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"Simeon and Luke are returning as exchange students to the Devildom." Lucifer says this without preamble as he joins you in his study after another long evening spent in meetings with Diavolo.
You look up from your book. "That's wonderful news! I'm looking forward to seeing them both again." Lucifer says nothing, taking his dinner from the table by the fire over to his desk.
After another minute of silence, you steal a glance at him. On the outside, he's simply eating his dinner, his face a neutral mask. On the inside... "You're also happy that they're coming back, right?"
"Of course, why wouldn't I be?" His words are sensible, but his mind is conflicted. You know that anything that reminds him of his time in the Celestial Realm causes an upwelling of grief, longing, and anger at himself for this perceived weakness in his character. But this time there seems to be even more to it.
"I'm especially looking forward to Luke and Barbatos joining forces again in the kitchen. I wonder what they'll manage to come up with together this time?" Your eyes shine, remembering Luke's offering of Devildom citrus meringue cookies shortly after you enacted your oath against Lucifer. He had wanted to cheer you up so badly.
Lucifer's lips twitch into a ghost of a smile as he feels your warm, pleasant memories of Luke. "To be honest, I'm fairly certain that Michael is sending Luke here again just to collect recipes for more desserts. He had...has the most ridiculous sweet tooth." The small smile fades as he resumes eating.
"And what about Simeon? Why do you think he's being sent back?"
Lucifer sets his fork down and closes his eyes. Again, that strange mixture of grief and self-loathing for feeling that grief touches your mind. "Probably out of sheer spite. Michael knows that forcing me to see a former brother every day is a torment." He releases his knife with a sharp clatter, shoves himself out of his chair, and strides across the room to the racks of Demonus.
"I know you don't want to be reminded of this, but Simeon cares a great deal for you." You get up and stand behind Lucifer, wrapping your arms around his waist and leaning into his back. Your voice becomes softer as you say, "He told me what he did for you when you delivered the invitations for Diavolo's birthday party."
You feel him stiffen in your arms before he places one hand over your hands, squeezing them as he reaches for a bottle with the other hand. "Yes, he provided me with an option for repairing my wrongs to you." He sighs. "I don't know how to repay him. I owe him everything."
"As do I," you whisper. Lucifer turns to you, eyes soft, believing that you are just speaking about your reconciliation. He sees more in your mind, and the softness fades.
"He did something for you too…what was it?" His tone is curious, but there is an edge. Not jealousy, but surprise that this is information that you have not shared with him until now.
"I wasn't hiding anything from you," you assure. "I honestly just didn't think of it again until now."
You tell Lucifer your half of Simeon's efforts to bring you back together: The picnic, his reminiscing about his and Lucifer's shared time in the Celestial Realm, his quick and unexpected fury at you for how you chose to use the oath, his words of wisdom that helped you to give Lucifer a chance at redemption.
Lucifer listens without interruption, but you continue to feel the complicated mixture of emotions from him. His growing awareness of just how much you both owe Simeon. His latent love for his former brother, mingled with his intense revulsion of anything that reminds him of his time in the Celestial Realm. The desire to reestablish his friendship with one of his oldest brothers competing with the instinct to push him away.
When you finish, he grabs two glasses from the cabinet and opens the bottle he selected, pouring a generous amount into both glasses. You sip slowly on your portion while Lucifer downs his own glass in three swallows and pours another. He raises the glass to his lips, then sets it down with a sigh.
"It appears we are both in his debt to an extraordinary degree." He turns to you, red eyes glowing in the firelight. "What should we do about it?"
You swirl the remaining Demonus in the glass, lost in thought, thinking of various ways that you could thank Simeon properly. Each of you probes the other's mind, trying to glean ideas. After several minutes of this silent tête-à-tête, you look at each other with identical smiles. Perfect.
"I will make the necessary arrangements and leave the asking to you, dearest one. Make sure that he understands that he cannot refuse us."
"Of course." You pick up both glasses and hand one to Lucifer. A soft clink of the glasses, and a soft kiss that tastes of Demonus before heading to bed, where you dream of Simeon's blazing, wrathful eyes and his warm, comforting embrace in equal measure.
The doors swing open to the softly lit dining room. As the maitre d' solemnly walks you to your table, your eyes take in the beautifully dressed demons, the priceless artwork on the walls, and the Demonus rack that stretches to the ceiling. You know that all eyes are on the very unexpected sight of an angel being led to the most coveted seat at Ristorante Six: a private table surrounded by its own lake of fire, a muffling charm in place so that no one can hear the conversation of anyone who sits there.
You feel a hand clutch at your own, and look down, startled. Simeon squeezes your hand tightly as he takes in the sumptuous spectacle, eyes widening as you approach the table surrounded by flames. He leans towards you. "This really isn't necessary," he says for what feels like the hundredth time since you invited him to dine with you and Lucifer.
It had taken all of your persuasive skills to convince Simeon to come. After classes on his first day back in the Devildom, you had cornered him in the courtyard. "Simeon, please allow me to properly thank you for everything you have done for Lucifer and I. Words really can't do justice for how grateful we both are for your actions. Please allow us to repay even a small portion of the debt we owe you."
Simeon had blushed and run an absent hand through his tangled hair before responding, "It just seemed like the only possible action to take at the time." He had smiled and laughed, "I wouldn't be much of an angel if I didn't help those who needed it."
"So you would have done the same for anyone?" He did not answer, so you continued, "Lucifer and I talked it over, and we would love for you to join us for a private dinner at Ristorante Six. Our treat."
"No, I really couldn't impose, it's too much…!"
"Nonsense. I know you've been wanting to sample their food after helping Lucifer pick up some catering orders for Diavolo. And didn't you also bring some of their food back for Michael to try? Please… We really want to do this for you."
Simeon had finally given in under your gentle but firm persistence. But now, he looks ready to turn around and bolt out of the door.
You squeeze his hand reassuringly. "You promised us that you would allow us to thank you."
The maitre d' mutters an incantation and the flames part to allow you access to the table. He moves to pull out a chair for Simeon, knowing that Lucifer likes to seat you himself.
"Are you celebrating a special occasion, my Lord?" After making sure that you are comfortable in your chair, Lucifer beckons the maitre d' over and they begin a whispered conversation that lasts several minutes, punctuated with "yes, my Lord" and "very good, my Lord."
As the muffled conversation continues, Simeon casts an uneasy glance at the rows of cutlery flanking his plate. "Where is the menu? What is on there that needs all of this?"
"There is no menu. The chef decides the courses each night. Everything I've ever had here is incredibly delicious though, I promise you."
Simeon massages the back of his neck in that self-comforting gesture you have seen him use so often in stressful situations. "And how many times have you eaten here?"
Truth be told, you have sat at this same table in Ristorante Six at least a dozen times during your stays in the Devildom. Lucifer adores taking you here, always to this private table so that he does not have to suffer the indignity of demons gawking at and eavesdropping on his beloved human. It is one of the very few public spaces where Lucifer feels as though he can let his guard down and be himself with you without being behind closed and locked doors, and he takes advantage of the opportunity to bring you here as often as his busy schedule allows.
"Enough times to know what I'm talking about. Remember, the only people who can see and hear you are Lucifer and myself. Don't worry about fancy table etiquette or anything like that. We won't judge." You smile warmly and take his hand again. "Please, relax and enjoy yourself."
Lucifer finishes his conversation and the maitre d' bows, stepping out of the flames. He turns to you and Simeon and sees you holding his hand. "Is everything all right?"
"Just trying to soothe a very nervous angel."
Lucifer snorts. "Come now, Simeon. I know you have attended grander functions in the Celestial Realm."
Simeon retorts, "I am out of practice. There have been no Great Feasts since your departure. Michael's orders."
The familiar surge of emotions from Lucifer at the mention of the Celestial Realm courses through you. You reach over with your free hand to take Lucifer's hand. "What is a Great Feast?"
Simeon looks questioningly at Lucifer. "May I talk about this?" You know that Simeon is also sensitive to Lucifer's conflicted feelings about discussing the Celestial Realm. Lucifer opens his mouth to respond, but then a waiter appears with a bottle of blood red Demonus.
"Your bottle of De Profundis, my Lord."
Simeon gasps. "Lucifer, this is really too much; you cannot possibly plan to open a bottle of this!"
"I can, and I will." Lucifer watches as the waiter pours him a tasting, which he swirls and inhales reverently before drinking. A small nod at the waiter, and he pours a glass of the deep red wine for each of you.
"What is special about this Demonus?," you inquire. "I don't remember having ever heard of it before."
"It is harvested from a single vineyard in the Gehenna River Valley, located right next to the river of fire. The fire gives the grapes a very unique flavor. It is then aged in ebony wood barrels for a thousand years. It is highly prized among collectors, and Ristorante Six is the only dining establishment that has it." Lucifer gestures at your glasses. "A toast, then."
You and Simeon pick up your glasses and join them in the center with Lucifer's as he intones, "To my brother and friend. To second chances." You sip the Demonus thoughtfully as Lucifer and Simeon gulp their first glass, both overcome with emotion. You taste smoke and leather, spice and brimstone. "Wow," you murmur.
As Lucifer pours Simeon and himself a second glass, you ask, "So can you tell me about the Great Feasts?"
Simeon looks to Lucifer, who nods.
"Father would hold events called Great Feasts on days commemorating military victories or achievements of the archangels. Everyone in the Celestial Realm was invited. There were tables laden with food that stretched as far as you could see in the Celestial Hall. The Feasts would last for days, or even weeks."
"Grand affairs indeed. And you say that these are no longer held?," Lucifer questions.
"There's been nothing to celebrate." Simeon looks down at his hands.
Lucifer is about to reply when the waiter reappears, placing a sizzling dish in front of each of you. "Skewered void skate, my Lord."
Simeon picks up his skewer and takes a bite. "Oh….," he closes his eyes. "This is wonderful. So simple, and yet so delicious."
"See? I knew you would like the food here." You and Lucifer smile at each other, congratulating yourselves on your successful plan.
Simeon takes the opportunity to change the subject. "So, catch me up on everything. What's been going on in the Devildom?"
You fill Simeon in on your adventures since returning as you process through the courses: Infernal Venison terrine with bloodberry vinaigrette, Scorpionfish bisque, and a salad of vegetables harvested from the garden next to the restaurant. He shakes his head at the brother's antics and laughs outright as you tell him about the Gold Hellfire Newt Syrup. "Looks like someone is still a little embarrassed", he teases, noticing Lucifer's blush.
As the main course of Flamesteak with Nightshade coulis is placed before you, you feel Lucifer's anxiety as he prepares to ask Simeon a question he has been avoiding. You reach under the table and squeeze his leg. I'm here.
He nods and clears his throat. "And how have things been in the Celestial Realm?" His tone is nonchalant, but both you and Simeon know how much it took to ask that simple question.
"Lately, it's been a bit more interesting. Some strange things have been happening." Simeon tells about the ancient lake drying up and Michael's investigation. "It's been a never-ending round of questioning witnesses and taking statements, finding angels willing to conduct research on the lakebed to try and find a cause…" As Simeon describes the drudgery of working for Michael, you remember his words from before: he was once Michael's equal, a seraph. But because he refused to accept Lucifer's punishment as just, he was made a subordinate, as beholden to Michael's whims as Lucifer is to Diavolo's.
Lucifer sees this connection in your mind and pours Simeon another glass, then raises his own. "To getting the job done." Lucifer sighs as he says, "Truly Simeon, you are worth more than all of them put together. To be working for that pompous-"
"As an angel, I find my purpose in service. I accept my place." Simeon's eyes meet Lucifer's. "I have made my peace with what happened. Please...let it go."
Before anything else can be said, the waiter reappears with dessert, and you gasp as you see what is on the plate. Strawberries!
You grin at Lucifer. "How in the Devildom did you manage this?"
He picks one up and looks at it. "I know it is the one food from the human world you have been missing. It wasn't easy to get them, but I have my ways." He smirks at you.
"Of course you do." You lean towards him and open your mouth. Your teeth graze his thumb as you bite into the fruit, and he traces his fingers along your lips as he withdraws. "Mmmm, perfectly ripe."
"Have either of you ever had a strawberry?" Both shake their heads. "Well, you're in for a treat!" You pick up a strawberry and look at Lucifer. "Allow me to return the favor."
He indulges you, the tip of his tongue brushing your fingers before he closes his mouth. "So sweet," he mumbles in between chews. "Simeon, you must try one."
You pick up another strawberry and lean towards Simeon, who plucks it gently from your fingers before popping it into his own mouth with a wink and a small smile."
You are finishing the last strawberry when Lucifer places a hand on your arm. "It seems as though the piano is free now. Shall we?"
You look at Simeon and explain, "Once the pianist leaves for the evening, patrons can play the piano if they want."
Your eyes turn back to Lucifer. "What should we play?"
Simeon watches you stare at each other in silence for a minute before your faces break out in matching smiles. "The one we've been practicing, then." Lucifer takes your hand and leads you out of the fire to the piano. Simeon follows, wanting to see and hear Lucifer's famed musical skill.
After a brief pause, the song begins, a simple melody intertwined with a flowing cadence. Watching you and Lucifer play this achingly beautiful piece, your tempos in perfect sync, your eyes closed as the music swells and fades, Simeon begins to realize the magnitude of what he has done for both of you. This is what it looks like when two souls work together completely as one.
The song ends, and you and Lucifer open your eyes and look at each other. As the polite applause echoes through the dining room, Lucifer kisses your forehead and leans his forehead into yours as you bring your hand up to his cheek. When you begin to make your way back to the table, Simeon turns away, tears pricking his eyes. As an angel, he has performed countless acts of selfless aid. Never before has he felt so validated in his decision to help another.
"That was beautiful." He holds out his hand to Lucifer. "Thank you for inviting me tonight. It has been wonderful to see you together."
As Lucifer takes his hand, an image flashes through Simeon's mind. He sees you, lying on the floor with a twisted, ancient looking dagger sticking out of your chest. He sees Lucifer, collapsed over you in grief, screaming. He flinches and pulls his hand away.
"Are you all right?"
"Yes, nothing to worry about. Thank you again for a lovely evening…brother."
Lucifer smiles and clasps Simeon's shoulder. "It is good to see you again. I look forward to having more evenings like this together while you are here.”
After saying goodnight to you and Lucifer, Simeon walks back to Purgatory Hall, lost in thought. He knows that he should never ignore his premonitions, but he cannot see how such a terrible event would ever come to pass. He will need to remain vigilant, ready to intervene again should the need arise.
As you make your way to Lucifer’s rooms, he stops you by the Music Room door. “I would dearly love to hear you play that piece again.” His lips meet yours as his fingers gently graze your neck. “Please.”
You enter the room and sit at the piano. Lucifer tosses his cloak aside and seats himself in an armchair, eyes never leaving you. As you begin to play, you close your eyes and reach out to him. His love for you and the music swirl together in your mind, and you know he senses the same from you.
You have found that music is one of the most satisfying ways to reaffirm your bond and devotion to each other, offering a unique perspective into each other's souls. The act of playing together is especially intimate, allowing you to create a shared vision of the piece, building on each other’s interpretations, and immersing yourselves in each other’s passion in performing the work.
As you play for Lucifer tonight, you radiate gratitude. Gratitude that you are able to spend more time in the Devildom with the being you care about more than anyone. Gratitude that Simeon made this moment possible. Gratitude that you are blessed to experience such a unique and lasting love as this.
The final notes fade, and Lucifer gets up to stand behind you. He wraps his arms around you and kisses your hair. You place your arms over his and return the embrace, leaning into his chest and looking up to meet his eyes. "Just as beautiful as when we played it together," he whispers before giving you a gentle kiss. "I truly believe that I fall in love with you a little more each day that you are here."
He begins to straighten, but you reach a hand up to his face, keeping him in place as you arch up to meet his lips again.
A low sound escapes him before he grins and returns the kiss, biting your lower lip. "Oh? So you're not done with me yet, I see."
You stand and turn to face him, reaching for his hands and peeling away his gloves, wanting to feel the touch of his skin on yours. You cling to him, reveling in the feeling of his touch on your hair and face and his tongue on your mouth and neck before finally pulling away to catch your breath.
"I love you so much. I can't imagine being apart from you now, but it was such a near thing…" you look away, thinking again of how Simeon saved you.
He sees your thoughts and holds you close. "We are together now, dearest one. You will always be a part of my existence. I promised to never take my second chance for granted."
He strokes your face as he whispers, "I hope I have been able to show you how grateful I am for this chance to be with you."
You begin to kiss him again, with an intensity that surprises and pleases him. His breath catches as he feels your hands on his neck, loosening his tie before sliding down to the buttons of his vest.
"Show me again," you say as you undo the first button.
His eyes burn into yours. "Gladly."
You hear a click as the door locks followed by an incantation of a muffling charm before he picks you up and carries you to the sofa. "After tonight, you will have no doubts about just how thankful I am to have you. That is a promise."
And you know that Lucifer always keeps his promises.