Work Text:
A = Admiration (What do they absolutely adore about you?)
Your understanding. He works extremely hard and knows he can’t always be available when you want him to be. It just isn’t possible, so he adores that you understand his schedule and offer to help in small ways. That might be bringing him coffee, playing some classical music, texting him reminders to eat or dropping off small gifts (flowers, snacks or cute trinkets) to his desk when he isn’t home. It’s adorable and reminds him that, despite his work often getting overlooked, someone remembers he has basic needs too.
Did you leave this quill pen in my office for me? What a surprise. Its writing is divine.
B = Body (What is their favorite part of your body?)
Your neck and collarbone. This man is a sucker for that soft, supple skin that you trust him not to tear into. He could easily rip out your throat, and here you are, tilting your head back to feel his tongue on your sensitive skin, and you taste so wonderful. Of course, he would never think to bite too hard.
Human flesh doesn’t suit his palette anyway.
You’re concerned that I would eat you? Yes, you’re a delicacy in Devildom, but I quite prefer leaving a mark. That way, I can taste you again later.
C = Cuddling (How do they like to cuddle?)
Lucifer is not a huge cuddler, especially in public and while working. If you’re sleeping in the same bed, he’ll tolerate your cuddles until you’re asleep, then move away; if he’s feeling generous, he may hold your hand or allow you to rest on his arm, but he prefers his space. Why do you think his bed is so big? If he’s feeling touchy, don’t expect him to initiate. It’s his damn pride. Instead, watch for phrases that make it sound like you asked him to cuddle.
You were tossing and turning last night. I suppose you’ll sleep better knowing I’m here, won’t you? You can move closer if you’d like. Hm, yes, rest your head. I hear that listening to someone’s heartbeat has quite a hypnotic effect.
In public, he doesn’t mind an occasional chaste peck on the cheek or lips. He’ll allow you to lean on his shoulder in a booth at a diner, but don’t expect him to wrap his arm around you. While working, if his work isn’t particularly involved, he doesn’t mind you sitting on his lap and scrolling through your phone, reading or listening to music. Just don’t interrupt him and keep your hands off his privates. This isn’t playtime. You’ll lose the privilege if you push your luck.
If you insist on rubbing my chest, I’ll have to ask you to move. As much as I’d love to humor you and love having you on my lap, I can’t be distracted. Please understand.
D = Dates (What does their ideal date with you look like?)
His ideal date is anything classy and traditional far away from the chaos of the household. Can he leave the Devildom? Even better.
His preference will be somewhere familiar to him but maybe not familiar to you. This way, he feels pride showing you around town and telling you everything he knows about the area. Candlelit dinner, live classical music, a theater hall, a winery tour with a tasting or a factory tour (if you know, you know), perhaps a hotel room (just so that the evening doesn’t end with him dealing with his brothers destroying the house)...Somewhere he can learn something, watch your eyes light up as you take in new sights and enjoy peace with you. Alone.
Lord Diavolo insisted I take this weekend off, so I’ve decided to reserve a private table for two at Ristorante Six tomorrow evening as well as tickets to the orchestra. Don’t tell anyone. I don’t want Asmo butting into our date.
E = Emotions (How do they express emotion around you?)
Needless to say, Lucifer is an odd demon. He much prefers to bottle up his emotions and ignore them, rather than talk about anything that upsets him. Is he sad? You might be able to tell by the way he seems a bit slower to eat breakfast. Is he angry? Maybe his punishments are a bit more frequent. Is he stressed? Always assume yes.
Asking him directly will result in a scoff and non-response. The best way to get Lucifer to show emotion is to understand that he has so little time to grieve or wallow in pity that he simply ignores its existence. The most you’ll get will be before bed; if you’re suspicious he needs to be emotional, offer a massage and let him relax in silence for a while until he’s calmed enough to talk. When he feels that you’re available and willing to listen after spending time doting on him, he’ll speak.
You’re very kind to offer. I do enjoy your touch, but it isn’t often I have time to partake. Mammon’s bills are just...mm, that feels wonderful, my dear...His bills are extravagant with his new credit card.
F = Family (Do they want one? If they do, when?)
Lucifer’s family is the most important thing to him, and expanding that family with children is something he wants someday. Of course, don’t expect him to be overly involved in child-rearing. Oh, he’ll change diapers and play with them, but when Father is working, they best be occupied elsewhere. He wants children when he can guarantee that his partner is ready to raise them or they have the means to hire help if his partner works outside of home.
Also, I personally believe that Lucifer will remain at the House of Lamentation with his partner while his brothers get their own homes, so I can picture him longing to fill all the rooms.
It’s too quiet, don’t you think? I never thought all of them would leave home, but I admit that the house feels rather empty without family causing chaos.
G = Gifts (How do they feel about gift giving? What are their habits when it comes to this?)
Lucifer loves giving and getting gifts. It’s simple and doesn’t require him to be available personally to acknowledge someone he loves. You’ll often find small boxes addressed to you that you know you didn’t order. Inside will be something he noticed you needed or wanted. Were you shivering in your sleep? Oh, wow, a fluffy blanket. Did he notice you sighing and rolling your eyes the other day? Hey, what a cute teacup, and some stress relief tea. Did the coffee pot break? Have you changed clothes sizes? Did you show interest in a new outfit or knickknack? Don’t be surprised to find it outside your room later that week.
Hm? Yes, I listened. You said your shirts are getting too tight. Of course you’re beautiful no matter what, but I imagined you’d prefer something more comfortable in your size. Don’t look so surprised. I happen to do laundry on occasion, you know.
H = Holding Hands (When/how do they like to hold hands?)
In public, Lucifer doesn’t mind holding hands. In fact, it makes it easier to keep track of you and ensure you aren’t getting into trouble with lesser demons. Plus, he can observe if there are things you like for future reference. It’s a simple pleasure, not too touchy but enough to indicate to others that you are his. If you’re in a crowded area, he prefers latching at the elbow and keeping you closer.
In private, assuming his hands aren’t occupied with a pen and paper, he’s the same. He enjoys hand massages. (Hey, hand cramps are a huge issue!)
When holding hands, he laces his fingers with yours. Since he wears gloves, he doesn’t get to feel your skin on his, so lacing fingers feels more intimate.
You’re tugging me. What could have possibly caught your eye? Of course I’m following—I have no choice in the matter—but there’s no need to rush and pull me around the store.
I = Injury (How would they act if you got hurt?)
Overall, Lucifer is calm and collected.
If your injury is caused by your own idiocy, he’s most likely to roll his eyes and send you on your way. Bandages are in the bathroom cabinet. Look up how to wrap your ankle. If you need his assistance, text him and keep the injury stabilized while he reaches a stopping point.
If you’ve been harmed by someone else, he insists you tell him who. They will not get off with a warning. They will become Cerberus snacks if he has any say in it.
If it’s severe, he’ll call a healer or bring you to the doctor with a binder of documents under his arm. You do understand that waiting to be seen at a doctor’s office can take ages, right? That isn’t to say he’s not concerned—you’re quite fragile, after all—but he can’t afford to slack on paperwork. Besides, it distracts him from his worry, and he’ll continue to fret in silence until you’re guaranteed safe.
How did you manage to fall up the stairs? Honestly, it’s as though you’re trying to cause yourself pain. Get some ice and rest. I’ll check on you after this proposal.
J = Jokes (Do they like to joke around with or prank you? How?)
If Lucifer pulls any kind of prank on you, it’s likely to involve gentle teasing rather than property damage. He loves the occasional joke, but it must never be at his expense.
I’ve decided to offer your services to Lord Diavolo for four days each week since Barbatos needs a helper. I told him you’re more than willing to work twelve hour days. He seemed excited. Aren’t you?
Of course I’m joking. It’s only two days each week.
Come now. Don’t be so gullible. Do you truly believe I would do that without your knowledge? How silly.
K = Kisses (How do they like to kiss you?)
Always the leader. Always in charge. Always doing whatever he can to surprise you with a bit more than you thought you would get. In general, he likes simple kisses as often as possible—working, kiss on the cheek; waking up, forehead kiss; leaving the room, back of the hand kiss; feeling self-conscious, kisses everywhere until you’re begging him to just stop the praise already, you get it!
The more it makes you shy, the better. You’re having Pride show he appreciates you, so you better not take his behavior lightly.
Are you leaving for the store? Haven’t you forgotten something, my love? Surely you’re not heading out just yet.
L = Little Ones (How are they around children that aren’t theirs?)
In general, if he doesn’t have to deal with children outside of his brothers, he would rather avoid them at all costs. They’re loud, messy, chaotic and unpredictable. He gets enough of that at home. You think a child would approach him if they were lost? Think again. He’s not getting distracted from whatever his task is.
Must parents let their children wander unattended? I suppose we can send Mammon to take care of them or call for store security. Just keep them in one spot until someone is notified.
M = Morning (How do they behave in the mornings?)
As he says himself, he is not a morning demon, and that’s made very, very clear the first morning you witness him before he’s out of bed. Maybe you worried he was running late for RAD, or maybe you walked in to check on him, or maybe you spent the night in the same room. It doesn’t matter. Lucifer is a wreck in the mornings.
He’s a light sleeper and an insomniac, but when he’s woken from his hour of sleep before his alarm, he goes through a range of emotions. Once he’s roused, you receive the Death Glare. If that doesn’t scare you off, he’s likely to throw a pillow or a punch before he even considers crawling out of bed. He’s the epitome of, “Don’t talk to me until I get my coffee.”
Hm? My...alarm hasn’t…
Leave.
N = Nightmare (What is their worst fear?)
His worst fear is losing another of his family to something he considers his fault. Yes, all of his siblings followed him in the rebellion, but at the cost of his only sister. Was that worth it? He doesn’t quite think so, regardless how many times his family reassures him that they would have fallen eventually anyway. He worries one or several of them may rebel against Diavolo, who wouldn’t hesitate to lock them away forever. This is why he hides Belphie away. He can’t bear the thought that he’ll lose another. It would kill him. He’s already in the underworld. How much further can he fall before there’s nothing left beneath him?
He’s also not above recruiting familiars to watch you. His brothers would notice them a mile away, but you’re a human and don’t have that sense. It’s an easy way to make sure you’re safe.
You are family to my brothers, and to me. You’d do best to follow my orders whether you agree with them or not. I have my reasons.
O = Oddity (What is one quirk they have?)
Despite his smooth-talking and propensity to whisk the human into his bedroom without notice, Lucifer isn’t confident with touch. In the game, occasionally he’s shown to have waited for you to take his hand or touch him first. Then, he blushes and shows appreciation.
Personally, I don’t think he’s one to make the first move. He’s concerned he’ll become dependent on another person, and he can’t stand the idea that there’s another he has to worry about losing (hence his possessiveness). Unless you’re overly obvious that you’re interested or making a move on him, he just...won’t touch you. He’s a big talker, but he won’t touch until he’s asked a dozen times if you’re sure.
Would you think lowly of me if I admitted that I hoped you would hold my hand? Was it obvious?
P = Pet Names (What do they like to call you?)
As much as I struggle admitting it, in “Arcadia,” Lucifer does use the term “baby” at a few points. It’s difficult for me to see him saying that outside of certain, more passionate contexts. That said, you’ll have a pet name exclusive to the bedroom, and it’s likely to be a submissive one. (Baby. Doll. Girl/Boy. Brat. Rose.)
I personally think he likes to place you on a pedestal. His partner should be proud to be with him, and he’s proud to have you all to himself. Nicknames reflect his possessiveness. (My love. My darling. My dearest.)
As a bonus, nicknames he enjoys from you would be ones that make him feel like he’s in charge or traditional nicknames. (Darling. Honey. My lord. My prince. Sir.)
If you’re going to behave like a brat, you’ll be treated like one, babydoll.
Give me a moment, my love. I have one more document to look over before bed.
Q = Quizzes (How much would they remember about you? Do they remember every little detail you mention in passing, or do they kind of forget everything?)
Lucifer. Remembers. Everything. About. You. And probably a hundred things you weren’t aware were things you liked or did. He has an eagle eye for whatever items you see in stores. He listens when you talk about interests or events, even if he doesn’t seem to pay attention.
That said, if you told him a date in passing and he didn’t repeat it back to you or write it down, he will forget and have planned something in its place. It’s almost a guarantee. You can text him, but unless you receive a response, he won’t remember. The easiest way to plan a date or a get-together is by looking at his calendar yourself and writing something in on a blank day.
We had plans? What do you mean you texted me two weeks ago? I don’t recall...Oh. I see. Yes, well...Perhaps tomorrow then? I will make it up to you tenfold.
R = Rhythm (Let’s talk about their character song!)
“Arcadia” always strikes me as a trop house rhythm, something exciting and pumping like a heartbeat. The main focuses in the lyrics are how you are his, eventually turning into how he is yours as well. Why bother looking elsewhere when you have him? Besides, even if you manage to run off with another, you’ll always come back to him, won’t you? Of course you will. You’ll be back. You’ll always be back.
I picture Lucifer chasing you through a pitch black maze. At every dead end, you run into a sign of him—black feathers, a single glove, a throne, wine glasses of blood. You take turns you knew you took before that now lead you somewhere unfamiliar and new. You can’t escape this hell. When you finally, finally reach the center, he’s there waiting, arms open to welcome you home, where you’re safe, where you’re alone, where there’s no one else but him.
And where he can feel like he’s done something right. Please stay. He’s lonely.
I'll chase after you, the you who's only mine…
S = Security (How protective are they? How would they protect you? How would they like to be protected?)
Does this need much explanation? Lucifer is likely the most protective of all the brothers, and for good reasons. You’re a weak human in a realm of hungry demons. He’s already lost one sibling, nearly lost a second, and he’ll be damned if he’ll ever lose you.
I don’t believe going to The Fall with Asmodeus is the best idea. He’s likely to leave with a succubus and leave you alone in a swarm of demons. Take Mammon.
Lucifer doesn’t need physical protection. He’s one of the most powerful demons and can hold his own in any physical fight. Where he needs protection is when he’s vulnerable. Late at night, when he’s near sleep, when you’re by his side running your fingers through his greying hair, he feels like his soul is bared to the world. All he needs is for you to stay. Ignore your phone. Ignore your plans. Just stay and comfort him in silence.
Stay the night in my room. The bed is cold. Tell Levi you’re too busy to play games tonight.
T = Try (How much effort would they put into dates, anniversaries, gifts, everyday tasks?)
Assuming he remembers or has a reminder set (which he’s likely to have already because he’s quite organized!), he will go all out for the day. Anniversary? Yes, darling, I’ve reserved Ristorante Six’s finest private room and booked a two day excursion to avoid the brothers. Your birthday? Of course I found you a gift, and it’s one you’ve wanted for ages.
As far as everyday effort, he’s…not the best. A busy man can only spend so much time with you physically, which is exactly why he’s addicted to Akuzon’s two-day shipping. On days you seem down or when he’s scrolling through sales, he’s likely to pick you up a little something that reminds him of you or that would be useful.
If you’re on cooking duty, he might stop by the kitchen and help plate dishes or clean up, given he made time. He’ll try to wait to walk to RAD with you. Sometimes he’ll bring home a flower and place it on top of your head when you’re not paying attention, then leave before you notice. It’s not that he isn’t thinking of you, because he is, all the time. He’s simply always on the run.
I’ll take down the plates while you get the silverware from the drawer. Ah, sorry, am I in your way? You’ll just have to push around me, won’t you?
Well, I suppose while you’re this close, I should ask for a kiss. I’m not exactly one to ask, though, but I believe I deserve a thank you.
U = Ugly (What would be some bad habits of theirs?)
Aside from what’s already mentioned, of course. I think Lucifer is bad at taking care of his hands. Asmodeus does all the brothers’ nails, but Lucifer always wears gloves. I think he might be a nail biter or skin picker if his hands are dry, so the gloves help combat that. He probably has pulled out hair on more than one occasion too.
He’s got a tendency to keep secrets. Not even big ones! You’ll ask him if he’s going to the palace and he’ll shoot back a cheeky smirk with, “Why? Are you worried about me?” You ask what’s for dinner, he returns with, “You’ll find out later.” It can be infuriating.
He likes drinking. Not to the point of intoxication, but he almost always winds down the day with a tall horn of Demonus or some wine. Sober partners aren’t looked down upon, of course, but he’s always got an alcoholic beverage close at hand.
Sitting all day is another. He’s relatively sedentary due to all the work he puts on himself, so he doesn’t often find time to walk, exercise or simply stand. Man needs a dang standing desk or something. (Note: I headcanon that the only reason all the brothers are so freaking buff is due to their angel/demon genetics. It’s their build, metabolism and pure magic that keeps them looking ripped. Now, are they actually strong? Not necessarily, because Levi has washboard abs and no stamina or strength. That’s where exercise is useful.)
Asmodeus, I’ve told you a thousand times now. I don’t need another manicure. It’s hardly been two weeks. N-no, I refuse to remove my gloves and show you. That’s enough!
Ugh, my back is killing me. I need a massage…
V = Vanity (How concerned are they with their looks?)
This is the Avatar of Pride we’re talking about. Lucifer is always concerned with his looks. His RAD uniform alone is pristine, pressed and proper. He’s got perfect posture despite spending so much time slouching over documents. There’s a reason he’s always voted one of the most popular and attractive demons in Devildom, and he’s proud that he’s viewed that way. Granted, he doesn’t use hair products beyond a simple mousse. He has a basic skincare routine to keep his skin flawless. He polished his shoes regularly so they shine. Everything is thought out so that those around him think, “That guy has his shit together.”
How could I be out of cleanser? I swore I bought the largest size offered. That was such an expensive bottle…
…MAMMOOOOON!
W = Warrior (How do they feel about you fighting? Would they fight for you, beside you, etc?)
When you fight, he’s impartial. Sometimes he may even find it entertaining to irritate you further and watch you get angry. If this is a big fight, something he knows is important to you (a family issue, for example), he listens to your side. If he thinks you’re overreacting, he says so. If he thinks you’re in the right, it’s game on. You’ve got Pride in your corner, and Lucifer always wins. He’d prefer you not to enter fights on your own. You’re just too weak, little human. In fact, don’t be surprised if he intercepts your fights before you even realize something was about to happen. It’s easier if he simply settles matters himself compared to involving a human who complicates things.
Ah, yes, that lesser demon in your seductive spellcraft class who asked to be your partner dropped out of RAD entirely. How curious…
X = Xtra (A random headcanon for them.)
I’m coming out of left field here and talking about Lucifer meeting your human family and friends. Of course he’s interested in meeting those you love back home, but he’s a demon, and a powerful one at that. Let’s say he takes a week vacation in the Mortal Realm to spend with you.
Your introduce him to your guardians, and he’s polite. He notices a few crosses on the wall or bibles on shelves, maybe your family prays before supper, and he can hardly hide the burning beneath his skin. He does take a bit of pleasure flicking his wrist and jiggling the decor once in a while, and hell forbid your relatives call it a miracle that your partner is so handsome. He won’t stop laughing.
Your friends want the best for you, but they’re a bit…concerned. You left for a year, and you came back with a 6’4” man in a suit at your side? Come on, really? Lucifer isn’t keen on their nosy questions, though he does his best not to inform them he’s literally Lucifer. It’s easier that way. Your friends care about your safety more than anything, so he’s glad you have people who care back home.
Finally, I think Lucifer is pleasantly surprised and confused by human world customs. Sure, shops and restaurants are similar, but what do you mean there’s no Demonus? You can walk into almost any store and get a credit card? What’s this about tablets and RAM and intel and memory cards? And damn it, why didn’t you tell him the sun was so freaking hot before he wore his waistcoat?
We’re going home. What do you mean we have to wait for a rideshare? I’ll just teleport us, though Diavolo dislikes us using spells outside of Devildom. Wait, what?! Forty-five minutes until they’re here? No. No, in the alley. Now. I don’t care. Diavolo will understand.
This coffee pot is infuriating. What? There’s an app on your phone to turn it on? And the fridge? How is anyone supposed to keep up? What’s wrong with a simple door? Humans are ridiculous.
Y = Yuck (What are some things they wouldn’t like, either in general or in a partner?)
While it’s seemingly obvious he’s the overprotective type, he doesn’t want a partner who is overly dependent or needy. He’s a busy demon, always on the go, always doing paperwork, always focusing on one thing or another. No matter how much he loves his partner, he can’t function if they need to touch him or ask him questions every five seconds.
He’s a very serious demon. Probably the most of all the main characters. While some whimsy is good for his stoic soul, he can’t stand a partner who’s always trying to pull him out on dates, dances, parties, etc. He’ll attend an occasional get together, but if you’re the type to need your partner at every event, no matter how loud and chaotic it may be, he’s not your demon.
Other traits I imagine he’d find irritating are someone who doesn’t listen or pay attention, someone who lives in 24/7 brat mode, or someone who nags him about his work nonstop. Man needs support, not an overbearing partner. Despite what he says, the relationship is 50-50, so you both need to show and demand respect from the other.
Would you stop making so much [CENSORED] noise?! I’m trying to think here! No, I will not “punish” you, unless by punish you mean string you from the rafters or send you to Cerberus. Leave!
Z = Zzz (What is a sleep habit of theirs?)
Insomnia. One hundred percent an insomniac, to the point that he’ll go days without sleep before collapsing onto his desk in the study after a sip of Demonus. When this happens, he wakes up after an hour with an aching neck and dry mouth from snoring. Sometimes he goes to his room. Others, he falls onto the couch and sleeps until noon if possible. When he’s out, he’s out…except if he hears the brothers causing drama, then he’s awake in a millisecond.
Does he snore? Oh yeah. He’s exhausted, he sleeps in dumb positions, he tosses and turns from his stress, and he’s always struggling to find ways to stay healthy. It’s not pretty, but he’s not likely to do anything about it unless you really force him to.
Hm? Lunch is ready? I could have sworn…No, no, don’t come in. I’ll be in the dining room in five minutes.