEART LOOKS LIKE./ I blinked as Pain rose his own troops, recovering in the same second before the human woman could notice. That demon still startled me sometimes. Especially when I was working a female. Could you just back off and let me work my game here? /WHAT GAME. FIND THE LIVER? EAT THE SPLEEN? DRINK THE SPINAL FLUID?/ Fucking gods already… I ignored Pain and reached out, tapping my fingertips over the blond bombshell’s as they hugged her glass. Then I slid them up her arm, a soft shudder of her shoulders following. The demon hated it, the soft touch, the gentle nature. But it was necessary, even if it made him squeamish. After all, the niceties were temporary. “Can I interest you in a private concert?” I offered. Thankfully she ignored the cliche bullshit and accepted quickly. It was cheesy, yes, but I was one punny demon.   And I was out of Star Wars jokes. #TheForceIsStrongWithThisOne

[mydemonispain-blog]

Quick And Painless

My flight to the east was much less eventful than my last flight to Prague. No Hunters, no need to phone the fortress. Just as well, I had a feeling the call wouldn't be answered. My passports worked without a hitch and I was crossing the airport terminal with my carry-on bag over my shoulder in no time. Out the doors and into the cool afternoon air, wincing a bit as the sun hit my eyes. Felt good though, one of those warming sensations on my face. Pain would rather I sit on the gods-be-damned star, but I didn’t have a spaceship handy so he’d have to deal with a stroll without any SPF. /SO BORED./ My blue Honda Accord was a shadow among the other vehicles parked in the airport lot. I checked the plates and tried the doors. Open. I was inside and looking for the keys a second later, my bag set on the passenger seat. In the middle console was a small note along with the nickel silver set. An address. I backed out and was on the road, windows down and some weird punk rock station playing on the radio. I always left the local channels on, it lent a hand to blending in with the townies. Besides, ringing ears always made the demon smile, so why not? The crisp breeze in my face was a nice welcome after a crowded flight with too many humans on board. I reclined the seat a little and stretched out, long legs taking up most of the space under the dash. I followed the nice lady on my phone as she gave me directions to this kingpin’s bar on the south side of town. When I pulled up there was a valet, but I knew better. I rolled on by and parked two blocks away. I knew better than to leave my car in the hands of the guy paying me to kill somebody for him. Evidence, all of it. He owned it, I wasn’t gonna give it back until the job was done. Leverage worked both ways, you know. I yanked my jacket on before stuffing my bag under the back seat. I also holstered a few choice weapons, blade and bullet alike. Then I made my way back to the bar, passing the valet desk on my way inside. The place had a small crowd, but that was to be expected so early in the evening. Most were at tables enjoying food and whatever game was on the tv. I glanced up at the screens. Huh. Baseball season already? Go Angels. /SCREW ALL THOSE ANGELS THOSE BASTARDS CAN BURN IN HELL./ I wish /I/ was burning in hell every time you yell like that without warning, demon. At least then you could be free to run around and do whatever sick shit you liked without bothering me all the time. /BUT YOU’RE MY FAVORITE TO CUT UP, REYESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS./ Ugh. Don’t get sentimental on me now, Pain. I hit up the bar and snagged a stool away from the three or four others enjoying a drink. The bartender looked my way and then smiled and came closer. “Hey, there,” he lifted a brow in question, even though he hadn’t asked me one. “Gin. Neat, please.” “Right away, bright eyes.” I flashed a gratuitous grin before he turned away. When he returned--in record time--I thanked him, then crooked a finger before he could slip away. “What else can I get you, handsome?” he leaned over the bar in my direction. I slid over a twenty, along with the slip of paper that had the address on it. He’d know it was me. He looked down, and then his eyes went a little buggy as he saw what I’d passed over along with the cash. “Right away,” he said quietly, taking both with him as he disappeared in the back. I sat back and sipped at my drink, noting that he poured me the good stuff, not some cheap Carnaby’s shit. I finished it all down before he returned--and not because he took long. I just enjoyed a good glass of gin. And I wanted a refill before this meeting started. When the pretty bartender returned, he snagged the bottle along the way. “Good boy,” I mused as he poured. His hand was shaking a little, but his smile was the perfect mask. “Stay here, he’ll join you.” With that, he started a martini, serving it up with two olives as the back door opened and out came several gentlemen. I waited patiently, watching them as they approached. At the last moment, they split up, only one joining me at the bar. The others sat nearby though, obviously on bodyguard duty. The one that joined me was tall and slender, slicked back brown hair with matching eyebrows. He smelled of wine and rich meats. I wondered briefly if I’d interrupted his dinner. “Thank you for arriving so promptly,” he picked up the martini and looked it over. “I told you I’d make it. Couldn’t have gotten here faster without a teleporter.” “Yes well, this is an important job. I need it to be quick and discreet.” I sat my drink down and looked over at him. His dark green eyes met mine. “Alright, let’s have it then.” #QuickAndPainless

[mydemonispain-blog]

On To The Next

“I can be there in two days. Well, I can’t just sprout wings and fly, asshole. I have to get on a plane and rent a car when I get there.” I leaned against one of the reinforced columns that held up the ceiling of the warehouse I was currently working in. Rows of them lined the wide open space, with towering racks of retired auto parts, old furniture, and weaponry stacked to the rafters. My phone was tucked in between my jaw and my shoulder, the voice on the other end impatient. “Alright, if you can have a car for me at the airport, I can be there tomorrow night.” I rolled my eyes as the whining ensued once again. I turned and picked up an automotive tool that looked like a corkscrew with some sort of wide blade thingy on the end. I held it up, smiling darkly when a low whimper came from a few feet away. I set it down and fished around, this time selecting a crooked-looking thing that had a claw on the end. This earned a sad little groan when I offered it up. But it wasn’t until I spun a long thin noodley metal contraption with a serrated side that the begging started. Winner, winner, chicken dinner. I lifted my shoulder to tilt the phone to my ear. “Look, I’ll be there tomorrow night. You don’t like it, you can hire someone else. But you know as well as I do that no one will get the job done as I can. So either cut me loose or shut the fuck up.” When all that was said back was the make and model of a non-flashy everyday sedan, I smirked hard and hung up the phone. As I set it on the table it had bloody fingerprints from where I’d pressed the screen. I waved the tool in my hand and looked down at the other bloody thing in the room, my prisoner. He was bound to a chair, his hair matted down from sweat, dirt, and bodily fluids. His skin was swollen, various shades of red and purple, speckles of dirt mixed in. His clothes were ripped but intact, evidence of our games seeping through each layer of fabric. I stepped in close and leaned down, meeting his frantic, wide-eyed gaze with a calm stare. He stunk like old fruit that had been rotting in the sun a few days. I held both ends of the tool, wagging it up and down as each snap of the metal made a strange noise. It echoed off the walls and ceiling above us. The guy’s breath hitched, nose dripping down onto his upper lip before he could sniff it back up. With a quirked eyebrow, I turned the tool in my hands, taking the pointy end and tapping the tip of his nose. Then I lowered it a few centimeters and slid it up inside his nose. Up… up… the screams started after three inches disappeared. /TURN IT SLOWLY./ I obliged the demon, scraping the serrated edge along the insides of my captive’s nose. It made the most glorious noise as it ground against the cartilage, the guy’s eyes watering and leaking down all over his face. /HIGHER. FURTHER IN./ I pushed the long thin tool up his nose, past the edge of his skull. The wails took on a funny tone, as if maybe poking at the underside of his grey matter might be altering how sounds were made. /HAHAHAHAHA. A LITTLE TO THE LEFT NOW./ I changed the angle and shoved the metal in deeper. The guy’s other side started twitching, flailing against the ropes that held him to the chair. The corresponding eyelid flapped up and down. He looked like a robot on the fritz, short circuiting making parts flex repeatedly. Pain was positively giddy, laughing in hysterics. /THE OTHER SIDE. DO THE OTHER NOSTRIL./ I repeated up the other side of his nose, sending the opposite side of his body into the same seizure-like state as I twisted and poked and sawed the raw edge of the tool inside his brain. He wasn’t making much noise anymore, his body just responding to the stimulation of his grey matter. It was like that Operation game, except each buzz send arms and legs flailing in response. We played several rounds, the human clearly brain dead due to my incessant jabbing with the long poker. But Pain laughed and danced around inside my head, directing me like he was the Ringleader in this circus-de-so-stabby. /IS HE DEAD?/ No, demon. Just unable to do anything now that his brain is mashed potatoes. /CAN HE FEEL ME STILL?/ Hard to say… if he does he can’t respond. He’d be trapped in his psyche. /I LIKE THAT. TRAPPED IN HIS PAIN. MY PAIN. ME. TRAPPED IN ME./ Look at you, all poetic and shit. I rolled my eyes and left the contraption stuck in the guy’s brain. I untied the ropes, dragging his paralyzed body off the chair and across the floor. I dropped him over a drain in the floor. Cleanup could be a bitch sometimes. Pain bounced along as I scanned the shelves in front of me. I walked along the aisle, until I got to the end. /YESYESYESYES PICKTHATONE PICKTHATONE./ I knew what he’d seen. I stepped around the corner, eyes looking over the tractor and woodchipper. It might not have gas, you know. /WHAT’S GAS. FIND GAS. MAKE IT WORK. I WANT HIM IN TINY PIECES./ With a resigned sigh, I headed over and fumbled around for the keys. With a little luck, or not so much for my victim, this thing still had some gasoline in it and would fire up. I put the key in, leaned over and pushed my hand down on the brake, and turned it. Bingo. The tractor roared to life. Pain knew enough to know that was a good sign, squealing and dancing across my thoughts. I climbed on and pulled the thing out, bumping the side doors open and parking so the chipper aimed out into the snow-covered field. A blank canvas. Perfect. /HURRY HURRY I WANT TO SEE HIS INSIDES./ I strolled back inside and picked up my captive by his ankle, tossing him over my shoulder and whistling a happy tune as his femur snapped. Pain rubbed himself all along my skull, reveling in the idea of the guy being unable to do anything but suffer. I headed outside and shifted the body in my arms. You ready? /MAKE HIM INTO MAN CONFETTI./ Worked for me. With a heave, I tossed the body into the chipper, the blades doing their magic and see-sawing up the human into itty bitty indiscernible pieces. The sounds were like a symphony, crunches of bones, snapping of tendons, chewing of muscles and skin. Blood sloshed around and shot out the other side splattering the white snow with patterns of red and burgundy. Then the insides followed, sharp splinters of his skeleton and the soft patches of flesh landing in chunks and oozing across the frozen ground. Pain was groaning like a porn star, his essence mingling with mine as I tried to ignore the way my body reacted to the scene. Indeed, it was quite lovely. I let the demon have his moment, then slowly turned the tractor off. I didn’t even bother pulling back inside, just retrieving my blood-soaked phone and then heading off into the night. I had a flight to catch.   #OnToTheNext

[mydemonispain-blog]

Like A Man Possessed

“I still tour like a man possessed. Because I am.” - Ted Nugent After handling the Hunters with Torin, I retreated to my room for some much needed alone time with my daggers. The sweet sting of bloodletting settled Pain into a trance-like state. I made a game of mapping the veins and arteries on my arms and legs, soaking my bedding until what was once light grey linens were a deep burgundy. Thank goodness I had one of those plastic wraps over my mattress or I’d have ruined thousands of beds by now. Even though it reduced me to a bedwetting toddler, it was necessary. I carved a slow path down my leg, tracing bloodline after bloodline, branch by branch. The demon moaned in bliss, enjoying each slow carve by my blade. When I was done, I couldn’t move anything, both legs and arms burning as the muscles and tendons reacted to the open air. My nerves surged like I was hooked up to an electric socket. /LET’S DO THAT LATER/ Next time, Pain, promise. Then again, I might have to play with electric current off-site. I doubted the other Lords would want me short circuiting the castle. Paris would flip if his 24-7 porno channels were cut off. Anya would scream if she couldn’t use her flat iron. And Gideon… well, who was I kidding, that bastard was always cranky as fuck. /I WANT TO ZAP NOW/ Easy, demon. I wanted to keep my eyebrows too, so if we were gonna “Zap” as he so endearingly called it, it would take some planning and forethought. I didn’t want to burn my hair off. Nor did I want to char my skin. /YES YOU DO. BURN. CHAR. FRY./ I’m not a fucking steak, dammit! Pain was seriously ruining my buzz right now. I just carved my entire nervous system in my flesh and all he could think about was our next hit. Being an addict sucked. Just when I thought I’d done enough to sate the hunger, it was already digesting what I’d done, shitting it out, and burying it in the mud. Someone get me a doggie bag, please. Or maybe a body bag. I peeked around the room without moving my head. I should have laid more plastic down. A bloodletting like this required tarps, not one set of sheets over a plastic mattress wrap. /CAN WE WRAP UP IN THE TARP AND CUT OFF ALL YOUR AIR?/ No. Since when did asphyxiation become your bag, demon? This thing was getting desperate, which meant it was getting to be that time again. That time when I slipped out of the castle and headed off on my own for a few months. That way, I could release the demon without risking any of the other Lords or their females. Sometimes they tried to convince me the fortress was the safest place to be when I got like this, because they were hard to kill and could hurt me in ways no human had the strength to do. But I just couldn’t put them through that. Or risk the demon enticing their demons. That kind of red-eyed party could rip open the earth and let our counterparts crawl their way up from the Underworld. I didn’t need that kind of juju on my record. No, it was better to do this alone. /LET’S GO GET WRATH AND VIOLENCE AND DEFEAT AND WE CAN HOST OUR OWN ROYAL RUMBLE RIGHT HERE IN THE CASTLE I BET YOU WOULD WIN AND THEN WHOEVER LOSES CAN TOSS YOU OFF THE ROOF THIS WILL BE SO FUN COS YOU CAN GRAB THEM AT THE LAST SECOND AND THEN IT’S LIKE THE YOU WIN TWICE BECAUSE WE GET PAIN AND THEY GET PAIN/ Fucking hell, demon! I grabbed the lamp off my nightstand and bashed it right into my head, knocking myself out. Pain exploded, agony and pleasure at the same time as I smiled big at the bastard, fading into unconsciousness. #TourLikeAManPossessed #DemonTales

[mydemonispain-blog]

Tag ‘Em and Bag ‘Em (With @TouchAndDie)

Reyes

*I was damn near skipping my way down the hall to Torin’s room. My boots clunked a happy tune on the stone floor, arms doing their best not to swing with each long stride. Weapons were strung tight to my sides and back, stuck to me like magnets, as if they knew their purpose this day. My hands fisted and unfisted, practicing for what would no doubt be a blood session with our latest fortress guests. I wore a wicked smile, one to match Pain as he did touchdown celebration dances across my mind. I could feel him pressing closer to my skin with each step, he was eager to witness and feel the agony that Torin would bestow upon his Hunter prisoners. One of them was already ill, and even though we had yet to see him, the demon knew, he could sense the suffering. Maybe he had sores that were leaking pus all over his body. Maybe his skin had worn away with bed sores. Maybe his organs and bones were being slowly consumed by some parasite, eaten alive from the inside. The knowledge made Pain warm and giddy. I laughed, just laughed for no fucking reason as I stopped outside Tor’s door and gave it a knock. Today was going to be a bloody, broken-boned, glorious day.* Tor-Tor, ask mommy if you can come out and play? We’ve got some brand new toys waiting for us in the dungeon.

Torin: I watched as Rey bounced down the corridor. It was almost video worthy, if not for the fact that I’d have no one to show. With no explanation that wouldn’t make them all pissy. And they were grumpy as fuck enough of the time without adding to that voluntarily. I’d been surprised at Reyes’ agreement to torture the hunters. Not because I didn’t think he’d enjoy it, I knew he would. But mainly because I’d allowed them in the fortress and then done something, that should they get away, meant that I could wipe out a large proportion of the world. Illness could be spread so many ways, and depending on the virus, if it was air born, one sneeze or cough and suddenly an epidemic was started. I waited until he was close enough to knock on the door before even bothering to get up. My snort was loud enough that I knew he could hear me, “Why not just ask me to build a fucking snowman and be done with it.” I pulled the door open and then waited until Rey either made his way in, or stepped back. As much as I wanted to kill the rest of the Lords on a regular basis, I would never actually hurt any of them on purpose, and touching them, even accidentally, was as good as stabbing them in the heart. I wiped my hands down my body to check for weapons and when I was satisfied that I had what I needed, I moved out of the room after Rey. Honestly, I didn’t need weapons. Unless the hunters came in full hazmat suits and took me down without allowing me the ability to rip the suit or touch them, I was untouchable. Literally. But I liked to have the weapons on me, it went back to the years before the demon. Before I housed disease. The need for violence was in my blood, and probably explained why I was still a virgin at however many thousands of years old. I rolled my eyes at the pity party and instead woke Disease so he could enjoy the show. As soon as he figured out what we were doing I wished I’d left the screaming banshee asleep. “We’ll check if they’ve touched the sick on, and see what disease he’s got. Then we can go to town on the other two. Just…………..be careful. It’s not just hunters in there. Disease is in there too.” I nodded my warning as I clicked in the numbers to the door that would take us down to the dungeon. “Ready?”

Reyes:

*Torin was all business as he opened the door fully strapped with weapons and had a look of determination on his face. He knew the consequences of what could happen down there. We had to make sure that whatever sickness Disease had unleashed, that it died down there with the Hunters. And I had to make sure I didn’t become a carrier, or I’d share the demon of pestilence with all the other Lords and any humans I came into contact with. I made a note to myself to spend the next few days holed up in my room with my favorite collection of zombie movies and a few dozen footlong sandwiches to pass the time. Just to be safe. Torin gave me the standard warning about avoiding his demon, to which Pain whined.

Hey, asshole, do you really want the kind of suffering that traps us in the bathroom for the next seventy-two hours?

/All pain is good. All suffering. Good./

Yeah, yeah, well, I don’t feel like playing cuddle buddy with my toilet.

As Torin led the way down his secret passageway to the dungeon, I made note of the twists and turns he took. I may need this kind of route one day. It amazed me that after so long in this fortress, there still could be secrets hidden in its walls. Then again, any time William came around, it felt like the walls that divided the Underworld from up here seemed to bend and crack a little. Dude had something freaky about him, that was for sure. Anyways, at the door, I tried to sneak a peek at the code Torin entered, but was unsuccessful as his big stupid gloves blocked my view. Sneaky fucker.*

Yeah I’m ready. Let’s get this party started, Torin.

*The door swung open, and immediately my senses were on alert as the scents and sounds of suffering wafted up from below. Oh yes, Disease had done well. Patient Zero was positively morbid, I could tell that without even seeing the guy. And his comrades weren’t doing too well themselves, either. Pain inhaled deeply and sighed, stretching his limbs and getting himself ready for what was to come.*

Torin: I knew that Rey was trying to eyeball the code to the door, and I wasn’t having that at all. I needed to keep some secrets around this place.It was my only source of entertainment for the most part. I wondered if Rey would try to make his way down here again without me, and I had to chuckle to myself as I thought on the traps I’d set up along the corridor that were in full force when I wasn’t coming down here myself. That would provide years of blackmail and entertainment value should he try it. I was half tempted to make a point of saying how much I didn't want him down here without me. Just to spur him on. Once we were through the door I could already hear the moaning of the hunter I’d carefully infected. I’d know immediately if it was a disease that could be passed along as the others would also be sick. As soon as I got a good look at the three hunters in the set up I wasn’t even sure I knew whether they were sick or just scared out their minds. For the most part hunters were assholes. But they normally had the cannon fodder in the lower ranks, those who just thought they were signing up for something without any danger. Or were easily swayed by the recruitment process. They normally pissed their pants within a few minutes of being around one of us. And I wasn’t normally anywhere near them. Having let them stew in here the last day or two and left them with their sick friend, I had obviously had the effect I wanted. Since the other two were cowered in a corner. From this distance I couldn’t tell if they were infected, and I kicked Disease who was focused on the sick one with glee, admiring his work. As soon as his focused changed I could tell they weren’t sick, the thumping in my head got even stronger as he pushed me on to infect the two that were left, “Soon, enough!” I don’t know why I bothered speaking, it wasn’t like he listened. Instead I turned to Reyes, “Ok, those two just look like shit. They’re not infected. You want to get them set up so you can do your thing? I’ll see if I can’t finish off this sick one to see how much the others talk before you beat it out of them?” I arched a brow to see if Rey had another plan, or whether he was able to get to kicking ass without too much issue.

Reyes:

*I hung back as Torin inspected the prisoners. We needed to know what we were dealing with. I let Pain groan and whine as he laser-eyed the sickly hunter. The guy was definitely not gonna last the weekend at this rate. But had the others gotten close enough to get sick? That’s what we needed to know. When Torin finally turned and gave me the all-clear, I didn’t hesitate.*

I’ll be ready in a jiffy, Germy.

*I moved over and unlocked the cell door, taking one long stride with my boot and picking up the two healthy but scared-shitless men by the back of their necks. Pain was practically screaming in my head for me to break their necks, but I knew that would end all the fun much too quickly. I drug them outside the cell and threw one up against the concrete wall. The THWACK of his skull hitting the stone was enough to set Pain off, his hysterical laughter echoing around in my head. The guy hit the floor and was out. Easy enough. The second one I carried with me as I picked up some chains, bringing him back over to the outside of the cell, where I proceeded to chain him up to the iron bars. I wanted him to be close enough to hear and see what Disease was doing to his friend. Once the hunter was secured I retrieved the other, his dead weight annoying but not an inconvenience. I chained him up too and figured he’d wake up eventually. Blood was oozing down the side of his head, but I could tell he was still very much alive. I stepped in close to the still-conscious hunter and nearly brushed noses with him.*

So, Torin. What’s our little friend over there have? Smallpox? Leprosy? Roundworm? Ohhh.. that one I can’t pronounce where the maggots eat you from the inside out? Because I’d love to dig a few of those out and feed them to my new friend here.

Torin: I watched in amusement as Reyes decided to take both males at once. I didn’t give a shit, I was used to sitting back and watching, and to be honest, I was closer than I normally was. Seeing it through a computer monitor was normally the only view I got. This felt different already. I’d almost forgotten the adrenaline rush that came with getting information from the Hunters after years of hiding away where I couldn’t be touched. Even the brush of skin on skin when I’d infected the first hunter had been a rush. And that had lasted mere seconds. I arched a brow at the first hunter as he lost consciousness. Obviously Rey had a plan, and I was happy to play along with whatever it was. I could finish off the sickly one if needs be. I was sure disease could also prolong the inevitable should he need it. I moved closer to the hunter who was trying to cower into the corner, almost as if the stone at his back would welcome him in with open arms. I snorted and moved in closer still, crouching down to get a better look at the sickly looking male. “You might want me to cut him open anyway. But if I’m passing you things that have been on his insides, you’re wearing a mask and gloves. I’d wrap you head to toe in plastic wrap if I could. But I know you’d just try and kick my ass if I did that.” I turned back to the hunter and smiled, “Now, what disease were you given? The big guy in my head isn’t all that talkative. Just a lot of ‘Infect. Disease. Death’ chanting going on. It can get quite dull. Now my friend here, he’s real big into causing pain. Want to see if you can stay alive long enough to see what he can do?” I grinned widely and returned my focus to Rey, waiting on what he fancied doing next.

Reyes:

*As Torin taunted the Hunters, I reached back and withdrew a long blade. It wasn’t the sharpest but it was mostly for effect. Men had a tendency to go all limp when we started comparing swords, if you know what I mean. I took the blade and drew a line from the prisoner’s hairline right down his nose and across his cheek. Not a deep cut, but the nerves on human’s faces were so sensitive, it had him whimpering the whole way. Pain whimpered in a much kinkier manner, and I hissed softly at the way it even enticed me. Then I turned and pointed the blade at the sickly one next to Torin* Tell me where it hurts little boy. Oh wait. *I set the blade at my temple as Pain zeroed in on the sickly Hunter* Don’t tell me… it’s your… abdomen? *Without another word I jammed my knife into the gut of the Hunter chained to the iron bars in front of me. His screams sent Pain into a frenzy.* Is it more… to the side here? *I wiggled the tip of the dagger in that direction, to the symphonic mastery of my victim’s cries* Don’t be shy now, tell us what’s hurting your little tum tum. Or… you could stop all this by just giving my good pal here Torin the information he wants from you.

Torin: I arched a brow at Reyes as he dragged the knife down the face of the hunter he had in front of him. The male was about half a second away from screaming or fainting. Either would be amusing, and Disease was practically moaning in my head. I took a step back when the knife that Reyes was holding hit its mark in the abdomen of the same whimpering male. I couldn’t help the growl as disease started to really bang at the inside of my skull, wanting out. I probably needed to stop being a mother hen about this and actually finish the job, but with Reyes here, I needed to be certain he wasn’t infected, it was entirely his own fault if he got blood or any other bodily fluid all over him, I could do nothing more than watch at this point, but I wasn’t about to take his enjoyment away from this. I had chosen to hide myself away and take pleasure in watching idiots get blown up coming up the hill towards the fortress. Reyes didn’t have that much luck. He used himself and his seeming inability to really die to his advantage. But while his demon enjoyed the pain, HE didn’t enjoy the pain. Who would? Just as my demon enjoyed infecting anyone and everyone with virus after virus until the entire population was wiped out, despite the short sight of then having no one to ever infect ever again. But I didn’t want that to happen. I couldn’t watch it and allow that to happen. No matter how much the human race seemed to be slowly digging into the dregs of brain function. I folded my arms across my chest and eyed the male I’d infected. He’d passed out from the view he had of his friends stomach. He’s possibly be out a while, or never wake up. But unless the one with the funky new face scar wanted to start talking, he’d be woken up one way or another.

Reyes:

*I groaned in frustration as the sickly one passed out from the view of his friend’s insides getting gutted nice and good with my blade.* Dammit. Too much for the poor sick one. *I sighed and stepped back, perking when the previously unconscious male I had chained up next to my surgery patient started to wake up.* Now that’s more like it. Lucky suitor number three, wakey wakey. *I slapped his face a few times just to make sure he was good and alert before looking back at Torin.* I’ll refrain from carving up this one until you get the intel you’re looking for. But as you can see…*I grabbed the newly-awoken Hunter’s face and turned it so he could see his deathly ill friend across the way, then his lacerated friend right next door.* We are getting a big desperate for answers, Hunter. And this is what happens when we get desperate. Comprende? *His response was some sort of cry mixed with begging and blubbering. Family, wife, kids, whatever. I knew how the story went. They got themselves into this when they joined the Hunters. Thought they’d be doing good work and all that bullshit. Until they actually had to fight us. Then things got complicated in a New York Minute. I covered his mouth with my hand, staining his lips and cheeks with the blood of his comrade.* Ask your questions, Torin. This one is ready to spill all the beans and I do believe it’s supper time.

Torin: I looked between the men currently decorating the floor to the small jail. I didn’t really care how scared they were. They chose this life, even if they didn’t fully understand it. Ignorance was bliss, until they ended up with their intestines slowly spilling across concret. I couldn’t help the amusement that chased across my face as Reyes got the attention of the remaining healthy hunter. The white blanket that hit him head to toe was satisfying to watch, that blood draining away as soon as he got a good look at his team mates. I had no idea if these three were friends, or had just been teamed up for this mission. I didn’t much care either. Hunters anywhere near the fortress spelled disaster for my brothers should they managed to get in and cause any damage. God forbid they found any of them in a weakened state when we were preoccupied elsewhere. I nodded to Reyes when he spoke directly to me and crouched down in front of the male who looked about ready to piss his pants, “I’m not planning on infecting you. I just need a location. We’ll start with your base or operation, and then we can work on any other hubs you know of in the area. I’ll go as far out as you need. I’m not about to release your hands, so you can give me verbal commands or visual ones. Don’t care which, but fuck up, and one or other of will make you feel like your colleagues here. Give us what we want, and Rey might be merciful.” I smiled, knowing Reyes’ version of mercy was probably a slit throat or something. I couldn’t control which disease was given. And if I told the asshole demon in my head what I wanted, he’d do the opposite just because he could. I unfolded a map of Budapest and stuck my pen where we currently were, my eyes flicking between the male and the map until I had around 8 nearly crossed areas to look into. I smiled at the male and pushed back to my feet. “Nicely done. Do you know any other places outside of Budapest? Were you recruited somewhere else and then sent here?” At the shake of his head I nodded and tugged at my gloves one more time to ensure they were secure before patting Reyes on the shoulder and stepping back to start a search on my phone, “All yours. The infected is about to pass away. And I think the other is pretty much out of blood. What did you want to do with this one for being so helpful?” I ignored the whimper from the male who thought his life would be spared. One thing we couldn’t do was allow hunters out of the fortress to give away any secrets from inside. We might have mercy at times, but that rule was unbreakable.

Reyes:

*I grinned in smug satisfaction as the last remaining hunter spilled all he knew to Torin. He was pale as a ghost, likely near fainting by my estimates. But he held on just long enough to give Disease what he needed. And the intel would certainly serve us well going forward. Pain got even more giddy at the thought of taking down a few Hunter hideaways. I laughed along with him as Torin gave me the green light to finish this one off. The prisoner’s eyes met mine, tears leaking down his face. He was wondering how slow I’d make him die, how much he’d suffer. I weighed it back and forth in my head. Sure, Pain had gotten quite a fill today, seeing the disease-ridden victim of Torin and then having our own fun with the second Hunter. Alright. It was enough to tide him over a bit. Plus, once we got out to see those eight other locations, Pain would have plenty of time to play. With a solemn nod to the human, I let him know it would be quick. The demon in my head whined, but Pain couldn’t really argue with my reasoning. I did have a bit of human compassion some days, and that man could show mercy from time to time. I stepped over to the guy, taking his head in my hands. My thumbs instinctively rubbed away the salty tears on his cheeks as I let out a slow breath. He sighed a little in resignation, and before his next breath I snapped his neck quick to the side, breaking it. It was over. I looked over at Torin, who was watching me with interest.* I’ll take care of these two bodies, do you want to handle the sick one? We can burn them behind the fortress.

Torin: It took a minute to get out of my own head and focus on Reyes to connect with what he was saying. Once I did I was nodding enthusiastically, “I’ll bring the sick one round once the fire is going. That way he’s not hanging around. I’d not mind wrapping him in something so he doesn’t drip anywhere.” I nodded and let my eyes track to the male whose neck had obviously been broken, nodding more to myself than anyone at the act of mercy on the male who had given us the information. I tucked my phone in my back pocket and stepped forward. “You can take the one whose insides are dribbling everywhere, I’ll take the clean one. We’ll get things set up and then I’ll come back for sicky. His information seems to be good. I have already got a whole bunch of footage from local cameras and mobiles etc that show at least a dozen of the normal suspects. Even some of the ones higher up in the organisation. Now we have that evidence, they won’t know what hit them if we decide to take out their base of operations around here. If it’s planned just right, you could probably keep one alive long enough to find out some of their bigger locations.” I nodded again and bent to pull the less messy hunter into my arms, still being overly careful not to accidentally touch skin to skin at any point. While they were dead, I was pretty certain illness could still infect until he was nothing but ash. “Lead the way and we’ll get this bonfire going. Think we can find some marshmallows in the kitchen?” I grinned at Rey and then winked at the last remaining hunter. I could already tell he’d be dead before we got back, so I was confident that leaving him here would be fine. It wasn’t like he had a phone or a weapon on him. With a jerk of my chin I started moving with my cargo, assuming Rey would follow on after me once he’d untied his hunter for transport. #BagEmAndTagEm #DemonTales

[mydemonispain-blog]

Tor Gets His Cut (With @TouchAndDie)

Reyes: *I scrolled through my phone, nodding as I saw the transactions. Vic had made good on all his promises, and just this morning my bank account had received a hefty chunk of change via international wire. I didn’t hesitate, moving the funds off to a separate, less conspicuous account that Torin had set up to hide our money. Plus, I knew that even if there was a small chance Vic might change his mind, I needed that cash to be gone before he could do anything about it. I dialed in to the bank, closing the account over the phone and asking them to mail all the paperwork to a PO Box we had set up in Budapest. When you were as old as we were and did the kinds of things we did, you had to be able to disappear as soon as the job was done. No loose ends. With that taken care of, I tossed my phone on the bed and turned to grab the cash I owed Torin out of my nightstand. I skimmed through a pack of several thousand dollars. He had done me solid by bailing me out of jail in Prague, and now I’d give him his cut just like I’d agreed. I stuffed the wad of cash in my back pocket and headed down the hall, my door left ajar behind me. When I got to Torin’s room, I knocked, knowing it was just a formality. He’d probably had eyes on me from the moment I turned down the hallway.* Tor, you in there? Torin: I was pissed off. Yet another fucking tourist had made their way passed the town lines so that they were trespassing. I had some less than impressive deterrents that were put there to try and push them back. But the closer they got without triggering any of them, the closer they came to the real things that went boom. Things that were liable to blow them to smithereens, if not detach a few vital limbs. Damn fucking idiot tourists! I grumbled to myself as I checked the placement of the puffs of air that normally pushed them back. This pair was probably mid 50s and I could practically see the sunscreen slathered on their skin from here. My cameras were good, but not that good. The white cream was meant to be rubbed in, but it would seem this pair would rather he seen from space than take the extra 30 seconds to actually finish rubbing in the sun protection. I rolled my eyes and contemplated the merits of going and offering to help them along with that. Then they’d wish they’d have done it themselves. I shook my head to hush Disease as he started to get excited at the possibility to “infect”. I waited until the couple crept a little too close to one of the non lethal explosives before pressing the button. I felt a grin stretch across my face as their expressions. They jumped almost a few feet in the air and threw most of their stuff off in all directions. It never got old to watch. Just as I settled in to watch them scrabble off back to town I saw movement in the corridor. I flicked my attention over to that screen to watch Reyes walk towards my room. I waited anyway until I heard the knock and Reyes’s voice make its way through the door, “I’m in here. Come on in.” Reyes: *When Tor answered I slid inside his room, nudging the door closed behind me. As usual, his chambers were pristine, clean and orderly and not a thing out of place. Including the Lord himself, sitting on his chair in front of the half-a-dozen or so flat screens that provided views of various corridors and doorways to the fortress. I didn’t waste any time, pulling the folded over wad of cash out of my pack pocket and heading over to him. I slapped it on the desk and opened my mouth to thank him again for helping me out. Jail in Prague was not something I intended to ever do again. Before I could speak though, I noticed one of the screens was blocked by some sort of… was that smoke? I frowned and peered in closer at the footage. It was definitely smoke. Something had been detonated out on the property. As it cleared, I could see two elderly humans rushing to pick up their things and then scurry down the hill back to Budapest. I snorted and crossed my arms, quirking a brow down at Torin* Is this your new hobby? Blowing the diapers off of the elderly tourists from Budapest? I think that one guy is having a heart attack. And she’s definitely got asthma. Sick man, even for you. Torin: I spun slightly in my seat to watch Reyes walk into the room and slapping it on the desk. The gesture made me smile as I stayed seated, but tipped my head up towards the male, “Scared I’d come looking for you if you didn’t get that to me asap?” I quirked a brow and grinned openly, knowing that my teasing would probably make Reyes laugh more than piss him off. Depending on his mood that was. When his attention shifted to the screen I cleared my throat and turned back to look at the coloured monitor and the antics currently playing out on one of the screens. I waited for the coming commentary. While the other Lords knew how focused I was about keeping people out of the fortress, few actually bothered to inquire as to what exactly it was I had out there. And even fewer were ever around when I was deterring people. Hunters were another matter, I just blew them the fuck up cos they shouldn’t come into a fight they’re ill equipped for. One day they might actually engage their pea sized brains and figure that one out. When Reyes snorted I shrugged a shoulder and leaned back in my chair, the leather and metal protesting slightly under my weight. I gestured towards the monitor and grumbled out, “I didn’t know you were so eager to answer the door to our guests. Had I known you were that starved for company I’d have let them in. Shall I get some leaflets printed up so you can go over the history of the place? Bring in some extra income for all the shit you break?” I stared up at the male with a half amused expression, trying to keep a straight face. Reyes: *I snorted as Torin eyed up the cash, shaking my head as I continued to watch the humans shuffle down off the property in the wake of the little bombs.* More like scared you’d hack into my bank account again and just take the money yourself. Figured I’d show you I’m a man of my word. *I turned and leaned my hip on the edge of the desk, narrowing my eyes down at the keeper of Disease.* You want me to be the tour guide? I’m sure my healing scars and constant state of bloodiness would make for an enchanting experience. Maybe we could offer some dinner theater? A “Who Done It?” theme sounds good to me. Sabin could stab me on the dining room table and then Cameo could lead them on an exciting detective adventure. Maybe William could bring his horsemen up to eat dessert with our guests, and then at the last minute Kane walks in and the entire place erupts into flames? *I laughed deeply and nudged Torin’s knee with my booted foot as he sat back in his chair and watched me.* Wait this is just getting good. Maybe Anya could lead them all up to the roof where Amun lays in waiting to reveal all their secrets like a Tarot card reader or some shit. And then Lucien could be our very own Reaper and scare the daylights out of all of them. Oh, and Aeron could show up with his wings and cart a few of them off into the night. Not to mention what Paris could do with all the guests… *I grinned wide at Torin* A few nights of that and I could pay for a whole new fortress. We’d be the hottest tourist attraction in Hungary. Torin: I pocketed the cash before Reyes changed his mind and took it back. As easy as it was to raid his bank account, it was a pain in the ass. So taking money freely given was much more preferable. I grinned widely, “I’m not sure your account could take that much of a hit again. Since I would have to take interest for my time and energy. I know you’re a man of your word, Rey. I think we can all vouch for that at some point or another.” I rolled my eyes as I thought of some of the pranks that had been thrown our way time and time again. I knew I was pretty good at them, having more time on my hands than the other Lords, but Rey had a few of his own. At the long winded, and highly amused reply I didn’t have a choice but to roll my eyes and laugh, “You know, maybe I should let you take over some of the money making schemes. You have a bit of a flare for it. I’m not sure if it wouldn’t have to be a Halloween special, but either way, it seems like you’ve got the right ideas there. Where do I come in? Am I allowed to just film the antics for future reference. Or do I get to dress up and play with Pestilence? We’d have some shit to talk about if you got us together. Lucien and Death could face off and see who could reap the most amount of people. It would be some kind of spectacle. I have no doubt it’d be a one time thing. Then the police would come along and we’d be closed down for the rest of eternity. But you’re right, it’d be a hot tourist attraction for the body count alone.” I winked at the male and checked the two tourists had disappeared down the mountain before I turned back to Reyes with a more serious expression on my face, “So, what got you stuck in prison?” Reyes: *I snorted as Torin did a little plotting of his own. The idea of him and Lucien playing with the Horseman put all kinds of wild ideas in my head.* Maybe we could do like a jousting thing, but with you facing off with the Horsemen. I like the sound of that…. We’ll need a barn for all the horses though. And some serious vaccines for whichever one you and Pesty ride. *I chuckled and knew that there was no way we could pull off being a tourist attraction without either starting a war or perhaps killing off most of the population in Hungary. Between the lure of Paris and the doubt of Sabin and Strider’s need to win, plus Disease and Violence and Pain all playing together… yeah. Hungry wouldn’t survive it, let alone our poor fortress. As old and sturdy as it was, even it couldn’t handle the demons reigning free. The earth might just open up and swallow us whole, and not in a fun Disaster-is-out-to-play kinda way. More like the universe is turning inside out kinda way. As my laughter faded, Tor got serious and with a little sigh I slumped against his desk.* On my flight to Prague there was a hunter. I don’t know where he even came from. I always watch for tails. Either one of my informants betrayed me… or it was pure coincidence we were on the same plane. And you know I hardly believe in coincidences. But either way, the moment he saw me, it was obvious there was no getting out of a confrontation. So we got into it in the bathroom stall. And then it kinda spilled out into the aisles. And then we got arrested. *I shook my head* Stupid Air Marshall turned us right over to the authorities when we landed. Torin: I couldn’t help the eye roll at the excitement in Reyes’ voice. The thought of the lot of us doing this was just comical. Half barely cracked a smile, the other half were off their fucking rockers most the time. I was pretty sure that anything we did would be a hit, followed shortly after that by a huge ass bolt of lightening as we were all smoked into a hole in the ground. I imagined it anyway, my laugh breaking free without thought at the antics we could get up to. “Ah, they’d be fine around us. I’ve never tested Disease on animals. Maybe we should give it a go and see what happens. Though, that would mean that we’d have to find an animal we didn’t mind killing.” I hummed as I thought on it and then looked up with a grin, “Spider it is then. I’m sure they’d rather explode from some evil animal disease than get squashed by whatever Kane ended up prying loose from the ceiling.” I nodded and then focused on my friend, knowing that his demon would been having a field day with a hunter in close quarters. But then Reyes would have been hard pressed to keep him quiet in jail. “I don’t much believe in them either. Did you get a name or where he came from? Anything that might allow us to find out who he is and figure out if you did have a stalker or whether he was just there out of coincidence?” I was back in my chair and at my computer in seconds, a pad and pen appearing beside me as I pushed it towards Reyes, “Write it all down and give me some details. I’ll see what I can find while you’re here.” Reyes: *As Torin got serious, the lightheartedness of our joking faded. It was rare we got to blow off steam--too dangerous with the demons--so taking joy in the idea of reaping havoc on Budapest was one of the few things that made us laugh. I grabbed the pen and paper as Torin spun around to his computer. The guy was a tech genius, and he’d exhaust any lead I gave him. I started writing a few things down.* I didn’t get much unfortunately. We were separated before I could grab his wallet and ID, cuffed and sat down in the jumper seats on the plane. But when they were booking us I thought I heard the one cop call him Laurel Figgins? Or maybe Hastings? But we were on flight 8402-FPA from Dallas-Fort-Worth Texas to Václav Havel, Prague. *I added down the flight number and time onto the paper.* Who knows if he was using a fake ID though, these Hunters are as sneaky as we are. I didn’t even see a cell phone on him. How could he be communicating with the others if he didn’t have a phone? He was still there when I left, though. So maybe if you cross reference flight records with Prague’s CPD database you might get a match? *I scribbled down a few more things and set the pad of paper down on the desk.* Has there been much Hunter activity here lately? I mean, does it make sense for Hunters to land in Prague at all? Unless they were driving down like I was. *I scratched my head as it started to pound. Pain happily bumped in time with each throb of my headache* I wasn’t built for this detective investigative bullshit. We were made to protect the gods, and now look at us. Mothering demons and trying to keep mortals from setting them free. Torin: I realised that I’d inadvertently made the tone more serious. And normally I’d have noted it and made some kind of joke to lighten the mood again. But in this case I wasn’t about to make light of a situation. Obviously the hunters were starting to come sniffing around again, I had 3 in the basement and one had apparently been following Reyes and managed to get on the same plane as him. Had Reyes not picked him out and been quick on his feet, we might be one Lord short now. I alternated between tapping on my computer keyboard and writing down notes that I wanted to remember later. Clicking around the multiple screens easily as I gained some information and brought up flight information, seating plans and logs covering everything from maintenance to passengers. The names running through the multiple systems i had set up and was hacked into in order to find out everything possibly about everyone on the plane. Including who had booked their tickets and then if those names differed from those named on the manifest, I was able to search them too and ensure I covered every corner. I knew it would take me longer than just these few minutes, but I was able to get a start on the searches and I had done this often enough to know that I could leave it running and I’d get emails with updates as information was available for me. Once I was sure it was running as I wanted I spun in my seat to face Reyes again, “Um, hunter activity. There’s been the odd bit. Here and there.” I tried for a smile, not really sure if I should be admitting to the men downstairs or hoping Reyes played my uncertainty off as my attention span being split with the info he’d given me and the computer that was still whizzing through picture and information. “Mortals always did have a fascination for the demons that walked the earth and otherwise. Shame none of them know what kind of damage the assholes can actually do when they’re unleashed. Can you imagine what they’d do then? Though it’s kind of awesome to see their imaginations run wild with the zombie films and things. If only it would be that easy to survive when one of these was released.” I tapped my head and disease hissed at me. Talking about the hunters had wet his appetite again and he wanted more. Reyes: *I watched Torin as he made quick with the limited data I gave him, his hands flying over the keyboard until he had some sort of program running. Then he spun my way. Something in his tone was off, but weren’t we all a little off these days? Trying to avoid Hunters and most humans, only to be drawn to the chaos to please our demons was a tricky balance. And we all dealt with it differently. I knew if I really needed a beating I could go to Aeron or Maddox. Our demons were sprung from the same garden--and I wasn’t talking Eden here--and letting them out to play with one another meant humans didn’t have to be involved. The fortress usually survived our little wrestlemanias, even if a few walls had to be replaced. Speaking of, I needed to check in on the armory and see what kinds of new shiny things could be added to the growing collection of sharp weapons on the wall in my room. It was starting to look like a serial killer’s inventory, but sometimes just gazing at them would appease Pain for a little while. And if he needed some action, they were close at hand and easy to grab. I ran my hand over the pad of paper that was now once again resting on the desk. My finger caught the edge and the parchment sliced the skin. Damn paper cuts. I lifted my finger and frowned, Pain shimmying softly at the base of my brain as I sucked the blood off.* Mortals always jones for the supernatural. Look at the way they romanticize vampires and werewolves. *I snorted and pinched my fingertip with my thumb, watching the blood ooze out.* I don’t care what anyone says, that Edward guy was a fucking stalker. Humans love our darkness, because it’s the side of them they have to suppress every day of their short lives. The have to obey laws, commandments, all that bullshit. And we get to run around holding the hand of the devil. Can you blame them, really? *My eyes slid over to Torin* How’s that search coming along? You seem distracted. Torin: I watched the myriad of emotions pass over Reyes’ face, whatever he was thinking on it seemed to have lost him for a moment. I flicked my eyes back to the screen and watched as a few red dots started multiplying on my little map. I kept two maps, one with any hunters locations that we were aware of, so we could either hunt them, or be aware of them being there. And one with the Lords on. I still thought being able to chip the actual male’s was the way to go, but they were all still bitching about that one. Saying they didn’t need me to know where they were all the time. Like they couldn’t guess that I have all their electronics, overnight bags, practically anything else they took with them, so I always knew where they were. Unless they disappeared down or up, in which case they didn’t work, yet. I was working on that one. When Reyes moved I was drawn back to the male again, the jerk when his finger caught the paper had my brow rising. His demon was probably happy right now, and chomping for more. The blood had disease stirring too. He knew he didn’t want to kill any of the Lords cos they housed other demons. I was fairly sure I’d not be able to kill one of the other Lords, wouldn’t be allowed to. But I didn’t take any chances. We had nightly stabbings to feed demons and legends, it left most of the Lords feeling less than awesome about the whole thing. Despite how much we all joked around. Disease would happily use that cut to get under his skin, not that he needed a way in. One touch, even the lightest brush of skin would have Reyes at death’s door within hours. Same went for any other bodily fluid, even if I sneezed around them, they could contract something. It was exhausting, and why I refused to spend time around them unless I had to, and even then, I sat at a distance. I craved touch just as much as anyone else, possibly more so with my inability to have it. Even before I housed Disease I hadn’t ever had the best luck with partners. Couldn’t even remember the name of any of them. That’s how memorable or long lived they were. With a gentle sigh I passed over a tissue and then laughed at the rambling thoughts, “Edward was a stalker for sure. And humans will always be fascinated with things they either don’t understand, or see as damaged or romantic. They fear death, try to ignore it, despite how much is brushes them on a regular basis. They’re fragile, they imagine being immortal, or at the very least, super fast, strong and able to take a ton more punishment than a mere human. But Edward needed to find the pointy end of a stake to the eye.” I shrugged at the less than charitable thought of a fictional character before inhaling softly again. I narrowed my eyes at the male as I wondered how much I could tell him, “We dance with the devil do we? Which one is he in this fortress?” I chuckled and flapped a hand at the screen, wondering if Reyes would notice the three dots oh so very close to our current location, “The dots are hunters. Ones that have been found with associated names etc etc from the info you gave me. It’s just added dots to a map I already had going.” Reyes: *I rolled my eyes as Tor handed over a tissue, taking it carefully so our hands didn’t brush, then holding it with my still-stinging finger. Pain was awake now, begging for more. I gave him a mental middle finger and snorted to myself as he retreated for the time being. But I knew he would have to be sated sooner rather than later. I’d definitely be hitting up the armory after leaving Tor’s room. When Torin asked who the devil amongst us was, I smirked and leaned over towards him.* Why it’s me, of course. We all know I’m Lucifer’s favorite. Why do you think William is always busting my balls? *I laughed and sat back, looking over at the screen as Torin pointed out the little red dots that signified hunters. Damn, did he have them lowjacked too? I wouldn’t put it past the guy, he was a genius with this tracking shit. I knew all my electronics were marked, gods knew what else he had GPS’d of my things. At least now that I was back at the fortress he wouldn’t need to keep such close tabs on me. I glanced around the screen, noting the little dots that signified where all the other Lords were. Some of the guys were in the kitchen, two in the game room, and a splattering in their bedrooms. Then I looked over at the Hunter screen again. I remembered a few of the places he had marked from our battles over the years with them. A warehouse here, an old abandoned apartment building there… and--wait. What was that? Three little dots flashed back at me. But their location was all wrong. I frowned and leaned in closer.* Are those Hunters? Are there Hunters in the fortress? Torin: I continued to grin at the snort the male gave me, happily settling back in my chair to speak, “You keep squeezing it and you’ll end up light headed. And you drip that on my desk and I’ll be less than impressed. You might find your electronics start to go a little haywire.” I nodded and watched as his eyes darted between my two screens. I liked that the little red dots moved as the faces were picked up for the hunters, and just as their electronics were moved around. They blinked on and off to show me that they were still active. I should probably colour code them to show me which ones were more of an issue than others. But for the most part, I knew where I needed to focus my attention, and any issues pinged through to my email almost immediately. So far we’d gotten lucky. Most the hunters in the area were hiding and the ones further afield could do as they pleased until they got close enough to piss off one of the Lords. Which, frankly, wasn't hard to do. You just had to look at some of them wrong and you found yourself punched in the face. They got bored easily! When I saw Reyes lean a little closer I couldn’t help the cringe. He’s spotted them. I knew it before the words were even out of his mouth. I managed to clear my throat and slide my chair a little further back. Not that I thought he’d grab me, but instinct was hard to fight. And I wasn’t taking any chances he forgot himself and treated me as he might any other Lord. That wouldn’t end well for him. I arches a brow and nodded, despite knowing his attention was still on the screen, “Three of them. Came round the other day to join the party. I gave them a little welcome gift and left them down in the basement. I’m all hooked up down there, and I’m pretty sure we’ll be one down soon enough. Unless he’s touched the others, then we’ll be three down. But I wanted to leave them a short while to see how they did before questioning them. There’s another base around here, and I can’t seem to pinpoint it. Figured they might know something and be willing to talk once one of their teammates went the way of the dodo!” I shrugged unapologetically and sighed, “First time Disease has been fed in a while, fucker won’t shut up now. It’s like he’s been dosed up on drugs!” With a shake of my head I gestured to the screen again. “So yeah, we have prisoners.” Reyes: *I blinked back and forth from the screen to Torin like a spectator at the French Open. He had captured Hunters here, at the fortress, by himself? And stowed them away without anyone else knowing? Damn, I was impressed. I wondered if I had been here at the time if the keeper of Disease would have gotten them past me. No way, I wouldn’t have been that distracted. I took note of his cautious stance, then turned and stood, looking in closer at the screen. Two of the three dots were moving around a bit. One wasn’t. That must be the Hunter that Disease infected. The others were likely freaking out at whatever fatal disease had started to take over their comrade. I tapped the screen with my finger as I thought for a moment before speaking* Well done, Torin. Not many could sneak a few prisoners in without causing a ruckus. Then again, you probably have hidden tunnels and access to private passageways, don’t you? *I grinned at the guy, wanting him to know that I wasn’t pissed off or angry with him. Pain was more than interested in the Hunters, begging me to go down and witness their suffering.* Say ah, can I check them out? I won’t interfere, I can just back you up if you want. You-know-who could use a good dose of agony, and watching a Hunter succumb to some nasty puss-filled disease might just do the trick. Come on, Tor, will you let me come down with you when you go interrogate them? Then I say we let Disease have his fill on the two other Hunters as well. Torin: I watched Reyes as his eyes darted between the screen and my face. Purposely keeping my expression neutral so I wouldn’t give away my hand. I could see the thoughts through his expressions though, I’d have been impressed if it had been one of the other Lords, so I was happy to see that he felt the same way. I finally cracked a smile when he spoke to me and nodded, “Thanks, Rey! I like the praise, but it wasn’t all that difficult. As you say, I have a few secrets. Namely lots of explosives at my disposal and tunnels that lead all over this hill. So it wasn’t all that hard to herd them in the direction I wanted them. They’re dumb enough to think they are ‘sneaking in’ when actually they’re doing exactly what I wanted. Electrocuted them before disarming them and then leaving one of them with a nasty case of whatever Disease thought up in the moment.” I shrugged and then swept a hand towards the other monitors, “Now I’ll have to go out there and set all the charges again, but that can be done easily enough. You lot all sleep, mostly, through the night, so I can take that time to ensure I wake you all up once or twice with misfires.” I grinned widely, knowing it wasn’t the first time I’d done that and blamed it on wearing gloves to do everything, so it was harder to keep a tight hold on shit.” I chuckled and then flicked my eyes to my friend, my teeth working my lip in thought as soon as the request was airborn, “Um, yeah, you can go and chat to them. I’m not totally sure you should be touching them without gloves. Who knows whether whatever sick dude has is contagious, or whether the others have picked it up. But I can’t have it getting out of the fortress, either on you or on them. So they’ll all have to go once they’re questioned. How that happens can be up for discussion. If you just want to watch, have at it though. Disease has been dormant a while, I’m pretty sure whatever he has will be slow and painful. He’s an asshole like that.” I nodded as Disease hissed at me, though it wasn’t like he could argue. He was an asshole. “You want me to come with you to check them out?” Reyes: *I grinned and jumped to my feet as soon as Torin agreed, rubbing my hands together as Pain got with the program and scurried up to my frontal lobe. He was peeking out through my eyes like two little peepholes. This, I liked. While experiencing pain on my own was the easiest way to please the demon, watching others suffer was a nice break for my white cell count. Forget the armory, this was gonna be way more entertaining that solo time with my knives. I did a little re-tuck in of my shirt and clapped Disease on the shoulder, knowing he probably wouldn’t like it, but unable to do much else to show him my support and excitement. Hell, I’d hug the guy, but I had a feeling he’d stop me before I got close. Even when I was careful as ever, Torin didn’t take chances. I backed up towards the door, grinning wide at my green-eyed friend, hoping my mischievous and playful expression would catch on.* Come on, Tor-Tor. Let’s go have some fun. #TorGetsHisCut

[mydemonispain-blog]

Angels and Demons / Unlikely Friends (With @Living_InSin)

Eli:

 The summer heat had driven in flocks of new people, opening an hour earlier helped the thirsty hoards find their instant gratification without waiting until the normal drinking hour. The men loosening their ties, shedding their jackets and letting their proverbial hair down. The women timidly following suit, one woman stripping down to her silk slip, catching the eyes of not only the men, but the harsh commentary of the judgy wudgies. Women can be the absolute worst. But the more liquor I plied them with, the more relaxed everyone seemed to be. I was propped against the corner of the bar when an acquaintance of mine popped in. Reyes. I was sure the patron in front of me heard the growl from my lips, his eyes hadn't met mine yet, though mine hadn't left his presence. We had hemmed and hawed at one another, some teasing mostly from me about kicking his ass. But we seemed to get along so I considered him an ally of mine. I knew of his pastimes, cutting himself to feel the pain, not fully understanding what he got out of it. All I knew is I wanted to smack the ever loving fuck out of him for hurting himself. Shit...maybe it was none of my business, but as a friend...and as an Angel, my instincts were to protect, always. I couldn't change who I was just like he couldn't change himself. The growl may have been a little unnecessary, but as soon as I watched Reyes walk through that door, all I could see was the blade digging into his ribs. Fucker. I watched him walk in and sit at the other end of the bar, his head finally lifting and spotting me. I offered him a genuine smile, behind it was so many questions, and a hope that maybe he'd shed some light onto my unending curiosities. “Hey Rey, pick your poison”

Reyes:

*It was just approaching nightfall as I slipped out of the fortress and headed out for a drink. All was quiet at base and the other Lords were busy with their own shit. But that was a good thing in actuality, a sort of normalcy had struck. Routines were good for men like us. Warriors needed a schedule. I was back in Budapest with my brothers and Pain was satisfied. I was feeling downright jovial, which for a demon meant I was in the mood for a fight.

The hot humid air made my tee shirt cling to my chest and shoulders, but I didn’t mind. A few cold beers would help, not that I’d feel them in any way that mattered, but a nice chilled drink down the hatch always fought off the heat. I didn’t realize where I was until I heard a low growl from behind the bar. My eyes sought out the origin and sure as shit, it was Eli. I almost turned and walked back out, but we had already seen one another, so what the hell, I’d stay for a few. Even if the guy was a walking talking winged celestial being. Not that the other patrons would know that, he kept his wings well hidden. For good reason, rumor had it. I lifted a hand to acknowledge him and slipped onto a barstool. My fingers tapped the bar top as the crowd mingled behind me.* What’s good, Wings? How bout a beer, whatever you’ve got on tap.

Eli:

 I chuckled softly, hearing what he called me, my eyes giving him a ‘you smart ass’ look. I turned on my heels, reaching into the freezer chest to get an ice cold mug to pour his beer into. I slid it along the bar to him and met him with a smile as I came back face to face. “What's new Stabby McStabberson?” My smile faded slightly as I leaned in, poking my finger in his chest. “Look..my lack of knowledge where your demon kink is concerned aside, I don't like the picture of you jamming that blade into your ribs..” I glanced up to see a nosey fuck, leaning in to listen. “Hey, back up if you want to leave here in one piece. Got it?” I waved my hand at the guy shooing him away. My focus snapping back to Reyes before I begin speaking again. “I don't mean to bust your balls, but it goes against all my instincts to sit and watch someone hurt, even if it's for reasons I may not understand..” I patted his arm before walking back down and taking care of some of my other customers.

Reyes:

*I was reaching for my tall frosty mug of barley-infused-heaven when the angel leaned in and in no uncertain terms gave me a talking to for cutting myself. Pain hissed at the base of my brain, still a little buzzed from my earlier handiwork, but conscious enough to know when he was being chastised by one of the fluffy white guys. I blinked as Eli shooed off an admirer. I mean, come on. An angel and a demon chatting up close at a bar? It was a celestial magnet. I snorted as Eli finished his short but to the point rant and moved to the other end of the bar. So it was gonna be like that, eh? I wrapped a mental arm around Pain and threw him back into his seat. Calm down, ya ass. He’s just doing his job.

/Can we cut him? I want to see how his wings bleed./

Knock it off, you just had your fill. And I don’t need a pack of do-gooders coming after me for hacking up one of their own. We’ll find someone else later, okay?

A disgruntled mumble was all I got in return as Pain retreated. I lifted my mug and took a long sip. When I set the mug down, it was empty.*

Oh, Sir Eli? How about a refill for the depraved one? You know, the fact that you were watching me means one of three things. One, shit is boooring on angel vision and you were flipping channels after dark. Two, someone has taken interest in my kind and wants you to keep an eye on things. Or three, you’re feeling like it’s your job to fix us or some shit. And let me just stop you right there, because the only way to rid the inner demons is to kill us. But that also has the unfortunate side effect of unleashing them out into the world without vessels. And we both know that spells disaster for the mortals--and I’m not talking Kane here.

*I grinned over at Eli and held out my beer mug.* Refill, please?

Eli: 

“You're such a smart ass” I snapped back at him. “You're lucky all these people are still in here or I'd smack the shit-eating grin right off your face.” I came back over, snatching up the mug and filling back up for him. When I brought it back over, I had more to share. “Look, for one, yeah, maybe I was bored, I watched you and your nine-incher having a gay ol time cutting your body up.” I rolled my eyes at him, leaning in for the next part. “No one has asked me to watch your /kind/ so don't be so paranoid man. I watched you because I wanted to. I don't take orders from those fucks upstairs. And thirdly...I don't think it's my job to fix you, yes my instincts kicked into overdrive but now I'm left with just questions...I'm curious to the ‘whys’ of it all.” My eyes looking to yours. “Maybe you can stick around and explain to me why you do that, so maybe next time I won't be assuming the worst...like my friend is trying to kill himself.”  I went back to tending bar, keeping the customers flowing as the night slowly ran it's course. I kept the demon boy wonder happy with more beer when his mug would empty. The fucker made me laugh, but lord needed to give me strength to put up with his sinister baggage. I could hear his little conversations with Pain, angel radio was good like that. It's what we were built for, even though I was defective as all get out. “Tell Pain that he'd be dead if he ever touched my wings..” I smirked as I shared that little tid-bit with Reyes, knowing he'd be freaked out that I could hear them.

Reyes:

*I smirked hard as Eli fessed up to watching us Lords out of curiosity more than anything else. If he thought what I did was bad, I feared for the night he set his sights on Paris. Or Maddox or Aeron. At least I kept my demon to myself for the most part. Not that I didn’t enjoy letting him out when the time called for it. As Eli went back to tending bar, I drank my beers, nodding in thanks for the refills as they came, and thought about my latest escapade before returning to Buda. I expected the rest of my payment to be arriving in the next twenty-four hours, which meant I’d need to visit Tor to give him his cut for posting my bail in Prague. I scowled at the thought, Pain wiggling a little at my ego’s deflation. I didn’t like relying on others. Especially when I was working a job. But, when I did need someone, there was no one I could rely on more than my fellow warriors. They were the men I trusted my life with, no questions asked. And when we needed each other, when Maddox needed an outlet for his violence, or when Strider lost a challenge and needed to be cared for… yeah, I’d always be there for them just the same. As Eli caught a break, I threw a napkin at him to get his attention. Hey, at least it wasn’t a dagger. Pain huffed in the back of my mind, then cowered behind a hunk of grey matter as Eli all but spoke directly to him. He could hear us? I nearly laughed. Just when we thought we were alone, Pain and I, here comes a winged-wonder with telepathic abilities. Finally, someone else for the demon to whine to.* Your feathery-flight-machines are safe, Eli, I promise. As for the questions you have, it’s pretty simple. Pain and I are stuck in here together, as you have already figured out with your angel ears. *I tapped my temple with two fingers for effect.* We live because the other does. If I die, the demon is unleashed. Which means we have to coexist, and that translates into feeding each other’s needs. Pain wants pain, I want peace. So, we trade off. And I’d rather cut up my own flesh than that of another if I can help it. *My hand absentmindedly rubbed the healing scar under my shirt, then quirked a brow at Eli.* It’s either that or slice up the whole town. Is that what you’d prefer?

Eli:

 Both thoughts were majorly unpleasant to me, I hated to admit this, but he was right. Better him slicing and dicing on himself to please his demon rather than innocent humans. That was a shit storm I definitely didn't want to have to clean up. “How'd you get this glorious union of yours?” I asked as I looked up from my bar, cleaning of the spot where my last customer had got up from. I knew I may be getting a bit in his business, but I was sure if he didn't want to share, he wouldn't. “My curiosities are dying to know all about how this whole operation goes tickety-tick.” I set my rag down and got Reyes another frosty mug, filling it and bringing it back. “I see you're like me, can't really get drunk, can you?” I let out a teasing chuckle, setting out to lock the door behind my last customer. I shut off the main lights and came back over and took a seat one over from him. “So, little demon boy...do tell me how you dance to the beat of your own drum”

Reyes:

*I watched as Eli closed up the bar and came over to join me. As he did, I stood and reached over the bar, snagging a mug and filling it with beer, setting it down in front of the stool he slid onto. I lifted my own mug and took a swig of frosty goodness before answering.* I’m not sure how long you’ve been an angel, but a long time ago, when the Greek gods ran the show, the other warriors and I were created to be something of a royal guard, if you will. Everything was rainbows and unicorns and sunshine on a cloudy day until Pandora was asked to guard a sacred box for the gods. *I quirked a brow at Eli* Yes, /that/ Pandora’s box. Us Lords being the pigheaded, proud idiots we were, were pissed that we didn’t get the gig. So we went after her to show our worth to the gods. To show them she wasn’t fit to guard their precious secret, that we could do it better by taking the job from her. Well, that’s when the demon shit hit the fan. The box was a trap holding the demons we now carry hostage. And by opening the box we unleashed them on the world. Our punishment was to house them for all eternity. *I sat back with my mug, Pain whining quietly at the base of my skull. I took a few sips and let the angel process everything.*

Eli: 

I had heard about the fools who condemned themselves to an eternity of babysitting the demons, one of many stories that I had heard during my centuries in heaven.  As I listened to Reyes explain what happened and why, I chuckled to myself without even meaning to. “So...you guys really screwed the pooch on that one.” I took a long savoring drink of my beer before setting it back down, trying to hold back anymore smart ass remarks. “So these demons, kinda like the cross you all must carry, they all coexist within your being?” The sincerity shows in my eyes, the harsh reality of what you guys live with now, really sinking in. A hint of sadness in my eyes, sparked with a hint of my angel blues coming out. “I'm just a vessel for this angel. In heaven he was more in control, down here I have to keep him at bay..” I closed my eyes briefly, reopening and emerging as my normal greens, I smiled and looked at you. “I guess we all carry some baggage, right?”

Reyes:

*I grinned unevenly over at the angel as he relayed a little of his own shared-identity. Indeed, being a vessel for something otherworldly was not an easy burden to bear. In a way, us Lords were lucky we were already immortals ourselves when the demons were woven inside of us. I wasn’t sure a human could handle a passenger such as Pain or Violence or Secrets or Defeat. It was a constant battle to satisfy the demon just enough to prevent him taking over, but working damage control so you didn’t take out a whole town with each purging of desires was not easy. In fact, it often ended in us Lords being the victims instead of innocent humans. Keeping the other side of you at bay was something that took an extraordinary amount of strength. Which made me wonder about winged-wonder sitting in front of me. I set my mug down and leaned forward again.* So you are sharing space with the angel, you weren’t born unto it? Is your shell human then? And you accepted the role of vessel for the angel? Wait… Is Eli your name or the angels?

Eli: 

“No, this is the body I had in heaven, but up there it was all angel all the time. See I started getting my human qualities once I began taking orders to come down here and tend to certain issues. Little by little I became more in control, especially down here. The angel has no wherewithal with human interaction so he hides within me until his bidding needs fulfilled.” I stopped talking for a minute and wondered if this all sounded crazy to him. “Theliel is my angel given name, but I keep it to Eli, easier and it leads to less questions about the origin.  It's not like I can spend my life explaining the whole angel thing to everyone who asks.” I gave another chuckle, hopping up and getting us a couple more drinks. “hey...are you hungry? I mean..you guys eat?” I could cook you something if you'd like.” I slid the mug back over on front of Reyes, smiling. “Up there, I was a warrior, I fought in so many battles, leading my army through to victory so many times. When they threw me out...by they...I mean my father, God, he had them rip my wings off and then I did a header from on high.” I gave a noticeable shudder, thinking how awful it was without my wings. The blood..the pain...the emptiness. “But I have them back now, only I'm kind of just a warrior for the humans now.” I sat back down next to him, drumming my fingers over the edge of the bar. I found it kind of funny that I was sitting here telling a demon about my true self, without any hesitation or fear. “I'm going to have to swear you to secrecy or something, I don't just go around telling everyone my angel business.”

Reyes:

*I finished my beer as Eli explained how the whole vessel thing worked. Interesting, almost like a split personality. I rolled my eyes at myself. Takes one to know one, dumbass. Pain was oddly quiet, I wondered if being near an omnipotent being had something to do with that. I’d have to come to this bar more often. When Eli asked if we eat, I laughed and nodded my head.* Yeah, we eat regular food. What, you don’t watch us in the kitchen on Angel-Vision?  You should see the pathetic excuse for meals we consume. What I wouldn’t give for a personal chef. *I laughed again and sat back.* Splitting chores among us results in some interesting meals. Anyways, that’s a shit deal about your wings, man, I’m sorry. But I’m glad you got them back. And now you’re a guardian angel or something? Out there saving human lives and turning sinners into saints? *I smiled and tilted my head a little.* There’s no need for promises of secrecy. I’d gain no benefit in telling others what you’ve told me. The Lords have no beef with you since you haven’t interfered with us, and the gods already know everything. Your history is safe with me, Eli.

Eli: 

“Well that’s certainly good to hear, Rey.” I actually believed him, he had no reason to rat me out to anyone, but then again...who would he tell? I guess if a gang of scary demons come after me one day, I’ll know who to go after. When he started laughing about my food question, I slapped him on the shoulder and called him a dick. “I was going to offer to make you something, but since you’re a fucking smartass…” I chuckled and got off my stool, heading around to the other side and through the kitchen doors. “Is a burger and fries okay with you?”  I really didn’t wait on an answer before I began fixing up a couple burgers and dropping some fries for us. I added some bacon, because, let’s face it, demon or not, everyone loves bacon. Once I had the food ready, I plated it and made my way back out, grinning at him as I slid a plate in front of his face. “Eat up, demon boy.”

Reyes:

*Eli didn’t give me a chance to respond before heading into the back and cooking up what smelled like a delicious meal of burgers and fries. Was that bacon I smelled? Nice. I rubbed my stomach and stood up to clear off the bar for us, grabbing some napkins and a set of fresh icy cold beers. Perfect. As Eli reappeared with the food my stomach growled loudly, grinning wide when my eyes caught sight of the meal heading my way.* I may be a dick, but I’m a polite one. Thanks for the food man, this looks amazing. *I took the plate meant for me and settled back on my barstool. Within seconds I had my burger dripping in ketchup and was taking my first big bite. The patty was juicy and tender, obviously hand-prepared, and the bacon was perfectly crispy. I hummed as I chewed and grinned at the angel.* This is awesome, thanks man. Best meal I’ve had all week for certain. So how long have you had this place?

Eli: 

I took a seat beside him, digging into my fries, giving him a ketchup smile as he said thanks. I knew I looked like a goof but I didn’t care, it was a strange scene, angel and demon, breaking bread together. It is what it is I guess. I wasn’t the type to turn my back on anyone, always willing to give someone a chance. And just like now, with Reyes, I made a quick discovery. He was pretty fun to hang out with, and let’s face it, you can never have too many friends. “I’ve owned it for about a year now. Started off working for this widow, she hired me for my ass and there’s no convincing me otherwise” I let out a chuckle before taking a huge bite of my burger, chewing it up and washing it down with the beer you had ready for us. “Last summer she moved to Florida, think she wanted to take me with her, but I told her I wasn’t ready for another relocation. I had just gotten comfy in this place, got my wings back and was taking to being here as is. She left me this place, told me to sell it or run it, I happily chose the latter.” I took another big bite of my sandwich, rudely talking with my mouth full. “This is pretty goood”

Reyes:

*I nodded along as Eli explained how he got to running the place. No wonder we hadn’t crossed paths before, he was new to the area. And I had been away for… shit, how long? Had to have been a few years now. I was just getting sorted back in Budapest, and now I had a new feathery friend. Looks like the gods were rewarding me for coming home. Although, an angel was technically suspect company, so who knew what their intentions were for me. But I didn’t think the other Lords would mind. Hell, some of them hung out with some of the shadiest fuckers around, and I meant that in the biblical sense. I laughed to myself as Eli wore the evidence of his meal proudly on his face. I tried a few fries and groaned at the way they were seasoned just the way I liked them. As we finished up our meal, I chugged the rest of my beer and sat back, hand absentmindedly rubbing my full stomach.* Damn, you can cook. I might have to ask you over just for some decent meals. *I grinned and scratched at my hair.* I probably should get back, Lucien will beat the shit out of me if I miss another meeting. After being gone so long I have a lot to make up for. But uh, is it cool if I come back sometime? Maybe drag a few of the old grumpy demons with me?

Eli: 

I took great delight in his enjoyment, I had a knack for cooking and feeding people, proud mother hen. I chuckled to myself at my mothering ways and nodded at him with a wide grin. “I'd be happy to come and cook for you sometime, as long as you would have some cold beers to go with it.” I stood up as he began talking about leaving and getting back. “Yeah, I'd hate for them to send out a search party and find you here with me.” I let out a low whistle and chuckled. “Imagine the shock on their face when they find out you've been chilling with an angel.” I snickered and bumped him with my shoulder, before heading towards the door to let him out. “I wouldn't mind you bringing the others with you, as long as they are cool with me being….me.” I held out my hand to Reyes, looking up and finding his eyes. “Come back anytime, I mean it.”

Reyes:

*I grinned and stood up with Eli, nodding at his comments about the search party. Now that I was back, the Lords would have me on their radar for sure.  Torin wasn’t the only one that kept tabs on everyone. Paris had a way of knowing even what he didn’t know. Amun was built for secrets. And William… just stuck his nose, face, all the way down to his ass in other people’s business. I was relatively sure he had some form of spies scurrying about the planet and the Underworld for him, but how, I still hadn’t sussed. I followed the angel to the door and shook his hand when he offered it, offering a big grin.* That sounds great man, I’ll try to get some of the jollier ones to come with me. Although if you cook like that, you might cheer even the crankiest of us up. *Pain slipped back out into my conscious brain, as if waking from a nap. I liked that he hid when Eli was around. I had a feeling that wouldn’t last if the demon got used to the guy. But in the meantime, I’d sure take advantage of it. I let go of Eli’s hand and headed out into the night, offering a wave as I went.*  See you around, Wings. 

#UnlikelyFriendship #AnglesAndDemons

[mydemonispain-blog]

Blades and Blood

*After a few hours of catching up with the other warriors--and by catching up I mean they sat me down and interrogated me until my voice was raw--I finally was able to grab my lone bag and climb the stairs towards my old room. Pain took their endless questioning as a sign the other demons were happy to see him, to which he got a fabulous eye roll and a mental middle finger. As I opened my door and looked around, it was as if I never left in the first place. Someone must have come in and cleaned up though, because there were fresh sheets on the bed and the bathroom looked cleaner than I ever left it. Then again, I was usually bleeding all over the damn place, which made the choice of white and grey tiles all the more puzzling. But who was I to question decor? At least they had thought to put a drain right in the middle of the shallow room, so I could just pass out there if I needed to and gravity would take care of the rest. Speaking of… I set my bag on the bed and went over to the case I kept my weapons in. I hadn’t brought the really nice stuff with me, because out there shit got lost in battle all the time. This time had been no different. As I opened everything up and ran my fingers over the various blades and guns, my skin tingled. Pain was metaphorically peeking over my shoulder, eyes wide at the tools that brought him so much pleasure. Indeed, it had been a while, especially with such fine weapons. With a resolved sigh, I picked up a nine-inch steel dagger, wrapping my palm tight around the finely-decorated hilt and squeezing it until my knuckles turned white. Leaving the case open, I stepped back towards my bed, catching the reflection of my eyes in the blade. I swore I saw Pain looking back at me. Indeed he was making his presence known. I sat down next to my bag and ran my fingers along the edge and over the tip. Pain started panting in anticipation, and I had to admit, so did I. I licked my lips when the blade caught the light as I tilted it back and forth. Then with my free hand, I slid my shirt over my head, shaking it off over the blade last. Sometimes I did this with my clothes on. After all, it was easier to control where the blood went when there was fabric right there to soak it up. But this time, I was in the mood to see every detail. I carefully moved my bag to the floor and laid back on the pillows of my freshly-made bed. Apologies to whoever picked this cross-patterned thing out, but it was about to be stained a deep copper. They should have known better, but it was the thought that counted, right? As my back settled against the four or five feather-filled throws, I turned my hand and slide the blade across one of my pecs. I didn’t break the skin, I just liked drawing it all out. The puckered muscle flexed as my arm moves. Pain groaned loudly and practically begged for more. Just hold on, you know it will be worth it. /Stab now. I want to BLEED./ I hummed softly in agreement, dragging the very tip of the blade down to between the sixth and seventh rib. Then I turned my wrist and jammed the dagger down in between the bones, grunting as the handle hit my skin. Perfect. I could feel the tip poking down into the thick muscles of my back, nearly protruding out the other side. The organs and ligaments in between were roaring in pain, the nerve endings firing off panic and adrenaline as my brain went haywire trying to figure out what the problem was. Stars danced across my vision and my legs kicked. Pain splayed himself out across my grey matter, writhing in pleasure as my blood started to leak out of my chest and slide down my sides onto the mattress. It was a lovely combination with my tanned hide, and I decided some more would look even better. I grabbed the dagger and slowly slid it out, grinning and grimacing at the sharp edge’s path along my insides. Then I aimed for just under my belly button, carving an inch-deep path from hip to hip. As the skin split and my bloody flesh was exposed, blood began leaking again, trailing down both sides this time. Lovely, all the red as it stained my skin and the bedding below my body. The exposed muscles twitched in the open air. This time I wasn’t sure who was moaning, Pain or me. Sometimes I enjoyed letting him out a little too much. Back when I was just a warrior, you never would have caught me cutting myself for kicks. But after spending so long with another being sharing your psyche, you grew to take pleasure from the same kinks. Perhaps pain was a hidden one of mine and the demon just brought it to life. Perhaps I just grew to love the same things he did because if he was satisfied I could enjoy some peace. Either way, here we were, and I wasn’t about to stop now. I carefully set the dagger aside and popped the button on my fly, making quick work shoving my pants down. I hadn’t planned on heading south, but sometimes the mood just struck. My eyes flicked up to the door suddenly. Had I even locked it? Too late now, enter at your own risk. Thanks to Paris and Promiscuity’s conquests, we all knew better than to just waltz into one of the bedrooms without announcing ourselves first. But I wasn’t about to stop and go check the deadbolt. I was in the bloody zone and things were about to get cranked up a notch. My back arched up off the bed as each hand got busy with it’s own nine inches of fun. By the time I dragged my sated ass up and into the bathroom to start cleanup, I was covered in a mess of more than just blood. I glanced back at the bed before I shut the door. Yep. That comforter was definitely ruined.* #BladesAndBlood

[mydemonispain-blog]

A Warrior Returns

*I let out a long breath as I spun the gas cap on the beat up pickup truck and headed inside the station to pay. On my way up to the counter I grabbed a bag of ice. My ass still stung even hours later. Either my immortal side was weak at the moment, or those ranch girls really knew what they were doing with the cattle prod and the branding iron. After passing a few bills over, I headed back out to the POS I had bought for five hundred dollars in Prague. I had just crossed over into Austria, and was on my way to Budapest. The prospect of seeing all the other warriors after being away for so long had my gut a little unsettled. I wouldn’t have bothered, even being so close, but I owed Torin money, and probably a sincere Thank You for his help getting me out of jail. Pain was excited to see the others, especially the more physical spirits like Wrath and Violence. It never failed to amaze me how the demons got along. It made me wonder what things would be like if they were to reign free in the Underworld once again. And then, right on cue, I shuddered at that thought. Because that would mean /I/ would be ruling down in Hell right alongside them. Well, maybe it wouldn’t be so bad if the other warriors were there. Maybe if we caught all the hunters one day we could have a little field trip…

/YES. Lots of bloodshed./

Yeah, yeah, I know how it works down there.

I opened the driver’s side door and tossed the bag of ice right onto the seat. Then I climbed in and sat right on top of it. Pain whined, but I didn’t give a shit. I was starting to worry my flesh was gonna fall off and let’s be honest, my ass was the stuff of legends. I needed it in top working order. So Pain could enjoy some icy numbness instead of searing hot misery. Plus, it was hard to drive when all you wanted to do was stick your rear end out the window for some cool nighttime air. And I wasn’t about to pull a Kane and get myself crashed.

The headlights became few and far between as the hours passed and night started tip-toeing towards dawn. My mind was wandering as Pain took to reliving our time at the brothel to keep himself happy. Turns out Mr. Clydesdale liked all sorts of kinky fuckery, and I was more than happy to take his place and let the two ranch hands punish my body in any way they liked. My only request was an hour at the end where I got to be in control. They had laughed, but in the end agreed. By the time I got my hands on them, my entire body was covered in welts and warm bruisings. The hot iron had left all sorts of marks in my back, hips, and ass, the girls amazed at how much abuse I could take. Pain had been rolling in ecstasy, dry humping every inch of my brain as I was worked over. But then… it was my turn. I had strapped both females to the strange saddle-sex-machine contraption and made sure they came twice for every bruise on my body. One hour turned into four, maybe five, and eventually the hostess had come knocking on the door looking for them. Her eyes nearly popped out of her head when the door opened and her two finest girls were strapped to each other on the saddle with the bridle, connected in a very intimate manner by the bit as the sex-machine-contraption filled one of them from behind while I held a lube-covered cattle prod in my free hand. For a second, I was worried she might kick me out, or join us. But instead she informed me that I’d be charged double for the extra session and turned to leave on a huff.

I laughed to myself once more at the expression that had covered her face. Apparently whoever Mr. Clydesdale really was, he wasn’t the type to turn on his handlers. She must have known I wasn’t the real client, but as long as they got paid, what did it matter? As the lights of Budapest appeared before me, my subtle smirking fell flat, a little flutter starting up again in my stomach. I hadn’t been here in a very long time. I drove down the abandoned streets towards the edge of the fortress property, my senses on high alert.

I dumped the car about a half mile away from the border, just to avoid drawing any attention to myself. Then I snagged my small bag out of the back, kicked the now melted bag of ice off the seat, and headed towards the fortress. I stopped as I started up the hill. My senses were good, but I had no idea what sorts of traps Torin had laid since my departure all those years ago. I pulled out my phone and dialed in, standing perfectly still as I waited. I didn’t want to risk anything, even setting off one of his many alarms. It rang twice, then I heard a voice.* Tor. It’s me. I’m home.

#AWarriorReturns

[mydemonispain-blog]

Horse and Pony Show

*I should have stolen a car. Dumbass, Reyes. I should have boosted one of Tate’s rides and driven myself to the nearest hotel. But noooo. Stupid Reyes decides he can walk through the dark streets of Prague in the pre-dawn hours and find a place to stay on his own. I considered grabbing my phone and calling Torin again for help, but I already owed that ass a few grand and I wasn’t about to promise him any more of my cut. And if I stole a car, they’d be able to find me. And I didn’t feel like round two with Tate’s guards… if he had any left, that was. And so on I walked, hissing and grunting at the pain as I focused on nothing but putting one foot in front of the other, rinse, and repeat. Finally, fina-fucking-lly. A hotel. I grabbed some cash out of my wallet and all but threw it at the desk attendant, asking for a first aid kit. When I had one and my room key, I was off, trudging down the narrow and slightly uneven hallway. Pain was humming happily the whole time, loving every moment of my suffering. After I got inside I wasted no time cleaning all five bullet wounds, both entrance and exit. Just getting my shirt off was like pouring acid down my throat. Thank fuck nothing had hit below the waist. I kicked those jeans off like they were old news. Then it was poke, prod, patch, and tape. The whole time I cursed the gods while Pain pirouetted around inside my head. Jolly fucker. By the time I was done the sun was up. I knew I had get to the post office and mail the disc I stole from Tate. But at the same time, all I wanted was one hell of a cat nap. A lion nap? Whatever. I threw all the extra gauze, dressings, and tape off the side of the bed and flattened out, pulling the blanket over my head and diving straight into dreamland. Barely three hours later, I was up, showered, and packed. And by packed I mean I put my bullet-hole-ridden, bloody clothes back on, and slid the disc in my pocket. I realized I had left my small bag at the brothel. It was probably a lost cause, but I’d swing by there after mailing the disc. I slipped out the side door of the hotel, squinting at the bright sun. Shit. I had a hangover. Since when did I get those? Maybe it was the healing bullet wounds. The demon didn’t care either way. Pain was pain and he was mentally strutting right along side me as I looked for the nearest shipping office. I called Vic and let him know the disc was on the way. When I mentioned killing Tate and a few of his guards, he laughed so hard for a moment I thought the guy might be choking. Then he threw an extra five grand on top for my “extra thorough work.” Well, fuck, if I had known he wanted Tate dead I would have upped my price. Probably wouldn’t have these bullet wounds either. After all, I had initially not meant to hurt any of his men. But after getting caught, I really didn’t have a choice. Fire a gun at me and I /will/ make you pay. And once Pain was out… well… that was the end of avoiding violence. After all that shit was handled I headed over to the brothel. Today’s theme was The Rodeo. Some of the girls were still in animal costumes, mostly horses and bulls, but others had lassos and various assorted goodies to use on their clients. As I passed by the private rooms, I caught a glimpse of a hot iron branding rod searing the ass flesh of a very moany male. Pain almost turned my feet back around, but I mentally flicked that asshole right off and kept walking. You got your fill last night. /Not enough. Never enough./ You’re getting an eternity in this body. Trust me. You’ll get enough eventually. /Never enough./ You’re just a spoiled demon brat. /Want more./ Shut uuuuuuuuuuup. I growled to myself as I scoured the main floor for my bag. I was pleasantly surprised when I found it shoved under a table towards the back. Someone had definitely gone through it. Shit! My gun was gone. Torin would make me pay for that. But my clothes were still there, and I didn’t wait to head towards the bathrooms to change. I stunk like human innards and blood and death, and I really didn’t like the idea of trying to get to Budapest reaking of murder. I pushed through the doors, fly half down before I realized I had taken a wrong turn. Two females spun around, wide-eyed at the disturbance. They were both dressed like ranch girls, assless chaps and cowboy hats to boot. One was wiping down a saddle that doubled as some sort of sex contraption, the other organizing a set branding rods, bridles, and bits. Obviously they were prepping for their next client. The one licked her lips and tilted her head. “Are you Mr. Clydesdale?” I snorted at the name, then paused a moment. The women looked me over a few times, paying close attention to my not-so-zipped-up-jeans. Then they glanced at each other, eyes flashing with a hint of desire. One was a stunning brunette, all legs. The other had jet black hair and curves in such perfect proportion I didn’t even think the gods could do better. Nothing was left to the imagination because all the places women normally kept hidden were on full display. I pursed my lips in thought. Pain waited with baited breath. Then I dropped my bag and kicked the door closed behind me, hands already working the rest of my fly open.* Yes, I am. #HorseAndPonyShow

[mydemonispain-blog]

I’m Not Going Back to Jail

*I’m not going back to jail. I’m not getting booked again in that rank Prague prison, surrounded by the filth that ran the dirty streets of this city. Fuck that noise. I turned slowly in Tate’s bedroom, mind racing with options now that I had been caught. Tate’s eyes were wide, anger reddening his face as he pressed a call button on the dresser, no doubt to alert security. I could feel the disc in my pocket like it weighed five hundred pounds and had a big neon arrow pointing at it. Tate was spouting off questions, demanding explanations, and I just stood there, watching as the room filled with guards and the two females were sent on their way.

I carefully pulled the disc out, sliding it through the open window and onto the balcony. At least now if they searched me I’d have nothing. But that also meant I /had/ to get back out there to claim my bounty before leaving. So. How was this gonna go down?

/Pain is here. Let Pain help./

Two of the guards pulled guns and pointed them at me. Five others just flanked Tate, fists curling and unclurling as they awaited orders. And Tate was at the center of it all, still blabbing away about gods know what. Finally I interrupted him. I didn’t have time for this shit. In two hours the mail service would be open and I needed to get that disc in an envelope and on its way back to the states so I could get paid and be done with this nonsense.*

Look, I’m a thief, okay? I saw you had guards, figured you had money, and came to rob your room.

*The unarmed men started to advance, no doubt intending to search me. I smiled at Tate as they patted me down, disarming me but finding nothing.*

Obviously, you caught me before I could find your cash.

*I watched as my weapons were taken away, two guns, ammo, and no less than six daggers. The guards set them all up on the dresser as if they were on display. As if I’d never make it ten feet to where they lay. Mistake. I could feel Pain stretching and cracking his knuckles. It was time to bring him out to play. I was hoping I wouldn’t have to unleash him tonight, but with seven men staring me down, I was out of options.*

So. Shall we?

*Tate gave me a funny look. He didn’t think I was serious. My arm shot out at lightning speed, grabbing one of his men by the back of the neck. I pushed him down in front of me, face first, just as my knee came up. The blow delivered to his face was quick and effective. The satisfying sound of a nose and possibly his cheekbone breaking sent Pain into a frenzy. A few teeth hit the floor before the rest of him did.

/More.../

Two more came at me, one with a gun and one without. I grabbed the wrist that held the weapon first, aiming it straight up as two shots were fired. Dumbass. Pain laughed as I snapped the guy’s wrist with my hands, catching the gun as it fell while kicking a leg out to my other side and sending the unarmed guard flying across the room. He crashed into a oversized picture frame above the desk and landed awkwardly on the large flat tabletop. I was so used to fighting immortals, I had forgotten how delicate human bodies could be. The hand that caught the gun quickly unloaded into the first guard, three shots up the front of him like buttons on a suit. Then one in the forehead just for kicks.

/Yesss… more please. Make them hurt./

Isn’t that what I’m doing, ya asshole?

The rest rushed me all at once, and it was one immortal against four battle-hungry humans. I could see Tate just hanging back, waiting to see if he needed to run or if this would end here and now. Pain squealed with delight, and I didn’t even hesitate. He took over completely. I let my brain take a little siesta while the demon went to work. It had been a long twenty-four hours, why not let my noodle nap for a bit? I watched it all play out like a tv show, a backseat driver to the shit show that was Pain.

A thick shade of crimson covered my entire line of vision when Pain was in control like this. Victim number one was the other armed guard. Had to get those big scary weapons away first. We started off with a few punches to the face, then used the gun I had already confiscated to shoot out one of his eyeballs. Oh, the screams from that made Pain as giddy as a kid on Christmas morning. After that, taking the gun away was as easy as, well, prying it out of his hands. Both weapons were tossed out the open window behind me. Pain didn’t like gadgets, he liked to use his bare hands. And they quickly snapped one-eyed’s neck into little Scrabble tiles.

Victim number two took a knee to the gut like a champ despite the positively delightful sound of his ribs shattering like chicken bones, but the elbows to the side of the head didn’t go over so well. I was pretty sure cheek bones were supposed to stay inside the face. After he was down on the ground my heel smashed his manhood flat. He got pretty quiet after that, likely in shock, much to Pain’s annoyance. But the way he was trying to breathe with tears streaming down his face made it pretty clear the demon had done his job.

Victim number three was hoisted up by his throat and then chucked into the bathroom, crashing down into the glass walls of the shower. So much pretty little diamond pieces of glass, glitter all over the floor. We decided to drag number four in there with us, making sure both males were used as windshield wipers across the tiles to embed every piece of crystal into their backs and legs. The red spread across the shiny reflective surface like a beautiful sunset. Their moans were a sensual feast for Pain, and he moaned right back in pure bliss. Then we lifted both bodies up and tossed them into the tub. Their heads made a nice clunking sound as they hit the marble. We climbed in too and sang a song to the beat of their skulls being smashed into the hard edge of the tub.

And all too soon even that melody had ended. We stood up and started to make our way back out into the bedroom. Tate was there, holding both my guns and pointing them straight at me. A low hiss escaped me. Growling was for the bedroom, I hissed at my enemies like the snake that lived inside of me. POP. POP POP. Tate was firing. He wasn’t missing either. But my body wasn’t mine anymore. Pain roared, I think he enjoyed my own agony even more than what we inflicted on others. And then Tate’s neck was in our hands and we were squeezing, squeezing so hard it wasn’t long until we busted right through the skin and took his head off like a decapitated stuffed animal. The body fell to my feet and the head rolled off somewhere.

And then… all was silent. As pain retreated and my own consciousness came back online, I didn’t even bother looking over my handiwork. I just washed my hands in the sink, stepped over the corpses out onto the balcony to retrieve my disk, and headed out. Pain was writhing in pleasure across my grey matter, which meant I was probably shot up pretty bad. I didn’t look at that either though. If I saw, I’d know how severe it was. I had to get somewhere safe first. Then I’d deal with my wounds. I stalked off into the night, hoping I could find a cheap motel room before I passed out from blood loss.*

#ImNotGoingBackToJail

[mydemonispain-blog]

The Afterparty / The Brothel Part 2

*Turned out getting back to Tate’s was the easy part of my night. Once the drinks started flowing it was easy to joke around with Lad and the rest of the table. A petting zoo of females soon joined us, and before I knew it we had a circus train heading back to his place to party in the wee hours of the morning. I was hypnotized by the swaying tail of a zebra in front of me, Lad hooked over my shoulder as he spilled tales of their escapades at that brothel over the last few weeks. Tate was leading the way, and as we headed up towards his place, I remembered just in time to take note of the address in case I had to come back. How much did I drink? Normally it took ambrosia to get any kind of buzz, but we had been hitting the alcohol hard for almost six hours. I was impressed any of them were still upright. Although, to be honest, most were hanging at about a 75 degree angle as the doors swung open and we spilled into the courtyard of Tate’s current residence. Did he own this place? Or was he just staying here? I knew the first moment I had free I needed to head off in search of that disc. But it would help if I knew whether to head towards the master bedroom or the guest suites. Thankfully, my question was answered for me as Lad divulged how Tate was renting this place while he was staying here, and the entire security detail had crashed in the extra bedrooms. We managed to get ourselves onto the pool deck, and then one of the guards started carrying out more bottles of booze. And so, the party continued. I thought of just pretending I had to take a piss, but I realized I was going to need more than two minutes to locate this disc. As I thought about what to do, the zebra-painted woman managed to slide across the lounger next to me and land with her head in my lap. Pain growled at the way she nuzzled my thigh. Too gentle. The demon was restless, and I had to admit, I was too. I was running out of time, and the drunker everyone got, the more likely they were to go inside to bed. I needed to make my move and soon. The sound of a zipper made me jump, eyes dropping just in time to catch the zebra woman working my fly down.* Oh, no you don’t. *I grabbed her hands and stopped her. /Maybe she’ll use her teeth./ Shut the hell up, Pain. /Ask her to use her teeth! Or her nails.../ For fuck’s sake. The female pouted and groaned, her makeup starting to smudge from the sweat and rolling around against my groin. Guess these pants were going in the trash tomorrow. Then again, after spending the last twenty four hours on a plane and then in jail before my evening at the brothel… yeah. Definitely burning them. Then an idea came to me.* Yo, Lad! Is it cool if I help this one inside for ah, you know, to help her clean up? *Lad looked over as I removed the zebra woman’s hands from my fly again, smiling wide. “Go on inside man, rooms are upstairs to the right.” I gave him a wink and helped the woman up. Halfway to the door I had to scoop her up in my arms because she couldn’t walk anymore. Thank the gods, she would hopefully pass right out and I could go find that disc. Sixty seconds later I had her on a guest room bed, and I was backing out the door. She woke up and rolled over to her stomach, wiggling that damn hypnotic zebra tail at me. “Where are you going? We haven’t even started yet.” /Spank her. Pull her tail. Pull her hair. Fuck her upside down. Make her scream./ ENOUGH, Demon. Don’t you want to get paid? Get back to Budapest? /I want to hurt. Can we hurt first? She would like it very much./ No. /HURT.HURT.HURT./ I growled and looked up at the woman, not even caring that my expression was serial-killer dark as I lied to her.* I’ll be right back. Get comfortable. *I blinked in surprise as she moaned at the growl and sprawled out again, closing my eyes as I retreated from the room and prayed that image didn’t haunt me for a long time. Pain wasn’t happy, but I gave him a big mental middle finger and headed off to find the master suite. It took a few tries, but behind door number five, I found it. I wasted no time digging into drawers, the closets--yes, plural closets--and behind the furniture. After a few minutes I was starting to get desperate. Then I noticed a few boxes stacked in the linen closet. Hmm. I went into the bathroom and started opening them up. BINGO. Old burner cell phones, a few handguns, and wah-lah. The disc. I snagged it and slipped it in my pocket, closing it all back up. I slid back into the bedroom and opened the door to head back--SHIT. I closed it immediately and backed up. Tate, a tiger, and a poodle were headed my way. Was there another way out of here? I had about fifteen seconds to figure it out. I was halfway out the window when the door opened and a booming "WHAT THE FUCK?!" was shouted in my direction.* #ToBeContinued #TheAfterparty #TheBrothelPart2

[mydemonispain-blog]

The Brothel Part 1

*The name of this brothel sounded like a mix between some exotic dish and some exotic service offered to VIP members. I paid the man at the door and slipped inside, my nose immediately assaulted with the scents of bodies, sweat, sex, and various perfumes and deodorizers meant to cover it all up. A hostess greeted me, her body painted to look like a cheetah and turquoise contacts to match. As she asked me questions about what I’d be interested in this evening, I asked if there was a bar or open area to catch a show. I imagined if Mr. Tate spent a good amount of time here, that’s where he’d hang out. The spotted female turned and led the way, a plug complete with cheetah tail hanging from her paint-covered ass as she slowly walked. Along the way I could hear the more private encounters men were enjoying in the private rooms. Groans and moans, the sounds of flesh slapping together, beds banging against the walls, crops and whips being used. Pain moaned happily as we heard the unmistakable crack of leather hitting skin. Was Lion Tamer the theme of the night? My question was answered as we turned the corner and entered a larger space. Makeshift cages were spread about, some low enough the women inside had to crawl on their hands and knees, the other vertical so their bodies could be on display as they feebly attempted to claw their way out. Some were leashed up near tables or couches, others roaming free. And every animal imaginable was painted onto their naked bodies. Panthers, ponies, kittens, lions, poodles, bunnies, birds, even hippos and bears. There was an entire zoo represented, and on stage were a flock of peacocks, their colorful feathers perched high. The irony that for most species in the animal kingdom, the males were normally the more colorful and decorated sex wasn’t lost on me. Then again, this place was hardly the kind people came to face reality. The cheetah led me to a booth and only after I had sat down did she bend over before leaving, swinging her tail around a few times. The places they could get paint into baffled me. The moment she was gone, a zebra-painted waitress arrived and took my drink order. I glanced over at the men sitting in the booth next to me, a female painted like a Siamese cat giving herself a tongue bath right smack dab in the middle of their table. They definitely didn’t seem to mind. A glass was set down in front of me and I scanned the rest of the place as I slowly sipped it. Pain was prowling for a victim, the sounds of the Lion Tamers too difficult to hear now. Just, relax, demon. All I got in response was a hiss. I was worried this Tate guy wasn’t gonna show, but just as my second drink arrived, I saw him head out from one of the private areas, zipping up his pants as he headed across the way and took up residence in a booth just like mine. A few other guys followed, but just sort of hung around close by. Bodyguards? Or just an entourage, perhaps. Only one way to find out. I waited for Tate to get out of the booth and head over towards the stage.  Then I slid out of my seat, taking my drink with me as I headed over to his now-empty table, coming at it from the side so it wasn’t obvious until I bumped into one of the guys that still stood guard.* Oh, shit, sorry man. I can barely see in this place, I think I’m allergic to all these animals or something, my eyes are all puffy. *The guy gave me a look, but then smirked and nodded. “Maybe a Benadryl chaser after your Viagra?” I laughed and held up my glass to him.* Right on, man. Now, help me decide between the wolf girl and the kitty cat. I’m worried if I have them both at the same time one will eat the other. Or maybe that costs extra? *The guy tipped his head back and laughed, and I grinned wide at him. After that the banter came easy with so much material right in front of us. Finally I nodded towards Tate as he handed a few bills to the birds on stage.* So what’s the deal, you private security or something? *The guy looked up at Tate, then shook his head at me and smiled. “Nah, man, just doing a favor for a friend of mine. If I was working I wouldn’t be drinking or pulling that poodle’s tail every time she walks by.” I looked over at the one he was referring to.* Yeah, I’d like to get her in a cage if you know what I mean. *The guy laughed again and waved their waitress over, a zebra with red eyes. Freaky, but they seemed to like her. “I’m Lad, by the way.” He offered a hand.  I shook it.* Reyes. *Pain growled behind my ears. Easy, fucker. By the time Tate returned and slid in the booth, our round of drinks had arrived. Lad clapped my shoulder and we all sat down. “Who the fuck is this?” Tate examined me with his eyes. “This is Reyes, man, take it easy,” Lad responded. Tate’s eyes stayed locked on mine. I gave him a devilish smile. Finally, he looked over at Lad again. “I don’t pay you to make friends.” Lad rolled his eyes and downed his drink. “But you’ll pay for women to fuck me?” Tate’s gaze narrowed. “I’m not paying for you to waste thirty seconds of some woman’s life and then shoot all over her tail.” The whole table erupted into laughter, Lad and Tate included. “Fucker,” Lad snorted. I let myself join in, staying mostly quiet as the group began to bullshit back and forth. I was in. Now, I just needed to get Tate to bring me back to his place at the end of the night. #TheBrothelPart1

[mydemonispain-blog]

Jailed

*So much for laying low. For the remainder of the flight to Prague the Hunter and I were cuffed and strapped into jumper seats near the back of the plane while the Air Marshall perfected his stink-eye glare on the two of us. Pain wanted everything cinched tighter, of course. All sorts of questions were asked, to which we lied out our teeth. We were just two guys that didn’t like each other, nothing more. No immortal warrior, no hunter. No legendary curse of the gods and no vendetta against us Lords for releasing the demons on earth. No lovers quarrel taken private in the bathroom, and definitely not the other thing that couples do in airplane bathrooms.

Eventually the Air Marshall was just content to let us stew until we landed, taking us directly into custody the moment we landed. We were ushered out under heavy guard, a big production being made of our arrest. Under normal circumstances I would have fought my way out, but this was armed guards and security footage. I couldn’t become a fugitive of the humans. Any press at all was bad press. In other words, we stayed off the fucking radar.

After a few hours of additional questioning and transport, I was deposited not-so-gracefully into a jail cell somewhere in the center of Prague. I snorted as the Hunter landed in the cell across the way. This was becoming a pain in my ass, and that was putting it lightly. I had to find Mr. Tate ASAP, and this little detour was definitely putting a damper on my work. But all I could do was wait for my phone call. So I parked my ass on the floor, propped my feet up on the makeshift cot, and spent the next two hours annoying the fuck out of my neighbor with a barade of constant questions, everything from what the Hunters were planning to what size tighty-whities did the guy sport. For the record, he looked like a medium, not an XL.

Finally my cell door was unlocked and I was ushered out for my one phone call. I knew who I had to ring, and the guy was /not/ gonna be happy about it. I dialed up the fortress in Budapest and prayed to the gods that whoever answered would take the collect call. My recorded name for the Operator was “Reyes-In-Jail”, so I prayed the severity of my situation got across accurately. Thankfully after almost thirty seconds of silence, the voice I needed came on the phone.*

Torin! Thank fuck. Listen, I know I’m a shit but I’m in Prague and I’m in jail. No, stupid BS with a you-know-who. Yeah, I’m fine, just need five grand in bail money like two hours ago so I can finish up a job I’m working. Yeah, a job. What? Are you serious? Come on, man… but… I… can’t you just… UGH. Fine. Twenty percent of the cut and not a dollar more, you hear me? And I want a new phone when I get there. Three days. I promise. I promise! I’ll be there. Yes. Thanks, man, I’d say I owe you one, but it looks like we’ve already worked out a payment plan.

*I hung up the phone, looking over at the officer that was standing at the nearby desk.*

You’ll have the full bond within the hour. Then I expect to be released without issue.

*The cop looked at me and blinked a few times. “What about your friend?” The Hunter? I looked him dead in the eye. *

I told you, I hate that guy.

*As the sun fell I was released out into the city, my sole bag slung over my shoulder and only one lead on Tate. Now I was down to two days, and I had a debt to pay Torin as well. This was becoming a close call, and I wasn’t very comfortable with that. I was exhausted and wanted nothing more than to find a hotel and crash for the night. But it simply wasn’t in the cards with this kind of time crunch. I pulled out my phone to bring up the name of the brothel where my target had last been sighted and sighed as Pain perked up.

/Can we play, pleassssse?/

Let’s see how cooperative these brothel patrons are. I may let you out just yet.*

#Jailed

[mydemonispain-blog]

Pain at 30,000 Feet

*After I left my informant, I got on my phone and booked the next flight overseas. I only had three days to get to Prague and find this asshole, Tate. Then I had to airmail the disc Vic was asking for back to the states. I called him immediately after I hung up with the airline to give him an update. He said as long as the disc was in the mail by the time my week was up, he’d still pay me in full. I don’t think he realized this job would require international travel. But I promised him a tracking number and all that shit. I think he was just happy I had a handle on things. Obviously his own employees’ efforts had failed, his quiet cursing on the phone when I laid out my plans had made that evident.

Four hours later I was sitting in First Class on an overnight to Prague, my legs stretched out in front of me, my carry-on bag tucked in close nearby, and a hot towel on my face. Normally I wouldn’t have the cash for this kind of luxury, but Vic’s down payment on the job had been a hefty one, and if I was gonna sit on a plane for twelve hours, I damn well was gonna be comfortable doing it. I waved off the stewardess when she came around offering drinks, just hoping to catch some shut eye and wake up when we landed. I was in serious need of some sleep, the skin around my eyes shadowed and swollen from the last few days. I never quite felt at ease on my own. Whether it was a function of being away from the other warriors, I didn’t know. But at the moment I was 30,000 feet in the air with a finite number of humans aboard, so for once I was letting my guard down and resting.

At some point later a jolt woke me up. The now-cold towel fell off my face, and I grumbled as the cabin came into focus around me. We bounced again, and the pilot came on the intercom to say that we were just passing through some rough air and everything should be good in a few minutes. The seat belt light came on, but after sleeping for almost seven hours I had to piss like a racehorse. So ignoring the narrow-eyed looks from the flight attendants, I unclipped my belt and made my way to the bathroom. I slid inside and locked the door, taking care of business with half-closed eyes, sleepiness still fogging my brain. I flushed the toilet and washed my hands, reaching over to unlock the door. As I started to pull it open, my eyes caught a man standing over my empty seat. I froze on the spot, leaving the door open just a crack to watch. Pain was waking up too, his gaze locking on the stranger through my eyes and appraising him.

/That one wishes to hurt us./

How the hell would you know? I rolled my eyes at Pain.

All I got in response was a low hiss. I blinked a few times.

You know this guy? I asked Pain.

/You don’t remember him, do you?/

Should I?

/He is one of them. A hunter. He tried to kill Doubt almost ten years ago./

Attempted and failed, obviously. Why don’t I remember him?

/We were incapacitated at the time, left arm nearly severed and legs broken. Such blisssss…/

Fond memories, I’m sure, I snorted sarcastically. I must have been incapacitated, but you saw him. So what’s he doing on this flight?

/Are you really that densssssse?/

Alright, stop with the gods-be-damned sssssnake talk, Nagini.

I narrowed my eyes and waited. The guy looked around the cabin, then turned and headed my way. Likely to check the bathrooms, where I was currently hidden. I carefully let the door close and listened for his arrival. Just a few seconds later, the door swung open, and I didn’t waste a second, grabbing the guy by his jacket and dragging him inside the tiny washroom with me. Yeah, this was first class and all, but two full size guys in the bathroom together meant things were about to get up close and personal–and not in a Mile High Club kinda way.

I had caught the guy by surprise, but he recovered quickly as the door clicked closed, his fists swinging for my sides. I took the hits, Pain giggling happily as my ribs throbbed, and slammed the guy into the wall over the toilet, his legs splaying over the makeshift seat and kicking out at me. I pulled him towards me and snarled, then slammed him back into the wall again, just as we hit another bump. I heard a nice clap as his cranium hit, a little smear of blood left behind when he slid down to wobbly feet again. I leaned in and growled as my nose smashed into his with another bout of turbulence.*

What the fuck are you doing on this plane?

*The guy responded with a slew of curses, this that and the other, to which I just rolled my eyes and kneed him in the balls. His eyes nearly popped out of his head as he curled over, to which I delivered a knee right to his face. Pain was moaning in my ears, and I gave him a mental death-stare as the guy coughed a few times. The plane bounced, the two of us slamming into the sink, then back against the far wall again.*

I won’t ask again. Tell me what you’re doing here or I’ll stuff you down the shit hole and flush you right out the bottom of this airplane.

*To make my point perfectly clear, I kicked out his knees and plopped his ass on the toilet, a boot planted firmly in the center of his chest as I looked down on him.

“I f-f-f-followed you.”

My teeth flashed in a nasty smile.*

Followed me from where?

*The guy looked up at me and spat. “Since that warehouse. Your informant is mine as well, and I was on my way to meet him when I saw you pick him up.”

I blinked in surprise, then righted my face again. Looked like I needed to do some more recon on my contacts when I got back to the states. Turns out they were using me just as much as I was using them. And they’d pay dearly for that. Pain threw all sorts of suggestions at me, to which I waved him off. Later, you stabby perv. I have someone else I’m working on at the moment, or did you forget? The plane tipped to the side and I lost my footing for a moment, but that’s all it took, the guy knocking my leg aside and swinging for my face. As his bony fist connected, my jaw exploded in agony, Pain grinding himself against my skull as the sensation spread across my face and up into my head. I cursed at both the demon and the man and delivered an uppercut for the ages, sending the guy’s head snapping back just as the plane pulled a school bus and bounced us right out the door and onto the floor of the aisle. We landed in a heap, the guy’s knee in my side and his head cracking against mine.

I looked up at the surprised flight attendants as Pain whore-moaned between my ears, shoving the guy off me and sitting up with a hand to the side of my head. Not two seconds later the Air Marshall had joined us, and I had the sinking feeling that it was going to be a rough landing come our arrival in Prague.*

#PainAt30000Feet

[mydemonispain-blog]

Searching For Mr. Tate

*I pinched the bridge of my nose between my forefinger and thumb. I could smell the blood that coated my fingers, and knew I had just given myself some sort of war-paint across my face, but I really wasn’t in a position to give a shit at the moment. Not three feet away from me, my impressively silent informant sat tied up to a steel beam, nearly unconscious from the welts my fists had left on his cheeks and jaw. I was pretty sure the latter was dislocated, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t talk, it just meant it would hurt like a bitch to do so.

/Yessss… make it hurt more./

I rolled my eyes at Pain. You’re already getting a song and dance here, why don’t you just put it back in your pants and watch quietly, alright?

/More pain./

He can’t give me the intel I need if I knock him out.

/MORE./

Fucking gods, already! I growled loudly and swung low with my elbow, knocking the guys knee all crooked as his body swayed against the ropes. The man howled and twisted away from me, mumbling something that sounded like “Prague,” to which my head jerked around faster than that chick in The Exorcist.*

What was that?

*I leaned in and grabbed the guy’s face in my hand, gripping it hard enough to hear his teeth crack. I thought I saw a few tears leak out as I stared into his swollen eyes. Pain was clapping happily in my head, an annoying accoustic that made my temper a short fuse all over again.*

Say it. And I’ll let you live. You can go back to your pathetic excuse for a mob boss and explain what happened here. And he can come after me himself if he’s got the balls. Although he’ll likely kill you himself for betraying him.

*I let the guy beg and plead for a few minutes, confirming what I thought I had heard before. Prague. My target was in Prague. Which was eerily close to the fortress, but no matter there. Just because I was in a neighboring country didn’t mean I had to stop at home and see the whole family like some 1990s reunion episode. Finding Mr. Tate had been a bit of a challenge. After accepting the job from the trench-coat clad male at the club–whose name was Vic Tartino I had discovered upon later digging–I had poked around on this Mr. Tate and had come up with nothing for the first twenty-four hours. I knew the guy had likely fled the country if he had made enemies with Vic and Cesaro. But they needed him found and a very important disc retrieved in order to keep their business arrangements flowing. It seemed Mr. Tate had taken it when he realized he was next on their “To be exterminated” list. It was his last resort to get some kind of leverage. Well, little did he did know, Reyes, Keeper of Pain, was now on the case. Which meant there was no cave to deep, no crevice to narrow for me. I could find a dead man ten years warmed over. Perks of the demon, being able to visit everyone’s favorite post-life paradise… HELL. And now, with three days left, I had a real lead.

And so that was it. I was headed to Prague to find Mr. Tate and this mystic disc Vic and Cesaro needed so badly. I reached around and undid the chains holding my informant up, letting him slump to the floor while I lit a cigarette and admired the blood on my knuckles and clothes. Not bad for a few hours work. Pain was humming gleefully at a job well done. He knew if I had killed the guy, the pain would stop, which meant I’d have to take some of it. And I wasn’t in the gods-be-damned mood for self mutilation today. I had shit to do.

I took one last look at the guy as he lay on the dirty floor. Then I picked up his phone from the table where I had pulled the battery and SIM card out. I pieced it back together and tossed it on the ground next to him, letting it boot up and no doubt start up a GPS signal for his boss to find him with. Then I spun on my boots and headed out into night.*

Later, gator. #SearchingForMrTate