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“Isn’t this cozy, Buri-chan ~ ? Just you, me, and the fire before us. What could be better?”
Satanick’s voice sang cheerfully through the air despite his proximity to the disgruntled flame devil. Seated on a lavish sofa in the lord’s foyer, Ivlis was left with little choice but to endure the man’s mushy sentiments. He had droned on and on for what felt like eons about the special night he had planned. For Ivlis, it was just another unconventional torture.
The holiday season always left him discomfited for numerous reasons. Hints of cheer quickly muddled with as melancholy reared its ugly head. Of course, his life had drastically changed over the centuries, yet it never got any easier to accept the reoccurring season.
He supposed it wasn’t all bad. His children enjoyed themselves, and that alone warmed Ivlis’ heart. Bringing his tiny family along to this Ne-no-Kuni was awkward at best, yet Satanick had insisted on it. His incessant pleas grated on Ivlis’ nerves even now, his whining voice dripping with festive merriment that left Ivlis’ gut roiling. Despite knowing where Poemi and Licorice were, it still didn’t bode well with him. His golden eyes glanced around the man at his side, listlessly looking into the deserted hallway. Blinking lights, decorated garlands, and all manner of Christmas paraphernalia lined the walls of this place, further sending Ivlis off kilter. It was much too kind for someone like Satanick.
A flash of purple filled his vision, and Ivlis blinked to clear his mind. Satanick maneuvered in front of him, his curious gaze roaming Ivlis’ face. “What’s the matter, Buri-chan? Are you worried about the kiddos? They’re perfectly fine, I assure you! They’re in good company.”
Satanick was a liar, yet this was one area Ivlis felt somewhat confident in. Satanick’s adopted daughter was nothing like the man that took her in. He was still in the dark on how this child even began living here, but Ivlis didn’t particularly care. Licorice had grown close to his half-sister, and Poemi had developed a similar fondness despite only meeting her a few times. In some way, Ivlis was relieved his kids had another playmate. Crea appeared sweet enough, yet he couldn’t help but worry about them. As if on cue, shrill giggles echoed down the corridor, assuaging his fears. They had spent the entire day unwrapping and exchanging gifts, yet their energy levels remained as lively as ever.
At least they were having a pleasant time.
Averting his gaze, Ivlis glanced down at the drink in his hand. Booze would accompany him through this evening. His scaled hands tightened around the clear glass, ice cubes clinking as he brought the amber liquid to his lips. A familiar tang coated his palette though it was highly dulled. Nevertheless, it retained its signature burn, and that was all he needed. The more he drank, the more his headiness could take him away from this moment.
It was strange how off-put he was. Satanick hadn’t even done anything horrendous. Torture was basically non-existent these days save for a few rare occasions, though that did little to alleviate his apprehension. In fact, he dare say the man’s lovey-dovey nature was far worse than anything he’d endured. At least torment was predictable. The man was an enigma, and each time Ivlis thought he had him figured out, something inconceivable left him reeling. Why Ivlis felt the need to even get a reading on him was illogical; he simply chalked it up to curiosity. After all, he had nothing better to do with his life. Things had grown stale – complacent. He had to admit it was nice not having to worry about a multitude of problems. The Flame Underworld struggled with its continual barrenness state; however, the prospect of invasions and conflict was a distant memory. In some strange way, peace had finally come.
Ivlis scoffed aloud, raising the cup to his lips for the umpteenth time. Taking a long swig, the liquor scorched a trail down his esophagus. As the warmth settled into the pit of his stomach, Ivlis scanned the room. A prominent source of heat blazed before him in the form of a fireplace. It wasn’t anything special considering he lived with that every day; it was just contained, forced to lick against the confining walls it resided in. Ivlis chuckled at yet another irony.
Satanick’s brow rose as he observed Ivlis’ strange behavior. His cheeks were visibly red, flushed by the amalgamations around him. He knew Ivlis preferred the heat and had promptly set his holiday plans in motion. Stoking the fire had only been step one; the rest of his plan followed smoothly with a few minor bumps in the road. Upon his arrival, Satanick proudly displayed himself for Ivlis’ viewing pleasure. The demon’s eyes widened before his face scrunched in disgust. Perfect; his plan was working. Decked out in a festive green and red sweater, Satanick presented Ivlis with his very own. The vibrant red perfectly suited Ivlis’ complexion. The best part was the adorable reindeer on the front. It had taken a fair amount of coaxing and begging before Ivlis reluctantly agreed. With a snarl, he snatched the garment from Satanick’s hand before tossing it on. As suspected, his Buri-chan was the definition of cute! The flame devil nibbled his bottom lip, curses muttered under his breath as he avoided eye contact. His coy mannerism only made him that much more desirable! However, that would have to wait.
Christmas was a special time to enjoy the company of loved ones. Watching the little ones tear into their presents was joyful enough, and there would be plenty more come morning. Nevertheless, there remained a primary endeavor Satanick longed to fulfill.
Right now, the evening was about Ivlis and him.
In retrospect, Satanick wondered if offering him a drink had been the wisest choice. He figured it would ease some of Ivlis’ tension, and in many ways it had. Nevertheless, between the fire, his newly acquired sweater, and the liquor, Ivlis’ appeared overheated. All the same, it was fascinating to watch his inhibitions lower. Shifting his stance, Ivlis curled his legs up on the lavish couch. Resting his back against the armrest, he stretched his legs directly behind Satanick. The man’s heart leapt watching Ivlis make himself at home. Their relationship was rocky at best, yet feelings had slowly developed over the decades. Ivlis was a stubborn man, and he would never let his wounded pride suffer any more blows. Satanick knew this with one look at him. However, the romantic in him wanted something more. He craved for Ivlis to return his affections. Of course, some passionate incentives always earned him a reaction, but that was surface level stuff. He desired something more substantial. Plenty of times he confessed his deepest feelings to the ornery flame devil, and each time Ivlis either flat out rejected him or avoided the topic. Such moments quickly progressed into carnality – something Satanick enjoyed just as much as Ivlis unwittingly did. Still, admissions of enjoyment were hard to come by.
Today, that would change.
Now, all he had to do was make sure Ivlis wasn’t completely inebriated.
Leaning in, Satanick plucked the glass from Ivlis’ hands. Bright sunsets flashed as he watched Satanick steal his lifeline away. His lips parted before a disgruntled sigh left him. A tiny frown creased Satanick’s lips before quickly exchanging it for a soft smile. “I think you’ve had plenty for now, don’t you, Ivlis?”
The man blinked a few times as if processing Satanick’s words. Gone was the insufferable nickname bestowed upon him in lieu of his real one. This happened any time Satanick wanted something more. Ivlis rolled his eyes before slumping back against the chair. Crossing his arms over his chest, his lips pursed and his eyes wandered.
Satanick stared in wonder, his mouth agape. Was Ivlis pouting? It certainly looked like it. Ivlis truly was a different creature when he drank! Of course, he longed for genuineness, and intoxication was a far cry from the real thing. However, in Ivlis case, he let his guard down just enough to bare his true self.
What a delight! He desired more. More of Ivlis and his true feelings.
First, he had to ascertain just how lucid Ivlis was.
Satanick reached over to place the neglected glass on the coffee table before them. Ivlis watched quietly, his eyes staring at the taken treat. That wouldn’t do. He shouldn’t be longing for a hangover when a perfectly handsome devil was right in front of him.
Satanick’s face lit up at the thought. That was exactly the problem, wasn’t it? Ivlis was too shy to confide his real feelings and thus had to rely on a catalyst to aide him along. Satanick mentally nodded at his stellar deductions. Yes, yes, that was the reason he relied so heavily on the alcohol. Still, Ivlis already had two cups by now; that should be plenty to loosen him up.
Sliding down the length of the couch, Satanick approached him.
Ivlis finally jerked his gaze to his, and the demon king’s heart fluttered. Shimmering orbs rested atop rosy cheeks. Equally pink lips graced his features, still glistening from the drink.
Satanick’s mouth watered. He couldn’t wait for phase two!
Placing his hands on the cushion before him, Satanick rotated to lean in closer. “So, tell me, Ivlis. Are you enjoying the peace and quiet?”
His timbre rumbled his chest, the vibration causing Ivlis’ hair to bristle. His breath momentarily stopped before he sucked in a deep one. Showing any form of weakness would only invite more trouble, yet the temptation to divert his gaze again was strong. Steeling his nerves, Ivlis stared headlong into Satanick’s eyes. “Wouldn’t you like to know?” he replied rhetorically. He smirked triumphantly as shock creased Satanick’s face.
Well, well! Ivlis had a little pep left in him after all. That could be either the booze or him talking. He had to investigate further. Gathering his composure, Satanick pressed on. “Why, yes, I would love to know. Hence why I asked you.” Scooching closer so his hips lined with Ivlis’, Satanick crooned, “Go on. Answer the question.”
The more the gap between them closed, the more flustered Ivlis grew. His claws dug into his arms, the thick sweater providing ample protection. Why had he ever agreed to wear such a ridiculous get up?! He could only imagine how stupid he looked. Satanick looked just as outlandish, the complementary colors starkly at odds with his usual attire. However, he still possessed those thick dark locks and bright phlox irises that bore into his very soul. Ivlis gulped. He had to maintain eye contact. He couldn’t falter.
Ivlis uncrossed his arms, placing them on the cushion to straighten himself. “Why should I?” he retorted. His voice held a mild snap to it, though a strange languor resided in it. If he pushed Satanick too far, he could only imagine the retaliation that would follow. Nevertheless, he felt… calm. Perhaps the alcohol was finally taking effect.
Remarkable! Ivlis was challenging him. It would be simple enough to correct him and get the upper hand, yet playful banter was something Satanick rarely got with Ivlis. With his stomach turning somersaults, Satanick went along with the game. “Because I want to know how you really feel, Ivlis. Now….” He leaned in further, hot breath brushing over the flame devil’s face. “Tell me.”
Ivlis’ façade was quickly fading, the sultry lilt in Satanick’s words the impetus for his undoing. The bastard hadn’t even given him the courtesy of getting drunk! Now he was forced to float in a headiness of stupor and bashfulness. He wanted to break eye contact. The hooded gems drew closer and closer….
Without a second thought, Ivlis raised his hands to fend off the oncoming devil. His movements were sluggish, and Satanick easily took hold of his left wrist. Captured midair, his chin was the next hostage. Cupped in Satanick’s palm, the man carefully maneuvered him to face forward. Ivlis’ free hand grabbed a fistful of Satanick's sweater in defiance yet also for some semblance of stability. He felt dizzy.
Satanick peered deeply into Ivlis’ honeyed depths. Like pools of warm sunshine, he could drown in the sweet abyss. A faint glaze coated his orbs, yet he had not reached pure intoxication. Good – Ivlis could easily be swayed to truthfully answer him.
“If you won’t answer that question, you leave me no choice but to pull out my ultimate weapon.”
A flicker of fear sparked across Ivlis’ eyes before his eyelids lowered defiantly. “Go ahead and try.”
It was foolish to egg him on like this, and Ivlis mentally berated himself for even doing so. He was surely in for it now! Holidays or not, he was going to be in a world of pain. Nonetheless, he had to stand his ground. He had to –
Satanick’s eyes flicked up before urging Ivlis to do the same. “Look above.”
Ivlis was hesitant to comply lest it be a trap. As soon as he looked away, it meant Satanick had won, and that was something he couldn’t allow. Nevertheless, curiosity got the best of him, and he slowly raised his eyes, face immobilized by the devil’s persistent grip. His breath momentarily hitched the second he saw the green sprig above them.
The fiend had presented this as a last resort; that couldn’t be further from the truth. Another Christmas tradition had been strategically placed overhead.
The flame devil had indeed fallen into a snare.
Ivlis’ lips slowly parted, no sound or retort issuing forth. Instead, he was met with Satanick’s mouth. Even if he had anticipated it, the initial shock sent him whirling. All semblance of resistance melted the more Satanick depend the kiss.
It was tender. It was sweet….
A delicious tingle raced across Satanick’s palette as he met Ivlis’ alcohol-laced breath. His eyes fluttered shut in bliss, soaking in the flavor of his dear Buri-chan. He had kissed him dozens of times, yet each one always left him breathless. The airheaded spitfire had grown on him.
No – more than that….
He loved Ivlis more than he would ever know.
For minutes on end, their lips meshed, each flitting over the other in peppered softness and wanton carnality. Tongues danced when presented the occasion, wet smacks filling the air as the temperature rose between them.
Time stood still as both devils basked in the warmth the other provided.
Slowly, Satanick pulled back. A trail of saliva broke between them as each set of puffy lips gasped for air. Ivlis’ cheeks had deepened in hue, the same shade as his red-tipped hair. Even that had lightened, now a vibrant orange. Satanick chuckled at the display. Ivlis’ mouth may prove contradictory, but his body was always honest.
As heated breaths intermingled, Satanick lowered Ivlis’ ensnared hand. His thumb gently stroked the ridges of Ivlis’ scales. Similarly releasing his chin, the demon king traversed the other’s face, awaiting him to return to reality. Upon Ivlis opening his eyes, Satanick grinned mischievously. “So, tell me, how was that?”
Ivlis steadily gained his bearings, ushering both his mind and heartrate to settle. The combination of liquor, warmth, and Satanick’s kisses were a deadly concoction. However, he somehow survived. Heavy eyelids concealed his full expression, yet Satanick’s attentive gaze continued to roam. Sucking in a deep breath through his nostrils, Ivlis acquiesced to the man’s obvious demands. He might as well answer him lest this game continue for hours and his resolve shatter.
“I….” Ivlis’ voice was soft, and the words stuck in his throat. However, he quickly pushed them out. “I didn’t… dislike it.”
Both stared at each other wide-eyed, the unexpected revelation taking both by storm. Where had that come from?! Why did he say that?! Ivlis’ lips flapped futilely, attempting to form a rebuttal. “I – I mean – w – wait!”
Satanick’s heart soared as his face ignited. Had he been drinking he would have fainted at the overwhelming rush washing over him.
Ivlis… liked it. He liked his kiss!
A victorious smirk lined his face from ear to ear. It was all he could do to keep himself affixed to the chair without leaping for joy or jumping on top of Ivlis.
“I – It’s not like that! I – I’m just a little drunk, that’s all!” Ivlis continued blathering, jerking away from Satanick. Attempting to slide backwards was another useless exercise, the couch’s armrest unmovable no matter how much he pushed.
Amidst the justifications Ivlis rumbled forth, there was no denying the magical effect it had. He clearly wanted to flee, yet his progress was stunted. Satanick let Ivlis rant and rave for a few more seconds, curses and excuses plentiful and shallow. Like a cornered animal, Ivlis fidgeted in place, his eyes darting wildly in evasive tactics.
Stupid, stupid, stupid! Ivlis screamed at himself over and over again. He couldn’t breathe. He couldn’t think. Of all the ridiculous things to ever leave his mouth, this one had to be the most embarrassing of all. Well, he recounted several in recent memory, but that was neither here nor there! How could he have been so foolish?! The maniac was going to stop at nothing now that he had basically given him an open invitation! He wanted to curl into a ball and vanish. The next best thing at his disposal was his hands. Raising them to bury his face in, Ivlis attempted to cover his shame.
The elation that filled Satanick could not be described. For Ivlis to readily confess such a thing…. Well, it was a true Christmas miracle. As much as he wanted to press the issue, Satanick dare not tarnish such a delicate moment.
Reaching out, he touched the back of Ivlis’ hands. “Ivlis.”
There it was again. A gentle voice calling his name. His heart threatened to evacuate his body through either his chest or throat – either option didn’t matter. This was all too humiliating!
“Ivlis.”
Again, Satanick called out to him. In spite of his caress, Satanick had not pried him from his position. What… was this?
As petrified as he was to reveal himself, Ivlis carefully lowered his hands. Having shut his eyes to block out the recent event, he unveiled them. Just as easily, they latched onto Satanick’s glimmering amethysts.
Like the rising sun, Ivlis’ vivid stare flooded Satanick’s world. After a few heartbeats, he placed his fingertips against Ivlis’ cheek. Basking in the pleasantness, Satanick whispered, “Do you want another one?” He didn’t need to clarify what he meant. Ivlis’ trembling irises said it all.
Surely he had pressed him too far, and the flame devil would retaliate in anger, tears, or both. Of course, he was used to such things, yet a fleeting part hoped that somehow – someway – Ivlis would say –
“Yes.”
The reply was meek, barely discernible had it not been for proximity. At first, he thought he was hearing things, and Satanick rapidly blinked, hoping that would somehow clear his addled brain. However, Ivlis made no move to reject him. His shuttering eyelids concluded one thing.
Impaired by something far more potent than any liquor, Satanick dove in for another passionate kiss. His fingers slid across Ivlis’ skin, his palm gently cupping the quivering jaw. Perfectly fitting his mouth against Ivlis’, the seasonal spirit morphed into a dizzying high. No gift could compare to the one before him.
This Christmas would be the most memorable of all.
Collab time with the wonderful Nekawa! Thank you for doing this with me, sweetie! <3
Link to Neka's Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fire_Kitty_nkw/status/1608147636892098561