Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Heat woke Corvus up first.

A suffocating heat that made sweat mist from his bare body so quickly that not even the silken sheets draped around him could lap them up fast enough. That was the first sign something had gone wrong.

The second was the slow, creeping realization that the weight against his back wasn’t from a heavy blanket or pile of pillows, but a body. A very large body that was spooning him as if this were an ordinary morning between two life-long lovers.

The third, and most terrifying of all, was the overwhelming smell of cherry, musk, and brimstone that drowned his nostrils as he inhaled too sharply. A natural instinct to the growing panic building within him.

…Oh no.

Corvus’ eyes snapped open, darting wildly around the dimly lit chamber, its opulence unmistakable. The deep red curtains, the dark mahogany furniture, the golden accents. Every detail screamed of its owner and Corvus wanted to scream right back. His pulse pounded in his ears, worsening the throbbing headache that was growing noticeably painful as his memories from the night before came in disjointed flashes. 

That wicked laugh he found himself indulging with. The eager hands that found a home on his hips as he straddled himself on that insufferable man’s lap, like it was his own personal throne. Grabbing a fist full of hair as he pried the man’s chestnut gaze back to meet his own before taking his fill with a hungry kiss. A temptation he had clearly been too weak - or too drunk to resist.

And now it left him here, in Raphael’s bed.

Corvus shifted his weight with extra care, every movement cautious and precise as he unwound himself from the cambion’s arms. His muscles tensed with each millimeter of progress, his breath holding tight in his chest as he tried so hard to not wake the devil in the sheets. One that, without a doubt, would never let him leave willingly if he awoke.

Raphael shifted behind him as Corvus moved, making Corvus freeze. A slow exhale ghosted against the back of Corvus’ neck, the heat of Raphael’s breath sending a bolt of fear up Corvus’ spine at how close he was. For one heart-stopping moment, Corvus thought he had awakened, but then Raphael nestled in his neck, settling back into sleep.

Corvus exhaled in near silence.

He could do this. He would do this. He was going to get out of this bed, unseen, get dressed, and pretend this nightmare never happened-

A groan purred in his ear, followed by a large, clawed hand tightening around his waist as it pulled him back in. A strangled noise cut in Corvus’ throat as he found himself completely engulfed by Raphael’s embrace, the cambion curling around him with an unconscious possessiveness that made his stomach lurch.

“Hm… Mouse…” Raphael murmured, his once smooth, velvet voice now low and gravelled like a rumbling mountain.

Corvus’ entire body went rigid.

Shit.

Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit-

“Mine…” Raphael mumbled, his grip tightening more as he shifted, wings rustling slightly before blanketing Corvus like morning dew. Raphael’s tail lazily coiled around Corvus’ ankle, as if ensuring no escape.

Corvus squeezed his eyes shut, heart hammering as Raphael seemed to stir awake.

This was not happening. 

How did he even manage to find himself naked in Raphael’s bed?

Raphael had wanted to speak with him in private last night regarding the Crown of Karsus at Sharess’ Caress, stating Corvus could speak for himself without the meddling of the other companions in his ear. He reluctantly agreed, just to silence the fiend’s persistent nagging. There was nothing suspicious when he arrived, everything was what Corvus expected. He even denied the whiskey Raphael offered in case he had slipped in some sort of truth serum or potion inside, leaving momentarily to buy his own bottle and keeping it to his hip as Raphael drank his own.

Everything, from what Corvus could remember, was completely normal. Their conversation, the pleasantries, nothing was out of the ordinary or suspicious at all from how he interacted with the devil besides Corvus actually finding himself enjoying their conversations after turning down Raphael’s offer yet again. But at some point, pieces of last night vanished from Corvus’ memory, leaving him here.

He swallowed as the flashes of straddling himself in Raphael’s lap came back. It took everything in Corvus not to physically shift from the memory of him devouring Raphael so greedily, the taste of whiskey and cherry still lingering on his tongue even now.

Gods, what a mess. How was he getting himself out of this one?

A long groan came out of Raphael that brought Corvus back to the present, the cambion shifting again and somehow pulling him in even closer. It nearly made the drow’s heart cease as the devil seemed to truly stir awake now. Corvus didn’t move, feeling time had stopped. Then, the most pleasant sound he could have hoped for reached his ears. A quiet, peaceful, rhythmic snore from the devil's lips.

Sweet merciful gods, Corvus thought. I need to get out of here.

Carefully, Corvus resumed his mission, slowly prying Raphael’s arm from his waist. But before he could remove an arm, Raphael made a low, displeased hum and pulled him right back in again, this time nuzzling into his hair, inhaling deeply.

“Mm… Little mouse…”

Corvus nearly screamed through the pillow, but held his breath instead as he waited for Raphael to grow still again and try his escape once more. He slipped one leg free from the tangle of limbs and sheets, then another. He was almost there, almost free-

Then Raphael rolled on top of him, pinning Corvus beneath a heavy, seven-foot cambion who apparently had no awareness of his own weight while unconscious. Corvus let out a wheezing sound as all the air was crushed from his lungs.

“What… the… fuck-” Corvus rasped, struggling beneath what he now imagined a weighted blanket from the Nine Hells must be like.

Raphael’s wings twitched, one draping lazily over them like a makeshift canopy. His tail gave a slow, contented flick, tightening around Corvus’ thigh as he buried his face into the bend of the drow’s neck.

“Hm… sweet… mouse…” Raphael purred lazily.

It took every ounce of self preservation in Corvus not to start thrashing like a feral cat on this devil and straggling him to death in his own bed. Twisting, he attempted to wedge an arm between them, but Raphael merely adjusted, his knee sliding between Corvus' legs and settling far too close to more sensitive areas. Corvus went still, eyes widening in silent horror.

This was it. This was how he would die.

Not in an honorable battle. Not in some grand sacrifice he would make to save his loved ones.

He was going to die, smothered to death under an over-affectionate, unconscious cambion who thought he was a damn body pillow.

For a half of a second, Corvus contemplated waking Raphael and facing this embarrassment head on. But then, a door creaked open and Corvus went rigid. His stomach dropped to his core as footsteps came in the room, halting a moment before a low, playful laugh echoed just out of his line of vision.

“...Oh this is interesting.”

Corvus slowly turned his head, his heart nearly stopping as he caught a glimpse of Raphael smiling down at him with unholy delight, leaning over the footboard… Only for Corvus to realize Raphael was also still the one crushing him, even now.

“Now who’s this creature curled in my Master’s arms?” The fiend purred, tapping a finger against his lips, clearly savoring the fear Corvus knew was written all over his face. Then, with slow, deliberate movements, they sauntered closer, trailing a hand along the bedpost toward Corvus. “I never thought I’d see the day Raphael would indulge in another. You must be something special.”

“Who…?” The word was a whisper, a sentence that vanished from Corvus’ lips as the fiend knelt down to meet him at eye level with him. He wasn’t sure if he should feel relieved that the more he looked at them, the more he realized this wasn’t Raphael… or terrified at this revelation.

“Why don’t we ask Raphael?” He grinned wickedly, combing his fingers through Corvus' messy, silver hair to get a clearer view of the mortal who was trapped in Raphael’s affectionate grasp. “I’m sure he’ll be delighted to see you’re awake-”

“You wouldn’t dare.” Corvus growled, sucking in air and silencing himself when Raphael shifted and grumbled in response. It made the fiend giggle.

“You’re not wanting to leave , are you? Raphael would be so disappointed…”

“I’ll fucking kill you,” Corvus whispered, his glare burning as hot as the fire in the fiend’s own infernal eyes. “I’ll gouge your eyes out with my own hands and leave you to bleed out on the floor if you wake him.”

“Hm… Feisty thing, aren’t you?” They smirked, tracing a claw over the prominent scar that stretched across Corvus’ nose and cheek, looking between Corvus and Raphael for an excruciating long few seconds before finally shrugging. “Alright then. I suppose I’ll let you go, little mortal. I have a feeling Raphael will have you back in this bed to play with him again soon enough.”

With a feline grace, the fiend rose, towering over Corvus with a devilish smile- clearly savoring the moment of pure, primal fear the drow showed. Then, the creature carefully slipped himself between Corvus and Raphael, nestling in between the two like a snake squeezing into a crack. 

The moment Corvus had an inch of freedom from Raphael’s hold, he swiftly rolled out of the bed, landing on the marble floor with a hard thud. He laid on the floor for a few seconds as his vision blurred from the sudden movement, freezing when he heard shuffling in the bed. He cautiously peered over the mattress in time to see Raphael curling around the infernal creature instead, nuzzling against his shoulder with another pleased sigh. The fiend gave a pleasant hum, meeting Corvus’ wide-eyed gaze with a lazy one. 

“Hop to the room on the left. There are many mirrors within that will take you anywhere from the Sword Coast to Cania. Just make sure you don’t go through the wrong one, dove. I’d rather not face the brunt end of Raphael’s wrath if something happened to you. He obviously likes you for whatever reason.” The fiend winked. “Now run along, little pup. I’ll see you later.”

Corvus said nothing as he bolted from the floor, snatching up his clothes and dressing himself all while making a beeline out of the room and through the mirror that read “Baldur’s Gate”.

Corvus brisked through the Elfsong Tavern, keeping his head down and avoiding everyone in camp. He knew he was a mess. He hadn’t combed his hair, his shirt was only halfway buttoned (the top half of the buttons having mysteriously vanished), and there was something undeniably obvious about his frantic state that screamed of a wild night he was absolutely not going to talk about. 

He almost made it to the washroom to cleanse himself from last night’s regrets. That was, until a figure leaning against the doorframe halted him in place.

“Well, well, well.” Astarion smirked, one brow playfully arched as he looked the drow up and down. “Look who decided to stumble back home before sunrise. And here I thought you’d been abducted.”

“Not now, Astarion.” Corvus mumbled, trying to push past the vampire, but Astarion held his hand out, frowning.

“Where in the world have you been? You had everyone worried sick last night.”

“I was- it doesn’t matter.” Corvus muttered, crossing his arms. “I had a long night.”

“Obviously. Have you looked in a mirror?”

Corvus’ brows furrowed, his tired eyes not able to hold their usual bite. Astarion straightened his posture as he circled slowly around Corvus, scanning the drow up and down as he took in every detail. Then, he halted, his eyes locking onto Corvus’ exposed neck.

“By the gods- did you sleep with one of my siblings last night? It looks like a dog mistook your neck for a bone.”

Corvus felt the heat rise to his face before quickly brisking in the washroom to a mirror. He nearly gasped as indeed, the side of his neck was cut, bruised, and bitten to pieces- including his chest.

“Gods above, devil’s below-”

“Speaking of, I hope you didn’t entertain that devil's request last night-”

“Never!” Corvus said quickly, feeling his ears ignite. Astarion simply tilted his head as Corvus collected himself. “I uh… ended up staying at Sharess’ Caress last night. That’s all.”

“And what escort did that to your lovely neck?” Astarion frowned. “Not that I care, I just don’t want to sink my teeth into something so mangled-”

“Dragonborn.” Corvus lied quickly. “Pretty girl, seemed like fun. I’ll be honest, I hadn’t considered the teeth being so… sharp. But, I was curious, she was a little crazy about wanting to sleep with a drow, so who was I to deny?” 

“I wish you would hold higher standards for yourself, my friend.” Astarion rolled his eyes. “Have as much fun as you wish, but if you keep this up with every person you’ve been ‘curious’ about that we’ve come across, you’ll end up with an admirer you can’t shake. Trust me, it isn’t pleasant.”

Corvus’ heart sank as Astarion waltzed out of the washroom, leaving Corvus hastily snatching his toothbrush and scrubbing the lingering taste of cherry and whiskey from his mouth.

A few days had passed since that bizarre morning. He never saw Raphael and as the days progressed, Corvus had begun to forget about that night entirely as he, Gale, Karlach, and Astarion became caught up in the turmoil of the city, fighting through various battles and meeting with Gortash after his ceremony. 

They made it to the main gate of the city, having just thwarted another assassination attempt from Orin and saved the dwarven merchant that ran Facemaker's Boutique.

“Please, a discount for your troubles! Anytime you wish!” Figaro offered thanks for saving his life.

“We could use some new clothes,” Corvus said, his hand lingering over his neck where the worn, high collared undershirt covered the lingering mistakes from a few nights back. 

“Agreed.” Gale chimed in, his eye already falling on an elegant robe draped along a mannequin. “With some of our recent encounters as of late, it may be wise to have at least one pair of clothing for the more pristine events we attend.”

“I couldn’t agree more!” Astarion beamed. “I’m so tired of wearing the same old armor and night clothes. We need something normal for a change.”

“Oooooh, fancy!” Karlach grinned. “Think they have something that would fit me and not burn off when this engine heats up?”

“If not, I’m sure adjustments can be made.” Corvus smiled, nodding to Figaro. “Thanks. We’ll take a look.”

“No, no, thank you! I owe you my life!” The dwarf bowed graciously, “We have several fitting rooms in the back. Feel free to use them and try on as much as you wish! If you need any assistance, please don’t hesitate to ask me or one of my staff!”

Corvus nodded as he and the others began rifling through the fabrics in the store, picking out various clothing and apparel. For the first hour, everyone stayed together, chatting and taking opinions on which outfits and colors suited one another best. Eventually, everyone found themselves splitting off as each shopped for their own styles.

Corvus plucked up a few undershirts and trousers to replace the ones he had torn these last few months, as well as a new set of dark night clothes. He paused as his eyes fell to the nicer clothing the others had already scavenged through, treading to the back of the store to have a look. 

As he stepped inside, he caught sight of an employee helping another customer in front of a mirror, moving past without a word as the human male concentrated on tying the woman’s corset. Corvus scanned the silks and fabrics, raising a distasteful brow at the bright vibrant colors he would never be caught dead wearing- that was, until he found a much darker sleeve sticking out from the rest.

“What have we here…?” Corvus muttered curiously, pulling out a suit jacket to get a better look. This one was much more to his liking compared to the others, so deep in purple it was almost black with intricate, silver threading along the front.

“Finding everything alright, sir?”

Corvus turned to the tailor who smiled politely at him. “Yeah. I like this one, actually.”

“That’s a wonderful design, I think it would suit your skin tone well. Is this for a formal event?”

“Probably. I just need a decent outfit.”

“Of course,” The man said, rummaging through the rack with precision. “Do you dress formally regularly?”

“No, but I’m willing to spend a bit more on an outfit for that reason. Did you have something in mind?”

The tailor pulled out a thin vest that held laces in the back, nodding to himself before holding it out to the drow. “I would recommend pairing this with it. It is excellent for posture, gives a sleek look, and allows a much smoother fit of the blazers and suits we offer.”

Corvus examined it, raising a brow. “... How do you wear it?”

“Over a dress shirt. If you’d like, I’ll let you change and assist so you may see.”

Corvus paused, contemplating it, then shrugged. “Sure, why not? Might as well go all out.”

The tailor nodded, speaking up before disappearing in another room. “Excellent. Allow me to grab you something closer to your size. Just call out when you’re ready.”

Corvus nodded, turning to the dress room and closing a curtain as he began to change. He threw on the new undershirts and trousers he had, slipping on a new pair of shoes he had forgotten he snagged along the way. He then looked at the vest in full detail. It was plain, a matte black, but he didn’t mind since it would be mostly covered by the jacket. Corvus carefully loosened the back before throwing it on, latching the front as he called out.

“I’m ready.” 

Corvus fastened the final clasp before lifting his head.

… Silence.

“You out there?” Corvus raised a brow. 

No one answered back. It made Corvus grumble. “It’s always something…”

Corvus reached the back of the vest, feeling the laces before finding both ends. He tried pulling, only feeling it tighten in one place along the back. He blindly guided his hands over, his brows furrowing as his attempt proved fruitless. 

“This damn thing,” He twisted, arms craned at an awkward angle. “I could use a hand in here!” He called out again toward the curtain.

Corvus waited another long moment, almost turning to leave before he heard soft footsteps finally approach from the other side. He turned back to face the wall. 

“About time,” Corvus mumbled to himself before addressing the tailor. “I need some help, if you don’t mind.”

Corvus heard the curtain pull back, waiting as the tailor lingered behind him.

“I tried to get it myself… Apologies if I tangled anything. I swear these sorts of things are meant to be impossible to do yourself.”

When a deep chuckle left the tailor, the very sound from the man made the hairs on Corvus’ neck stand on end. He wasn’t sure why, but there was something near menacing in that rumble. He almost turned to face him, but the human pleasantly hummed and started snapping hooks and clasps Corvus didn’t even realize were there.

“...Thanks.”

“Mm hm.” The man replied, continuing to hum to himself. 

The tailor’s hands began to move with efficiency, fingers weaving the laces and occasionally tugging as they adjusted the fit. Corvus felt himself naturally straightening with each swift tug as the vest constricted slightly more.

“Damn, this thing really works, doesn’t it?”

“Mm hm.”

“It doesn’t get too tight though, does- IT!”

Corvus gasped as the tailor suddenly yanked the laces, nearly taking his breath away.

“That’s all,” The tailor said softly, holding back a laugh.

Corvus stilled as silence grew between them.

That voice was low, much lower than he had remembered it being. But then again, he hadn’t really paid attention to the man’s voice all that well, especially since they only exchanged a few words. 

Corvus tried to brush it off and relax again as the tailor tied the final knot, but his stomach dropped as he felt the man’s hands linger on his waist. Not quite intrusive, but most certainly deliberate. Fingertips ghosted down the seams, smoothing the lines in a way that felt less like a tailor’s precision and more like a playful touch- all easing down to his hips.

“I suggest moving your hands before you lose them, friend.” Corvus spoke clearly, but a growl found itself lingering in his throat like a warning wolf. “Unless you want to become another corpse rotting in the back for the Flaming Fists to confiscate, then by all means, continue treading down.”

That deep chuckle reverberated through the room again, but the tailor seemed to take the hint, stopping just above Corvus’ hips.

“Apologies, I couldn’t resist admiring that form,” The tailor responded, his voice like the velvet that hung from the walls of the boutique. “It looks wonderful on you.”

Corvus’ breath stopped.

His heart plummeted to his stomach when it finally clicked who this was.

He gave no warning as Corvus ripped himself away and backed into the wall he had been facing. And there, standing in the fitting room with a smile so unbearably pleased with itself, was Raphael.

The devil looked perfectly at ease, his human guise dressed immaculately as usual, hands clasped behind his back as if he had every right to be there. His chestnut gaze flickered with amusement, head tilting just slightly.

“Something the matter, little mouse?”

“What the FUCK are you doing here?!” Corvus said, grabbing his chest. Raphael only laughed.

“You’re surprised to find me at such a well established boutique? I should be the one asking you that question, my dear!” Raphael reached outside the curtain, pulling out a suit jacket and holding it out to Corvus. “Now, put this on. This color is much more suiting for you than that drab indigo, I have an eye for these things-”

“What are you doing here?” Corvus growled again, feeling his pulse spike as Raphael smiled down at him.

“Straight to the point, is it?” Raphael’s smile crept slower and wider, hanging the jacket on a hook inside. “Very well. I came to invite you to dinner since you’ve been avoiding my place of business these last few days.”

“D-Dinner?”

“Of course, I figured a dinner would be a wonderful way to discuss the details of the deal you signed the other night.”

“What deal?” Corvus brisked.

“One I couldn’t refuse.” Raphael smoothly smiled. “So tell me, where do you wish to go?”

“I’m not going out to eat with you!” Corvus snapped. “Tell me about this deal. Now.”

“I will, my dear. In full detail. I just need to know where you would like to discuss this at- unless of course, you want your companions to learn about your recent adventurous evening?”

Corvus went still as Raphael beamed at him with delight. Then Corvus huffed.

“Fine. I’ll meet you tonight at the Devil’s Den again.”

“Excellent.” Raphael purred, his voice dripping with utter satisfaction as he ambled forward, making Corvus lay into the wall further as Raphael closed the distance between them. He delicately lifted Corvus’ chin up to meet his chestnut gaze. Those soft eyes held a glint of wickedness that made Corvus want to vanish on the wall completely, along with the heat of Raphael’s breath as the devil whispered. “I look forward to seeing you tonight, little mouse. Don’t be late…”

Raphael then exploded out of the room, leaving Corvus coughing out the ash left in his wake.

Corvus waited a long moment as reality crept in, then finally frowned.

…What has he gotten himself into?

Corvus rubbed his hands together as if to massage away the growing nerves as he ascended the stairs in Sharess’ Caress. Laughter and the distant hum of music bled through the lavish walls, fading as Corvus ventured to the veranda on the top floor. He halted at the railing, pausing to stabilize himself as he took a long, deep breath, gazing at the twilight stars above.

He could do this.

He didn’t know how he would do this, but he would come up with a plan like always, even if he was going to be dragged through the mud like his foot was caught in a stirrup of a flighty horse.

Corvus took a final breath before turning down the veranda, noticing the door to the Devil’s Den was already cracked open, as if it were a silent invitation. Corvus knocked as he stepped in. 

Inside, the room was as he remembered-warm, indulgent, decorated in deep reds and golds with cream marble accenting. A fire flickered low in the hearth, its glow casting shifting shadows against the walls. And there, seated at the same polished table where their last exchange of words had played out, was Raphael.

The fiend lounged in his chair, draped in effortless confidence, a glass of something dark and rich in his clawed hand. He lifted it slightly in greeting, amusement gleaming in his infernal eyes.

“How wonderful it is to see you, my dear.” Raphael purred, beckoning Corvus closer with a finger. “Do have a seat.”

Corvus huffed, shutting the door behind him and following. He sat himself across from Raphael on a plush chair, flinching when he felt Raphael’s tail just graze his leg.

“We have much to discuss.”

“You’re damn right we do.” Corvus growled, kicking Raphael’s tail away. “I want to know what the hell happened. What you did to me.”

“Then let me begin by easing your mind… and earning your trust, since I have a feeling you will be less prompt in believing any word I tell you.” Raphael reached inside an inner pocket of his doublet, plucking out a small bottle with his claws and sliding it along the table to Corvus. “Tell me, my sharp eyed raven: What is this potion?”

Corvus arched a brow, pausing a moment as he looked down at the bottle before picking it up and opening the cap. He swirled it a moment, then wafted the scent. It was all too familiar, something he had used countless times before in interrogations in his past life in the Underdark- and something he immediately recognized Jaheira had tried masking in his drink when he first arrived at Last Light Inn.

“This is Klauthgrass, a potent truth serum.” Corvus said suspiciously, setting it back on the table. 

“Very good,” Raphael smiled, and, to Corvus’ utter shock, the devil raised it like he was toasting a drink, then downed the entire bottle.

“Now then,” Raphael capped the empty glass, tucking it back in his front pocket. “You have every reason to believe the rest of my words this evening. Though, I have always been forthcoming with you since we’ve met. Let’s start with easing your first doubts- or rather add to your stress, for I see you will loath the truth.”

Raphael straightened in his seat, crossing his legs and smiling with smug, unholy delight as he cleared his throat. “I did nothing to you, nor did I coerce you into any activity you didn’t wish to engage in. Everything we are about to discuss was solely your doing.”

Corvus couldn’t speak at first, only quickly blinking at Raphael as he simply took another sip of his liquor in response. 

“I would have never agreed to sleep with you,” Corvus nearly growled, finding his bite again. But Raphael simply shrugged.

“You didn’t ‘agree’ to anything, you simply asked- so sweetly in my lap too after throwing yourself on me might I add, and I simply obliged.”

Corvus felt his ears burn, refusing to mentally acknowledge that sensation that grew. “Then why don’t I remember?”

“Because you were absolutely hammered, my dear.” Raphael laughed, “You drank that entire bottle of whiskey you were so adamant about having. Perhaps the night would have taken a different turn if you had simply shared the bottle with me I had.”

“You… you took advantage of me.” Corvus’ brows furrowed, becoming inherently aware of the liquor glass that lay in arms reach- perfect for smashing against that devil’s skull. Raphael grew quiet a moment, his smile never leaving before tilting his head.

“One could argue the opposite, my dear.”

“What are you talking about?!” Corvus finally snapped, slamming his hands on the table as he pointed a finger in Raphael’s face. “You KNEW I was drunk and you still took it upon yourself to-!”

“I was intoxicated as well, dear.” 

Corvus' mouth snapped shut as Raphael’s smile faltered. Not with shame or sadness, but as if he hated to admit his next words.

“You had your bottle of whiskey, and I had mine.” Raphael continued calmly. “After denying my proposal regarding the Crown of Karsus, you lingered here and indulged me in conversation. Pleasant conversation, actually. Conversation that I found myself enjoying.” Raphael’s lips cracked again as he paused, like there was a part of him fighting the truth serum he swallowed, but he chose to speak regardless. “In fact, I found myself relaxing too much in your company and before I knew it, my own bottle had run dry and I began entertaining some rather… unwise propositions. Which leads me to discussing the details of our new contract.”

Raphael snapped his fingers, and in a burst of embers, a rolled parchment appeared in his claws.

“You proposed a rather amusing contract.” Raphael finally frowned. “One that in my sobriety, I would have never agreed upon… but my my, does it hold potential for the both of us.”

He held the parchment roll out to Corvus, beckoning him to take it. Corvus stared between it and Raphael before quickly swiping it from Raphael’s grasp. Corvus unrolled the scroll, his eyes narrowing a moment as he read the terms, then growing cat-like wide as he echoed them aloud.

“ ‘As agreed upon in good faith and sealed under mutual consent, the following terms are set forth to ensure fair and binding exchange between the client, Corvus, and the Holder of binding contract, Raphael.’ ”

Corvus swallowed, feeling his jaw tense as the reality set in at the words.

Gods, what has he agreed to?

He leaned on the tables with his elbows as he continued, concentrating on every word.

“ ‘Clause I: The Holder agrees to escort the Client to any location of the Client’s choosing for the purposes of a private social engagement held solely between the Client and the Holder. The Holder shall cover all travel expenses, accommodations, and incidental costs in full, provided that no third parties are included in such arrangements. The Holder shall make reasonable effort to ensure the Client’s safety and provide any pleasantries they choose for the duration of the event to the best of Holder’s abilities.’ ”

Raphael remained silent as Corvus read the clause aloud, taking a long sip of his liquor. Corvus raised a brow before his eyes lifted from the parchment to Raphael.

“Social Engagement?”

“You mentioned wishing to see the world once this little adventure of yours ends, as well as longing for a break away from the nightmares you've faced in recent times." Raphael, for the first time, finally frowned. “And I seemed to have been persuaded to grant you such a gift between the liquor and your coquettish behavior… completely disregarding how much financial ruin you will undoubtedly put me through.”

Corvus blinked, not able to fight against the smile that played at the corner of his lips.

“Holy shit. Do you think you can afford me?”

“I suppose we’ll see,” Raphael huffed, slowly rising from his chair as he ambled around, tapping at the parchment with a claw as his rich tone began to lighten. “But you may want to continue to the terms you proposed for indulging in such a treat.”

Corvus let out a slow exhale as he prepared himself, leaning back in his plush chair as he read the next part. Raphael too leaned against the backrest, reading the contract in silence with him.

“ ‘Clause II: For the entirety of the arrangement, the Client shall remain within six feet of the Holder at all times, herein referred to as the Proximity Restriction. Any voluntary or involuntary breach of this restriction by the Client shall invoke the terms of Clause III.’ ”

Corvus shot his gaze up to the devil. “Proximity Restriction?”

Raphael's indulgent smile returned as he straightened himself and began to slowly walk through the room. “For such a gift, you must remain within six feet of me at all times during the social events you request.”

Raphael took one step too many and Corvus nearly gasped as something within his chest yanked at his heart. It felt like a tether, a plate of armor that was cramped inside that was about to rip out of his chest in Raphael’s direction if he didn’t ease the tension soon. The pain from the growing pressure pulled him to his feet, forcing him to take a step towards Raphael just to loosen that tension to keep it from snapping.

Raphael’s footsteps stopped before it could, turning to Corvus once more, undeniably pleased. “I seem to have granted you mercy by attaching a little warning when you grow too far apart from the restriction. I suppose I was feeling rather generous.”

Raphael drew close once more, making the pain cease all together when he was standing beside Corvus, plucking up the contract from him.

“W-Why is this happening now?” Corvus panted, clutching his heart to keep it inside. “I thought it only applied when… when-”

“When you requested to meet me at any location in private.” Raphael's smile slowly widened. “And you requested to see me at the Devil’s Den tonight.”

Corvus felt the heat rise through his neck, but not from embarrassment. “The boutique…” Corvus hushed as a rage built within him. “You… You made me-!”

“You asked to have what would be defined as a ‘private social event’ here with me this very evening, little mouse. So here we are.”

“I’m not doing this.” Corvus growled, “I’m not entertaining this ridiculous-”

“You might want to read what will happen if you don’t.” Raphael smugly grinned, holding the contract out to Corvus. The drow scowled, snatching it from the fiend’s claws, taking a step back and turning away as he unrolled it once more.

“ ‘Clause III: Should the Client breach the Proximity Restriction at any time during the agreed-upon event: 1. The Holder shall assume full discretion in determining the Client’s subsequent destination, overriding any prior preferences expressed by the Client.”

“You get to run along with me to a destination of my choosing.” Raphael simplified, nearly leaning over Corvus’ shoulder as the drow continued.

“ 2. The Client shall be held financially liable for the full cost of the engagement, inclusive of all expenses incurred.” Corvus shot his gaze to Raphael. “You and I both know I can’t afford anything you want to do.”

Raphael said nothing, simply tapping a claw on the third term. Corvus reluctantly continued.

“3. Should the Client be unable to provide the required financial compensation… the Client shall instead provide recompense through indulgence in pleasantries of the Holder’s choosing, said pleasantries to be defined solely at the Holder’s discretion and to continue until such time as the Holder deems the debt satisfactorily repaid.”

Corvus felt the color leave his face as he reread the term silently, stiffening when he felt Raphael’s teasing hand trail across the back of his neck.

“If you cannot financially compensate,” He purred, his hot breath reaching too close to Corvus’ ear. “You shall compensate by partaking in whatever I choose to define as ‘pleasantries’. Need that be simple conversation or more… intimate engagements. That is my decision to make, little mouse… And you must indulge."

Raphael reached for the parchment, his hands deliberately sliding under Corvus’ arms as he wrapped his hands around the drow’s own, angling the contract to better meet his infernal gaze as Raphael read aloud the final clause.

“ ‘Clause IV: This Contract is binding upon agreement and cannot be unilaterally revoked, amended, or nullified by the Client except by express consent of the Holder. By affixing their signature below, both parties acknowledge and accept the terms of this Contract in full.’ ”

Raphael’s laugh was dripping with satisfaction as he tapped the bottom of the parchment. “Now tell me dear, whose signature is that?”

Corvus felt himself grow light headed as he stared at the unmistakable flourish that was his own handwriting at the bottom of the contract. His mind raced, scrambling for some way- any way, to deny the sheer disaster he had walked himself into.

“I was drunk, and so were you.” he finally said, though the words felt weak even as they left his mouth. “That has to account for something… doesn’t it?”

“I’m afraid not,” Raphael hummed, his tone sounding more mocking than the sympathy he tried to play. “What’s done is done. The contract has been in full effect since that evening.”

“And… the other night?” Corvus didn’t want the answer, not truly. But he needed to know.

“Indulging in the flesh was one of the pleasantries you requested.” Raphael purred. “Once the contract was in effect, I was at your mercy. Drunk or otherwise… though, that makes it sound like I didn’t enjoy myself, doesn’t it?”

Raphael loomed over Corvus now, his pointed teeth smiling down as he held his waist. “I had a wonderful night, my dear. You were full of surprises.”

Corvus’ breath hitched as Raphael’s hands settled on his waist. His mind screamed at him to step back, to put some distance between them, but he was frozen, caught between disbelief and the slow, sinking realization that there was no escaping this.

Raphael chuckled, his claws pressing just enough to draw Corvus back. “You needn’t look so stricken, little mouse. Afterall, the contract is only in effect when you request my services.”

Corvus jerked his head up to meet his infernal gaze. “Wait. So I don’t have to ask you for anything?”

“Not if you don’t wish to.” Raphael nodded. “Theoretically, you could live the rest of your life never seeing me again, but where’s the fun in that? You could go just about anywhere now without consequence, and all you have to do is let me come along and stay within arms reach. You’re more intelligent to not fail at that, aren’t you?”

Corvus finally scowled, contorting his body and ripping himself from Raphael. “Fine. I’ll never see you again. I’m ending this current arrangement.”

To Corvus' growing horror, Raphael said nothing. His smile simply grew wider as he moved his hands away and stepped back, his watchful eyes piercing Corvus’ like a predator studying the movements of its prey. It made Corvus grow rigid a moment, then swiftly turn heel and dart to the exit. He only took a few paces before that pressure in his chest quickly grew tight again, so unbearable it made him stop and clutch his heart once more.

“The door is right there,” Raphael purred behind him. “You’re free to go, little mouse.”

“Then why is this- thing pulling at me still?! I'm ending this 'social engagement', now!"

“It seems the contract is still in effect,” Raphael hummed. “You did invoke the duration of this evening already by wishing to visit for the night… to me, that qualifies for the entire night.”

“You mother fucker-”

Corvus’ words cut as Raphael took one, large deliberate step backwards, stretching the space between them. Corvus gasped as that tether prepared to snap and much to his dismay, he quickly turned from the door and moved straight towards Raphael to ease it. Raphael laughed wickedly as he continued to walk backwards further, making Corvus follow. 

“What’s the matter, dear? You’re free to leave!” He chuckled with his arms outstretched. “There’s nothing stopping you from waltzing right out of that door! Don’t let me keep you-”

“BASTARD!” Corvus hissed, keeping his pace. “I’m not giving up an ounce of control to you!”

“It seems I will always hold power in this dear, whether I am compelled to your mercy or otherwise.” Raphael’s laugh was low as he circled the room towards the door. He finally stopped at it, at Corvus’ only exit- and locked the door. “You’ll have all night to come to terms with that, my dear.”

Chapter Text

“Asshole!” Corvus spat. “You selfish low-life, contract-peddling parasite!”

“Oh how I love that tongue of yours!” Raphael laughed joyously, beckoning a taunting finger as he moved faster away from Corvus. Corvus’ eyes shot open as all self restraint completely left him as the devil’s smug grin curled like a vine as he taunted. Corvus closed in the space between them, lunging like a lynx as he tackled Raphael with full force- who only laughed even more.

The cambion’s laugh, though, ceased as Corvus reared his fist back and slammed it down towards the devil’s nose, but Corvus’ breath cut from him first when a clawed hand snatched his own throat and with one swift motion, Raphael threw Corvus to his back, pinning him in place like an insect to a board. 

“Easy, little viper.” Raphael warned, towering over the drow. “Don’t let that temper get you into more trouble than you’ve already found yourself in. What’s done is done.”

Corvus thrashed beneath Raphael, kicking vigorously as he tried to break his wrists free from the fiend’s hold. Raphael barely budged, his weight pressing Corvus down with ease, his wings flaring just slightly as if savoring the struggle.

“Get off of me!” Corvus snarled, twisting in place but Raphael merely hummed in amusement, tightening his grip around Corvus’ wrists and dragging them up above his head.

“Such a wild thing you are,” Raphael purred, leaning in until his lips were just a breath away from Corvus’ own. “Be reasonable, dear. There’s no need to-”

Corvus flew his head forward, cracking his skull against Raphael’s forehead. The fiend hissed as he retreated back, grabbing his head as a new pain throbbed. Corvus took the opportunity and pulled his leg back, kicking it forward and knocking Raphael to his back.

“YOU CONTEMPTUOUS-!”

Corvus dove on top of him, straddling over Raphael once more. He snatched a handful full of the devil’s collar, rearing his fist back, every ounce of rage igniting behind his crimson eyes. His fist flew down, aiming straight at the fiend’s nose, every desire to break it–

A loud crack came from Corvus’ knuckles as Raphael twisted before he could make contact, his fists missing and instead, crashing into the marble floor. Corvus lurched back screaming, clutching his scarred hand as a shattering pain radiates up his arm.

“FUCK!!!” Corvus barked, “Fuck that HURT!!!”

“You see what happens when you lose your senses?” Raphael frowned. “I assumed you learned your lesson the other night, but it seems your feeblemindedness halts any intellectual decision making you can-”

Corvus snatched Raphael’s neck with his good hand, leaning down and growling. “I’m going to fucking kill you-!”

Raphael cut the words from his throat once more as he grabbed Corvus’ neck once again and with one swift motion, slammed Corvus to the marble beneath him again.

“How fortunate for you that I am not able to break the other hand for such an ill mannered display.”

Raphael's infernal eyes quickly moved away to Corvus’ now swollen hand, the drow wincing every time he tried to break from the devil’s grip. Then, another smile, one far too calculated, slowly found itself so naturally on Raphael’s lips.

“Such disobedience I find intolerable… Although, I can’t help finding it charming with you. I suppose for that reason, I should not let my pet remain in such pain.”

“Your pet?!” Corvus snapped, resisting even more. “I’m not your damned PET you-!”

Raphael only rolled his eyes, then, he rose from the floor, hoisting Corvus up with him. Corvus tried to tear himself away, but Raphael’s grasp was too firm on his forearms now as the devil examined Corvus’ broken hand. 

“Since you decided of your own free will to injure yourself, I suppose I am bound to correct your mistake to ‘ensure the client’s safety to the best of my abilities’...”

Raphael suddenly turned, his grip never leaving Corvus’ good wrist as he dragged him across the room toward the steaming bath that lay in the corner of the Devil’s Den. Corvus bulked in his hold like a colt refusing to be led, sliding across the marble from his heels as Raphael effortlessly tugged him along. He fought all the way to the edge of the water, his rage only building as Raphael simply drummed a finger against his chin as he thoughtfully gazed at the various bottles on a nearby shelf. His claw hovered over each label as he read them, pausing at a turquoise bottle before plucking it from the shelf.

“Here we are,” Raphael said to himself, biting at the cork until it popped and spitting it to the floor. He hummed as he poured its contents over the steaming bath. “This should do the trick. It will take a few minutes for the potion to take effect, but the bath is ready for you-”

“I’m not getting in.” Corvus jerked his arm, but the struggle was useless as he was held with ease.

“Now, now, dear.” Raphael tutted, wagging a finger, but there was something sarcastic that lingered in his voice that made Corvus bulk more. “This is a serious injury. This potion will heal you more effectively if you allow it to absorb slowly, and,” He gestured to the steaming bath, “Far more pleasurable than sitting here in pain all night, don’t you think?”

“I’d rather suffer than get in that water!”

“You are worse than an unruly adolescent,” Raphael rolled his eyes. “Do not be so mulish. As much as I’d enjoy seeing such a sight, I have to fulfill my end of the contract, no?”

Corvus' jaw clenched as he began to still. He wanted to believe Raphael was lying and that soaking in a tub was just some excuse to humiliate him more, but after seeing the devil down that truth serum…

“I’m not getting in the water.” Corvus repeated.

Raphael paused for a long moment, then sighed. “Always so obstinate… I’ll give you one last chance to make the right decision, my dear.”

Embers sparked in the hand of Raphael’s that held Corvus’ wrist. Corvus hissed as he felt the heat singed his skin a moment before a flame trailed from his own hand to a rack tethered to the wall. The flames vanished and in their wake, an infernal cuff and chain were left, attached from Corvus’ wrist to the wall.

“What the-?!” Corvus gasped, yanking as he realized the devil had snared him like a fox.

“I’ll give you 7 chances.” Raphael said, lifting a playful brow as he took a single, graceful step back. “One,”

“You son of a bitch!” Corvus barked, instinctually reaching for the cuff, yelping as that broken, free hand flared up in agony at the mere touch of the binding.

“Two,” Raphael took another step back, watching as Corvus ram his shoulder into the rack in an attempt to break it from the wall.

“Three,” He continued. Corvus now felt a dull ache in his chest begin to pull towards Raphael as the cambion stepped further away.

“Raphael-!”

“Four.” 

The fiend was smiling now, seeing how Corvus tried to move towards him only to be stopped in place. 

“Five-”

“Get back here!” Corvus snarled, his broken hand hovering over his heart, feeling as if it would explode from his chest at any given moment.

“Six.” Raphael paused here, peering down at Corvus as he froze like a startled deer, his large crimson eyes watching for every painstaking movement Raphael would make as if he didn’t fully believe the devil would dare to continue. 

Raphael moved one leg back, leaning away just an inch. “Sev-”

“ALRIGHT, I’LL GET IN THE DAMNED WATER!”

Raphael smiled brightly, lingering a moment before taking his time as he sauntered back over. Corvus heaved a relieved sigh as the pressure in his chest eased as Raphael drew closer, but it grew tight again when Raphael took his chin and raised his head to look upon his infernal features.

“That’s a good lad,” Raphael purred, pressing his thumb to Corvus’ lower lip as he angled his head further up, but Corvus shook away. 

“You’re a bastard. A truly insufferable bastard.”

“So venomous,” Raphael cooed. “I can’t say I don’t enjoy it.”

“Whatever. Just get this damned chain off.”

“As you wish.” Raphael snapped his fingers, the chain vanishing in a crackle of embers.

“Anyone ever told you you’re a dick?” Corvus said, flexing his now free wrist. “Because if not, let me be the first to tell you.”

“Always looking for a fight,” Raphael chuckled. “No wonder you’re so littered with so many scars.”

Corvus rolled his eyes, before they settled onto the steaming water. He raised a brow, then shifted his gaze to Raphael as the devil stood tall, eagerly smiling down at him.

“What?”

“Oh nothing,” Raphael cooed. “I just assumed you would need help with undressing, consider you’re—”

“I’ll snap your fucking neck if you put a claw on me.”

Raphael chuckled, then shrugged. “Then by all means, give it your best effort. I will wait right here once you realize you’ll need assistance. Feel free to cry my name when you’re ready, I so enjoyed hearing it from your lips the other night.”

Corvus nearly bared his teeth again as that devil smugly watched him, swishing his tail eagerly despite the composure Raphael presented himself with. Corvus shoved Raphael’s shoulder, pushing him away.

“Don’t look at me.”

“I’ve already seen more than just your bare skin, my dear. You’re not shy when you’re sober, are you–?”

Corvus snatched a towel from the bench beside him, smacking Raphael’s head with it, who only laughed and turned his back. 

“Just tell me when you need assistance.”

“I won’t.” Corvus promised.

He stood quietly as Raphael hummed to himself, making sure the fiend wouldn’t try to catch a glance. Then, Corvus huffed, looking down at himself as he tried to come up with a plan on how he was going to do this.

Why oh why, did he have to wear so many belts and laces…?

He started with the tunic, unraveling the tie and tugging to loosen the lace that held it together. Then, he untucked it from his high waisted pants. Easy enough.

Now… to get it over his head.

Corvus carefully took the hem of his tunic, lifting it up, gritting his teeth and wincing the moment he tried moving his cripled wrist as the fabric caught beneath his arm. He twisted, trying to get a better angle. A sharp bolt of pain lit up through his broken hand again when it brushed the sleeve.

He hissed as the tunic bunched at his shoulders. He tried pulling harder, using sheer spite to overcome the resistance, but the stubborn fabric refused to cooperate. From behind him Raphael let out a soft hum, not uttering a word, but Corvus knew Raphael didn’t have to watch him to know he was struggling. 

It made Corvus’ face grow hot. He braced his boot on the bench for leverage and tried to wrench the tunic over his head one last time. His fingers fumbled, hand throbbing before he had to pull it away and drop the garment.

Corvus muttered a curse in Undercommon as it fell back down.

Fine. Whatever. Screw it. He’d just leave the damned thing on if he had to. Maybe it would get tangled in a faucet somewhere so he could just drown and be spared the rest of this evening.

With an aggravated sigh, he shifted his focus downward to his pants. They were tight. They were always tight. Gods, why did he choose fashion over practicability for his camp attire? He popped the buttons open one by one, glaring down with the determination of a man about to perform surgery.

He grunted as he bent forward, trying to slide them down over his hips.

They didn’t budge.

He was never wearing fitted pants again after this.

Corvus wiggled his hips using the only hand he had to pry them off. Nothing. In front of him, Raphael still hadn’t moved. But the silence felt louder now. He could practically feel that devil grinning. Corvus stared down at the stubborn waistband for a long, tense moment, then gave a final huff through his nose.

“...Fine.”

“Hm?” Raphael chirped, far too delighted. “You’ll have to speak up, dear. I didn’t quite catch that.”

“I can’t get these off.”

“And?”

“I need help you smug bastard.”

Raphael’s chuckle was maddeningly pleased as he turned back to face the drow. “I would be happy to assist you, little mouse.” He didn’t give Corvus time to speak before his hands quickly found the drawstring that kept the front of Corvus’ tunic together. 

“You are without a doubt the most insufferable person I have ever met.” Corvus huffed.

“Coming from the man who indulged in me just the other night.”

“I was drunk.”

“Not when you declined my offer and made yourself so comfortable in my chair, dear.” Raphael beamed, twirling the delicate lace of the tunic around his claws as he slowly unraveled it loop by loop. Then, he suddenly yanked them out, tossing the lace string behind him, that devilish grin never leaving. “If you hated me as much as you claim, you would have never entertained my company when you no longer had a reason to stay, nor would you have thrown yourself onto me as passionately as you had afterwards, intoxicated or otherwise.”

“Please. You think too highly of yourself.” Corvus rolled his eyes, but heat rose from his neck as Raphael pried open the front of his tunic, humming as his fingers grazed over the bruises that had yet to heal on Corvus’ exposed chest.

“Lovely,” Raphael purred, “How truly satisfying to see my marks still lingering on your flesh even now.”

“Just shut up and get these off, would you? My hand is killing me.”

Raphael couldn’t help laughing at his venom. “It’s not killing you, my dear. No need for theatrics.”

“My hand and wrist are broken, Raphael.”

“A few broken bones won’t kill you. Besides, you’re managing well. Given your history, you should have a higher pain tolerance by now.”

Corvus almost grumbled until he felt Raphael’s hands slither down to his waist, slow and unhurried before raking back up as the fiend carefully pulled the tunic over his head, taking surprising caution around his crippled arm.

“What’s with that scowl? Not enjoying yourself?” Raphael teased, reveling in the way Corvus’ lavender skin twitched under his touch as he traced another delicate claw down his chest.

“All you ever do is yap.” Corvus exhaled sharply, averting his gaze to the furthest wall and ignoring the heat that was slowly building in his ears. “Stop wasting time and just get this over with.”

“Oh, but where’s the fun in that, my dear?” The fiend laughed, “But I suppose this isn’t exactly the angle you prefer, is it? Maybe if we made some adjustments, you’d find it more pleasurable and be a little less irascible.”

“What are you talking about?”

Raphael took a step back and to Corvus’ utter shock, knelt to one knee.

“If I recall from our little tryst,” Raphael hushed, “You prefer your lovers beneath you, don’t you little mouse?”

Corvus' eyes grew wide, leaving him wordless as Raphael simply tapped his knee. His body moved before his thoughts could and to much of his disdain, Corvus propped his leg willingly on Raphael.

“That’s better,” Raphael purred, running his hand up over the leather of Corvus’ calf. “Now let’s get you out of these troublesome things…”

Raphael took his time like before, carefully untying each lace, buckle and strap that held his boots together before slipping it off with ease. He ran his hand up Corvus’ open leg again– prudently, as if he was waiting for the drow to suddenly drive his foot forward through his chest. But much to his pleasure, Corvus only tilted his head, studying him intently.

“You’ve grown quiet, dear.” Raphael grinned, tapping the other leg as Corvus switched. “Is that all it takes to tame that fiery spirit of yours? Kneeling at your feet?”

“I’m trying to figure out what you’re doing.” Corvus pondered, that sharp blade of a tongue growing dull at the edges now. Raphael simply shrugged, working on the other boot.

“I’m just ensuring you have a pleasurable evening, my dear.”

“You’re on your knees. For me.”

“Correct.”

“Why?”

“Don’t you enjoy it?”

Corvus furrowed his brows.

He’d rather choke on his own spit than ever admit he was way more into this than he could have ever imagined.

“It’s alright,” Corvus said aloofly. “But it seems like you’re the one who’s truly enjoying himself…”

Raphael laughed quietly as he slid the boot off, daring to glide his hand up past the drow’s knee– and press a kiss the inside of his thigh. “I am, little mouse…”

Corvus blinked. For a heartbeat, he thought Raphael was lying. There was no way in the hells a power hungry fiend like this would throw himself at the feet of a mortal like him. He almost didn’t believe it, until the image of Raphael downing that truth serum moments ago flashed across his mind…

“If this is your way of trying to sway me…” Corvus trailed off as Raphael inched closer, his fingers dancing to the hem at his waistband crawling over his hips.

“I’m not trying to sway you, I’m simply taking full advantage of my situation regarding this contract.”

Corvus opened his mouth to retort, but then his entire body twitched as Raphael pressed his lips into his stomach. His thumbs slipped beneath the fabric of the pants, massaging in deep circles as he wandered past the drow’s navel inching further and further below the hem.

“Hm.” Corvus huffed, his good hand instinctively finding its way to Raphael's hair as the devil nearly pulled him into his arms as if he were holding back a hunger that began to grow. Corvus hovered there the moment he caught himself, uncertain whether to push Raphael away or pull him closer. He finally lifted a brow as he watched Raphael nearly burying his face into him now. “You’re really into this?”

“Is it so hard to believe?” Raphael murmured against his skin, looking up with those dangerous, half lidded eyes that seemed so lustful now. “Or are you perhaps unaccustomed to someone appreciating what's before them?”

“I think you're confusing appreciation with manipulation,” Corvus managed, his voice betraying him with a slight catch as Raphael's hands wrapped around his hips to squeeze his ass.

Raphael smiled against his stomach. “Can it not be both?”

Corvus snorted, until he felt the hot breath from Raphael linger over his skin again before Raphael’s tongue slipped out to taste him. It sent a shiver up Corvus, but not from fear. No, that would have been better than what he was feeling now.

It was something else, something far, far worse, that began to curl low in his stomach like the flicker of an ember hungry for fuel to ignite it. It was something he should have pushed Raphael away for by now, something he knew he should have never entertained to begin with, but seeing a powerful being such as this, a devil on his knees for him…

The cambion's fingers finally hooked his waistband, tugging down just enough to make his intentions clear and loosening that uncomfortable pressure that had begun to build in the front of Corvus’ pants. He felt Raphael’s warm breath linger over his stiffened shaft, leaning into the wall as he waited expectantly for that devil to take him in.

Maybe… Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad. Just this once–

Corvus’ thoughts scattered as he glanced down at Raphael, his own half lidded eyes snapping open as Raphael stared back with a wicked, mischievous, calculated grin that had replaced that lustful gaze the fiend had given him just moments ago. 

“Oh dear,” Raphael’s tongue clicked, withdrawing himself completely as he leaned back to meet his eye better. “I nearly forgot about that little accident of yours.”

Corvus watched the fiend like a stunned rabbit as he rose to his feet with grace, his voice barely containing its amusement as he waved his hand towards the pool. “How inconsiderate of me to become so distracted… Your bath awaits, my dear.”

Corvus stood frozen, mouth slightly agape, his body still thrumming with desire that now had nowhere to go as Raphael brushed past him and stopped at the shelf of potions and oils looking over each. Corvus blinked as Raphael hummed to himself hovering a claw over each bottle as if he were searching for something in particular. Searching like he hadn’t been on his knees just a heartbeat ago on the verge of worshipping him. Like he hadn’t undressed him fully and left him here standing, exposed and wanting more.

It made Corvus’ face grow hot. At Raphael for toying with him, at himself for falling right into it…

“The water will grow cold if you idle any longer.” Raphael said with infuriating casualness, plucking up a bottle and reading it in more detail not even looking in his direction.

“You–” Corvus clenched his jaw, fists clenching as he saw a mere crack of a smile that wanted to break at the corner of Raphael’s lips. He leered at that devil, then to the water beside him. Then, Corvus took a long, drawn out inhale from his nose.

“...Fine.” He said, his voice lifting pleasantly, but not able to hide the sharpness that held. “You’re right, Raphael, it’s best this hand of mine is fixed.” Corvus quickly turned away towards the water, stepping on foot out of his pants before halting. “Which reminds me, about that contract. I can have any pleasantries I want?”

Corvus peered over his shoulder, seeing how Raphael stilled, not taking his eyes off the label of the bottle he now held, nor moving over the text like one would when reading. A beat passed before he answered, voice velvet and vaguely dangerous. “That is correct, my dear.”

“Good.” Corvus turned away again. “I want you in the bath with me. Indulge me with some pleasant conversation… unless I change my mind.”

That forced neutrality Raphael held finally broke as his cupid lips curled, placing the bottle down with a gentle click of the glass. “Of course. Anything you wish, my dear.”

“And don’t go running off.” Corvus said tightly, kicking his pants away and descending into the steaming pool until he was clothed in waves to his waist. “I want you to stay with me, right at my side.”

“I wouldn’t dream of leaving you, mouse.”

Perfect, Corvus thought. Let's see how long the devil can play his own game.

Chapter Text

Raphael chuckled, his claws already unbuttoning his doublet as he watched Corvus step in the pool. It slipped from his shoulders and wings with graceful ease, the crimson fabric catching briefly on the curve of his horns before it fell into his hands. He folded the expensive garment meticulously, his tail flicking behind him like a metronome of anticipation as he placed it on a bench.

Corvus said nothing, his eyes tracking Raphael’s every move without so much as a flicker of modesty. Raphael unlatched the buckle of his belt and pulled until it was free, then eased his trousers down over his hips, making a show as he slowly stepped out of them. His skin was aglow in the low night, golden light reflecting off every curve of his body.

Then, his gaze flickered sideways, toward the small stone shelf full of little glass vials and scented oils he had taken the healing potion from. His fingers drifted over them, selecting two small, ornately shaped bottles with a hum.

“We may need these,” he said, voice lower and smoother now, like warm honey before turning back to the pool. He descended the steps like a lion stalking its prey, letting the water lick at his calves, thighs, hips until he was waist-deep. Corvus lifted a self satisfied brow as Raphael drew closer, then moved away the moment Raphael was within arms reach.

Teasing thing.

It almost made Raphael snatch him up right there, but Corvus meandered toward the corner of the pool, grinning as he glanced over his shoulder again. Raphael placed the bottles against the edge of the stone pool and reached out to run his claws against the drow’s waist. That was, until the click of Corvus’ tongue left Raphael’s hands hovering just inches over Corvus’ skin.

“One more thing,” Corvus said lightly. “I just want to relax and indulge in some conversation, so don’t touch me.”

“Hmmf… Spiteful, are you?” Raphael chuckled, though Corvus was delighted to hear the faintest tightness in that sultry voice of his. “You did seem a little frustrated.”

“Don’t worry, I’m sure you can make up for it in other ways.”

Raphael gave a soft hum and withdrew, settling in the water beside Corvus and propping himself with his elbow to look up at him, tail flicking lazily through the water. “I most certainly will, my dear–”

“Oh, sorry. I should clarify,” Corvus plopped down beside him, leaning in with a smug grin that rivaled the devil’s own. “When I said ‘indulge me in conversation’, I really meant I want someone to listen to me talk with them. No speaking, love.”

Raphael’s mouth, still parted from his last word, lingered for a moment before closing. Not by his own will, but as Corvus gripped his chin and tilted it up. Raphael swallowed involuntarily, his lips curling at the edges as a faint, amused smile tugged at him now as Corvus’ breath brushed dangerously close to his own. The moment held, thick with tension, then Corvus pulled away, leaning back against the pool’s edge. Raphael draped his arm casually behind the drow, tilting his head slightly, as if silently acknowledging the game that had begun.

Corvus shifted beside him, doing everything in his power to ignore that dull ache that still burned low in his stomach– especially now, as Raphael’s infernal gaze pierced his own. He leaned back against the edge of the bath, shoulders brushing Raphael outstretched arm, though he made no comment on the contact.

“Hm,” Corvus said with a flicking brow, looking down at the hand that had never left the water since entering the bath. “Some potion. My entire hand is already numb. I suppose that means it’s working, right?”

Raphael simply nodded, his own smug grin growing almost pleasant, as if unbothered. Corvus returned it.

“Good. Shouldn’t take long then. Thank you, by the way.” His tone dripped with sarcasm at those last words. Then, Raphael’s brows twitched as he felt fingers trail lightly along the rim of his thigh beneath the surface before they settled. His smile faltered for a fraction of a second as his tail gave the faintest, involuntary flick.

Corvus felt the current in the pool from it, his eyes darting down to the hazy surface as he watched it coil and still.

“You know, I’ve always wondered something,” Corvus mused, that hand resting on Raphael’s thigh gliding down to his knee before pulling away entirely. Raphael lifted a curious brow as his touch drifted away into the water, searching beneath the surface until the drow’s fingers caught something slick and serpentine beneath. It made Raphael’s eyes burst open.

“What’s the point in this thing?” Corvus asked curiously, pulling Raphael’s tail to his lap. “I’ve never actually seen a tiefling use it for anything, or is that because they’re not a full fiend? Is it actually functional for a cambion?”

He didn’t look at Raphael as he spoke. His voice was even, conversational, like he were discussing an artifact at a museum and not tracing slow, lazy circles across the flesh of a devil’s tail. He played with it, too long to be thoughtless, too casual to be anything but deliberate.

“Or is it more of a sex thing? From what experience I have with tieflings, it most certainly seems like a… sensitive piece of anatomy.”

Corvus’ grip tightened as the words left, slowly pulling down along the length of the tail as Raphael’s breath nearly hitched, making him jolt upright in the water. Corvus smiled as he noticed, despite the strained smile Raphael tried to keep. That smug grin faltered for just a heartbeat though as Corvus’ thumb began massaging the tip of his tail, making Raphael’s wings twitch.

He brought the tail up, breaking the surface of the water and turning it over gently between his fingers like he was inspecting a rare piece of jewelry. His thumb pressed into the underside near the tip, then stroked back again, slower, before he let the tail slip free from his grasp entirely and back in the water.

“Anyway,” Corvus said, as though they hadn’t been toeing the edge of something carnal, “You’ll have to tell me what sort of healing potion you put in here once the night ends.” He lifted his other hand from the water, slowly flexing and testing his grip as he examined the hand no longer broken. “Whatever it was worked better than anything I’ve ever bought from an apothecary or had a cleric make. It would come in handy.”

He leaned against Raphael, hand trailing through the water until it settled on Raphael’s thigh again. This time though, he didn’t pretend it was casual. His fingers splayed there, massaging the muscle with slow, firm squeezes along the inside of his thigh. Corvus didn’t say anything at first, just kept his hand mindlessly working, drifting upward and ghosting toward the crease of Raphael’s thigh, deliberately skirting the obvious. It was only when he felt the tension— hard and unmistakable poke against his wrist that he paused.

“Hm?” Corvus subtly acknowledged, his own voice nearly hitching at the sight beneath the surface. “Isn’t this a surprise?”

Raphael didn’t move. Didn’t speak. But his throat flexed in a slow swallow, and Corvus could see the way his jaw ticked that he was doing everything in his power to keep himself still.

Good.

With maddening leisure, Corvus let his hand wrap fully around Raphael’s cock. He was slow, deliberate, no pretense now and moving up and down his shaft. Raphael finally groaned, nearly humming as his hips twitched against the drow’s palm. He opened his mouth to speak, but quickly shut it as if the will of the contract itself was keeping him silent.

“How pathetic,” Corvus hummed, taking his time, just as much as Raphael had when undressing him. “It really doesn’t take much to get it up, does it?”

Raphael scowled for a moment, but lost that venomous gaze as Corvus’ grip tightened, thumb circling the tip. He began to fidget in place, tail swishing more forcefully under the water as if it was searching for something to latch onto. Corvus kept going, moving more slowly now until Raphael nearly growled from frustration, but Corvus waited. Waited for the perfect opportunity– waited until the fiend’s hand shifted beneath the water and took his own to guide the exact rhythm Raphael wanted.

That’s when Corvus pulled his hand away, quickly scooting away from the fiend.

“Nope. I told you not to touch me.”

The silence grew thick as Corvus hummed to himself, looking over his healed hand as if it were the most interesting thing in the world, but he was unable to hide his own elation at the utter silence from Raphael. Corvus could feel his leer burning through him, seething. Then, Corvus finally looked up. Looked at that delicious frustration written across every feature of that devil, and smiled sweetly.

“What’s with the look, love? I never said I couldn’t touch you… Or have you simply forgotten that mortals can be far more cruel than devils?”

Corvus wickedly grinned as Raphael’s brows furrowed more. He turned to face the fiend, resting his head against his hand as he laughed darkly, his tone no longer sweet . “Aw, not fun, is it? I’m not above punishment when it’s deserved. I could be far more cruel, you know.”

They held their gazes for a long moment, the stillness stretching between them until a slow, devilish grin stretched across Raphael’s lips. It made Corvus’ smile crack as Raphael chuckled to himself. He sighed pleasantly, smoothly stretching along the edge of the pool to pluck one of the bottles that had been sitting beside him. He scanned it quickly before snapping his sharp gaze to Corvus, never breaking eye contact as the cork popped in his claws– and dumped its entire contents on the surface between them.

Corvus’ smile vanished completely as golden, shimmery hues quickly spread through the water between them, making him instinctively retreat, the liquid seeming to gravitate towards him as if they had a mind of their own.

“What did you just–”

Corvus nearly gasped as that tightness in his chest from the contract rose as he moved away. He grabbed at his heart, fixing his glare to Raphael as the devil simply grinned– and slid to the farthest corner of the pool. It almost snapped that invisible tether between them, making Corvus rush forward and straight through that shimmering spot in the water where its color had begun to dissipate already. 

Raphael finally laughed, though said nothing as he sprawled himself out in the corner, watching Corvus with utter amusement. Corvus snarled as the entire pool began to shimmer around them, sticking to his skin and reflecting.

“What in the HELLS did you put in this water?”

Raphael simply shrugged, the smile playing at his lips growing more delighted. Corvus frowned.

“I am giving you permission to speak.”

“Ah, finally.” Raphael huffed, as if that was the most difficult thing he had faced since entering the bath. “I was wondering when you would loosen my tongue–”

“Raphael.”

Corvus' voice was sharp again, clenching his fists as if he was holding back every desire to drown this devil right here in this moment. Raphael tilted his head innocently, but that smile was anything but.

“It was just some oil, dear. Doesn’t it smell nice–?”

“That wasn’t fucking oil.” Corvus growled. 

“Yes it was. Though, I must admit, it’s a bit stronger than most. It’s from my own personal collection.”

Corvus didn’t move from where he’d stood half-risen from the water. His arms trembled faintly, but not from restraining his boiling rage that was on the verge of lashing out.

It was from a rising heat he couldn’t explain.

Not just from the bathwater, but something inside, like the growing warmth in one's belly from a potent liquor. He tried to take a deep breath to collect his thoughts before his body had the chance to lunge at Raphael again, but as he inhaled, the scent of the oil overwhelmed him. It had been subtle initially like a faint perfume, but Corvus could sense every note of it now. It was floral, sharp, sickening sweet with spices that were now overwhelming. It made his nose wrinkle.

“I’m serious, what is that? It smells terrible.”

Raphael breathed deep the scent, nearly groaning as he exhaled with a bright smile. “Just some fragrances meant to help one relax… and enhance certain pleasurable experiences.”

“I didn’t ask for an enhancement,” Corvus growled, even as a tingling warmth began to collect in his stomach and in the curve of his lower back.

“No, but I am to make sure you have a pleasurable evening nonetheless, no?”

Raphael shifted in place again, lying back more and spreading his limbs as he hummed, as if he were basking in the sun. He shut his eyes, lolling his head against the stone wall behind him. Corvus had to return to the edge of the bath as far from Raphael as he could tolerate that tether tugging at him. This damn bath was too big, he couldn’t even get out of the water without breaking that proximity clause now…

Corvus' fingers gripped hard on the edge as he sat– not out of anger, but because every shift and ripple of water brushing up between his legs was suddenly heightened. He could feel every current beneath the surface, every inch of his skin growing sensitive to the movement. A single drop of water trickled down his collarbone, sending a shiver across his body. He swallowed, his tongue suddenly dry as he did his best to ignore every drop of water that clung to his skin.

He glanced at Raphael, who was now massaging his own chest as if to anchor himself from the same sensations Corvus was feeling. Then, that familiar desire Raphael had teased him for before getting in the water heightened.

Corvus didn’t want to look down, but he felt it: the slow unfurling of arousal creeping through his veins again, warmth pooling in his gut like he’d been dropped into a hot spring laced with wine and wickedness. His legs twitched as he felt himself hardening again, maddeningly slow as his body betrayed him.

Corvus rubbed his hands over his thighs as if to massage away the ache that had begun to pulse in earnest now, but it didn’t help. If anything, it made things worse. He let out a soft exhale, trying his best to hide the whine that wanted to escape his throat.

“You know dear,” Raphael spoke smoothly, not even prying an eye open. “You are not bound by any request for pleasantries. You are free to change this ‘pleasant conversation’ into something more indulgent if you desire.”

Corvus didn’t answer.

Couldn’t answer.

Not without revealing just how tight his throat had gone, or how his jaw ached from the effort of clenching it shut. His nails dug into his thighs as he breathed through his nose, shallow and slow, trying not to give in to the dizzying scent still hanging thick in the air.

It will pass. Just ignore it. This isn’t real.

But the throb between his legs was real. The ache curling in his lower spine was real. Even the way his nipples brushed against the faintest of currents, sending sparks down through his stomach, was damn real.

Raphael adjusted again, though kept himself reclined, his anchoring hand trailing down his abdomen as if he were just brushing something away the feathered against him. It was almost innocent. Almost.

Corvus exhaled sharply through his nose. He couldn’t even look at him anymore. The devil practically glowed under the water’s golden shimmer, that damned infernal glamour only amplifying everything Corvus hated about him—sleek, beautiful, inviting in a way that made Corvus want to climb on top of him and fuck him senseless. 

His hand slipped between his legs for only a second. He told himself it was only to adjust, to give himself relief—but the faintest brush made him stifle a sound he’d could barely keep hidden.

He couldn’t do this. He was doomed. 

Corvus took one final, regrettable breath as the tension in his mind grew tighter.

Fuck it.

Corvus shot himself up, nearly tripping over his own feet beneath the water as he moved quickly to the cambion. Raphael’s eyes opened immediately as the water rushed around him and that indulgent smile grew wicked.

“Change your mind, little mouse–?”

Corvus shoved Raphael into the stone, grabbing a fistful of the cambion’s hair and rearing his head back to meet his gaze.

“You’re going to shut the fuck up and listen.” Corvus commanded, low, rough, shaking. Raphael’s brows rose, that grin stretching wider as he let himself be pushed against the stone.

“It’s wonderful to see this side of you, my–”

“Did I stutter?”

That finally wiped the grin off Raphael’s face, but just for a breath. Just long enough for Corvus to see the flicker of elation flash through those molten, infernal eyes that rivaled lust.

“You do not move unless I say so,” Corvus hissed, his nails digging tighter in Raphael’s chocolate hair as he pulled at his scalp. “You do not touch me unless I give you permission.”

Raphael’s grin widened as Corvus towered over him, too indulgent, too cocky, too smug.

“I’m going to fuck that arrogance right out of you,” Corvus whispered darkly, “You don’t get to enjoy this unless I say you can. I’m the one in control of this, not you.”

Raphael’s tail curled under the surface in anticipation, still keeping silent, his jaw locked tight, just barely holding it together. His pupils were blown wide now, breath shallow as Corvus  shifted onto Raphael’s lap, straddling himself atop.

“This doesn’t mean anything,” Corvus murmured,  “You’re just a means to an end, my little play thing for tonight. Don’t expect this to ever happen again.”

He held himself there, teeth sinking into his lip hard enough to nearly bleed as the pressure and need grew unbearable, but he wouldn’t give in just yet. He had ever intention to play with his food first and make it suffer. “You want this so badly? Then beg for it.”

For a heartbeat, Raphael didn’t speak. His entire body was a coiled spring, every muscle held in unnatural stillness by the weight of Corvus’ command.

Then, he smiled.

Not the smug, theatrical grin he so often wore like armor. It was slower. Lips parting just enough to reveal the barest hint of fang. Raphael’s throat bobbed as he swallowed, his tail curling tighter beneath them. He let out a slow, shuddering breath, every exhale brushing along Corvus’ collarbone like steam.

“Please,” he said at last, voice hoarse but still velvet, fraying at the edges. “Let me feel you, my dear.”

His claws gripped the edge of the pool behind him, digging in as if anchoring himself from the madness that began to crawl up his spine. His eyes burned with desire, locked on Corvus’ face with the hunger of a starving man staring down his favorite sin.

“I’ll be good,” Raphael whispered, leaning in closer as if to tempt a kiss out of the drow. “Let me have you, my dear. Let me have my mouse…”

“You don’t deserve to feel me,” Corvus leaned into Raphael’s ear, voice low and graveled. “Not after the shit you’ve pulled tonight. I should leave you like this—aching, hard, begging like a dog as I make you sit here and watch me finish myself without so much as granting you permission to touch yourself."

Corvus bit down on the curve of Raphael’s ear, hard enough to bruise. Raphael whined, back arching slightly beneath him as he began to shake, hand hovering just above the small of Corvus’ back ready to sink his claws in like talons. Corvus then pulled back just enough to see his face.

“Look at you. The great Raphael, prince of the Nine Hells, trembling beneath a mere drow.” He tried to sneer, though his own voice hitched at the idea behind the words. Corvus’ hand slid up Raphael’s chest and then gripped his jaw, forcing him in place. “Were you expecting for me to simply throw myself on you? That I would submit and let you ravish me so easily?"

“Initially, yes.” Raphael rasped, lips parting just enough to drag his tongue across them—wet, wanting. “But this? This is so much better.”

“Of course you like being brought to your knees. It’s where you belong.”

Raphael gave a low, broken chuckle, his voice gravelly with strain. “You say that as if you’re not enjoying this as much as I am…”

“Who wouldn’t enjoy making an arrogant devil tremble for him?” Corvus admitted, angling Raphael’s head with a tug. “So pathetic, wrapped around my fingers practically begging for my touch again. You’re nothing more than a toy to me.”

“Then enjoy yourself,” Raphael murmured, leaning in till his breath was inches from Corvus’ own. “Take your fill, you greedy little thing. Ravish this prince like you own the Hells themselves.”

Corvus froze, heart racing as he felt his own hands tremble. Then he surged forward, taking Raphael’s mouth in a brutal, hungry kiss. His hand twisted in Raphael’s hair to yank his head back and devour him, mouth hot and hungry as their teeth clashed. It was all tongue and need, biting and gasping—no rhythm, just the final spark needed to ignite a raging wildfire.

Raphael moaned into it, helplessly receptive, his claws digging into the edge of the pool behind him like if he touched Corvus, even by accident, he’d be damned. Corvus broke the kiss, only to drag his mouth down the cambion’s throat, biting and raking his nails down his chest as he traveled. It made Raphael’s breath shutter.

“By the gods–” Raphael gasped, his hands instinctively reaching for Corvus again before slamming back, claws grinding in the stone. “Let me touch you–”

“No.” Corvus huffed, tongue dragging back up as he rocked against the fiend looking for friction. “You don’t deserve it. You deserve to suffer.”

“Wicked thing.” Raphael hissed. “You wicked, cruel, cruel thing –”

Raphael finally whimpered as he felt Corvus slide against his throbbing cock, making him instinctively buck. Corvus smirked, savoring the sight.

“No wonder you had tried teasing me so early, look at you. You’re about to come undone already. Falling apart at just a touch..." He murmured, voice thick with cruel delight. "I want to hear you cry for me, Raphael. Maybe I’ll grant you mercy if you can manage that.”

"Little mouse–"

"No. Say my name."

"Corvus, please–"

Corvus rocked harder, pulling away the second Raphael tried to buck into him again.

“For goddess sake–!” Raphael whined, nearly breaking the stone beneath his palm. “Please, PLEASE let me feel you, Corvus! Let me hold you, taste you, ANYTHING. You are driving me MAD!”

“That’s better,” Corvus purred, his breath hitching with anticipation as he brushed his lips against Raphael’s own. “Much better… You should have begged like that from the start.”

He pulled away, teeth pulling at Raphael’s lower lip before lifting his head triumphantly. Corvus paused, stretching out the silence as he stared lustfully down at the trembling fiend beneath him. 

“Fine. Go ahead. Touch me–”

Raphael’s hands slammed into him in an instant, claws digging in his back like talons, raking down his spine, gripping his ass, pulling him in like a starved man offered a succulent fruit. His tail wrapped tight around one of Corvus’ thighs, pinning him down to ensure no escape. Raphael’s mouth crashed back into Corvus’, tongue greedy and wild as he devoured him.

Corvus gasped, the sound caught somewhere between surprise and arousal, fingers tightening in Raphael’s hair.

“Raphael– For fuck sake, let me breathe–” Corvus panted, prying Raphael off for just a heartbeat before Raphael yanked him back in, biting his lip.

“You torment me and then expect me to behave?” Raphael growled into his mouth, claws tearing down his flesh leaving stinging in their wake. “You should know better, little mouse.”

Raphael didn’t allow a response as his lips trailed down Corvus’ throat, open-mouthed kisses turning to harsh, sharp bites that marked a vicious path along his collarbone. Corvus growled as he tried to reclaim control, squirming and pushing back against the fiend, but Raphael’s hold only tightened, claws sinking deeper in the small of his back as his biting and nipping trailed down between his chest, quickly breaking skin as his fangs plunged into flesh.

“My mouse,” Raphael rasped, tongue grazing over nipple before biting hard enough to make Corvus wince. “So cruel, making me yearn like this–”

“This isn’t about you,” Corvus huffed, finally gripping Raphael’s horns and shoving his head back against the wall. When Raphael sharply sighed, Corvus let go, fumbling down for the other unopened bottle that sat beside the fiend. He nearly dropped it as he bit the cork, spitting it across the pool and pushing it to Raphael. “Now put this on. I’m not fucking you in the water.”

“You’re much more demanding without the liquor,” Raphael gave an amused snort, rising to the edge of the pool just enough to quickly apply the oil. “We should have started this whole endeavor sober–”

“This is all you’re getting,” Corvus growled, his hand slipping down between them, guiding Raphael’s cock into position. “Enjoy it while it lasts. This won’t happen again.”

“We’ll see, my dear.” Raphael breathed, fangs grazing Corvus’ throat as he hoisted him back in his lap. “Don’t think I’ll let you go so easily after this…”

Corvus paused for a heartbeat at the statement, but he was too far gone to grasp the full implication. He finally, finally, lowered himself on Raphael. Corvus hissed as the head pressed into him. The stretch was maddening, every nerve alight, slick heat pulsing around the intrusion as he slowly, stubbornly, forced himself down. A whine broke past his lips before he could swallow it, and Raphael shuddered beneath him like he’d been offered a divine revelation.

“Fuck—” Corvus panted, cut off by a sharp gasp as he sank himself half way down Raphael. He braced his hands on the fiend's shoulders, trembling from the effort it took not to fall apart immediately. “Holy–hah, fuck, I—”

As Corvus pulled back up, Raphael suddenly yanked him all the way down to the hilt with a bellow, eyes fluttering closed as the heat of Corvus’ body enveloped him despite the yelp from Corvus.

"Fucking–!!! Don't do that!" Corvus shoved Raphael again, adjusting himself once more. "Hells bellow– I need a minute to–!"

"You've made me wait long enough." Raphael growled, thrusting his hips up again. "I'm having you. Now–"

"I told you not to move unless I said so. So sit still."

Raphael hissed as Corvus stopped, tearing his claws into the drow's hips and biting the bend of Corvus' neck as if it were his only lifeline to stay in the present.

"So damn impatient." Corvus muttered, wincing as he once again started rocking. It was shallow at first, every movement slow and agonizing for the both of them as he inched deeper and deeper once more. Raphael groaned low in his throat, his claws flexing into him more, but otherwise obedient. His body trembled with the effort it took not to move as Corvus' breathed heavier as pleasure began to override the pain. 

"Hah... T-There... See? I just needed... time to..." Corvus let out a shaky breath as his words trailed off, the ache fading into a dizzying kind of pleasure that sent sparks up his spine. 

“That’s it, mouse–” Raphael groaned, "You fit so perfectly– Move so wonderfully. Like you were made for me." 

Corvus started to involuntarily rock harder at the words, his body shuttering the moment they came out. It made Raphael still for a moment, then meet Corvus' crimson eyes with a devilish grin.

"Oh...? You like that? You like to be praised, little mouse?"

"Shut up." Corvus growled, but it was too quick, too desperate. His body betrayed him, rocking harder, greedy for every shred of attention even as his pride howled in protest. He wasn't ready to admit that for a second, even in his lustful haze, but Raphael gave a knowing, broken laugh. 

"My mouse... My precious, little mouse..." Raphael hushed in his ear, pulling Corvus close to his chest and wrapping his arms around him. "So strong, so cunning to break a devil like this..."

Raphael nibbled on the lobe of Corvus ear, finally earning the desperate whine he had only dreamed of hearing out of such a commanding drow.

"You're so beautiful when you give in, my dear... my dear... all mine..."

"I'm– hah... I'm not yours–"

"I could worship you like this" Raphael said quickly, tongue dragging up the front of Corvus' throat. "Worship you for eternity."

In the thick heat of it, the words almost sounded so good to Corvus' ears. But for a heartbeat, something pulled at his thoughts to snap back, but he couldn't help push himself down harder again, half-drunk on the praise he never would have thought could craved, half-close to losing himself entirely. Corvus let out a choked, desperate sound chasing the delicious friction between them as he began rutting against him like a man possessed.

"That's it... Keep going...!" Raphael whined, voice cracking. "Ride me– hah– like some infernal steed bound for the Blood War–!”

“Shut...  up,” Corvus finally growled, but it was shaky, broken, needy. “Just shut up for five minutes.”

“I— hah– can’t.” Raphael smiled, his face written with ecstasy. “Not when you unravel me like this–”

“Then I’ll fuck you stupid,” Corvus managed, biting down on Raphael’s throat and sinking down like lead in water. “Fuck the words... right out of your mouth...!”

Corvus’ pace quickened, brutal, riding Raphael like he hated him and loved it. The wet slap of skin echoed off the stone, drowned only by the sounds pouring from their mouths. It was enough to make Raphael choke on a moan, sinking his face into Corvus’ chest and dragging his claws down the drow’s spine.

Raphael was a mess beneath him, falling apart behind his own panting and trembling every time Corvus slammed down. Corvus couldn’t help smirk when Raphael said nothing else, making him rock harder chasing the heat coiling in his gut, drowning in the friction and stretch and the sweet, unbearable drag of Raphael’s cock inside him. His rhythm turned erratic, wild, lost in sensation.

Corvus’ mind fogged as he felt himself on the edge, desire rising fast until he couldn’t hold it any longer. With a broken gasp, Corvus came—body tensing, back arching, the world shattering in white-hot pleasure as he spilled across Raphael’s stomach. His rhythm faltered, hips jerking as aftershocks wracked him, pleasure bleeding into overstimulation.

Raphael howled, finally letting go the second Corvus’ walls clenched tight around him. He came with a shudder, a growl, spilling into him with greedy, possessive bliss, arms locked tight around Corvus’ waist like he could brand him there. They stayed tangled like that for a long moment, bodies heaving, gasping for breath in the steam and water and sweat. Raphael’s head lolled back against the stone, lips parting in a soft, satisfied pant, his eyes half-lidded and glassy with the wreckage of pleasure. 

His hands had softened somewhere in the aftermath, no longer clutching like a mad man, but cradling–  borderline possessive, but much more gentle now.

“That,” Raphael murmured, his voice rough velvet, “was divine.” He pulled Corvus to his chest, lips brushing lazily against the bruises that now littered the drow’s neck. “My little mouse… so hungry… so fiery… like the very Hells themselves…”

As Raphael buried his face in the bend of his neck, Corvus remained silent. He was still straddling the fiend, but he had gone still as stone as a sense of dread crept in. Then, he scowled.

“We’re done.” Corvus finally muttered, breath still shallow despite the coldness of his tone. Raphael blinked as he pulled back, the sudden shift making his brows raise.

“Done—?”

“Done.” Corvus moved to dismount, but Raphael’s tail curled tighter, keeping him tethered just a moment longer. 

“Do not be so rash, my dear.” Raphael said carefully, tucking back a chunk of hair that had fallen over Corvus’ face. “I know you enjoyed yourself–”

“I told you that was it.” Corvus smacked his hand away, “So don’t touch me.”

“I believe it’s a little too late for that.” Raphael said flatly, “You seem angry with yourself, mouse.”

“Angry with–?!” Corvus pierced Raphael’s like a knife in the dark. “You arrogant son of a bitch! I’m angry with you. For this entire godsdamn thing!”

Raphael shook his head, not able to hide the chuckle that bubbled in his throat.

“Come now, my dear. Why keep playing hard to get? If you didn’t want this too, you would have never entertained me.”

“Oh, fuck you.” Corvus snapped, shoving Raphael back and sliding off him back into the water, wincing and shuddering as he felt Raphael’s release spill out of him. “I only came here to figure out what happened the other night, not to be undressed and practically forced in a bath or laced with whatever the hell you put in this water!”

“I didn’t force you to do anything.” Raphael scoffed, moving back down in the water. “You were the one who asked me to join you, knowing I was obligated to obey. You were the one who couldn’t help but tease, toy… indulge. If you truly despised me, you would have never entertained this to begin with.”

“I would never–”

“Admit it, you enjoyed devouring me, just as much as I relished in you.”

Corvus' mouth opened, ready to spew cruel venom at the suggestion, but no words came out. He felt his face grow hot, not able to bite back this time as the slow, creeping realization that Raphael was right burrowed in his stomach. Even in fury and shame now, a part of him had wanted it the moment he realized Raphael would let him lead, let him be in control.

But even worse was the fondness that now found itself in Raphael’s gaze as he looked Corvus over, like he was something cherished now, something he had claimed.

It made Corvus sick.

“If it makes you feel any better,” Raphael said smoothly– sickeningly gentle now. “You’ve managed something most mortals could never.”

“And what’s that?”

“Having a devil beg beneath a mortal.” Raphael grinned, stirring the water mindlessly with a claw. “Come to think of it, you might just be the first mortal I’ve willingly humiliated myself for.”

“You’re just too easy.” Corvus snorted quietly, crossing his arms. “I’m sure anyone who wouldn’t tolerate your shit could manage.”

“Then they must be far and few in between, given you’re the first in my centuries of existence.”

Corvus remained quiet for a long while as Raphael sighed contently, leaning back into the corner of the pool and shutting his eyes.

“I want out of the water.”

“Then by all means.” Raphael said, never opening his eyes. “I’m not keeping you here.” 

“I want you out of the water too. I’m not breaching my contract or sitting here with you all night.”

“Hm…” Raphael gave a stretch, arms folding as he sunk himself deeper in the bath, steam curling around the edges of his grin. “No, I will stay here I think. You’ve exhausted me, afterall.”

“I want you out.”

“And for what pleasantries, my dear?” Raphael muttered lazily, slowly losing his left over tension in the smoldering heat of the pool. “I’m not obligated to obey unless you have a specific request.”

Corvus remained silent, making Raphael’s grin grow wider. Then to much of his own pleasure, he pried an eye open to see Corvus leering at him.

“If looks could kill,” Raphael laughed softly. “You could always request to indulge in a nap if you wish to sleep off your ambivalence. There is a perfectly good bed in the back.”

“You’re insufferable.”

“So you’ve said, my dear.”

Chapter Text

The faint laughs and chatter outside the walls roused Corvus awake. It was distant, barely noticeable but enough to finally stir him from his deep slumber. He squinted, shutting his eyes before they could fully open as the morning light from the window nearly blinded him. Corvus stretched in the bed, groaning at the aches that now made themselves known as he shifted in the sheets. He buried his face in the pillow with a low bellow as he tried to ignore the surge of anxiousness that wanted to override the exhaustion his body felt.

Gods… What was he thinking last night?

It was one thing to have fucked Raphael the first time. Between the purposeful teasing and that aphrodisiac oil, Corvus couldn’t take it anymore. He needed to get that urge out of his system, but it was completely different to have fucked him two more times after.  

Raphael wouldn’t leave the pool after the first time and it wasn't long before that oil settled on both of them again and left Corvus rutting into the cambion senseless once more.

Fine. Whatever. That was still Raphael’s fault, not his.

But the third time?

Gods, he wanted to scream right now at the thought of how that unfolded. 

Corvus wasn’t letting Raphael get what he wanted again in that bath and took him up on the offer of requesting to sleep the night off. Corvus had gotten tired, but damn it all that devil refused to move close enough to his clothes that were slung across the room without making Corvus break that proximity clause if he tried to retrieve them. No, the bastard led him to the bed, and of course, had to jump in with him and tease once more. 

And gods damn him, Corvus pounced the very moment he realized that arrogant devil would let him shove Raphael face down in the sheets and silence that haughty mouth of his.

Corvus physically cringed at the memory, his entire body wincing and coiling as he twisted in the bed and buried his face further in the pillow to hide himself from his own shame.

He shouldn’t have done that. He REALLY shouldn’t have done that–

“Good morning, little mouse.”

“Fuuuuuuck.” Corvus groaned, voice muffled by the pillow. It made Raphael laugh.

“Not a morning person, are you sweet?”

“Don’t call me that…” Corvus mumbled, refusing to meet the devil’s gaze he knew was tenderly settling on him now. Just as tender as the touch trailed his cheek before combing through the small knots of his hair now.

“Don’t be shy now, my dear. You were far less bashful last night. Much more domineering if I recall–”

“Stop talking.”

 “If I do, will you ravish me again?”

“AAAAHHHHH.”

Corvus flipped himself away, curling in a ball and yelling into the pillow as Raphael laughed wickedly. Then, Raphael yanked him into his arms, nearly suffocating Corvus with his body heat.

“You are such a delight, little mouse.”

“Get off of me.”

“And let my mouse scamper away without another word, just like before? No, I think I will keep him right here.”

“Raphael–”

“Stay…” Raphael purred softly, damn near lovingly. His smile was gentle, but there was a glint of something greedy and possessive dancing in it. “Just a little longer, my dear.”

“I have things to do and things to explain to my camp given you tricked me into being here all night." Corvus snorted. "They’re probably worried sick by now.”

“They’ll survive.”

“You and I both know it’s only a matter of time before they try to kill each other. Or get themselves killed.”

“Must you always be so altruistic to such miscreants?” Raphael rolled his eyes. “Don’t you think you deserved one night off, my dear? You’ve sacrificed enough for those wretches already and how have they repaid you?”

“I’ve never asked or expected repayment. Some of us don’t require a transaction with everyone we meet.”

“Of course not. You give and give and ask for nothing until you find yourself in a drunken stupor with a devil trying to escape the noise. How exhausting.”

Corvus would have growled if not for the coaxing hum that soon vibrated through his back from Raphael as the cambion continued.

“But you need not worry about them now. Your companions and their many problems will be waiting at the door when you return. Just rest, my dear. You can afford that whenever I am near.”

Corvus didn’t speak at first, only stared at the wall wide-eyed and almost convinced every soft spoken word from Raphael was believable. But he knew better. He knew the way Raphael wrapped truth in lies, temptation in comfort, the way every kindness he offered had poison laced somewhere beneath it that would lead to a slow death.

And yet…

Corvus swallowed thickly as he felt Raphael lips brush the nape of his neck, squeezing him slightly more and sighing pleasantly as if he had won this battle. It made Corvus’ fingers twitch against the sheets, tempted to push Raphael away and crash him into the floor, but instead, Corvus lay motionless, his thoughts too fixated on Raphael’s words as something nagged at the back of his mind from them.

Just rest, my dear. You can afford that whenever I am near…

The words made him blink slowly, staring voidlessly into the wall in front of him until his brows furrowed as a memory tried to resurface across his mind.

A drunken memory from just a few nights ago.

His own voice was slurred and loud, tasting of whiskey.

“– I thought these tales of heroes saving the world were done before my lifetime. It’s all bullshit. The tadpoles, the Absolute, whatever the Hells else I’ve come across. Of course out of all the people in the world, it had to happen to me.” Corvus swirled the liquor in his bottle before taking another swig. “The gods must have thought me creeping in the shadows of the Underdark trying to survive every damn day wasn’t cruel enough of a fate.”

A low chuckle echoed in front of him, a human figure distorted, but he knew that voice. It was the same one practically purring into him now.

“Tragedies tend to make for the best of tales, my dear.” Raphael had hummed, sipping from his own glass. “And yours is shaping to be marked in the history books to be remembered for centuries.”

“Thanks for letting me know if I fuck up, it will never be forgotten.” Corvus had grumbled, burying his head in his folded arms on the table between them.

“If you mess this up, there will be no one left to remember, my dear.” Raphael laughed wickedly, before clearing his throat. “Besides myself of course, but I’ve grown rather fond of you. Your failure would not be the first thing I would remember if you flickered across my mind again a century from now.”

“What would you remember then?”

Raphael had paused, then leaned forward, sliding his hand over Corvus’ own. “I would remember your fire. How you burned and scorched every path you had tread leaving nothing but scars and ash in your wake. How bright your spirit ignited when fools look to extinguish your flame, only to realize they’ve merely added fuel to a flaming storm that could never relent,” He paused again, chuckling to himself. “My dear, I wouldn’t let such a soul be forgotten, nor could I forget even if I tried. Why do you think I am so motivated to help you?”

Corvus had remembered the hesitation he had felt at Raphael’s words– and how foolishly and easily they made him grin as he peeked up from his arms. “You almost sound like you like me.”

Raphael chuckled, squeezing his hand. “Maybe I do, little mouse…”

“Then maybe you should keep going…” Corvus slowly raised his head, meeting Raphael’s gaze. “I didn’t know you were capable of sweet talk, Raphael.”

“I’m capable of many things, my dear.” 

“Hm. You know…” Corvus murmured, rising from his chair and stumbling as smoothly as he could around the table until he found himself sitting on the end of the table in front of Raphael– propping his leg across him, his heel against the armrest. “I could use a little break from all this heroism. Being a ‘hero’ doesn’t exactly suit me, I don’t think. I wouldn’t mind forgetting it with someone for a little while…” 

“Is that so?” Raphael had purred, watching his own fingers dance up Corvus’ shin. “How tempting… Though I believe the bottle of whiskey has assisted enough already in that regard.”

“If I keep seeking assistance from a bottle, the mouse you’ve grown fond of will become dependent.” Corvus frowned, “I’m getting tired of that too, you know. And no one at camp gets it.”

“Mm, I can imagine… We wouldn’t want the future hero of Baldur’s Gate ending his tale hunched over in a tavern till the end of his days, now would we?” Raphael said gently, his fingers tracing idle circles on his calf. “Though I suppose we all need a break every once and while…”

Corvus had froze then, but not from the hand that was now sliding on the inside of his thigh. He lifted his head slowly, his crimson, bloodshot eyes locking onto Raphael’s chestnut ones.

“... Even devils take breaks?”

“More than you realize, little mouse.” Raphael had chuckled. “Though I make sure to plan for such occasions, to make it worth my while.”

Corvus paused, blinked, then a ghost of a smirk tugged at his lips. “...I could make it worth your while, if you make it worth mine.”

Raphael stilled then, lifting a slow brow as Corvus smiled down at him. “And how would you do that, my dear?”

“I’m sure we could… negotiate something.” Corvus’ smile deepened and as his voice dropped, so did he– right into Raphael’s lap. He hummed, running his fingers through that chocolate hair as if it was mindless. “I know you want the contract for that crown, but I think I’ve got another proposal you’ll want to consider… One where you and I could both have a break from the chaos every now and then…”

He remembered that slow, knowing smile that curled on Raphael’s lips as those infernal eyes stared into his own. And then, just as abruptly as he remembered, the memory ended there.

Corvus squeezed his eyes shut, then opened them again as if to blink away the reality of it all. 

So that’s how it all truly started…

Him.

Drunkenly seducing Raphael into a contract.

… For fuck sake.

Corvus let out a sharp breath through his nose, more of a huff than a sigh, and dropped his head in the pillow. There was silence for a moment before a soft chuckle tickled into Corvus’ ear.

“Now… Isn’t that better?” Raphael purred, nuzzling into him like a cat. “In my arms, just like this, without a worry in the world of the chaos outside these walls. It suits you, much more than that high strung restlessness you wear so often.”

"Don't get used to it," Corvus grumbled, though made no attempt to resist. "It is by sheer luck I am tired enough to tolerate this."

"Such an irritable thing you are in the morning... " Raphael chuckled. Corvus said nothing at first, only peering down at the infernal arms wrapped so snuggly around his torso, thumbs tracing idle circles across his stomach. Then, with a sigh, he finally settled against Raphael.

“... If you wanted me less irritable, you could have at least made me breakfast,” Corvus muttered, though there was no real bite to it. “Some gentleman you are.”

He felt a rumble in his back as Raphael laughed. “My dear, even I wouldn’t trust consuming anything I served you unless it was poured from a bottle. I haven’t touched a pan in centuries.”

Corvus paused, then finally turned his head to look at the devil over his shoulder. “...You mean to tell me you are hundreds of years old and you don’t know how to cook?”

“I have no need for it,” Raphael mused. “But, should the temptation to indulge arise, I simply have someone else prepare it.”

“Tch. Must be nice,” Corvus muttered. Raphael chuckled again, nuzzling warmly with that affection that was somehow growing more passable now. For a minute the conversation drifted, then, Corvus yawned, feeling his body grow heavier in the bed before Raphael’s voice pried his eyes open.

“So... what shall we do about this tragic starvation of yours?”

“Nothing. I’m not hungry.”

“My dear, it isn’t a burden to acquire what you need. After all, I do want to end our time together on a pleasant note before you depart. I cannot have you thinking I am no gentleman.” Raphael smiled into him, “Just name it, and we’ll see it done.”

“Hm,” Corvus thought aloud, lazily scratching his scalp. “...Fine. If you’re so adamant about feeding me… You know where the Haggard Hawk is?”

“Of course.”

“How fast can you get it?”

“Faster than you’d have time to miss me, dear.” Raphael purred. Corvus rolled his eyes.

“Fetch me one of their bitter brews. I don’t care about flavor, I just need to wake up before I head back to camp.”

“You need something besides a stimulant, my dear.”

“Fine…” Corvus scoffed, “Some bread and eggs too."

For a moment, Raphael said nothing. Then, he hummed, placing a final kiss on the drow’s neck before rising with a lazy stretch, arms overhead.

“Very well,” he purred, already rising from the bed and wandering towards the clothes scattered across the room.

“You’ve got fifteen minutes,” Corvus mumbled, sinking back into the warmth of the sheets. “I’m not waiting for you to wander around Baldur’s Gate all day like I’m your–”

Corvus’ eyes shot open as a sharp invisible yank seized his chest like a hooked line. He gasped, jolting up in the bed as Raphael kept walking, utterly unbothered. It made Corvus tumble out of the bed and land with a thud before jumping to his feet and trailing behind Raphael, snatching up his scattered clothes in an attempt to cover himself.

“What the…! Why is the contract…?!”

“My dear,” Raphael said, like he was explaining something very simple to a child, “You asked for breakfast.”

“I didn’t say I was going anywhere with you! I thought you were bringing it here!”

Raphael’s form began to shift as he plucked up his neatly folded clothes still resting on the bench beside the pool from the night before, throwing them on quickly and turning to Corvus with a maddeningly smooth, human smile. “I asked you to give me a place and ‘we’ would see it done. The word ‘we’ does not imply a one person endeavor, now does it?”

Corvus stared at him, brain still fogged from sleep, heart thudding before he scowled. “You conniving ASSHOLE.”

“I prefer ‘cunning’.” Raphael laughed, buttoning his undershirt. “Now do dress yourself, my dear. We have breakfast to attend.”

The door to the Elfsong creaked louder than Corvus ever wanted. He quickly slipped inside, carefully weaving himself in a way to not be seen as he hurried to his bed.

Maybe they hadn’t noticed…

He peaked around the bend of the hall, eyeing his bed that waited for him, untouched. It was only when he reached it and sat himself on the edge that Corvus allowed himself to finally let out that long, heavy sigh that had crept in his chest. He ran his hands over his face before massaging his temples.

He should be furious right now. At Raphael, at himself… But mostly himself.

He should have snapped at Raphael the moment he was bound to the contract again this morning, but instead he dressed himself and walked side by side with that devil all the way to the Haggard Hawk. He should have thrown that boiling cup of bitter brew right in Raphael’s face the moment the server gave it to him instead of sipping and conversing with him like it was their regular morning affair. 

Corvus should have hated it. Hated how he never thought about the chaos of the Absolute in Baldur’s Gate, hated how Raphael easily coaxed him into eating something more palpable than eggs and bread, hated how pleasant their conversation was.

But he didn’t hate it. He didn’t hate any of it, and that burned worse than any flame in Avernus could.

Corvus dragged his fingers through his hair and let his head fall into his palms, eyes slipping closed for just a moment as he scratched his scalp. 

This was a mistake. This was all a mistake–

“Has our favorite tom cat finally returned from his late night prowling?”

Corvus shot his glare to the vampire leaning in the doorframe, his pointed smile curling at the edges. 

“Not now, Astarion.”

“Oh, someone is grumpy,” He laughed, stepping inside the room. “That means it either went well and you’re bashful or you're having some horrifying clarity this morning.”

“It’s complicated.”

“I imagine it is if you’re seeing that dragonborn again.” Astarion smirked, his eyes glinting to the new wounds on Corvus’ neck. “Don’t tell me Corvus of the Underdark is catching feelings for a brothel girl.”

“Trust me, that is the last time I am seeing… her.” Corvus caught himself, almost revealing a snippet of the truth. Astarion, though, grinned knowingly.

“Ooh,” he purred, leaning forward slightly. “Something tells me there’s much more to this than just a little bit of fun.” Astarion tapped his chin as he mused. “Did she break your heart?”

“No.”

“Then perhaps you’re hopelessly tangled in someone far more… influential?”

Corvus went rigid, feeling the color drain from his face as Astarion gasped, belting out a laugh.

“Are you tangled with a noble my dear?”

“Astarion–”

“Wait, I know! You slept with a married noble, didn’t you? Please tell me you did, you know I love a good scandal!”

“I’m not discussing this with you,” Corvus growled. “Leave it.”

“Ooooh you are most certainly mixed up with someone you shouldn’t be, darling. It’s written all over your face.”

“You’re a child.” Corvus muttered, rising to his feet and groaning an already exhausted sigh as he brushed past the vampire. “Drop it.”

“Oh you’re no fun.” Astarion pouted. “At least tell me if this person will be used to our advantage?”

Corvus halted and shot a glare at the vampire, who simply shrugged. “What? Nothing wrong with sleeping your way to power–”

“Astarion.”

“Fine, fine. I’ll leave it.” 

Astarion brushed beside Corvus, staring straight ahead until a cheeky grin twisted on his lips. He turned to Corvus one more time. “Just don’t forget to invite me to the wedding. I want to be there when the ex comes to crash it!”

The sun hung high over Baldur’s Gate, the sky bright blue without a trace of a cloud present. Despite the heat beating down on the cobblestone below, the city was still abuzz, but tucked away behind ivy-slick stone was a public garden nestled from the blazing streets. It must have been by the grace of Tamara herself that a spot of sanctuary from the heat of summer was left open.

Corvus strode to it first, boots dragging through overgrown grass, the scents of crushed mint and wildflowers rising faintly beneath the stink of the city. Behind him, Astarion was muttering, wiping the sweat from his brow while Gale leaned heavily on his staff, cheeks hollowed with fatigue. Karlach was already flopping down on a low stone bench, sparks of residual rage still fizzing off her shoulders like embers after a fire.

No one spoke for a while as they took shelter under the shade of the trees strung about, the only sound finding their ears being the trickling waves of a pond nearby and the distant chatter and carts of citizens about. 

Corvus found himself wandering a few paces towards the water, leaning his back into a grand willow that hung over before sliding to the blue phlox that blanketed beneath with a sigh. He shut his eyes, his head thumping against the trunk as he sank into the tree and flowers.

“Let’s hope that was the only hag in Baldur’s Gate,” Gale finally broke the silence, slowly crouching down to the lush patch of grass. “At least we managed to help the survivors of Ethel’s torment.”

“Speak for yourself,” Astarion groaned, collapsing to the ground with a thud. “We should have never bothered with those fools. It will take an entire week soaking in the bath before I’m free of that stench.”

“Lighten up, Fangs. We did some good.” Karlach yawned, kicking a pebble and looking over to Corvus. “Right, soldier?”

“I am never dealing with hags again,” Corvus grumbled, not even prying an eye open as he spoke. “Once we catch our breath and cool off, I am crawling back to the Elfsong for a frosted ale and going to bed.”

Gale lifted his head, his hazel eyes growing slightly wide despite the exhaustion from his breaths. “...Truly?”

“I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my day. Why?”

“It’s just that… Well… You did promise we would pay a visit to Sorcerous Sundries at some point today… Um… For the last four days, actually.”

“Fuck,” Corvus huffed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Gods dammit, I forgot again. I’m sorry, Gale–”

“It’s quite alright.” Gale tried to smile, “We’ve had much going on lately, I understand. Besides, it’s just a bookshop. It will be there on the morrow–”

“No, we’ll go today.” Corvus frowned, sitting himself upright and massaging his temple. “I promised I’d take you, so we’ll go. Before it slips my mind again–”

“Or he gets distracted by another pretty brothel girl.” Astarion snickered, ignoring the leer that was burning in him from Corvus now.

“Oh come off, Fangs.” Karlach tried to sound serious, though she could not hide her smile. “Don’t we all get distracted by a pretty face every once and a while–”

“Both of you drop it.” Corvus growled. 

Astarion looked at Karlach, whispering not so quietly. “I think she broke his heart, my dear. He’s been brooding about it for days–”

“Astarion.” Corvus gave a final warning, his eyes piercing the vampire like a freshly sharpened stake.

“What? If not then why have you been sulking all week?”

“I don’t know, maybe because we’ve been fighting a fucking mind flayer and Bhaalist cult for weeks, Astarion!”

“Take it easy, I was only joking.” The vampire lifted a brow. “But you have been on edge lately… Want me to buy your first ale when we get back, my friend?”

Corvus’ shoulders relaxed a touch as he eased back into the willow again. “I’d… yeah. Thanks.”

“Of course, darling. We are friends after all. I hope you know that–”

“I suppose we are not…?” Gale trailed off, looking between Corvus and Astarion.

“Yeah, Sorcerous Sundries first.” Corvus held back his sigh, mustering up the will to rise to his feet, but Karlach beat him to it.

“I got an idea. How’s about you and I go, Gale?”

“Just the two of us?” Gale almost blushed.

“Yeah! Don’t think we’ve had the chance to hang out by ourselves as mates! Let Corvus and Fangs catch their breath since we’re the ones still standing! Then we’ll meet them back at the Elfsong for a drink, what do you say?”

“Well…” Gale muttered, glancing at Corvus, who nodded.

“If you’d rather go with Karlach, don’t let me keep you… Considering I’ve let you down these last few days.”

“You haven’t let me down–” 

Suddenly a small bag flew from Corvus’ hand at Gale, who fumbled it until it rolled to the ground with a clink.

“Take the gold and buy yourself something extra. Consider it an apology gift.”

Gale opened the drawstring, eyes widening at the amount inside. “Corvus, this is too much–”

“You’re running out of daylight, wizard.”

Corvus cracked a smile as Gale stared at him, then to Karlach, before nodding quickly and staggered to his feet, tucking the pouch to his belt.

“Thank you, friend, but this wasn’t necessary.”

“I know it wasn’t, but you do a lot for us between cooking for the camp and being our only magic man around. I appreciate all you do, Gale, especially being patient with me. You deserve something extra.”

“I do a lot for us too.” Astarion frowned. “Where’s my gold?”

“Last time I checked, I’ve given you my literal life force almost every night since I’ve met you whenever you’ve asked, so you don’t get any gold.”

“You mistreat me so much,” Astarion sighed dramatically, falling back in the grass. “So unfair.”

“Whatever,” Corvus snorted a laugh, turning his attention back to Gale and Karlach. “Go on now, have fun. We’ll see you at the Elfsong.”

Gale’s eyes lit up, along with his smile. He straightened his posture, holding his head high. “We shall. Best we head over now! They have quite an extension selection to browse, I may be there for some time– If you don’t mind, Karlach.”

“It’s all good! Maybe I’ll find something myself! Lots of books to look at and… What else is there?”

“Oh, wait until you see with your own eyes! Books from floor to ceiling, scrolls on every table! Why, they even have magic items and enchantments littered about…!”

Gale’s voice trailed off as he and Karlach disappeared from the gardens. It made Astarion sigh with relief.

“Oh thank the gods we got to miss that little tangent. He’ll burn Karlach’s ear off before her engine ever could.”

“He’s just excited, don’t give him a hard time.” Corvus closed his eyes again, crossing his ankles and arms. 

“Darling, I give everyone a hard time. It’s part of my job.”

“More like aggravating the piss out of everyone,” Corvus chuckled. Astarion simply shrugged, neither agreeing nor denying the statement. 

Silence settled between them for a long passing moment, companionable and warm in the way only rare, earned friendships could be– that, or the warmth was from the scorching heat still beating down despite the shade they sat in. Corvus pulled at his collar, feeling the steam from his own body escape out of his armor like a drowned man gasping for air. He looked back to the pond nearby, raising a brow at its shimmering surface.

“You know, I’m half tempted to see if I know how to swim.”

“Oh, you don’t want to be in any body of water in this city, darling.” Astarion waved a lazy, dismissive hand. “There’s no telling what disease you’ll catch if you–”

Both Astarion and Corvus went rigid as soft measured footsteps approached them. Not quite sneaking, but enough to not be noticed right away, despite the figure moving in their direction. Astarion sat up with a slight tilt of his head, narrowing his eyes at the stranger as he approached with a smile, looking at Corvus. The drow’s crimson eyes shot open, piercing in the stranger’s with enough force it made them falter in their steps. Corvus quickly scanned the human up and down.

He was young, in his early twenties. Thin and well-dressed in a simple but striking fashion, with wine-red accents against the dark fabric of his jacket and silver threading along the cuffs. His features were forgettable in that polished, pleasant way that made you forget someone plain immediately after looking away, but their eyes… There was something about them, something Corvus couldn’t quite put his finger on that made the hairs on his neck hackle.

“Greetings,” The man smiled, fidgeting with the bag in his hand. “You must be Corvus… I was told you would be hard to miss.”

“State your business.” Corvus nearly growled, his eyes never breaking their fix on the man’s copper ones. It made the human swallow, despite the smile he still wore.

“I-I have a delivery for you–”

“I didn’t buy anything.”

“It’s more of a… gift.”

The human cleared his throat, straightening the posture he hadn’t realized had inched closer to the ground. He reached in the bag, gently pulling out a single, blood red rose from it. He held it out to Corvus, who could only stare at it with widened eyes.

“Are you his secret lover?” Astarion suddenly smirked, looking the man up and down. “You picked a dull one, haven’t you darling–”

“N-No!” The man’s face grew pale at the suggestion, looking over his shoulder as if someone would hear. Then, he lowered his voice. “Please… do not suggest such a thing out loud. If he thought I even glanced at your friend in such a way…”

The man looked at his feet as his words vanished, stiffening in place like he was prepared for a blow against his head. It made Astarion’s grin vanish.

“Who’s ‘he’–”

“No one.” Corvus said quickly, jumping to his feet with haste. He snatched the rose from the man’s hand, more forcefully than he meant to and then paused, as if the petals might infect him with some sort of poison, but they didn’t. In fact, they were soft, delicate, as if a gust of wind would be enough for the petals to fall apart completely. The fragrance quickly hit Corvus as he held it in his fingers. It wasn’t just the natural sweetness of roses, but the hint of cherry that lingered from it that made his heart drop.

“F-For you,” The human said, pulling out a letter as dark as an onyx stone, neatly sealed with a single, ruby red wax seal. Corvus hesitated to take it, but did so when he felt Astarion’s eyes burning into him.

“You can leave now.” Corvus said abruptly, attempting to turn away until the man spoke again.

“There is one more thing,” He reached in the bag, withdrawing a small, matte black box tied with a red bow and ribbon, holding it out to Corvus, no longer holding his gaze. “For you, from an acquaintance.”

Astarion crossed his arms, saying nothing as Corvus awkwardly took it from the young man, giving him a dismissive nod before turning away. The courtier sighed heavily as if a weight had been lifted and quickly turned away, disappearing completely from the garden.

“I think I’m ready for that drink now,” Corvus spoke as if that interaction had never occurred. “How about it, Astarion?”

Corvus felt his face warm when Astarion said nothing. Then, a twisted smirk played at the corner of his lips.

“You’re involved with a married noble, aren't you?”

“Astarion–”

“I knew it!” He laughed quickly running to Corvus and eyeing the gifts in his hands. “They’re really trying to keep you a secret, what with hiring a courtier and all to show they’re undying love–!”

“Don’t SAY that!” Corvus barked, feeling the heat rise from his neck. “It was a one and done sort of thing, it’s nothing serious!”

“That doesn’t look like ‘nothing serious’, darling! They gave you a rose, a love letter and… well, open the box!”

“I’m not touching it.” Corvus sneered. “This… it’s a complete misunderstanding.”

“It’s something alright. Someone you’re leading on, perhaps?”

“It’s nothing,” Corvus growled, attempting to stuff the box and letter in his pocket. “Let’s just forget this ever– HEY!”

Astarion snatched the letter clean from his hand, ripping out a dagger and cutting open the envelope with one swift motion.

“Astarion–!”

“Oh hush, I’m only protecting your reputation,” he sing-songed, already unfolding the letter with dramatic flair. “Gods forbid my friend is caught wooing a dull little baron into infidelity when you could do so much better–”

Astarion went still as stone.

His eyes scanned the first few lines, the once amused grin he wore so brightly faltering as Astarion’s eyes fixed to the signature below. His posture straightened, then he blinked. Once. Then twice.

“…Well, that’s not a baron.” he said quietly to himself, before the letter was suddenly snatched from his grasp and into Corvus’ hands. The drow frantically opened it, feeling the color leave his face before returning with such overwhelming heat as he read the ink within.

To my little mouse,

I trust your endeavors through this city are going as well as they can. How deliciously you still linger in my thoughts even now after our evening of pleasantries. Our time together was fleeting but do not fret, for you and I are now bound together by more than just a mere contract.

You are, quite simply put, unforgettable and perhaps my most valued treasure of all. I find myself quite fond of you, more than I admittingly should. Curious, isn’t it? That of all the wonders I’ve seen, all the treasures I’ve claimed, it’s you I want, almost as much as the Crown. You, with your sharp tongue and fiery spirit. You who left this devil longing for more… And I know you wish the same, even if you deny it still.

Know that, while you traverse the city and face the turmoil of it all, I will be here whenever you feel the need to break away from the chaos for a time… or simply feel the need to release those pent up frustrations that grip you like a serpent once more.

Until then, I have left you a token. One that both serves as a reminder of our time, our bond, and most of all, a means to contact me if you ever wish to invoke our contract once more. Simply give it a spin and whisper my name, and I will be there to whisk you away for whatever you need. 

Do not keep me waiting too long, my dear. I’ll be listening.

Yours forevermore,

–R

“You and–”

“DON’T SAY IT!” Corvus snapped, teeth gritting as Astarion’s face twisted into something of disgust… or curiosity… or horror. Corvus couldn’t tell, nor did he want to know. “It was a MISTAKE.”

Astarion opened his mouth to repute, then shut it again. Then, it opened once more, but no words came out. Finally, he shook his head, raising a brow.

“... You really hold no standards for yourself, do you?”

“Gods dammit all.” Corvus groaned, dragging both hands down his face as he fell back into the willow. Astarion’s brows furrowed as he pondered something to himself.

“He said something about a contract. Did you…?”

“It wasn’t the one about the crown. At least, I don’t think I signed that one. I was drunk.”

“For goddess sake–” Astarion huffed, “What did you sign?”

“Nothing about losing my soul, thank the gods.” Corvus mumbled. “Just… It’s complicated, but I promise it’s nothing to worry about. It has nothing to do with the crown or any of this going on with the tadpoles. As long as I don’t invoke it, I could live the rest of my life without it ever affecting me.”

“That sounds too easy for Raphael. There has to be a catch.”

“He… may have been persuaded into something more fair– because of him drinking too.” Corvus hastily added that last part, not wanting to give a single hint of his own intoxicated persuasion at play. “The point is, the terms to invoke it are very specific as long as I don’t directly state it to him. The details beyond that are not important.”

Astarion paused, thinking over every word before finally falling flat. “...My friend, you are in some deep, DEEP, shit, aren’t you?"

“It’s complicated.” Corvus sighed, “ Very complicated.”

“Oh, you didn’t need to tell me that, my friend. It’s quite obvious. I just–” Astarion paused again, his gaze flickering away before he finally sighed heavily. “I just don’t want to see you get hurt. You don’t play games with someone like Raphael.”

“I know,” Corvus replied more hushly. “...I know. Believe me, I’m being careful.”

“Good.” Astarion nodded, “We wouldn’t want our leader being dragged away in infernal chains to gods knows where.”

“Trust me, he’s well aware it wouldn’t be worth the hassle. He’s starting to see I’m not as… compliant as most mortals. I think he’s realizing I’m used to having things go my way.”

Astarion finally smirked, foxlike in its curl. “In that case, I’m not sure if I should say ‘gods help you’, or ‘gods help him’.”

Corvus tried to return that smile. “Let's just say the gods are helping no one and leave it at that.”

“Fair enough,” Astarion hummed, his eyes darting to Corvus’ pocket. “Although perhaps we should satiate our curiosity first before leaving this all behind…?”

“‘Our’ curiosity?” Corvus lifted a knowing brow.

“Come now, aren’t you a little curious about what he got you?”

“I think you’re more curious than I am.”

“Maybe…” Astarion smiled, darting between Corvus and the box nestled at his side.

Corvus finally huffed, rooting his hand inside before pulling out the black box again. It was small, no bigger than the palm of his hand.

“If this opens a portal to another plane, I’m blaming you.” The drow said flatly.

“Fine, fine, whatever, just open it!”

Corvus hesitated. He could feel the faint, strange hum through the wood of the box itself, subtle, but clearly noticeable. With a reluctant sigh, he tugged the ribbon of the bow until it was free and unlatched the box, carefully prying the lid open.

Inside nestled in velvet was a ring of silver, so ordinary it almost felt insulting coming from Raphael, if not for the runes engraved on an inner band that spun and moved once Corvus moved a finger over it.

Astarion leaned over, peering into the box. “That's it? A ring?” He asked, wrinkling his nose. “What’s he trying to do, propose to you?”

Corvus snapped the box shut so fast it made Astarion laugh.

“Don’t say that.” Corvus muttered, shoving the box deep into his pocket. “That is the last thing I want to hear.”

Astarion snickered a laugh, one with far too much enthusiasm than Corvus would have liked. “Then why don’t we forget about it with some ale? As much as I’ve come to enjoy being in the sun again, I’m already sick of this heat.”

“About time,” Corvus mumbled, already leaving towards the gate. “I would love nothing more than an ice cold drink and a distraction.”

“Don’t let me keep you waiting then!” 

Astarion bound beside Corvus for a time through the garden until they arrived at the gate. Corvus stepped to the side to a bin, rooting through his pocket.

“Out of sight, out of mind.” He said, tossing the rose inside and pulling out the box and letter.

“Probably for the best, darling.” Astarion said with a nod as Corvus tossed the letter inside.

The vampire bound forward out of the garden, beginning to ramble about knowing of a better place for ale than the Elfsong as if Corvus was close behind.

But he wasn’t.

Corvus lingered at the bin, turning over the black box that felt so heavy in his hand now. He examined it, every detail. Then, he flipped the lid open. There the ring sat shining brightly in the mid-afternoon sun. Watching him. Waiting for him.

Corvus paused as he stared down at it. It was dull, meaningless. Held no value.

Leave it behind, He told himself.

Just throw it in the bin and be done with this.

Toss it out.

Toss...

It...

... 

Corvus plucked the ring free, shoving the it deep in his pocket and dropping the box in the bin with a hollow thud. Without glancing back, he swiftly turned away, hastening to Astarion’s side before the vampire could notice his delay. Corvus fist clenched around it. Around it's unnatural warmth that now radiated at his touch, as if it accepted him, welcomed him. As if it were pleased...

What was he doing?

Gods… What was he doing…?