Dance of Wings (Curse of the Guardians #7)

24. Lucifer

Chapter 24

Lucifer

L ucifer stared at the last text he’d sent Scarlet. He’d left her a phone in the bag, and it was the only reason that was stopping him from returning to her room to finish what he’d started.

But he couldn’t, not until she came to him.

He’d pushed her last night, and he was surprised he’d survived with just a hard-on from hell. He expected to be cut up, but there was just something about her that made him want to push further just to see what she would do. Whether she’d melt at his touch, or make him pay for daring to touch her.

Tomorrow. 9pm. Nine Circles club.

Angel:

Okay.

Is Aeron still screaming?

He cried like a pussy

I can see that you’re reading these by the way…

It’s rude to ignore people, love.

So I’m part of this weird book club that just reads spicy books.

Okay, it’s porn.

We exclusively read porn and the latest book involves a dinosaur…

Lol you may be ignoring me, but I can tell you’re staring at these messages because of the instant read.

Angel:

I’m just surprised you can read.

Ouch.

I’ll have you know I can read to the level of a five year old.

Anyway, the dinosaur has several horns and honestly it’s not the weirdest thing I’ve read.

Hello?

Did you fall asleep?

Angel:

…

Angel:

He’d sent her flowers. Digital flowers. Then she left him on read.

What the fuck was wrong with him?

Shoving his phone in his pocket he leaned against the wall to wait, eyes moving towards the ominous looking metal door. The generic exterior didn’t reflect the debauchery waiting for them inside the Nine Circles.

He’d been a handful of times with Jax – obviously before he’d mated to Thea and became boring – and over the nine themed rooms there was a different kink or scenario to explore. There was a reason it was a membership only club, and he wasn’t surprised to know one of the Daemon’s he was hunting frequented every Saturday night.

Closing his eyes, he just let the breeze brush across his skin like a caress. The floor was still wet, giving the earth a fresh scent that he breathed in greedily. Lucifer loved the rain, each droplet reminding him that he was no longer trapped below, where there was nothing but a severe dryness that burned your lungs.

The fresh air, even wet, was everything to a man who was stuck so long in the dark. He used it to ground himself, as well as the rough feeling of brick against his back. He even loved the stones beneath his boots, the scrape of them against the concrete music to his ears. Everything was an experience he once lacked, so he embraced it even more.

He didn’t need to turn to know Scarlet was flying above, but did so anyway. She landed in front of him with an elegance he definitely lacked, her usual glare that seemed to be reserved only for him already in place.

“You look… wow.” He didn’t actually think she’d wear it… and he’d definitely fucked up, because how the hell was he supposed to concentrate when she looked like that?

A leather high-waisted skirt left a tempting flash of midriff, paired with a matching corset that drew the eye naturally to her breasts. A corset he’d specifically chosen as it tied low at her back to fit beneath her wings. The hem of the skirt barely covered her arse, which displayed her pale, thick thighs in all their magnificence. With her hair left loose, and draped over her shoulders, she looked like heaven dipped in sin.

“Where’s your weapons?” Scar wasn’t wearing her bow, and her arms were bare of the usual blades. His eyes dipped to her boots, smirking at the memory of the knife she’d hidden there.

She ignored his question, her upper lip twitching as she took her time to study him. “You look ridiculous,” she said, her eyes rising to meet his with a heat her tone lacked.

He’d decided against a shirt. The decision had nothing to do with the way he’d caught her staring at his chest. He’d also worn black jeans that left nothing to the imagination, and thick soled boots with spikes. It gained him several more inches on his already six five, and made their size difference even more obscene.

It was hot as fuck, and his horny brain quickly pictured himself lifting her up so she could wrap those legs he was obsessed with around his waist.

“I look sexy,” he purred, purposely dropping his voice to a deeper timbre. “You, on the other hand, should wear that style more often. Bare skin is definitely your colour.”

“Let me be very clear,” she growled, her expression a touch angry, but he knew deep down she found him amusing. Hopefully. “The only reason I turned up wearing this is because I have no choice.”

“You’re very spiky considering I can just fuck off and leave you to deal with your Archangel. You’re the one chasing me to be partners, remember. I’m just the nice guy letting you tag along.”

Colour flushed her cheekbones, and he wanted to revel in her sharp gaze. “I thought we were hunting Gideon?” she asked, her voice more civil.

“We are.” Reaching over, he tugged a strand of her hair. “Inside is the first person on Ilzake’s list.”

“And what exactly is inside?”

“Oh, I think it’s best if you see for yourself.”

Walking over to the door, he knocked three times. Waiting a beat, the door opened a sliver to reveal a man not that much shorter than Lucifer. With a grumble, he looked them both up and down before ushering them inside.

Lucifer encouraged Scar in front, smiling over her head at the receptionist.

“Evening Sir,” the man greeted, his eyes a strange purple that had to be glamour. His head was shaved tight to the skin, revealing some awesome tattoos that curved around his face. “Nice to see you again.”

“I’m bringing a guest tonight.” Lucifer gestured to Scar, who was curiously eyeing the thickly built bouncer, and then to the heavy curtains that draped across the entrance. The entryway was purposely kept dark, as was the majority of the club.

“Can I take a name?” The receptionist waited with a raised brow, his finger poised on the tablet’s screen. “Or would you just prefer Ma’am?”

Scarlet dragged her attention back, her spine rigid. “Ma’am is fine.”

The receptionist didn’t even blink, simply nodding as he imputed her decision. “As a guest, you must remain with Sir for the duration of your visit. There’s nine rooms, and each is differently themed. If a theme isn’t to your liking, please move to another room that better suits your tastes. There are condoms and anti-pregnancy herbs available at the bar for no extra cost, and as you’re unregistered you’re required to use both. I’m sure you’ve been made aware, but we have zero tolerance to those that don’t respect others boundaries. Consent is essential, and if we believe you break that rule you will be permanently removed from the premises, and you risk Sir’s membership. Do you understand?”

“She does,” Lucy replied even as Scar looked over her shoulder at him, her eyes questioning.

“Good, then welcome to the Nine Circles.” She swept her arm out, the bodyguard opening the curtain to reveal a darkened corridor.

Lucy gestured for her to go in front, her steps hesitant.

“Sir?” she asked, turning to face him.

“This place is anonymous, people visit to escape their lives and become someone else.”

“So you visit often?”

“I did.” Lucifer shrugged. “Probably for the same reason we’re here hunting another Daemon. When you’ve seen the things we have, you seek out pleasures and experiences in controlled environments.”

Scar’s eyes narrowed. “So what you’re saying is all Daemons are sex obsessed?”

Lucifer laughed, guiding her down the hall. “That’s exactly what I’m saying, love.” Lifting the heavy curtain at the end, he gently pushed her into the first room.

The space was large, and dimly lit. But you didn’t need spotlights to understand what was happening. Couples, as well as groups were seated before the bar area, mostly quiet watching the show. But others were simply enjoying each other.

Scarlet stilled, taking a moment to simply take in the scene before her.

There was more seating scattered around the central stage, featuring a bondage demonstration with a small brunette suspended in the air. Her breathing was laboured as another woman gently tugged on the restraints, forcing little pleasured whimpers.

Lucifer dipped his head, making sure his lips brushed the shell of Scar’s ear. “Beautiful, right?” he whispered, loving how her breath hitched at his proximity. “Shibari’s the art of rope bondage.”

The woman on stage waved over a new participant, a naked man who immediately positioned himself behind the suspended woman. There was a collective groan of the crowd as he penetrated her slowly, sensual as the stage began to slowly turn, showing the act from all angles.

Needing to touch her, Lucifer gently collared Scarlet’s throat, feeling the way her pulse beat faster against his palm.

“I could see you in both roles,” he murmured, pressing himself tighter against her back. Well, as much as her wings would allow. “I can already imagine you trying to tie me up. I’d let you too, but I only have so much patience.”

The man’s hips started to piston a faster rhythm, causing the woman’s cries to become shrill.

“But secretly I know you’d love submitting,” he continued, tightening his fingers just enough for her to really feel him. “You’d love letting someone else take control. Tying you up in all sorts of compromising positions.”

He felt her swallow, her breathing heavier when she turned, only to knock the legs out from beneath him. He hadn’t expected the move, his bark of laughter interrupting the show.

Ignoring the angry murmurs he smirked at Scarlet. “Love, if you wanted me on my knees, all you had to do was ask.” Her lips parted, but he didn’t wait for her retort before jumping to his feet. “Just so we’re clear, I’ll happily crawl for you if you asked. But make no mistake, I will always be the one in charge.”

Her cheeks flushed, with arousal or rage he wasn’t sure. Hopefully a little of both. “Remember why we’re here,” she said with a defiant tilt of her chin, which only made him want to push her more.

“Trust me, I remember.” He’d instantly felt a Daemonic presence as soon as he’d entered the second room, but as Lucifer had concealed his chi, they didn’t know he was there too. “Dance with me.”

“What?” She stiffened slightly when he guided her to the next room, the darkness forcing her to falter in her step. It took a moment for her eyes to adjust, and when they did he laughed at her expression.

This room was lit only by artificial candles floating high on the ceiling. It caused flickers of light, hinting at the shadows moving in the centre of the floor.

“Let’s play a game,” he whispered, her gaze glued to the dancers.

“Why would I ever agree to play another game with you?”

“Because if you win, you can ask me anything, whatever Cassiel wants and I’ll answer.”

That piqued her interest. “What if you win?”

“You’ll have to find out. I promise it’s nothing too dramatic.” His hands slipped to her waist, pulling her closer. “We have to wait, so we may as well blend in. We don’t want to be kicked out because we’re not participating.”

“And you picked this room?”

“Want me to take you back to the Shibari? I’m more than happy to show you how to tie a strategically placed knot.”

Her body was stiff against his. “What’s the game?”

“Whoever gets approached first wins.”

“What do you mean approached?” She continued to watch the dancers, the flames glistening of the sweat on their bare skin. There were around thirty people, and the majority of them were pretty much naked.

“You’ll see. Don’t worry, I’ll even be a gentleman and let you keep your clothes on.”

“Hilarious.” She didn’t smile at his joke. “I can’t dance.”

“But I can.” He pulled her as tight as he could against his chest, fingers dipping beneath the corset and skirt to press against her lower stomach. Her wings opened, and on anyone else they would have been too big and awkward for their current position. Luckily he was larger than the average man, and with his knowledge on wings he was able to fit her snugly against him.

Her skin was hot against his, pressing into the tightness of his jeans.

“Just relax,” he whispered, guiding her movements to the music. “Nothing bad is going to happen, I’ve got you. Scouts honour.” It took her a moment, but then she no longer fought his lead.

There may be limited light, but that was the point of the room. The darkness gave people courage to explore their other senses, and by participating you gave consent for others to join in. Except Lucifer discouraged every single person, male or female, who dared glance in Scar’s direction.

Luckily no one was testing him, because after a while she seemed to forget he held her plastered to his front, her body moving like liquid to the steady beat. Every wiggle of her hips was torture, and his cock strained behind his zip with little jolts of pain.

Okay, he regretted asking her to dance, because he was really fucking testing his resistance.

He needed to win before he embarrassed himself right there on the dance floor. Scanning the crowd he found a particularly pouty human, giving her a wink. She immediately approached, her hand brushing across his bicep.

“Can I join?” the woman purred, her nails trailing further down his arm.

Scarlet stopped dancing, and Lucifer grinned in triumph. “I win,” he whispered against the side of her neck.

Scarlet turned, and her expression must have been a sight because the woman jumped back as if scolded. Spreading her wings, she blocked them both from view of the crowd.

Lucifer laughed, only for her to poke him in the chest.

“You cheated. You were scaring everyone away.”

“Slander. You have no proof.” Lucifer grinned when her lips pursed. “I win, which means I get to pick my prize.”

Scarlet glared at him. “What do you want?”

“A date.”

Lines appeared between her brows. “You want a date? That’s it?”

“That’s it.” He was really enjoying her confusion. “I want a date of my choosing, to be redeemed sometime in the foreseeable future.” It wasn’t like she was ever going to agree to a date in any other situation.

“What’s wrong with you?” she growled low in her throat, her wings lowering slightly. “You can probably have anyone here.”

But they’re not you. The thought was immediate, and he didn’t understand it himself. She was right, he could probably have anyone there. But he didn’t want just anyone there.

“Maybe I don’t want them,” he said, expecting her to soften a little at his words. But she didn’t, her ice persona back on full display.

Good thing he was a masochist.

“Come on, let’s go.” He’d been checking the other presence throughout their game, deciding whoever it was, he was cocky enough not to conceal his chi, or too weak to do it. Lucifer hoped it was the first.

“It’s this way.” He followed the awareness until it brought him to a private room. Lucifer didn’t bother knocking, and as locks were against the rules of the club the door opened without any force.

There was a jolt of recognition, and Lucifer immediately quelled the immediate panic that tightened his chest. He hadn’t seen Kez since they’d both broken free from the Nether.

From the blatant hostility, the feeling was mutual.

“I was told you were looking for me,” he said, his hand resting against the woman’s head between his legs. The room consisted of the armchair, a bed that was pushed against the far way, and not much else. “Heard you go by Lucifer now.”

“And you by Blaze.”

Kez, aka Blaze nodded, his hand tightening on the woman’s hair when she began to pull off. “Who’s the celestrial?” His eyes, a red shade similar to his, landed on Scarlet.

“She’s mine.” Lucifer angled himself in front, wanting to carve Blaze’s eyes out with a rusty spoon. “You want to finish here so we can talk?”

Blaze smirked, his attention staying on Scarlet as he pumped his hips up and stilled. Lucifer caught the growl, but only because Scar had placed her hand on his arm. Letting out a pathetic grunt, Blaze tapped the woman on the head. She peeled back, wiping her mouth with the back of her arm before slipping out without a word.

“Ten seconds,” Lucifer whistled. “That must be your best record.”

“Fuck off you prick,” he snarled, pulling up his leather trousers. “Now, what do you want?”

“Here.” Pulling out a piece of paper, he showed the names Ilzake listed. Neither of them could say them out loud, so Blaze simply studied the paper for a few seconds before nodding. “I’m also looking for someone who goes by Leo.”

“Leo hangs out by the Dean trails. Got himself a broken pet.” Blaze pointed to the third name down. “Why are you looking up those that don’t want to be found?”

“Because Gideon’s lobbying for power.”

Blaze snorted, slapping his thighs. “Of course he is, it’s Gideon. When you’re as old as him, control is all he has.”

“Which is why I’m looking for others.” Tucking the paper back in his pocket, he crossed his arms. “You were below, you witnessed everything Gideon destroyed to get what he wanted. He will do it again, but now there’s millions, if not more, of lives at stake.”

“What are you asking, Lucifer?”

“I’m asking you to fight with us.”

Blaze stared, his lips curving into a smirk. “Now why would I risk being caught in the crosshairs?”

“Coward,” Scar said.

Blaze released a growl, jumping to his feet. “What did you just say to me?”

Scarlet moved slightly to the side, but thankfully didn’t place herself in front. “I called you a coward.”

“What the fuck is this bitch –”

“Call her a name again, and I’ll make the last guy’s punishment look downright tranquil compared to what I do to you,” Lucifer threatened. “Understood?”

“I have my freedom, what more could I want?” Blaze met Lucy’s gaze, his body forcibly relaxed. “I don’t want to be like you. I don’t want to be exposed, and tortured in front of everyone. I don’t want to be –”

“Careful what you say next.” Lucifer’s tone was lethally calm, even as dark power pierced his blood, the corrupted tendrils wrapping around his chest.

“Or what?” Blaze laughed, throwing his head back. “Don’t think just because you’ve grown into your power, that you can actually be someone. You’re still this pathetic Freshy who screamed as he was stripped in the square. You’re –”

Lucifer hadn’t even realised he’d crossed the room until his hand constricted around Blaze’s throat.

Scarlet shouted, but her words were lost against the dissonance inside his head. The memories of all the years he’d suffered at the hands of men like Blaze.

But now he is taller. Bigger. More powerful despite being younger.

He wasn’t defenceless anymore.

Blaze struggled against the grip, his feet kicking as he tried to burn his way free. Lucifer barely felt the arcane against his skin, his fingers tightening. Blaze’s power was weak, and his own responded, absorbing the magic rather than repelling. He could feel it, the darkness that corrupted them both. An oily texture that scratched along his skin and set fire to his blood.

Horns broke through his hair in response, and his wings threatened to release before a small hand pushed against his chest.

“Lucifer!”

His name barely broke through the haze across his mind, the urge to kill overwhelming every instinct. Blaze’s life was like a fur against his tongue, so tempting to devour and destroy. All he needed to do was…

“Lucifer!” Scarlet managed to push herself between them, her arm beginning to redden from where Blaze’s arcane licked at her skin. It was that image that finally broke through. Releasing his grip he turned to check her, but she was already tugging him in the direction of the door.

“Prick,” Blaze wheezed, bending over to cough. “You can forget any help.”

Lucifer turned back, and it was only Scarlet who stopped him from extinguishing the Daemon’s pathetic excuse of a life. “Blaze is a stupid fucking name.” Rage was a violent pulse beneath his skin, and it took his last thread of control to turn away, and not embrace the darkness he’d tried so hard to repress.