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The first thing Liam felt was the cold around him, the chill climbing up even through his hooves somehow. Wait, hooves? Wasn't he just in his human form, though? Looking down, he could see his anthro form, albeit missing his swimming trunks. The next thing he saw, of course, was the giant ice block he was currently standing on. Looking up, he froze - though not literally, thank goodness - as he realized Davin was in a similar position, albeit on a completely separate block of ice... ice cubes. They were on ice cubes, floating in what looked like a lake of some dark liquid. Inhaling through his nose, he smiled; it smelled like his favorite drink. A rum and cola. Though now he was in the drink, not just enjoying it.

"This game, hm?" Lucian said, his voice booming somewhere above them. Slowly looking up, he could see the dragon smiling down at him from above the rim of a glass. On separate horns from each other, Mammon and Maeryn sat watching, though much smaller than Pride. It was like before, except Liam got the feeling that Lucian was the one who was the 'normal' size.

"Yes, this game," Dylann said, his voice just as amplified. He was sitting on the opposite side of Lucian, the side Davin was currently balancing on. Not that there was any danger of falling for either of them, since the blocks were massive compared to themselves. The fizz of the drink sounded far more dangerous from down here, big bubbles popping every so often.

"Craving some rum, hm?"

"You know that's not what this is about," Dylann said, his voice betraying no emotion. He was all business now, his eyes focused intently on the contestants below. Looking up, Liam could barely make out Rick and Mark on opposite shoulders, though Ortun was nowhere to be seen.

"Looking for this?" Lucian boomed, a smirk in his voice as he held up a small box. Inside was Ortun, still kneeling and masturbating constantly. It seemed he was completely lost in his own lust for now; without the constant guidance and aid from Temperance, he'd completely lost his mind. Liam felt a bit of pity for the mortal. "We thought it best to keep him separate from everyone while this goes on. Wouldn't want him influencing this, one way or another. Besides, he can't help himself."

"It is... unfortunate," Dylann said, clenching his jaw. "Did you really have to put him in a glass box like some kind of bug, though?"

"What? I'm impressed," Lucian said, smiling widely. "He has no shame right now; all he cares is the pleasure of his experience, and anyone else who doesn't like it can just go fuck right off. Still, perhaps he should get a bit of privacy. One of your boys over there looks ready to pop."

"I... I am okay, my lord," Rick said, biting his lip as he focused all his attention on the glass below them. Liam could hear him despite how tiny he was... no doubt to encourage participation from the 'crowd'. He wondered if it went both ways...

"What sort of game is this, my lord?" Davin asked, his voice ringing out across the alcoholic lake. Whatever else was going on, it seemed that he had perfect balance as the cubes swirled around the glass. "I don't believe I've played this one before, even as Lust."

"It's a drinking game, though unlike the ones mortals play this one is more for contests between Temperance daemons," Dylann explained. "It's an endurance contest. Sometimes daemons of lust or gluttony will challenge our kind to a game that matches their aspect, such as an eating contest, or drinking, or..."

"Or seeing who can go the longest without popping, though Temperance usually wins that one," Lucian said, clearly enjoying egging Dylann on as he made a wanking motion with his free hand. "Oh come on, someone had to say it."

"So we just drink until we're shitfaced and see who doesn't fall over first, hm?" Liam asked, tilting his horned head. Even though he was all ram from the waist down, the gray hair keeping him warm and framing his throbbing cock nicely for all to see, the hair was framed with orange stripes starting from his hips and up to his shoulders and neck. Though instead of a tiger's face, like one might expect, it was something between that and a wolf's head. Ram's horns curled from the sides of his forehead and out to either side, his ears framed perfectly within the curvature as the points stopped at either side of his jawline. His green eyes stared unflinchingly up at the giants, waiting for a reply as his long tail flicked in annoyance, neither cat nor wolf in appearance but thick like a kangaroo's.

"It's not that simple," Dylann replied. "Though I imagine you've been on more benders than I can count on one hand, Lust. But you're not too far off; you will be drinking until one of you 'falls over'. For one, you're both on slippery ice cubes, as I'm sure you've noticed by now. You both won't have much trouble on them, since they will only tip over should you lose your balance, but this is easier said than done especially as the rounds go on. You see, you will both take turns drinking shots of alcohol. For every drink you finish, more of your opponent's ice will chip away, but of course you will be affected by the alcohol in your system. Oh, and I made sure these drinks would affect you both the way it does mortals. So don't think you have an advantage, Lust."

"It's Liam, by the way," Liam said, shivering slightly despite his form. "But if we just do a shot every round, won't that get boring? And can't we just wait until we sober up before taking another drink?"

"Well you're supposed to drink from the glass provided to you within a minute, so I doubt time will be an issue here boys," Lucian said, taking over the explanation despite Dylann's death glare. "As for the shots, I thought about that and decided to make it more interesting by suggesting that in addition to having to order within five minutes, because sometimes you just need to take a breath or choke down your own bile, you'll have the option of one to three shots per round. The more you drink, the more you indulge... the more your opponent has to endure the predicament you put him in. But then, you might find the alcohol hitting your system at the wrong time later on, and woops! Into the drink you go! Literally!"

"So it is a contest of wills, as much as endurance," Davin said, clearly confident in his abilities. "I wish there was some other way to do this, my lord, but this must be a test of my resolve. To show the folly of too much drink, too much pleasure... too much lust."

"Way to to make it not fun," Liam sulked, though the clearing of a throat caught their attention once more.

"Obviously, if you fall in, you lose," Dylann said, stating the obvious. "If you pass out and lose consciousness, you lose. And as much as I wish this was a different game, Davin, I had a feeling Lucian wouldn't be satisfied unless I made it 'fitting' somehow. You were both Lust at one point or another, and thus the owner of Deviant Delights. What more fitting game than this?"

"Yeah the irony isn't lost on me either," Liam sighed. "Serving drinks, but getting served as a drink. None of you better drink me down or I am going to take a white hot ball of flame and shove it up your-"

"This will be easy, then," Davin said, clearly goading him. "Not to boast, but I do have more experience than you with this sort of thing, Liam. It's just the truth."

"You really think that, don't you?" Liam said, shaking his head in amusement. "Old man, the last time I saw you go all out at a party, electricity hadn't even been invented yet! Or this game, I guess. But can I get a clarification from the large and in charge judges?"

"What would that be?" Dylann asked, curious. "If you're going to ask for a handicap of some kind, I'm going to have to say no."

"If anyone needs the handicap, it's Davin. But no. I just have to drink shots from a glass, right?"

"That is correct," Dylann said, nodding sagely. "I suppose you're wondering where the glass is, though."

"Well, look who it is, boys! It's your fairy god-tender, made completely of ice!"

Floating up from the depths, a third ice cube broke the surface. It looked exactly like a minibar, except it was all ice... every part of it. The counter, the bottles... even the bartender itself, modeled after some kind of large vulpine creature. Even his name tag was ice... it read Vance. Nice touch, Liam thought, applauding despite himself.

"This bar ain't closing until one of you two loses this little contest," Lucian said, clearly proud of the spectacle. Liam guessed this part was his idea. "When it's your turn, you'll tell good ol' Vance here how many shots you'll be having, and like magic it'll be brought right to your delicate hands. Be careful, though! That one minute rule applies as soon as the drinks are within reach, and all at the same time! The more you have, the quicker you have to be, and the faster the booze hits your tiny little brains!"

"I think they get the point, Lucian. You always did love theatrics, and you're starting to repeat yourself," scoffed Dylann, causing a growl to emanate from the dragon. "Still, that is how it works. Oh... but I suppose I should clarify this as well. Partial submerging of limbs is okay, so long as it's less than half your body at the same time and doesn't stay submerged for longer than twenty seconds. But if that timer elapses or if your head goes under, that will count as if you had fallen off completely. Is that okay with you, Lucian?"

"Yeah, that's fine. I was about to suggest something like that anyway," Lucian said, chuckling. Liam shook his head; he totally wasn't about to suggest that, but he sure was quick to take the credit anyway. "Are we all clear on the rules now, boys? If so, get to drinking!"

"I'll go first!" shouted Maeryn, giggling from his place on Lucian's horn. "Hey Vance, make me a triple!"

"Triple coming up!" Vance shouted, causing Liam to jump. This ice golem had a voice too? The motion from being startled made the cube wiggle slightly as he almost lost his balance right then and there. Thank goodness the contest hadn't started yet, though he still glared up at Maeryn as he watched a glass floating up to the elder daemon.

"...Why did I bring you again?" Lucian said, echoing Liam's expression.

"Don't be mean! Besides, I wanted what they were having because it looked super yummy! Can you really blame me, big daddy Pride?"

"...Anyway..." Davin said, clearing his throat. "I'll start, assuming that's okay with you Liam?"

"Age before beauty," Liam said, bowing his head. "The quicker you get knocked on your drunk ass, the faster I'll win."

"Then I'll have three shots. Ordering a triple like Envy did would be cheating, I imagine," he said, shaking his head at Maeryn as he winked back down at them, sipping through a straw that he had somehow provided himself. The ice fox gave his usual line, before whipping out three shots of rum as quick as the eye could see. As soon as each one was within reach, Davin drank them all in succession. Just before Liam was about to ask if something was supposed to happen, he heard immense cracking sounds all round him. Looking carefully, he noticed that three large chunks had fallen away, quickly melting into the drink as if they had never existed in the first place.

"Wow, you cheeky fucker!" Liam laughed, even as he realized the dynamics of the ice cube had shifted. It was just a bit more difficult to keep his balance, though not by that much. He knew that would change as the game progressed, though. "Give me three shots as well, Vance! I'll show him how to do it properly!"

After repeating Davin's feat, he could see the same thing happening to Davin's cube that had happened to his, though he quickly realized the cuts were completely random despite the same amount being taken off. He supposed that made it more fair, but also he couldn't rely on predicting where to shift his weight based on what happened to his opponent. So it went for quite a few round, the alcohol surprisingly not that strong but quickly adding up as each took three shots. He supposed it was to make it more interesting; they were on rather large cubes, and if they passed out after round three it wouldn't make for much of an endurance contest. Though he was quickly starting not to care as his cock throbbed, the alcohol making him hornier than ever.

"I'm surprised you're still standing," Dylann said, watching as Liam survived yet another attempt by Davin to knock him off his ice platform. "Are you sure you're not of Temperance? You have amazing control for a lust daemon."

"Thaaanks!" Liam cheered, though he wasn't about to lose his focus. Nothing said they couldn't talk as they drank, of course, but it still felt a bit cheap to hear praise from Temperance. "Ever heard of satyrs? I mean... I'm not quite a satyr, they're kinda like... goats I guess. Like you! But... damn, they threw some great parties way back when!"

"And you, Davin, you're looking just a bit tipsier than usual," Lucian said, glaring at Dylann. "You sure you don't want to just end it already? Give into your desires and just take a big drink of that nice, cold, extra fizzy rum and cola right below you? Maybe you'll become Lust again, or maybe Gluttony will have his way with you. Maybe I'll take you as one of my own minions, if you beg enough..."

"Knock it off, you two! I have money riding on this!" Greed shouted, clearly not enjoying the teasing. "If you want to show each other up you can go get a room!"

"Said the small daemon, riding on the horn of the gracious, kind, and benevolent dragon," Maeryn said, reminding him exactly where he was sitting.

"You're lucky he's cute, and quick to praise," Lucian said, though he was still considering just dunking Mammon into one of the drinks on the counter. The space they were in was a tear in reality, where only the table and the contest existed. They had been there for a while, though, the magical ice never melting while the contestants chipped away at each other, so they had gotten themselves something on the side. Dylann was drinking sparkling water, and Lucian a scotch. While it wouldn't be good for the judges to get drunk themselves, Lucian had insisted it was non-alcoholic this time. "...Dylann, this is taking forever. Even if there is no time passing here..."

"Hm... I have an idea," Dylann said, clearly wanting an outcome to this contest but still sounding very bored. "Vance, one shots only from now on. Double strength."

"You got it, boss!" the ice fox shouted, serving the next drink to Davin. "Order up!"

Davin smiled, winking drunkenly at Liam as he took the shot glass and downed it immediately. His quick motion had upset the balance of the ice, but he was still somehow standing despite not having much more to go. "Sorry, Liam. Better luck... next time..."

"Fuck off!" Liam shouted, bracing himself. He'd clearly been getting into it, and in no small part because of Lucian's encouragement throughout the game. He had much more ice to go than Davin, though it was much more unbalanced. Davin had at some point taken to single or double shots only, hoping to out-drink him so that Liam would tip himself over by mistake. Despite how numb his face was starting to feel, though, he was a champion at this. Gods, this wasn't even a full weekend for him! He wasn't expecting when the much more visible crack showed up out of nowhere, cutting out an obvious part of his ice chunk. Cursing, he tried to get to a safe spot in time, but as the ice fell away his entire platform began to upend. Digging a clawed hand into the surface, he slowly felt the ice stabilize as it floated almost ninety degrees in the liquid. If he let go, he was going in... but he could feel his grip slipping even now, his drunkenness making it hard to not only hold on but to also resist the idea of just letting go and getting mind-fucked by Temperance. That was what would happen if he lost, he realized.

"Look at you, lost between wanting to win and just entertaining the idea," Davin said, once the swirling platforms let them see each other again. "You did put up a good fight, though. I have to commend you for it. Just let go, Liam. I promise it'll be worth it."

"...You know... that's real tempting..." Liam struggled to say, a belch escaping his lips as his head swam. He wasn't sure but he thought he could see Davin swaying just as much as he was, though with far more control. "But I gotta say one thing... before I fall in..."

"What's that?" Davin asked, his voice slurred. He must have been one of those drunks that could appear more normal, though if one paid attention they could tell he really wasn't okay at all. "Your grip's slippin', so hurry."

"Hey Vance! Gimme your best shot!" he cackled, watching the ice fox mix his next drink. "Last call, Davin!"

Startled by the sudden change in behavior when he was so certain he was about to win, Davin felt a foot step in the wrong place and cause him to start slipping. Working hard to keep his balance, his eyes looked up in horror to see Liam's empty glass leaving his lips. A loud cracking sound below him was all it took for him to realize it was over.

"Nooooo!" he shouted, the sudden shift in the platform's center of gravity causing him to lose his balance completely. As he held out a hand up to Dylann, the last thing he saw before his entire body splashed beneath the surface was Dylann's sad expression. What had been meant to be a contest to prove his champion's endurance had ended up in his defeat, and at the hands of a lust daemon, no less! Though at that moment the sea-goat didn't care who had won or why. He had lost his friend once again to Lust in his mind.

"It seems we have a winner," Lucian said, his voice devoid of any gloating. "You know what that means, Dylann."

"...I know. Thank you for not rubbing it in, Lucian."

"I'm not a monster. I know what he meant to you. What they all mean to you."

"Let's get them out of there, for the time being," Dylann said, his expression unreadable in that moment. "I'm sure they'd enjoy warming up to one of your fires, Pride."

"And I'm sure they could use some time away from any alcohol, Temperance. Their heads are going to be killing them, especially since daemons can't die from alcohol poisoning. They're gonna wish they could, though. After you?"

With a deliberate motion, Dylann's hand covered the glass, magic humming around Liam as he finally lost his grip and plunged into the alcoholic depths. He was sure there was a lesson or metaphor in there somewhere, but all he cared about was drinking as much as he could while he could. When the hell was he ever gonna get the opportunity again, after all?

*******

"Gods, you're so... fucking awesome!" Davin shouted, not fully in control of his voice as he stumbled drunkenly against Liam and tried to feel him up. They were supporting each other as they tried not to fall over, though when anyone tried to offer them a seat Davin kept telling them to fuck off because he was 'congratulating the winner' or something. They were clearly too out of it, so the others in the room from before just let them stay in the corner.

"Nah, man... you're awesome, hah..." Liam said, a lot quieter now as he basked both in his own lack of sobriety and Davin's praise. He was leaning against the wall, doing his best to support Davin's weight even as he clearly felt his own knees buckling from time to time. If they had had any water, it would have been easier, but Dylann had insisted they warm up by the nearby magical fire Lucian had provided for them. They had spent who knew how long on top of a bunch of ice cubes, even if no time had passed at all in the realm itself. And besides, Pride didn't do 'swimming'.

"Ugh... somebody shut them up..." Maeryn whined, trying to sleep. He'd clearly had more than his initial drink, though with his light frame it was a wonder he was still able to function at all. "Also, pay up Mammon. Liam won."

"I was hoping you'd forget..." sighed Mammon, but true to his word he forked several hundreds over before shoving his wallet back into his pants. Clearly the bets had taken a turn for the pricier as the game had gone on.

"Daddy needs a few new tops," Maeryn said, pocketing his money as he grumbled sleepily. "And I don't just mean shirts."

"Enough," Lucian said, his wings furled around him as he stood once more. He was tired of sitting, and so was Dylann. They both massaged their own necks and shoulders; leaning over to judge the match had been hard on them, though definitely not as hard as on their champions.

"Where's Ortun... I mean, Seth," Dylann, sighed, counting only Rick and Mark. "He's not still... oh no."

"Relax, I cleaned him up nice and good for you," Lucian said, snapping his fingers. Seth appeared on top of the table in a flash of red light, asleep but clean. "How long did you have him pent up for? Geez."

"I offered to relieve him several times over the years, but... I suppose his lust transferred to a desire for knowledge. I should have really seen that one coming... Ah! Don't you dare!"

"I um... eheh. That's too easy," Lucian said, clearing his throat. Even despite his serious stare, one could tell he was having trouble trying not to smile. "We should wake him up though. It's time for a choice to be made for all of them."

"...Can I go last?" Rick said, his voice soft. "I want to stay this way a while longer, if you don't mind. Before I make any decisions."

"Well, take all the time you need," Lucian said, surprisingly gentle with the mortal. "It's not an easy choice for a daemon, much less your kind. Though I am sorry you got mixed up in all this."

"I'm sorry, as well," Dylann sighed. "It's all my fault for not controlling myself. This is why I... no. Denying myself everything only lead to this, I see that now."

"People aren't things," Mark sighed, though he wasn't scolding him. "Though I never felt like an object with you, Dylann. Whatever else happens, I wish you the best."

"I know... I know," Dylann replied. "I just got caught up in the moment, balancing on the edge between Temperance and... well, Lust, I suppose. I desired you all for my own, and as a god I thought I deserved you all. Well... not a god, in reality. But worshiped as one, once. It felt good to be like that again, though not everything that feels good is beneficial or moral."

"You let your pride get the better of you, if I had to say. And I do," Lucian said. "Lust was just a byproduct. I won't excuse your actions, Dylann, but I understand. Shall I tell Justice, or...?"

"They already know," sighed Dylann, shaking his head. "They've decided I've 'learned my lesson', but I know it for what it is. Those more powerful than I, taking pity on the runt of the litter while turning a blind eye to the Sins once again. I can only assume they felt the mortals were better in my care than any of yours, even if it was ethically questionable in how they came into my service. But... they have names, and they are here with us. I'm just delaying the inevitable again, so I'll go ahead and ask: Mark, what have you decided, now that your head and heart are now clear of Virtue or Sin?"

"...I do want to go back to Earth," sighed Mark, looking over toward Davin. "And not just because of my boss, or the bar. I just... need some time to think about all this. Away from all of this. Maybe one day I'll come back here without you needing to drag me through a wall, but until then I need some time to sort out my thoughts. I have decades of memories in my mind, but they're all slowly fading away the longer I am cut off from you. But while some part of me is still your Amon, allow me to say this. It was an honor to have served you, my lord."

"There's one," Lucian said, nodding as he boxed Seth over the ears. It was a light hit, but all the same it caused the merwolf to nearly fall off the table in alarm.

"I'm up! I'm up..." Seth said, realizing where he was before sheepishly crawling off the table away from the dragon. "Um... what happened?"

"You put a satyr to shame is what you did!" Liam shouted, though he was soon distracted by Davin nuzzling against him and giving him a sloppy kiss on the neck. Davin had been turned over to him as per their deal, and he was filled with lust once again... though Liam was enjoying being the boss for once, enjoying the power he had gained from Temperance as well Davin's drunken submissiveness to him as an elder daemon.

"What he means is that you lost control of yourself and... well, it doesn't matter," Lucian said, chuckling. "The contest is over, and you have a choice to make. Do you want to serve Temperance, or do you wish to return to Earth to live your life? I'm not asking again, so make it quick. I mean... take all the time you like."

"Well," Seth said, looking from Dylann's glare to Lucian, then back again. "It was fun being a scholar and advisor and all that... but now that I remember everything, I realize I want some more experiences in my life before I just give it all away for some kinda weird monastic life of sorts... well, no. I'm trying to make it seem less appealing, since I am going to miss this place, Dylann. Maybe I won't judge my father so harshly anymore, but damn if I'm not going to be a practicing atheist while I figure this shit out in my head. I need to... not think so much, for a while. If that makes sense?"

"All things in moderation," Dylann said, laughing a little. There was no force or mirth behind it, despite his attempt at easing Seth's own heart. "But you will always have a place here, if someday you find you wish to return on your own. Still, I'll say hello from time to time when I visit the bar. If I ever visit again..."

"Please do," Seth sighed, smiling. "When you're ready anyway. I know it's going to take you some time, uh... my lord."

"I am your lord no longer," Dylann said, dismissing him from his service as well. "You are free, just as Mark before you. But that brings us to you, Rick."

"Why do I have to choose?!" Rick spat, his words like venom. "I was happy for once! I don't know if it was all based on a lie, or if I was manipulated or what... but I was happy! How dare you treat me like some kind of toy! All of you, in fact! How... fucking... dare you..."

The emotions Rick had been fighting suddenly burst forth as he leaned his face into his hands, his sobs filling the room. Seth and Mark found their hearts breaking for him, even though they knew their own hearts were in a similar state. They had already been offered the chance to forget any of this had ever happened, but they had all refused. The idea that none of this would matter at all just made them feel even worse, so they would live with the consequences of remembering what they could. Even if they forgot the details of many of their memories, the feelings and importance of them would remain. They all felt so old, despite not having aged much physically.

"I... I'm fine. Sorry about that," Rick said, sighing heavily. "I don't know what came over me."

"...You had your heart and mind messed with," Mammon said, looking awkwardly to one side as his sunglasses covered his eyes. "That'd mess up anyone, mortal or not. If you need to yell at us to get all that shit out, then go for it. I'll take it all, though not literally this time."

"...Eh... I'll just hit the gym, maybe. I don't know. The problem I'm having is I actually do want to stay, but I also want to go. I can't decide. I don't want to."

"But you have to," Lucian said, looking every part like some kind of angel despite his draconian features. "We can collect you later, though. If you want some more time..."

"No. The realm will just fuck with my head again if you do that," Rick said, shaking his head. "I mean, I'm sure Dylann would try his best to mask his power from me, but he just doesn't understand the effect he has on us. I can't help but kneel before him. He's the closest thing to a god I'd ever met when I was brought here. I finally felt I had a real purpose."

"Then stay," Mark suggested, looking hurt. "If this is where you're happy, then stay here. With Dylann."

"...And never see you again, Mark? What, you think it's my job at the bar I'd be missing? You're the reason, dummy."

"...What?" Mark asked, surprised. "You want to be with me still? Even after you and Dylann...?"

"I should be asking you if you want to be with me still," Rick sighed, guilt on his face. "It's my fault you got wrapped up in this mess at all. I don't remember much anymore about when I was merged, but... it's very intoxicating, the power of a being that far surpasses anything you've ever known. I felt like I could do anything, even take you away from Earth. I just wanted to show you this place so badly, and... and..."

Before he could start sobbing again, Mark quickly crossed the room and embraced Rick, kissing him deeply. Though a few jeers from the lust daemons caused them to blush a bit, they didn't care who or what was watching them in that moment.

"I don't know what tomorrow holds, but I love you too," Mark said, able to put the words to his feelings for the first time. "I'm sorry it took so long to realize that."

"As touching as all this is," Maeryn said, clearly uncomfortable and annoyed that people were still being too loud. "Rick still has to make a choice before we can get out of here. Ah... I didn't mean it that way. Sorry mortal... my head is killing me. I wish I was still drunk like those two, fuckin' lucky bastards."

"...That is so you, Maeryn," Rick laughed. "Never change."

"No promises," Maeryn said, giving a thumbs up. "Maybe I'll go blonde next in your honor."

"...Well, I do have an idea," Mark said, a smile spreading across his face. "Dylann, can I have your ear for a moment?"

The sea-goat humored him, leaning over to allow Mark to whisper into his ear. If they had still been connected, they could have thought the conversation out, but Dylann wasn't about to touch his mind after everything he'd been through with him. Yet, despite his feelings of guilt constantly washing over him, his eyes bulged as he reeled back.

"Really? You do know who you're asking, right? What I did?"

"Well it's not like you could do that on Earth. Not like you do here, at least. You'd have to break your own rules even if you wanted to. Unity of Virtues, remember?"

"What did you ask him, Mark?" Rick asked, confused. "And why do I get the feeling it involves all three of us?"

"Because I just asked Temperance to be our roommate back on Earth," Mark said, a smug look on his face. "But it's up to him, really."

"...I know you're asking me for Rick's sake, Mark."

"I mean it though," Mark said, crossing his arms. "It's not like you can just avoid us forever, what with your job and being a Virtue and all. Besides, you're my boyfriend's boyfriend, aren't you?"

"I don't know. Am I?" Dylann asked, looking over at Rick. "Even after everything...?"

"Yes. I still love you," Rick sighed, smiling sadly. "I guess that means I'd have to go back to Earth, though. As a mortal there, instead of here."

"I feel like you're leaving the choice to me, somehow," Dylann said, shaking his head. "I'll make you a deal. I'll give you my answer, once you give me yours. And don't answer what you think I want. Answer what your heart tells you. This is your decision."

"...Well, I can't just leave Mark now, can I? I really hope you'll live with us whenever you're in town... well, in Earth, I guess... but I'll go back with Mark, then. At least visit, okay?"

"I will. If you still want me, that is," Dylann said. "I'll spend some time here before I go back. I know I said I'd give you my answer after, but now I'm having trouble deciding... go on ahead of me, then. I'll let you know once I return to Earth. It'll be a drop in the ocean for you by the time I'm ready to let you know."

"Right, the time difference," Rick said, shaking his head. "But you know something, Dylann?"

"What is it?"

"I fucking hate my name," Rick chuckled. "I think I want to be Zale, still. It feels right. Assuming that's fine with you Mark?"

"Hey babe, it's your name," Mark said, shrugging. "You could be King Kong and I'd still brag about you to the world. If you want to be Zale, be Zale. It wouldn't be the first time you changed something about yourself."

"Yeah, you're right. I guess I'm still feeling kind of subby," Zale said, happy with his name change. "Though I am going to miss swimming around and whatnot. Maybe I'll sign up for the pool when we get back... wait, it's still winter there, isn't it? Fuck me..."

"Later," Mark whispered, causing a shiver to run up Zale's spine.

"I might have a few ideas on that," Mammon said, ignoring Mark's last remark. "Dylann, I think you owe these mortals something more than just apologies. Wouldn't be fair to send them off empty-handed, even if one of them's all lovey-dovey on you still. Love don't pay the bills, you know?"

"What do you suggest? Money?"

"Hmmm," Mammon said, finally speaking up after giving it some thought. "Well, I doubt your currency matters much on Earth, and I don't want to bankrupt your human self and make you start a new life in a new city, so... how about you let them keep everything you've given them? Assuming they still want it."

"...One boon each," Lucian said, rolling his eyes. "If we give them long life and those forms as a permanent thing, people are going to start asking questions. At the very least your cult might spring up again, and you know what happened last time that was an issue, Dylann."

"One boon each, then," Dylann said, clearly not wanting to dwell on that topic. "What is it you three want? Of all the wonders you've experienced here, which do you wish to keep with you? You can also choose nothing, of course."

"...I think I know what I'm going to keep, though maybe without the magical lure," Mark said, chuckling. "I know, I know. I could ask for more. But I've had enough of magical boons and abilities for a while... besides, I don't want to hide in the shadows anymore. Even if it was fun."

"If you're sure..." Dylann said, blushing. "Lucian will help you decide on your form for the return, of course. I think that's only fair, right Lucian?"

"I don't see anyone else more qualified, so I'll do this for you," Lucian said, his smug attitude back in full force. "After they're all ready, however."

"...I wish I could keep all my magic, honestly," Seth said, sighing as he bounced a purple ball of energy from one hand to another. "I mean, I doubt I'm going to be anything major with it since not even magic can fix my fucking issues, but it was nice."

"...Granted," Dylann said, surprising Seth and Lucian alike. "But with some restrictions, of course. You'll only really be able to use it fully while in any of our realms, or a pocket realm like Deviant Delights. When it comes to Earth itself, you'll be able to do just enough that people will just think you're a really good street magician, but not so much that people start thinking they can become mages or wizards if they pray hard enough to us daemons. We are NOT repeating that mistake."

"I am going to ignore that," Zale said, not wanting to think about which mistake he meant when it came to the history of mankind. "But it's my turn, right? Well... I don't want to lose my swimming abilities. I really enjoyed the ocean here... I don't know how to make that a boon though, besides raw talent. And that hardly seems like a boon at all, when I could just learn that anyway by doing it..."

"I would say you've earned that skill ten times over by now, even if I helped you starting out," Dylann said mulling it over. "But how about this; on top of preserving what I can of your ability to swim in the water, I give you something similar to what I have. It wouldn't be the first time, after all. Mermaids and mermen exist in man's stories for a reason."

"You mean, like how you can go from two legs and a tail to just one really powerful flipper?" Zale asked, excited. "Wouldn't that draw suspicion though?"

"Not at all, now that everyone knows daemons exist and bipedal animals who were once human roam the world," Dylann laughed, tapping his trident against the palm of his open hand. "You could just say it was a gift from a Virtue. It wouldn't be a lie."

"Gods, and have them treat me like some kind of saint? Pass on that one... though I would like that as the boon, all the same. Maybe I'll take a road trip to the ocean and just go Free Willy on everyone... and that's not a joke for you to enjoy, Davin!"

"I'm a bit busy myself, here," Davin drunkenly replied, stopping his make out session with Liam long enough to give them a wink. They'd been so preoccupied that they'd totally forgotten what was happening in the corner.

"...Get a room, you two," sighed Maeryn, glaring at them. "Nobody wants to hear you doing the horizontal mambo."

"Well, it's time I brought everyone back anyway," Lucian said. "Once you're done granting them their boons, and I'm done fixing their forms how they like, our business here will be finished. Oh, and Davin? We're even."

"I have no idea what you're talkin' about, big daddy Pride...!" Davin said. He probably wasn't going to remember, now that they all thought about it.

"Maybe those two should sober up, first. I'll bring them back after they do," Dylann said, waving his trident over the three mortals to solidify their gifts. There were no physical changes, but each of them could feel their boons become a part of who they were now. While Mark's was rather simple, Dylann decided to keep the part of his ability that let him enhance his and his partner's sensitivity simply by coming into contact with it as an added bonus. He'd let him figure it out on his own, though. "I wouldn't want you stomping your giant dragon feet in my realm again, Lucian. No matter how big you are."

"...Ugh, I'm gonna burst," Seth said, before using his magic to stop himself from making another mess before he spasmed over and over again. "Sorry... ngh..."

"You're gonna set me off if you keep doing that," Mark said, wrapping an arm around Zale as all three of them went with Lucian. As water began replacing the air in the room with water again, Maeryn and Mammon quickly ran after Lucian so they could be in his sphere of air, shouting and cursing at him to not leave them behind.

"Did they even do much?" Dylann asked, wondering why Lucian had even brought them along. Then again, he wasn't one to judge seeing as he'd done far too much already. He'd honor his word and bring Davin and Liam back, though he didn't have to be in the room as they began going at it in earnest. Forming a bed for them before he left, he locked the door behind himself. A simple wave of his hand, and a 'do not disturb' sign was left on the doorknob, just like in some of the hotels he'd visited on Earth. He'd check on them later, once they'd settled down a bit. He had a lot of thinking to do, and they... well. They were busy.

*******

"I feel like shit," Davin laughed, taking a drink from his coffee. "...You were right, Zale. This is the best coffee in town."

"Told you," Zale said, sitting across from him. They were at his usual cafe, the place where the road to his own transformation had all started. "Also, you're going to feel like shit when you drink that much, boss. Even I shouldn't have to tell you that."

"Look at you two, though," Davin said, smiling as Zale snuggled closer to Mark, who had wrapped his arm around his shoulders. "A big-dicked lion and a catfish."

"I'm not a catfish, fuck's sake," Zale said, though the irritation in his voice didn't match his smile. "Besides, you were the underwater topiary bush."

"...That's not funny," Davin said, realizing he sort of had been. "Though... it did feel good, while it lasted."

"Why not keep your form like I did, then?" Zale asked. It was strange to see him in everyday clothes, even if it hadn't been for his exotic appearance, but he had to admit that Dylann had done a good job with him. Merlion? Why hadn't he thought of that...

"Well, for one, I like being a bull-and-lion hybrid. My sun and moon zodiacs are very personal to me," Davin said, holding up a fingers to emphasize his point. "And two, have you ever been in this city during the winter? Not only would I likely want to hibernate the entire time, but it gets dark at like, five... and I am not staying inside with UV lamps just to stay awake. Maybe during the spring, though. I hate to admit it, but it was pretty efficient."

"Guess daemons need more than just mortal energy to function," Mark said, scratching his crimson mane. He'd lost his aquatic features, but his markings had remained the same, even though the red lines in his fur no longer thrummed with magic. "Then again, I need more than coffee to keep me awake, so maybe it's like that."

"Well, as long as I have a physical body, yeah. I sort of need to eat and sleep every so often. Though not nearly as much as you mortals," Davin said, purring slightly. Even in his human form, he somehow made them both shiver with delight as he stared with those intense, ice-blue eyes of his. "How is Liam doing, by the way?"

"Much better than I thought he would, if I have to be completely honest," Mark said, shrugging. "Hired a few new staff, even. Even got that panther to stop being so clumsy, so now he's serving drinks like it was nothing. Turns out he was just crushing on you really hard and it was messing with his training."

"No shit?" Davin asked, surprised. "I usually pick up on things like that. Maybe I'll pay him a visit later... once I feel less like an absolute wreck. It's been a few days now."

"How long were we in that place for?" Zale asked, wondering just how much time they'd spent watching them drink themselves to death. "Nevermind, I don't want to know. Time didn't pass there anyway."

"To be fair, Temperance's 'drinking' game is rather punishing. Even if you win, it makes you feel horrible enough to regret it," Davin said. "Something about the follies of indulging in alcohol or something, I don't know. But let's be honest, Lucian wouldn't have accepted anything short of a game that conflicted with Billy's nature."

"My name is NOT Billy," Dylann said, standing at the end of the table as he looked down at Davin. "Though I suppose I deserve to be mocked."

"You're here," Zale said, surprised. "I didn't think I'd see you again after you brought them back."

"Dumped on the floor of my bar, you mean," Davin said. "Liam might technically own it, but it's my pride and joy. And I was dumped unceremoniously upon it like yesterday's trash."

"I put you in a booth with Liam, Davin. Stop being so dramatic."

"You wounded me, sir. Disgraced me in the eyes of my patrons! Oh the humanity! Well... daemonity, I suppose."

"Are you done?" Dylann asked, before Davin simply laughed and nodded, moving over and patting the seat next to him. Without another word, Dylann slowly sat down next to him. He was clearly uncomfortable being here, even with just his casual clothing. "...Thank you for inviting me. I almost didn't come, but... well, thank you. I don't deserve to be treated so kindly."

"Honestly, I figure the best way you can make it up to them is to treat them like mortals, as a mortal," Davin said, shrugging. "I'm already over it, though. Enticing me with a magic cock and using kelp as bondage, hm? That reminds me, Mark... did you want to go for round two? I could introduce you to the joys of wearing a harness... or maybe I could show you my idea of a sling instead..."

"...We're sort of in a coffee shop, boss. People can hear you," Mark said, though Davin noticed he wasn't necessarily saying no as he looked at him with curiosity. "But how have you been, Dylann? Work going well?"

"I, uh... sort of quit. They wanted me to give the bastard I was prosecuting a plea deal and when I wouldn't do it, they pulled some strings and went over my head and... just, fuck that job," Dylann sighed. "It was Justice's idea anyway for me to be a lawyer in this life. My next one? As far away from legal work as possible."

"You can just quit being a lawyer?"

"Well, I quit the firm, yes," Dylann said. He was much more relaxed in his speech as a human, though perhaps that was also due in part to the more casual surroundings. It was as if there was no burden to act a certain way, or do certain things... actually, that was probably exactly it. In his realm, he was a king and a god, but on Earth? He was just another person. "I might help Greed or Justice out with some legal work from time to time, but as far as I'm concerned I'm unemployed. At least for now."

"I don't want to even know what sort of legal work Greed would do," Zale said, shaking his head. "But what are you going to do now?"

"...Actually, I was thinking I might go into business with Davin here. Though from the sound of it, I might have to talk to Liam to make it official."

"Dunno why you'd want to do that," Davin said, though he was obviously pleased with the idea. "Temperance, serving alcohol alongside Lust? Think of the scandal..."

"Everyone needs a place to unwind after a long day of work. Your place just so happens to do that," Dylann replied, shrugging. "Though I'm not going to serve alcohol. I was thinking of some new ideas that involve non-alcoholic drinks, actually."

"Send me the details later," Davin said, drinking the last of his coffee. "Liam and I are still finalizing some changes with the business so we'll be busy for a bit, though I'm sure he'll be happy to learn you're in town again. I know it's only been a few days but he's really growing into his role. Seems to like you quite a lot, too."

"Wait, are you still a lesser daemon?" Dylann asked, surprised to see Davin nod. "He didn't give you back the title?"

"I don't want it," laughed Davin. "All I want is to run my bar the way I see fit, and to help some mortals realize who they truly are along the way. Even if I didn't get off on it, and I do, it's always nice to see someone comfortable in their own skin. Or fur, in some cases. Why do you think Liam was able to succeed me, though? You don't really think I'm that lucky, do you?"

"...You groomed him for the role," Dylann said, realization dawning on his face. "You made sure there was a lust daemon second only to you in power who was also in a position to be able to inherit your title quickly. In case something happened to you."

"Or when and if I decided to step down as Lust, but yes. You know how much I enjoy letting someone take control of me, even if for just a while; what, did you all think I was being completely irresponsible with that? He was my backup plan, just in case, though I didn't expect him to drink me under the table. I have to admit, he's surpassed all my expectations. So even if I had been able and willing to resist you and your servants, Dylann, I was comfortable enough just enjoying the ride and seeing where it went. Though when it comes to my submission, you're the first to go quite that far Dylann. I can't say I didn't enjoy it, but let's not do that again okay? I still space out thinking about 'moderation' and 'humility' sometimes. It's not right for a lust daemon, you know? It's not right."

"...Ah, forget it. Everyone knows anyway," Mark said, sighing at how casually they were talking about it. "It's not like daemons are a new phenomenon anyway. But if I see any of this in a viral video online..."

"Hey, don't worry. No one's going to be able to recognize or remember my face here, even if they record me," Davin said, chuckling. "I'm wearing a glamour. It's, ah... an item that lets me 'hide' my face from anyone who I don't want to know my identity. They'll remember someone was talking about this stuff with you guys but not who, even if you say my name. Isn't that right, Dylann?"

"...I knew I was forgetting something," Dylann sighed, holding his head in his hands. "Ah well. It won't be the biggest scandal of the year, finding out a retired lawyer was actually a Virtue all along. It isn't like I'm trying to hide that much, anyway."

"Yeah, I've been meaning to ask about that, actually," Mark said, pointing at his head. "Your hair looks very familiar. And blue? Nice touch."

"Yeah, I can't quite put my finger on where I've seen it, either..." Zale said, also looking like he was trying to remember something. "But it looks good on you. I like it."

"...You do?" Dylann said, brushing a hand through his hair. It was wilder than he was used to, the chinstrap beard traveling down into a medium length goatee at the chin. All of it was blue, including his bushy eyebrows. "...Thank you. I thought you might. Seth thought so too."

"How is Seth doing, by the way?" sighed Davin. "He's not still sex-crazed, is he?"

"I think he's finally slowing down," Mark said, smirking. "I don't blame him, though. Zale and I have been going at it like rabbits since we got back."

"Mark!"

"What? It's true, babe," Mark laughed, no shame in his voice as he gave him a squeeze. "You fit me like a glove. Just thinking about it is getting me going again, even..."

"Oh my god..." Zale said, blushing as he buried his face in his hands. Though he was smiling too, Davin noticed. "Maybe we should leave. We're getting dirty looks from the staff now."

"It's not like they can kick us out," Davin said, though he took the hint and lowered his voice. "Greed owns this place, didn't you know? He owns half the businesses in the city, actually. All under different names or through some middle man, but it's all his. Mammon is nothing if not business savvy... even if he does gamble a bit much. Luck isn't his strong suit, unfortunately."

"Yeah, but I don't like making people's lives difficult just because they're stuck behind the counter," Zale countered. "I'd be fine if we were just at the bar talking about this stuff, but people bring their kids here sometimes."

"There's only one other customer here, but you're right. I suppose we are making them a bit uncomfortable... except for that cutie, my goodness," Davin said, his eyes focusing on a particularly handsome man behind the register. "...Excuse me, everyone."

Moving out of his seat, Dylann allowed Davin to get out before he sat back down. They stifled a laugh as the daemon reached into his pocket and pulled out a card, handing it to the man.

"Davin Connors," he said, introducing himself as his hand lingered just a bit too long in the handshake. As they chatted, Dylann shook his head and turned back to the other two.

"Is he always like this?"

"Actually, I think he's behaving this time," Mark said, looking back at Dylann. "But what about you? You said you quit your job? Seems like that's the trend this year. Quitting unhappy, shitty jobs."

"I was self-employed technically," Zale said, but he didn't dispute the observation. "But yeah... I know you said you wanted to invest in the bar, but can you really afford to do that?"

"I can. Daemons as old as I am who have been around Earth for more than a few generations tend to be well off enough to be comfortable, at least. Though I've never liked lounging about. I'm used to working all the time, both here and back home. Besides, if I'm ever in any sort of trouble, I can just recharge in my realm. Especially now that I've wasted most of my power to bring it closer to Earth."

"Wait, why?" Zale asked, concerned. "And how much energy did you use?"

"Well, when I moved Atlantis the first time, I had to create a new pocket dimension that eventually became my realm. I used to live on Earth as a god, remember? I wanted nothing to do with it though once they began persecuting my followers. The Maelstrom is the result of that, a defense against mortals and lesser daemons trying to infiltrate my realm. As an extra precaution, I removed it far away from this world so that even if they did get through, I could spend time extracting information or converting them to my cause... and then I'd send them back with a mission. I'm not proud of those days, but I did what I had to do to ensure my people could live in peace. My subjects or not, I truly care for their well-being."

"So what you're saying is you weren't ever planning on 'bringing it back' this close," Zale said, starting to get the picture. "Must have been hard to do."

"It was worth it, if only to bring the passage of time more into balance with Earth, among a few other benefits that would probably go over your head unless I spent half a day explaining it. While I still have enough power to stay an elder daemon, I'm definitely weaker than I was. I couldn't even travel to Earth until I restored myself properly, though thankfully in my realm that's easier to do. It will still be a while before I'm back to where I was before meeting you, but that's okay. I need to feel weak for a while."

"Yes, yes, and through that weakness may yet come understanding, blah blah blah," Davin said, not waiting for Dylann to move before he sat back down and scooted him over. "Think of it this way, Dylann. When was the last time you spent any amount of time as a mortal and had any fun? Work doesn't count as fun, by the way."

"...It has been a while," Dylann admitted. "Perhaps I have been working too much. I may stop by the bar later tonight, if you're even open on Christmas Eve."

"That's one of our bigger events of the year," Davin chuckled. "This year's theme is the 'Naughty List'. Though if you're a good boy, I may even give you a present."

"...I'm sure you have a big enough package for me to enjoy," Dylann said, trying his best to flirt back. "Um... that is..."

"No, no, that was good!" Davin encouraged. "You should do that more often. Though not so often you end up becoming a lust daemon like me, I guess. I like you better as Temperance, and honestly I don't think anyone else can really do your job as well as you can. Ethically questionable distractions and moral dilemmas notwithstanding."

"...I'll do my best to live as a mortal, then. Maybe I'll even pick up that hobby I've been thinking about lately."

"What hobby?" Mark asked, before Dylann smiled, blushing.

"...Fish-keeping. Aquariums and such," he said. "I want to try my hand at it without any of my powers, for once. I can't do much harm if I start out with a small tank and work my way up, right?"

"That is so you," Davin chuckled, but his smile made Dylann feel warm inside all the same. "Well, I really do hope that goes well for you. But what about living arrangements?"

"I have a place in mind, actually," Dylann said, causing Zale and Mark's faces to fall slightly. "...It's a two-bedroom apartment. Kind of pricey, but nothing I can't afford long-term if I get a couple of roommates to help with the rent. Very roomy, too. It was designed with anthros in mind. Or really big humans."

"...Well, that's good to hear," Mark said, smiling before he felt something kick his shin. "Ow! What the hell, boss?"

"He's asking if you two want to be the roommates, dumbass," Davin said, crossing his arms as he stared at them both. "I've known Temperance a long time, both as my former boss and an elder rival. And the way he's looking at you two and dropping hints along the way? I know you two just settled down in Mark's place, but you should really think it over."

"Yes. Davin's correct. I did tell you I'd give you my answer later, didn't I Zale? Well, it is later now. Though I'll understand if you can't or don't want to. I just thought I'd ask you two first before I put out a personal ad in the paper..."

"...You know, my place was really only designed with one or two humans in mind," Mark admitted, his hand brushing aside Zale's fish-like whiskers as he caressed his face. "Weren't we looking into a new place before all this anyway?"

"Yeah, but like... nowhere's closer to the bar than where we're at right now. Or worth making the trip to the bar from, at least," Zale said, a flash of memory in his eyes. "That feels like it was so long ago, but it's only been a few days huh?"

"That reminds me, I got you a present but I might have to get it in a new size for you, what with your new body," Mark chuckled. "Still, what do you think about moving in with Dylann? I'm down for just about anything, but I want you to be happy."

"...If you really want us, then sure," Zale said, smiling softly at Dylann. "But we're going to have to establish some ground rules."

"That's fair," Dylann sighed. "How's this one? I stay human so long as I'm on Earth."

"For the first month, at least," Mark said. "Though after that we'll let you go all fur if you want. It might help us to see you bumble about like everyone else. Especially in your underwear."

"...I um... I don't..."

"He goes commando," Davin said, elbowing him playfully. "What? You do. And I quote: 'I don't get why these mortals wear clothing under their clothing all the time. It's so uncomfortable, especially for me!', end quote."

"Davin!"

"Did you or did you not tell me that it was like putting your balls in a vice grip? Nuts in a nutcracker? Sausage through a g- ow!"

"Don't make me hit you again," Davin said, rubbing his knuckles. "I won't hit your arm next time. Dick."

"You know you enjoy it," Davin said, pointing an accusatory finger at him. If Davin was telling the truth or just teasing him more, Dylann wasn't showing any sign of it either way. "But it sounds like you have two new roommates willing to move in right away. Well, after the holidays. And after they're done packing... do you two need help with that, actually? I wouldn't mind."

"We actually could use the help, yes," Zale admitted. "I didn't have a lot to begin with, but between Mark and I we sort of... well, we have a lot of mutual possessions and such."

"We have a lot of toys," Mark said, causing Zale to flinch. "Though we also did get a bit of new furniture. And you know what they say. Many hands make light work, or some bullshit like that."

"I'll be sure to let the landlord know, then. She's supposed to hear back from me later today since she wants to take care of this before she leaves for Christmas and New Year's, so she's kind of rushing a lot of paperwork just for me. Actually, I'm going to go call her right now. Excuse me, Davin."

It was Davin's turn to awkwardly shift and move around the booth as Dylann moved around him, not waiting for him to stand up. As he went outside, they could see him in the window already on his phone and chatting with someone.

"You sure about this?" Davin asked, looking at Zale and then Mark. "You'll be living with the Virtue that kept you in his realm for... I'm not even going to put a number to it, actually. It's better you don't know."

"We don't remember too much of that life anymore, other than the important parts," Mark said, though for a moment he looked older than he physically was. "But we're sure."

"Not that I think he'll do it again, especially seeing as how conscience is in his domain, but if he does or if you do end up giving yourself to him again... well, Pride isn't going to bail you out this time. I'm surprised he even bailed me out."

"What, he doesn't repay his favors very often?" asked Zale, causing Davin to look at them in confusion.

"No, he actually hates owing anybody anything so he never puts himself in that position. If you ever do get a favor from Pride, though, let Greed know. He'll pay you a king's ransom for it, it's so rare."

"But he said he owed you one, and that if he 'saved your ass' then you'd both be even. He even told you that you were both even but, well... you were still drunk off your ass I guess."

"Yeah I don't remember anything after falling into the drink," Davin said, both being literal and cryptic in his answer. "But I would know if Pride owed me anything... and he said we're even? I guess that means I don't owe him a favor instead... you know what, it's not important. Forget we talked about this... Dylann, how did it go?"

"She said she'll give me the keys once I hand her my deposit, so I've got to go unfortunately," Dylann said. not having heard anything of their conversation. "We can move in as soon as the day after tomorrow, so long as we don't put any moving vans in the parking lot. Apparently people don't follow the parking rules very well over there and it's been a real problem. And someone put an entire couch in the dumpster..."

"Not that I drive, anyway," Mark said, shrugging. "And Zale sold his car when he didn't fit the driver's seat anymore."

"A sacrifice had to be made," Zale said, seeming only a little down about it. "But if it's between being able to drive that hunk of junk and being this? Bye bye, car."

"Point is, I don't think parking's going to be an issue for us," Mark finished. "We'll start loading up our things after tomorrow, then. Would you like to spend it with us?"

"...Christmas? With you?" Dylann said, blushing deeply. "Um... are you sure that won't be... well. Okay then. I'd be honored."

"Well, I need to head back to the bar," Davin said, standing up. "Can you give me a ride, Dylann?"

"So long as you only mean the car, then yes," Dylann said, motioning for him to follow. "It's on the way, actually."

As the daemons left them, Mark and Zale enjoyed the silence as they looked into each other's eyes and snuggled in the booth. Whatever had happened, and whatever was going to still happen, they were content to just sit there for a while in each others' arms.