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Vance bolted awake, falling out of bed in the process. He took a moment or two to look at his surroundings; he was at the bar, in the room he'd been provided. Before it had simply been a place to engage in winter-based fantasies, ranging from simple things like cabin scenarios to being kidnapped by a yeti or other such scenarios. But now it was his place for as long as he needed it, the cold not bothering him in the slightest. It was very generous of Davin and Liam, but he supposed that it was because they were sort of his 'fathers', in a way. Perhaps they felt responsible for him?

"I'm safe," he sighed, remembering his nightmare. Some people dreamed of being in their underwear, some people dreamed of falling... but no, he had to dream he was melting. What a stupid dream, now that he really thought about it, but in the moment it had terrified him. He pinched himself just to make sure he was still flesh and blood instead of ice and water. Standing up, he walked over to the stove and decided to light it; he usually didn't bother with heat since the cold never bothered him, but right now he wanted the comfort of it. Spending a few moments to go over the provided manual - turns out city people usually didn't know how to start a fire - it wasn't too long before he had a fire blazing inside the wood stove. He knew some of it was probably the stove's doing, but he still felt proud of himself for accomplishing something so small and unrelated to his own bartending skills.

"Now what do I do with you?" he asked himself, staring down at his growing erection. How the hell was he getting hard even after all that? But then, he had been walking around naked. He usually was naked unless he had to be clothed; for some reason clothing just didn't appeal to him at all. The only time he even considered it was for his job. Sitting down in the chair, he relaxed and watched the tongues of flame lick up the wood through the metal grate. The warmth was a reminder that he was no longer a thing of ice as it slowly seeped into his bones, though it did nothing but make him feel even harder as he grasped the base of his shaft. He wondered why he felt no attraction to men or women even though his form had come with such a large tool to play with, watching as it reached full mast.

"Mmm," Vance uttered, turned on by how his fingers couldn't reach around it anymore. He was wider than he was long, though he'd been told he was 'hung' especially well for a fox of his size. He usually just pumped one out and went about his business as usual when he was like this, but today he decided to take his time and explore his feelings. He remembered the contest as he stroked up and down with both of his hands, taking his time as his heart beat just a bit faster. Whatever else he was, he remembered everything the ice golem had experienced; whether it was because he was the ice golem or because his genesis was based on it, he never really knew for sure since they were still his memories.

He was one of the few who was unsurprised when he'd found out Seth had become a lust daemon, since he still remembered clear as day just how lost in lust he'd been when Lucian had reminded the mortals of their old lives. So much lustful energy from three mortals, even as two of them had actively suppressed it. Yet despite all that energy combined with whatever Lucian had used to make him in the first place, he knew he was not of Lust or Temperance. He knew he was asexual, or at least it very much seemed that way. Yet, he'd heard from some patrons who had talked to him about it that he might be gray or demi... he'd never realized that such things existed, which was ironic considering he worked for Lust.

Kneading his flesh, he bit his lower lip as a wave of pleasure rocked through him. He was so sensitive today, yet he didn't want to cum yet. He simply squeezed out a drop or two of pre as he slowly pumped up and down while his mind was lost in thought. It wasn't important to him to cum and it wasn't important to control himself... it just was something he was enjoying while he could. He ignored the whispers of lust daemons urging him on, instead focusing on random people he'd met. Maybe one would... but no. He'd met all kinds. Big jocks and frat bros, slender twinks, cute bears... the list went on. It just wasn't doing it for him... frustrated, he instead wondered how easy it was for Seth to find his aspect when he was still struggling with his own. It was so unfair... and yet, he knew deep down he was just trying to get a rise out of himself. Wrath was clearly not his thing, then. He enjoyed his work too much to be Sloth, and he was too humble to flip Pride. It was useless... if only he were a mortal instead. Then he could just eat a hamburger instead of worrying what sort of energy he'd feed on. Liam and Davin allowed the energy of the bar to sustain him, but even stepping outside carried the risk of losing his form and allowing instinct to choose his aspect for him. He didn't want that, and he didn't want to be snatched up by some rogue daemon to be used as they saw fit.

Growling, he could feel his climax building despite his confusion. It wasn't hard to get him to cum with how sensitive his shaft was when he finally got going, but this time was just a bit more powerful as he arched his back and moaned. Load after load spurted across his chest and abs, and yet as much lust and relief he felt from it he still felt the same as always. Though perhaps more spent, riding the waves of his own euphoria as he chuckled at his own mess.

"I guess I should clean up," Vance said, once he'd caught his breath. He was still a bit disappointed though, seeing as he'd given it a good effort that time and still felt no closer to an aspect... but he wasn't the first daemon to have such problems before. Rising, he wiped off his hands onto a dry spot on his fur before proceeding to the bathroom. Perhaps a warm shower would help center him, shaking off the euphoria and terror he still felt.

*******

"Give me a minute!" snapped Uther, before wincing. "Ugh... sorry."

"The blood runs hot, I know," Zale said, smiling as Uther rose back to his feet. He was exhausted and blisters were forming on his hands, but... he did feel good. They'd been sparring for hours now, though to him it had only felt like they had just gotten started.

"I didn't know you'd be this good, honestly," Uther chuckled, using his staff as a support. "I thought Dylann was joking when he said you'd help whip me into shape."

"If I had my way, we'd be doing this underwater," Zale said, causing Uther to laugh. When Zale didn't laugh back, Uther realized he was actually being serious this time. "Tell me how you feel, Uther."

"Good, kind of. Though I'll be sore tomorrow," Uther said, sweat dripping down his frame. "I suppose all the memories in the world can't substitute for proper exercise, though."

"From what Dylann told me of what you are, I'm surprised you're not kicking my ass," Zale said, looking around the training room they were in. Uther followed his gaze, though there wasn't much to see. It was a simple room meant for sparring in, though this one did seem to have a bit of flair to it. How many rooms did this bar have, anyway?

"Yet I can't remember my name," Uther sighed, clearly frustrated. "Nothing that stands out as belonging to this body at least..."

"So that's why. Not the name, so much as your confusion," Zale said, seeming to understand something as those rainbow eyes of his settled back on him. "Come to think of it, you were at your best saving my boss from Stellan the other day, weren't you? How did that feel?"

"It feels like a dream, honestly. I don't remember how I did it, though it is a little easier to use the blade now," Uther said, his grip tightening on his staff. "I'm less used to any other weapon, though a good portion of my lives seem to have gone through similar training... but yeah. I couldn't tell you exactly what I did or how it felt other than 'good', really."

"Not that I'm an expert when it comes to magical artifacts and dead men, but maybe if you spend some time uniting your heart and mind then you'll be able to remember more. And I don't mean just your name or your martial skills. The whole time we've been sparring, it's like you've been fighting yourself as much as you have with me."

"What do you suggest, besides sweeping my legs a hundred times?" Uther chuckled, wincing as his breath caught in his throat. He was definitely going to feel his ribs in the morning though.

"Meditation might help," Zale said, shrugging. "I used to do it but... well, I've been busy and nobody's been needing me to fight or train anyone. Maybe I'll start doing it seriously again?"

"You've needed this more than me, I see," Uther said, and Zale couldn't help but agree as he nodded. "Why come back then, if you miss it so much?"

"I missed Earth too. Besides, I couldn't just leave Mark alone. But I've already made my peace with all that. We're here for your sake, remember?"

"I know, I know," Uther said, annoyed he couldn't probe further. He found Zale a bit more fascinating than other anthro mortals, and not just because of his hybrid nature. But he also knew when to back off. The door opening caused them both to turn toward Davin and an arctic fox, both of them carrying two glasses each.

"You boys look thirsty," Davin said, handing a glass to Zale. Uther accepted a glass from Vance, though as far as he could tell it was just water. Giving it a test sip, he ended up just drinking down half the glass before he stopped himself. It was just water, but damn if he wasn't parched.

"Thanks, boss," Zale said, before nodding at the fox. "Vance."

"Oh, um, you're that daemon bartender, huh?" Uther asked, blushing at his failed attempt at small talk. "Sorry."

"Eh, don't worry about it," Vance said, seeming equally awkward about it. "Davin said I should meet you so..."

"Oh I see how it is," Zale chuckled, winking at Davin. "Thanks for the water though, really. Even if you're just using it as an excuse to check up on us."

"Well, I wanted to ask you something as well," Davin said, encouraging him to drink his water as they walked to the other end of the room. Uther watched as they talked a bit, before turning back to Vance.

"I'm Uther," he said, holding out his hand reluctantly. Vance shook it before quickly letting go. "Are you afraid of me or something?"

"Eh, it's not like that," Vance said, sighing. "Knowing what you are, though... it's more instinct. I guess you feel the same about me, huh?"

"Actually I do," Uther chuckled, which seemed to put the fox at ease a bit. "Davin tells me you're new. I've seen you a few times too."

"Same, though I thought you were just a normal mortal until recently. I didn't really get a chance to talk with you though so I guess that's on me," Vance said, shrugging. Yet his eyes seemed to look into him as they met his gaze. "Maybe I could watch you two spar? I feel like it might help me if I do that."

"Maybe you'll get to see Zale kick my ass again," Uther laughed, glad to see Vance starting to unwind a little. "You seem a bit different than other daemons though."

"Well I'm unaligned," Vance said, seemingly ashamed to admit it. "I've only existed since December, but Davin's been kind enough to look after me while I figure things out."

"So, you're 'new' new," Uther said, understanding finally what it was he was feeling from the fox. "I'd have thought you'd be of Lust, but that just shows what I know. Anyway I need to get back to it; Zale seems a bit antsy to begin."

Vance nodded before stepping off to the side of the room with Davin. It was weird, seeing a daemon act so innocently. Every daemon he'd ever met that hadn't been trying to kill or corrupt him - or his past selves, really - had always seemed much, much older than himself even with all the extra memories. This one? Uther couldn't help but feel a little protective of him, even knowing what he was. If nothing else, no part of him saw him as a threat. Turning to Zale, he readied himself for yet another sparring session.

"Ready?" Zale asked, though he seemed a bit... off. Instead of the friendly demeanor, Uther could feel the threat of danger rippling off of him. His eyes looked at him like he was simply prey, his predatory grin immediately putting him on guard. Despite how fearful he suddenly was, he steeled his resolve and readied his staff.

"Let's go," Uther said, grinning despite his own hard expression. He barely had time to register movement before he was already dodging to the side, a loud roar his only warning for the incoming strike. He wasn't striking just to spar, now. He had every intention of harming him. Adrenaline and magic flowed through him as he reinforced his own body, bringing his full strength into his counterattack. Instead of sending him flying, however, his staff merely met Zale's as they struggled against each other.

It seemed as familiar to Uther as it was upsetting. Hadn't he had mentors do this before? Even if he hadn't, he'd faced challenges like this. Zale was strong, but he was also an anthro. Uther's strength came from his blade, but even his own muscles still burned as they traded blows. The only sounds in the room were their haggard breathing and the striking of wood against wood. As tempted as he was to pull out the blade, he felt a certain thrill in not having to rely on it completely for once. Besides, he was borderline cheating by making sure he wouldn't have any broken ribs at the moment.

"Stop moving!" Zale shouted, coming at him like a rabid beast. If Uther had been a greenhorn, the sight alone would have caused him to flee. Even with the fear coursing through him, he remained steadfast and simply sidestepped, striking him on the side. Zale was getting sloppy for some reason. This was weird, even for a sparring session. He knew he'd had to hold back a bit, but this wasn't someone who used his head in battle. Rage flashed across Zale's eyes as he roared in pain, wildly swinging at him as he jumped just out of reach. "Give up already!"

"Never again," Uther calmly replied, his persistence shining through as he ignored his body's cries of pain. He was filled with the same battle-lust as Zale was, though rage was the farthest thing from his mind. "You'll have to kill me first."

"I think that's far enough," Davin said, chuckling. "Uther, purify him or else he's going to keep going like this."

"Fine," Uther said, dodging another blow. As his staff glowed with power, he swung it into Zale's stomach with all the force he could muster, causing the merlion to double over in pain as the light overtook his body. His eyes and mouth flashed for a moment before he collapsed onto his knees, coughing and taking his time trying to catch his breath. Uther eyed him warily until Zale looked up and grinned, a semblance of sanity back in his face. "So you gonna tell me what happened, Davin?"

"I asked if he wanted to give you a real test, so... I gave him a little bit of Wrath concentrate," Davin said, holding up his hands to stop Uther's protests before they began. "He agreed to do it, before you get all angry with me. Besides, I was fully prepared to intervene just in case."

"Why do it at all?" asked Uther, tossing his staff aside.

"Well, despite how he seemed, he actually was holding back. He was Temperance's commander at one point, remember?" Davin said, though he wasn't smiling. "But you're right to question me. I did have an ulterior motive for this... speaking of which, how are you feeling Vance? Anything?"

"...Yes," Vance said, wide-eyed. "I feel it! I... thank you, Uther."

"For what?" asked Uther, confused now. "I didn't do anything for you."

"You just did," Vance said. He seemed like a burden had been lifted from his shoulders. "I know what kind of daemon I am, now. Because of your courage. Your persistence in the face of adversity... it was amazing."

"Fortitude, hm?" Davin chuckled, though even he seemed surprised. "Here I was thinking it was Wrath that finally got you. But that's not a bad Virtue. What will you be doing now?"

"What do you mean?" Vance asked, smiling. "I'm gonna work at the bar, like always. Though I may need to take a small vacation now."

"I feel like I was just used, but..." Uther sighed, helping Zale to his feet. "Hell, I can't feel mad about this. I should but..."

"Well if I'd told you what was going to happen, you'd have gotten less out of this. I had a suspicion when you saved me before, but now I know for sure what kind of man you are," Davin said, smiling apologetically. "Zale, you feeling better now?"

"Still got a fucking headache. So that's what Wrath's like? Shit," Zale sighed, shaking his head. "A single drop of Wrath. Gods, what must Wrath himself feel like? But I'm fine now. Last time I agree to that though... oh, and sorry Uther."

"Eh, would you believe my past selves have faced far worse? But warn me next time," Uther said, surprisingly okay with it all. "I am definitely going to be sore tomorrow... but if I'm to be a proper bearer, I have to train my body too."

"Indeed," Zale sighed, stretching as he yawned. "Not like you can just drink up like the rest of us mortals. Though I don't think you would even if you could. You don't strike me as the type to take 'shortcuts', you know?"

"I already have enough power with the blade, even if I'm not too good at it yet," Uther sighed, walking over to the wall and leaning against it. "And I don't want to rely on daemonic power to fight daemons... sorry. Old lives speaking there."

"No, a lot of people feel like you do, minus the 'daemon fighting' part," Davin said, reassuring him. "Not everyone, obviously, but you'd be surprised how many people I don't transform permanently. Some just want a taste of what it'd be like, others just want someone to talk to. They feel like it'd be cheating, or they're not willing to pay 'a price' even if I am very lenient about it these days. They usually leave feeling resolved to chase their desires the hard way, though."

"Nothing wrong with wanting to be different, though," Zale laughed, his tail whipping in amusement. "Though my body doesn't magically stay muscular. I have to work for it. Ready for another round, Uther?"

"Nope," Uther said, crossing his arms. "I'm done for today. You look pretty beat too, honestly."

"Want to head back to the bar, then?" Davin asked, and all three seemed to agree.

"We'll meet you there. We have to shower," Zale said, looking over at Zale.

"I guess we should yeah," Uther said, realizing just how sweaty he was. "See you in a bit."

From the smile Davin gave him, he could tell he was resisting the urge to tease them both, but Uther blushed all the same at the realization. Vance seemed oblivious to his discomfort, simply waving goodbye as he followed Davin out. It must have been nice, finally realizing what he was. Uther wished it was that simple for himself, but he pushed the envy from his mind as he turned to follow Zale. Honestly, now that he had a good look at him... he was a bit attractive. Sure they were both shirtless, and the adrenaline wasn't helping his excitement, but he nervously coughed as they went into the shower room of this area.

"There's a separate shower stall over there more your size," Zale suggested, pointing him to the other side of the shower room. There were more stalls, but definitely smaller compared to the more infrequent but larger 'anthro' sized stalls. Granted, not every anthro he'd met was as large as Zale or Davin, but with the variation in species and such it helped to prepare. He'd seen this sort of architectural design all over the city, after all. A small memory flashed in his mind; this city was one of the few cities that had a dense population of anthros compared to normal humans, even if they were all over the world now. He shook his head before realizing he was staring at Zale, who had by now stripped naked and entered the larger stall. If he'd noticed, he didn't pay any attention to Uther as he turned the water on.

"I don't hear any running water over there. You shy?" Zale asked, not turning his head to look back at him. "I won't look, so go ahead and get clean. We're both men, right?"

"Yeah. Sorry," Uther said, tossing away the shirt tucked in his pants before stripping down. "I just..."

"I don't mind sharing either," Zale suggested, making Uther's cock twitch. "If that's what you want. I could help you wash your back, even."

"Ah..." Uther hesitated, equal parts ashamed and aroused. What did he want? Taking a moment to breathe, he focused on himself instead of the memories for once. Opening his eyes, he slowly walked toward Zale. Noticing him, Zale looked over his shoulder and smiled as the human joined him in his shower stall.

"Like what you see?" Zale purred, leaning in close to his face. Blushing, Uther reciprocated with a kiss. Zale allowed him to explore his mouth as their tongues danced together; it was stranger than anything he'd ever experienced in his past lives, but he still enjoyed every moment of it as he allowed his instincts to guide him instead of the past. Breaking away, Uther smiled as he was embraced by the merlion's powerful arms. His fur was a bit wet now from the shower, but he could still smell his musk as he buried his face into those juicy pecs of his.

"S-sorry," he said, after a moan escaped his lips. "I just..."

"Hey, I'm not judging," Zale gently said, ruffling a hand through his hair. "Just let me know what you want."

"I... don't know," sighed Uther, conflicted. He knew what his body wanted, but he wasn't really sure what he was doing. Maybe he felt intimidated, or maybe he just wasn't ready to admit it to himself.

"Tell you what," Zale said, grabbing a loofah from nearby and soaping it up while Uther ran his face from side to side, enjoying his soft fur. "If I do something you don't want or like, just tell me to stop. Deal?"

"Deal," Uther mumbled, his hands wrapping around his waist and resting on the small of his back. To his surprise, he felt Zale grab one of his wrists and lower it until his hand was resting on his meaty ass. His other hand seemed to follow on instinct, and Zale moaned as he gave a rough squeeze. So much muscle that he couldn't fit it in his smaller hands, but it just aroused him even further as Zale washed his back with the loofah. But the way he did it was slow and sensual, not at all like someone just cleaning to get it done and over with. Uther moaned as he finally allowed himself to press his hips against Zale's, the throbbing of the anthro's member feeling good against his smaller cock.

"You're pretty tense," Zale said, kneading one of his shoulder muscles with his free hand. "I'm not making you nervous, am I?"

"N-no, just how I usually am," Uther said. "I mean, I am nervous though. I don't think I've ever been with an anthro before. And you're... big."

"Mark's much bigger, if you mean this," Zale said, thrusting slightly. Uther gasped as he nibbled one of Zale's nipples, causing the merlion to moan in pleasure. "Mmm... I'm the first one, huh? Let's make it count then..."

Uther felt himself being lifted up suddenly, surprising him as his back was placed against the wall. He was at eye level with the beast now, his gaze reflecting the human's own need. Uther marveled at how much more muscle he had, even though he was maybe only a head or so taller. Such raw masculine power, and he was just a mortal like himself. Feeling secure in his arms, he ran his hands through Zale's mane as he brought him in for another kiss. And another. And another.

"Enjoying yourself?" Zale said, though it was clear from his voice he wanted more. Uther simply nodded as the water ran over them, feeling him pressing at his entrance but not penetrating him. He seemed to be waiting for something.

"I wonder..." Uther said, focusing a moment. He was surprised when he had memories of the exact kind of spell he was already thinking of... apparently a bearer had done this more than once. He moaned as he magically lubed himself, though it seemed to also ramp up his libido into overdrive. "Oh fuck..."

"What? What did you ohhhhh," Zale moaned, surprised at how easily his cock entered Uther as the human pushed himself down. He hadn't been expecting it, but he quickly got into it by thrusting in and out slowly. Yet it wasn't enough; Uther needed more.

"Harder. Faster," ordered Uther, digging his fingers into his fur as he bit his own lip. "I can take it."

"I bet you can," Zale growled, pulling away from the wall to reposition them both. Uther wrapped his legs and arms around him for balance, kissing him passionately as he moved up and down that shaft with every thrust as more and more entered him. Soon he was taking it all the way to the base, much to both of their surprises. Uther had no doubt that without his magic this would have been very unpleasant... but right now all he cared about was pumping himself up and down like some sort of mindless fucktoy, his body screaming at him to fuck and be fucked.

"More!" Uther shouted, panting like a dumb beast in heat. Obliging him, Zale grew a bit rougher and needier as he plunged in and out over and over again. Uther was vaguely aware of how much he was debasing himself, but more than anything he just needed to milk this beefy beast dry. Whether it was because of how loudly he was moaning or because of Zale redoubling his efforts, he was soon cumming all over the both of them. As if that was the cue he'd been waiting for, Zale growled and grunted as his own cock pulsed and throbbed, filling Uther with the warm seed he'd been craving.

"Ah fuck," Zale gasped, lowering himself just enough before he fell onto his ass. Uther could do nothing but lean against him, panting as he kept trying to fuck himself on his cock. The merlion also sat there, catching his breath as his heart pounded against Uther's own chest while the water ran over them both.

"I... damn, that was hot," Zale said, after his breathing steadied. "You want to go again or...?"

"...We should... clean up," Uther said, his spell starting to fade. Slowly, he lifted himself off of Zale, cum leaking out as his shaft popped out of him with a wet plop. "But... maybe another time?"

"Anytime," Zale chuckled, amused as Uther offered him a hand. Taking it to humor him, he was surprised at how easily the human was able to lift him to his feet. "Holy shit you're strong. Were you holding back before?"

"A little," Uther meekly replied, before picking up the loofah from the ground. It had fallen at some point during their fucking. "I needed that though. Thanks."

The two spent the rest of their shower time cleaning each other, though not a word passed between the two as they enjoyed the afterglow. Before too long, Uther was starting to actually feel clean again as he helped Zale with his scaly tail. He wondered why it looked like something between a fish and a crocodile, but the golden color was still nice to look at. As soon as they were clean and properly dried, they dressed in their clothes before leaving. Uther had to admit, the fishnet shirt and blue jeans looked really good on Zale. Maybe he'd have to think about his own clothes at some point, but for now he enjoyed not having all his memories screaming at him for once. It felt good to be his own man instead of a puppet of past legacies.

*******

"How many have we brought here?" Seth asked, suddenly a bit worried. His body couldn't complain with how many muscular butlers were currently worshiping his body, but ever since the first tree they had 'planted' the amount of mortals in their realm had increased by quite a bit.

"I don't really count," Orias said, gently moving a butler aside as he moved behind Seth and began to rub his shoulders. The butlers were of various species, dressed in the same way Chase had once been during his temporary stay with them, but they were as muscular if not more so than the gym rat had been. "Before you grow too worried, they were all willing. I even have their contracts available, if you wish to see them. Besides, most of them will not be missed. They were already abandoned by society when I found them."

"Master Orias saved us," one butler said unprompted; Seth was about to punish him for speaking out of turn when he was supposed to be massaging his chest, but Orias simply pushed him back in his chair as if to tell him 'not this time'.

"I guess I just worry about the Virtues, sometimes," Seth said, clearly not fully convinced. "But... I trust you. I guess I just thought we'd go slower?"

"As I said before, the realm of Earth is quite plentiful. You think they're all from the same city? No," Orias said, reassuring Seth a bit more. "I have experience in this, knowing where to look, and who might or might not be receptive to my offers. You worry too much, beautiful."

"Speaking of beautiful," Seth said, relaxing once again as Orias worked out a particularly tough knot, "I love how the garden is beginning to look. A proper grove, and the other plants are a nice touch."

"It turns out our hyper sexual tree grove's sap can grow grass and other things just by touching the soil," Orias chuckled, giving one of Seth's ears a small nibble. "All I've had to really worry about is spacing them a bit evenly. Not to mention benches, proper statue placement, the works. We have a cobblestone path now, did you notice?"

"I did!" Seth laughed, biting his lip as one of the many mouths began sucking on his pierced nipple. "It seems the more mortals we get, the more creative you are with the scenery."

"I have more energy I can use without compromising my own strength," Orias said, scratching Seth under the chin. "You do too, or have you really failed to notice it?"

"...I guess I've just been so busy enjoying being a daemon," Seth laughed, but he knew Orias was right. Focusing on his own power, he could absolutely tell he had much more than before. Was Orias really sharing that much with him? He suddenly felt a rush of emotion, leaning back and going for a kiss. The cobra reciprocated, and they spent the next moment exploring each others' mouths before Seth broke the kiss. Smiling, he melted under Orias' gaze before sighing in contentment. "I feel like I've been here for a while."

"It's been three days," Orias said, startling Seth a bit. "You really didn't notice?"

"No, I didn't," Seth said, surprised. "I guess I'm still not used to that. It's easy to lose track of time when I don't need to eat, drink, or even sleep anymore. What about them, though?"

"They are somewhat sustained through the energy and nature of our realm, though while you've been busy I've been ordering them to trade places every so often," Orias said, smirking down at him. "You were enjoying yourself so much that I didn't want to disturb you, but you really should let some of the servants get some rest every so often. They are still mortal, you know?"

"I'll try to keep that in mind," Seth sighed. "What about the statues?"

"They're a bit different," Orias said, reaching down to rub his chest. "Part of their nature is now literal stone. Much like your tree monkeys are part plant. They're mortal, but also something more... they require very little maintenance, and the statues even less so. The only thing making them mortal are their souls and minds, though they aren't doing much of what you and I might call 'thinking' other than a stray thought here and there. But they are living, despite how they look. Why the concern all of a sudden?"

"I just... want everyone to be happy here," Seth sighed, smiling. "That's all. It's very important to me."

"And if you focus on them, you can feel their happiness... not just their lust," Orias encouraged, and as Seth closed his eyes to do just that he knew it was true. He was just as much part of this realm now as Orias was, and just as much in charge of it. His breathing slowed as he relaxed, basking in the feelings of lust and joy as energy constantly trickled into him and Orias, though a good portion went to reinforcing the realm itself. Without that reinforcement, the realm would collapse eventually... though it would probably still take weeks before it ceased to exist.

"If it feels like this for us, what does it feel like to be Lust himself?" Seth wondered, speaking his thoughts aloud without even realizing it. "Must be amazing..."

"It is," Orias said, the confidence in his voice causing Seth to give him a questioning look. "When you've been in the presence of Lust in his realm, like I have, you'll understand just how little power you truly have. It's awe-inspiring, to say the least."

"Oh. I thought you were saying you were Lust at one point," chuckled Seth, relaxing. "Sorry. I guess I shouldn't assume stuff without asking. Was that the reason you left Wrath behind?"

"Part of it," Orias said, though he seemed a little less amused. "But I'd rather not talk about all that right now. Those memories are a bit raw for me at the moment."

"Ah. Sorry babe," Seth said, feeling guilty all of a sudden. "Will you tell me one day, though?"

"Someday soon. I promise," Orias said, digging his fangs gently into his shoulder. Seth moaned as the venom flooded his system once more. "Whatever you may think of me then, I want you to know that I have never lied to you."

"Kind of concerning to hear you say that, but I believe you," Seth said, reassuring the cobra. "I've come to the conclusion a while ago that most daemons who are older than literal sin have done things they're not proud of. Kinda hard not to when you live forever, right?"

"At least you have an open mind about it," Orias sighed, seemingly content with his answer. "How are you feeling right now, beautiful?"

"Same as always, though you bite me every day you know?" Seth said, though he had to admit he was more relaxed now. "I feel like I'm used to it now. Like it's part of me, somehow... does that make sense?"

"It does," Orias said, dragging his tongue across his neck. Seth shivered with delight at the sensation. "I think you're ready for a small hint, then. I left this world thirty years ago. The last time I was here, the nineties had just started."

"...Thirty, huh?" Seth chuckled, suddenly feeling really young compared to Orias. "How old are you? I was barely alive thirty years ago. But that's hardly a hint, you know?"

"Is it, though?" Orias asked, before withdrawing from him and leaving Seth to the ministrations of the muscled butlers. "I did say 'small', though."

"You did..." Seth said, shaking his head as he readjusted his leather hat. It wasn't so much what he had said, as how he had said it that bothered Seth. Why did it sound so familiar? Shrugging, he brought up his phone and looked through his contacts, before settling on Lucian. He probably could have asked Liam or Davin but he wanted someone who was more likely to give him a straight answer, just in case. Shooting off a text, he simply waited until he received a text back.

'We need to talk,' it said, before giving him an address. The coffee shop huh? He knew of it, anyway. Shrugging off the butlers, he barked a few orders at them before walking away. He didn't even need the 'door' anymore as the realm shifted around him to match the apartment on Earth, his clothes already back to their 'biker' form. Tightening the bandana on his head, he made sure he had his keys - Orias had provided a spare for him - before heading out.

*******

"Good to see you, Lucian," Seth said, causing him to look up. Lucian was in his human form, but it seemed Seth was still holding onto his wolf form. It was fine, though Lucian knew they were drawing a few glances because of it. He paid them no mind; after all, it was none of their business, and soon they wouldn't notice them anyway. "Why couldn't we just talk over the phone, though?"

"It's more impersonal over the phone," Lucian said, readjusting his tie. "It's time you learned a bit of our history, anyway. It's good you asked me, though. I assume you didn't ask anyone else, if you came to me?"

"You know how Davin is, and Liam is Liam," Seth sighed, a bit of frustration in his voice. "They never tell me anything in 'recent' history'. I've asked before, but it's either 'you don't need to know' or 'ask me later'. It's a little annoying."

"For good reason," Lucian said, nodding at the waitress as she brought over a couple coffees over. Waiting until she left, he created a small veil around them so that they could talk in peace. "Try it. I think you'll like what I selected for you, and besides... my treat."

"Why a coffee shop though?" Seth prodded, causing Lucian to smile.

"It helps me think. Besides, Davin recommended it to me. Seems quite a few of the elders like this place, so Mammon's made sure it will never go out of business. They've improved their quality too, I think. But you wanted to know what happened thirty years ago, yes? If you're asking such a specific question, then you must mean 'that'. But before I answer your question, you should answer mine first."

"What did you have in mind?"

"Tell me one thing. Does the name 'Orias' mean anything to you?"

"...Yeah," Seth said, suddenly wary. "It does. Why do you ask?"

"I thought so," Lucian sighed, shaking his head. "He's your boyfriend, isn't he? This 'Onyx'. Well, he's looking different these days, but I had a feeling when I saw him at that party with you. I'm surprised Davin didn't pick up on it."

"What... how..." Seth stammered, and yet he didn't look surprised at all. Perhaps he'd already known, deep down. Lucian wasn't about to help him figure it out, however.

"I'm right, then. That answers a few questions I had, then. But your question, now... what happened thirty years ago was that Davin usurped Orias. Though that's an ugly word for it, I suppose."

"It's when he became Lust," Seth said, sighing. "So Orias really was Lust, then."

"Back when we were all still getting used to living here on Earth, we had less rules for dealing with mortals," Lucian said. "We ended up creating quite a few problems, but we were tolerated because we had interfered and helped to end a pandemic before it got out of hand. One that was caused by a mortal learning a daemon's true name, but all the same it created the world you know today. You didn't even exist yet, of course, so a world without anthros and such probably seems strange to you. They were, of course, far more feral than what you see today. But that's not the important part. The takeaway here is that we were sort of winging it."

"Winging it? You didn't have a plan?" Seth asked, causing Lucian to smile and shake his head.

"To be honest, most of us were opposed to it. But once one interfered, we all just decided to pitch in. None of the elders wanted to look weak, and none of us wanted to be accused of sitting idly by while mortals suffered because of us. You know how it is. They'd overlook that mortal's actions, seeing the daemon as the sole problem. The Virtues laid out rules eventually, but they weren't really enforced as much other than 'don't eat souls'. Of course, this means several daemons preyed on mortals a bit. Such as Orias, among quite a few others. Myself included."

"What did you do?"

"Hm? I took some of the strongest, the brightest, and brought them to my realm. Those who took pride in their abilities, who wanted a place where they could reach their potential uninhibited. Of course, this deprived your world of the same talents. Yet, they were all too happy to take me up on my offer. Orias never gave others a chance, said we should not fear being gods to such weak beings. He forgets we need mortals to feed from in the first place. Without them, most of us don't even exist. He was very powerful, though. Do you know what a chimera is?"

"Um... it's one of those mythological beasts, I think. Three heads, four legs, snake tail?"

"Something like that, though the actual combination varied in reality," Lucian said, happy that Seth knew that much at least. "Generally, most daemons like that were usually a combination of a few daemons, and their sole purpose was war and battle. Their rage fueled them, and this was the source of their strength. They were of Wrath, after all. But Orias? He was one of the few who didn't need other daemons. He was very powerful on his own. I don't know why he turned to Lust in the end, but once he took over as Lust himself, well... he became extremely powerful. Second in power to me, in fact. I'd even argue we were friendly rivals, at first."

"...He did say he used to be of Wrath. And a chimera... but that it was too much energy for him now," Seth said, having gotten very quiet and pensive. "He's just the serpent, now. A cobra, though a naga at times."

"I honestly expected him to reform years from now, but with how sex positive this world is now I suppose I should have expected more from him. He was always very good at this. Has he done anything to you against your will?"

"No, though he can be very persuasive I guess," sighed Seth, clearly conflicted now. "Why does Davin hate him so much?"

"Well, I can't speak for Davin on everything, but I suspect it's because Davin was of Temperance, and failed to stop Orias from doing what he was doing at the time. Enslaving mortals to fuel him in his realm, that is. Like I said, our rules were different then. Nobody really thought any of us would go back to the old days, when we were gods to mortals. There's a reason the gods in many of those myths were so cruel and naive, after all. Some of it's based on true events. Not that I'm excusing Orias, but I want you to understand the mentality he had at the time. Mortals existed to fuel us, so why shouldn't we guide them in whatever ways we wished? I once thought the same, but not any longer. Many daemons thought this way. But Davin? Even when he was enslaved and submitted to Orias, he still struggled to fully accept it. It bothered him, what Orias did and how he did it. He felt that if mortals truly wished to serve us, they should do so because it was what they wanted, not because we ordered them to do so. Eventually he just... stopped fighting it. He gave in."

"No wonder he doesn't like to talk about it," Seth said, growling a bit. "How'd he even..."

"I think I might have had something to do with it," Lucian said, smirking slightly. "I saw him one day, and I was amazed at how eagerly he was carrying out Orias' orders. I reminded him of how he used to think, though whether it was because of me or something else I can't say. By that time he was Orias' second; the only lust daemon more powerful than him was Orias himself. He knew he couldn't fight Orias, especially not while in his service... so he called a challenge, the only way he could make it a 'fair fight'. Prudentia and I oversaw that contest. A duel to the death, though as you no doubt know, 'death' for us isn't as permanent as it is for mortals. It takes a lot to stop us from existing at all, if such a thing is indeed possible. But you can... kill their physical form, for a while. Rob them of their power, kill their body, and they float about. If you're lucky, they stay that way."

"Maybe that's why he said it took so long to come back. He might have been trying to be a chimera before he settled on how he is now..." Seth said. Lucian smiled at that; clearly he'd activated the more scholarly part of his mind. A bit of 'Ortun', was it? Seth kept surprising him even now.

"Who knows. But the fact he came back so quickly is as concerning as it is unsurprising to me. His will was always very strong. But that begs the question, now that he's back. Has he enslaved any mortals now?"

"Against their wills? No, but ah... he has brought mortals into his realm," Seth said, clearly conflicted again as he gritted his teeth. "He has contracts."

"I suppose I'll send a Virtue over to make sure. Maybe two," Lucian said, shrugging. "It could be he's finally learned his lesson, but I don't want to leave it to chance. But they'd need your help. It's not like daemons magically know where other realms are just because we're daemons."

"I... why me?" Seth asked, a flash of defiance in his eyes. "I don't..."

"I very much doubt Orias would be willing, seeing as how none of them defended him or stopped him from being usurped in the first place. He very much hates them," Lucian said, a grim look on his face. "While I don't know how Prudentia feels about him - she's a bit mysterious, that one - I do know Justice despises him, even if he would be fair in his judgment of him. Fortitude has mixed feelings naturally, since Orias isn't a complete bastard. We've all done things we're not proud of, after all. As for Dylann, you should imagine how he feels."

"Orias took Davin away," Seth sighed, struggling with the truth. "He's the reason Davin was Lust to begin with. Even though you took him away the second time..."

"The second time, it was to correct a mistake Dylann had made. So he doesn't hate me for that. But for Orias? I do not expect Dylann to give him a fair trial or judgment. I expect him to plunge his trident into his heart. For as vocal as Davin is about his hatred for Orias, Dylann keeps it bottled inside. I fear both of them may flip Wrath if you toss Orias' name around, so again... I am grateful you brought this to me first. Do not say his name around them. The last time one of us mentioned Orias in front of Davin, he nearly exploded. Literally. He may not look it, but he can conjure a powerful flame when he wants to."

"...I'll keep that in mind. But where does this leave me?" Seth asked, looking to Lucian for guidance. "I... don't hate him. I can't."

"You don't have to," Lucian said, leaning in close. They had both been sipping their coffees as they talked, but now Lucian left his ignored as he clasped his hands together. "But a word of warning. If Orias goes down that dark path again, do not follow him. Or you will share in his fate. As for what you should do otherwise? Whatever you like. So long as the rules are followed, you'll find our kind is quick to forgive. You have to be able to do that, when you live as long as we do. But we do not forget, and I suspect Davin will not be able to do either for a very long time when it comes to Orias. If ever."

"I'll keep all that in mind, as well," Seth said, clearly starting to feel a little overwhelmed with how he was looking at Lucian. "Will you..."

"I will tell only those who need to know. We all just got settled on Earth, so I'd hate to see everyone get all divisive again. Especially with you being new and all. But he will be watched. I suspect you will, also. That's just politics though. You'll get used to it."

"I feel like I've just betrayed him, somehow," Seth sighed, holding his head in his hands. "I... don't know what I should do."

"Like I said, whatever you like. If it helps to talk to him, then go talk to him. Let me guess... he's the reason you're even asking me what happened thirty years ago?"

"...Yeah, you're right. Maybe he wants me to know but... I see. It couldn't come from him first," Seth said, nodding. "I needed to hear it from a third party. Not that it makes you any less than first place of course, sir."

"The flattery is appreciated, but unnecessary this time," Lucian said, smiling anyway. "Though you do seem to see me as some sort of mentor ever since I sponsored you. Very well, I will continue in that role. Who better than me? But you're right. To hear it from him would be to color your perception of events. Perhaps he couldn't trust himself not to lie to you, or to skew things in his favor. I will not pretend to know his motivations; I only care about what he does from now on. Reforming means his sentence has been served, and so once again he has a 'clean slate' to work from. Make sure he doesn't deviate from the rules, and he won't have to face a second punishment. Davin is the reason we lean so heavily on consent between daemons and mortals these days, so it'd be a shame to have to open that old wound again. I really like Davin, you see."

"Understood," Seth said, seeming to pick up on the threat in his voice. "I'll do what I can to help, then. I'm not sure how I feel about the Unity as a whole, but Dylann's a friend and Prudentia was... nice, I suppose. Without her I wouldn't be a daemon at all though, so I do owe her a favor at least."

"Here," Lucian said, offering him a small token. It was a simple enough object, one he'd just had on hand, but he'd enchanted it all the same. "Carry this with you, and the Virtues will know where the realm is. Then they will be able to judge Orias' intentions for themselves."

"...I'll piss him off, though. Won't I?" Seth asked, though he seemed to be talking about himself as he stared at the token. "I..."

"Far be it from me to judge any relationship, but if he gets angry at you for trying to hold him accountable when he withheld his past from you in the first place, he's not worth pursuing. Even if he didn't lie to you, you had to come to me for the truth. Remember that."

"...I see," Seth said, sounding defeated. "I... have to do this, don't I?"

"You don't have to do anything, but it will look good in the eyes of the Virtues who already judge those of us aligned with 'Sin'," Lucian offered, his voice a touch kinder now. "You do not want them as an enemy. Though they are kinder than I am, when it comes to punishment."

"I guess I should go talk to him. I'm not going to lie to him, though," Seth said, taking the token and pocketing it. "If I am going to do this, I'd like to meet the Virtues I'll have to work with first."

"That is reasonable, and I agree with it. Though it will depend on Justice and Fortitude, won't it?" Lucian said, rising from his seat. "I suppose I should go meet Prudentia, then. She's more than likely expecting me."

"You still need to tell me how she works, someday," Seth said, smiling despite how he must be feeling. Lucian didn't envy him at all; in his position, he would likely feel just as conflicted if not more.

"Maybe she'll tell you herself," Lucian laughed, dispelling the veil. "Do what you need to do for now, Seth. They will find you when they are ready, so long as you possess that."

"Kinda makes me feel paranoid, but I'll keep it on me then," Seth said, rising as well. He'd barely touched the coffee, but it was clear he had other things on his mind. Bidding each other farewell, they went their separate ways as they left the coffee shop. Lucian had an appointment to keep, more than likely. True or not, he wasn't going to keep her waiting.