[... Honestly, he's surprised it's Lilith he married, but maybe he shouldn't be considering all the things he's read and was forcefed, growing up - But, yeah, he can already see the issue, too. The reason Lucifer's struggling with this.
Seeing the way Lucifer reaches for a rubber duck, Louis's going to go ahead and stand again - crossing over to Lucifer's chair so he can offer the devil his hand to hold instead. Or a hug, if he wants it.]
Just because you ended up not being what she wanted, doesn't mean you don't matter, Lucifer.
[No titles, no honors, nothing. Just speaking to Lucifer as his friend, now, instead of his ruler.]
Is that something you're afraid of? The idea that you don't matter...?
[Lucifer looks at the hand. He takes it, gives it a soft squeeze, and then hugs Louis. He buries his face in his friend's chest. He looks and feels so small right now.]
Heaven cast me out and left me with those Sinners. And there was nothing I could do. I couldn't DO anything. I just wanted to help but they threw me away like I didn't matter.
Then she left. She left and she never calls. She never returns even my text messages. Charlie...until recently she never called me. I was so scared to reach out I always had to find an excuse or just admit I was bored when I was lonely and I missed her. And...
What if I shouldn't matter? Is that part of my punishment, even outside of Hell?
[Already, Louis's wrapping his arms around Lucifer and holding him close - even reaching up to take that hat, moving it to Lucifer's desk so he can stroke the devil's hair with warmth.]
...
May I show you something? It's... something very personal. But... I feel it may give you something solid - something real - to prove that you do matter.
[Louis gives him a nod in return, and - keeping one hand atop Lucifer's head - he reaches out... to take one of those rubber ducks. That, too, gets placed on Lucifer's desk, and he holds his hand over it...
And after just a second, a pink-orange flame alights on the duck's back to burn an image onto it. Once the flames die away, leaving nothing but a glittering, glowing light behind, he takes the duck and moves it closer so Lucifer can see it.]
...
This... is my seal. As a Grim Reaper. It is formed from curves and points taken from the letters in my name - my real name - and is what binds my real name so that it has full control over me. The colors and shapes that form it are all taken from my subconscious, things that symbolized things that were deeply, deeply important to me.
The moon, from my nocturnal nature and my deep-running love of the night and its solitude. The Eye of Providence, taken from the useless currency I was forced to revolve my entire life around, as the heir to a wealthy family. The color pink, so bright and overtaking the seal, as it's my very favorite. And...
A pentagram. For you.
While I was alive, a lowly human, I often told myself I believed in nothing as it comforted me more than whatever stupid teachings I had been forced to take - but in the back of my mind, always, I thought of you. That there was something as powerful and beautiful as an angel that was just as unwanted and shunned as I was. This thought was something that comforted me in some very dark moments; to the point that I began to revolve my entire styling around you and those associated with you. Surely you've noticed I own earrings with your own sigil by now, hm?
But... I promise you, I am not the only one who ever felt this way, either. Ignoring those crazed people who drank blood and somehow deeply believed you wanted the suffering of others - There were many people who simply loved you for who you are, and what you meant to them. You mattered deeply to them, just as you do to me. Thousands of people felt this way. All over the surface of the Earth.
Just because your ex-wife felt you didn't matter to her, doesn't mean you don't matter at all. And... something tells me that Macaque likely feels this very strongly, himself. Otherwise, why would you feel so loved by him that you wish to marry him, hm?
[...
And now he lifts the duck, so he can hold it out for Lucifer to take.]
... This is imbued with my own power, by the way. You can use it to invoke my carefree state of mind, temporarily - though it only works the one time. Simply hold it in your hand, and call my true name - "Lazarus."
Though, ah - that's such an important trait of mind, I would appreciate a text beforehand so I know what to expect...
[Otherwise, he'll end up a paranoid mess in the middle of a cafe or something. Ellipsa doesn't really need that, probably.]
[Lucifer is quiet as he watches the demonstration. His eyes flicking between the mark and Louis as he explains it. What every piece means. Then comes the pentagram and what it represents. His eyes widen. Humans who resonate with him? Those unwanted actually think of him? Not in fear or hatred but wonder and sympathy? Mutual respect. Louis being one.
Tears well up in his eyes. He gently takes the duck and looks it over. Then he sets it down so he can stand and hug his friend again. He hugs him tight, lifting Louis up off the floor about an inch.]
...Thank you. And I'm here for you too. If you ever need me and can't call for any reason. Just draw a pentagram in something and say my name. I'll be there. My wonderful friend. Heh. Your parents were obviously religious but couldn't they go with something less...tied to doom? Like Noah. I mean...maybe a bad example.
Abel? ...No same problem.
Um. Uh. No that wouldn't...
...Nevermind. Point is, I appreciate this so so much. [He finally sets Louis down.] And all of that is safe with me. I won't tell a soul.
[Just because this is the kind of person that Louis is, the hug manages to squeeze a squeak out of him - but he returns it immediately, no hesitation, even as he's lifted up from the floor. He had no idea Lucifer was strong enough for this, but honestly, why would he ever think otherwise... it's Lucifer? Lucifer Morningstar???
Even once he's back on his feet, though, he doesn't pull away - instead holding Lucifer tighter for just a moment.]
Mmm. If you ever feel so unwanted again... please know that all of us - not just myself, but all who felt that way - think of you as the lightbringer for a reason.
[And now he lets go, opting instead to take Lucifer's face and give him a big, bright smile.]
You are the Morningstar, sire. ... And you may call me anytime you need someone to remind you have that.
...
As an aside... it's truly for the best my name wasn't Abel. The one who killed me already has such a deep complex about it, he wanders around Nightwake with a hatchet strapped to his belt to "remind him of his sins" - No one needs that added to the fire.
[Lucifer smiles softly and touches the hands on his face. He nods. He believes them. Words like this couldn't be false, right? Not when they shine in Louis's eyes. Like starlight.]
All I ever wanted was to create. Have big bold ideas. I guess this is another big bold idea. Marriage again. And it won't just be some small affair.
Thank you. I...I needed to hear this. All of it.
I mean, you're probably right on that. Especially if he carries a hatchet. Wait. A hatchet? He murdered you with a hatchet?
[You know what? You know what? Louis's going to be brave for once in his life. Because, honestly, seeing Lucifer smiling up at him like that... he can't help but to be brave, if only for a second.
Namely... he's going to lean in to give the devil just the quickest, chastest little peck, as if they aren't, you know, friends with benefits who've already gone to town on each other at least once. And then, with that same energy of "why are you like this, you guys literally fuck", he steps back and folds his arms behind himself politely, as if he's pretending he didn't just do that.
And, yes, that little peck is his response to all of those thanks. He's even flushing a little over it. Idiot.]
Well - where else do you think scars like this would come from? It's not as though some teenager down in Louisiana could actually acquire a sword or something, and machetes weren't his style back then.
[The kiss is quick, chaste, and just so cute. He kisses back only at the last second, mostly due to surprise. He smiles and touches his lips with his gloved hand. Still he smiles, blushing gold under his pale cheeks. Then the next part is said and he makes a rather flat judgmental expression.]
I have a feeling I know who it is and I'm not going to get in the middle but fucking rude.
[Looking at Lucifer from the corner of his eye... yeah, he sees that gold blush. And that's so cute? What the fuck? He's got gold blood too, why doesn't he blush gold??
(Probably because he's not Literally Fallen Angel Lucifer Morningstar:tm:.)]
Hm... to be fair to him, it was over a decade ago. He was young and stupid, as was I. And he has plenty of scars attributed to me, as well.
Though, I do still loathe and despise him for it. It wasn't even the hatchet that killed me - I'm assigned to collect the souls of those who drown in their own blood, for fuck's sake. He could have at least had the decency to finish me off, but no, he had to be a coward about it.
[Moving, now, to sit back down and take his tea... and maybe pocketing one of the rubber ducks while he's here.]
... I will admit, though, that dying so horribly had strongly brought you to my mind, once I was among the dead properly. Did you know Grim Reapers have a fair-sized Luciferian population? Not where I dwelled for the last twelve years because I'm the unlucky bastard who had to drown in his own godforsaken blood, but still - even the dead adore you, sire.
[Will the wonders of just how depraved and violent free will lets humans be every stop astounding Lucifer? Maybe. One day. That day is not today. Because to drown in ones own blood sounds like quite the terrible way to go. Especially after being assaulted, in the face, by a hatchet. Not an axe. A hatchet.]
Hm. I...am glad that I could bring solace to you in such a time of need. Even...such a horrible one. Do you want another hug, by chance? Or a new duck? Or maybe a bit of alcohol for your tea? Just making sure because all of that sounds incredibly and painfully awful, Louis. I am sorry but it does.
[The stupid half-grin that had been on Louis's face falters before falling entirely, and he looks down at his tea. It's clear he hadn't actually expected warm, genuine concern in the face of all that - Back in the land of the dead, other Grim Reapers would honestly laugh about it. He's grown so used to just talking about his method of death like it's a punchline to the joke his life had been.
...
After a moment of silently staring at his drink, he lifts it to take a quiet, sober sip.]
... I suppose I wouldn't mind another duck. Alcohol wouldn't do much for me, I'm afraid - As a Grim Reaper, I'm immune to such things. I drink regardless, as it helps dilute the toxins in my blood and bring me a moment of clarity, but...
...
No, a duck is fine. There's an empty spot on my shelf, back in my suite.
[Lucifer feels like he ruined the moment. Was it so easy to talk about for Louis? For Grim Reapers? He hums and sits back. He taps his foot in thought of the duck. He stands up and reaches out to gently put his finger under Louis's chin and looks into his eyes.]
I'll think of a duck buuut I might have another idea. You like karaoke by chance?
[Well, if Lucifer's going to do that - Louis's going to reach up and gently take that hand of his, just to softly press his cheek into the devil's palm.]
It would be silly if I didn't, Your Excellency - I sing professionally, after all.
[And now, rubbing his cheek into Lucifer's palm as if he's a cat... the smile on his face has picked right back up and everything.]
Frankly, sire, you ought to have realized by now that I'll do anything you ask of me, oughtn't you? You could ask me to sit and listen to number stations with you, and I would do it without question.
...
But yes, I'll obviously sing with you. Singing is one of the few things I enjoy - something that's mine and mine alone.
[As in, not influenced by his father in any way. If anything, he probably used to tell Louis to stop singing.]
[Lucifer gently pulls Louis up to his feet. Red smoke poofs around them and they appear on the rooftop of the hotel, overlooking the beauty of Dayrise. He smiles as music starts to swell up around them. The influence isn't mind control but more of a slight push. Nothing Louis with his power couldn't shrug off. But if he wants to, he'll sing the part of the duet Lucifer starts to sing perfectly.]
~I could find the whole meaning of life in those sad eyes They've seen things that you never quite say, but I hear Come out of hiding, I'm right here beside you And I'll stay there as long as you let me
Because you matter to me Simple and plain and not much to ask from somebody You matter to me I promise you do, you, you matter too I promise you do, you see? You matter to me~
When Lucifer had helped him to his feet, Louis almost expected to be whisked away like that - he's never had that happen to him before, but he's seen Lucifer do it enough that it would make sense. But to suddenly be on the roof of the hotel, looking out at everything Dayrise has to offer...
He steps up next to Lucifer as music starts to swell from - Nowhere? Everywhere? His own mind? And while the devil starting to sing takes him off guard for a moment... he regards Lucifer from the side of his eye before turning his head to look at him a bit more properly, feeling the other's voice compelling him to join... Though, considering all Lucifer has heard him sing thus far was much, much harsher, it wouldn't be strange if Louis's voice takes him by surprise.
It's not a song he knows - not one he's heard before - and yet, somehow...]
It's addictive the minute you let yourself think - "The things that I say just might matter to someone," All of this time I've been keeping my mind on the running away, And for the first time I think I'd consider the stay.
Because you matter to me - Simple and plain and not much to ask from somebody; You matter to me , I promise you do, you, you matter too - I promise you do, you matter too, I promise you do, you see...?
[...
But that's where he stops.
His magic kicks in, eyes flashing orange for a split second - and the compulsion is gone. And he has to close his eyes for a moment, facing out toward Dayrise again as he clearly turns all of this over in his mind.]
...
You know... it isn't every day that someone is able to simply impress their will upon an Orange magician - Especially not one as powerful as myself.
[Opening his eyes again, he takes a step to turn and face Lucifer fully. No more to say - at least not yet. But it's only right he regard the devil properly after that.]
[Lucifer simply goes with the music. Letting it flow around him and sings with Louis at the chorus.]
~Because you matter to me - Simple and plain and not much to ask from somebody; You matter to me, (Out of hiding I'm right here beside you) You matter too (As long as you have me) I promise you do, you, you matter too (Out of hiding I'm right here beside you) I promise you do, you, you matter too (I do, I promise you do, you matter to me) I promise you do, you see You matter to me~
[Louis stops singing first and Lucifer meets his eyes, fully facing the Grim Reaper. Still, he smiles softly.]
It's less of a impression of will. More of a invitation to sing. A musical thread that runs through well. Everything.
I just wanted to sing with you. To let the music express the feelings I was having and invite you to come along as you felt the same.
[That nod gets one in return - a nod of thanks, as Louis goes quiet for a moment. Formulating something in that muddled mind of his... and when he speaks again, it's - Well, he's speaking. Not song... but poetry.]
"The devil fits through pinholes," They'd tell me, As we gathered 'round the father's chair; "Your heart must be steel, Adamantine and complete, Lest he find his way in And make it home."
The others cowered at the thought, Impressionable, Believing every word the father said; "Just one crack is all he needs, Build your walls strong, Fill holes with faith, Let him freeze outside, alone."
It was these thoughts I held Deep inside, Knowing my heart to remain unwalled, Unprotected and open, Ready, willing, and waiting - So my death would be a door.
As I lay upon the marsh, Broken, bleeding, My thoughts turned inward; Thinking of the door, My unwalled heart - The cruelty of others, Cruelty for cruelty's sake.
"And who prays for the devil?" Asked a man, Wiser than those before or since; And as I died, I did pray - Not for the devil, But to him, openly Asking to be by his side.
[... It's here that he pauses, but it's clear he's not finished. It's more like the last stanza is hard for him to get out.]
...
And so, here I am upon Ellipsa, At your side; My mind a fortress, protected - Yet my heart open, ready, Willing and happy, Allowing you in Through a door made for you.
...
I think it's less that you have some way of going beyond my powers, but... rather that my powers are unconsciously lowered for you, specifically. Never in my life have I ever felt safe with someone merely for who they are -
But it's different with you, sire. It's taken me some time to realize it... but it is - it's different with you.
Edited (ten years later, realized i used the exact wrong word) 2025-11-14 10:24 (UTC)
[Lucifer listens to the poem. The rhythm, the words, and the story of it all. The message is so beautifully open. The thought one that Lucifer had would have considered from a mortal. To craft a door in their heart, not for God, but for him? His eyes soften as he extends his six wings. He flaps them gently to lift himself up just enough to be eye level with Louis.
His gloved hand gently cups Louis's cheek, thumb tracing the cheek slowly.]
Why not call me Lu when we're alone? And thank you. For building me such a beautiful door. And the key to it I will treasure forever. As I will treasure our time together, you and I.
I will treat your heart with tenderness and care. The kind I believe you deserve. I want to see the light you shine, Louis. See it shine bright in this world. You can paint the skies and melt the walls. I want to see the art you will create. Hear the songs you will sing. And be there through times of turmoil and times of triumph.
[There's no way Louis can keep himself from staring.
His hand comes up to cover Lucifer's, warm and soft in the way his fingers cup over the devil's, face-to-face with a look in his eyes as if Lucifer's the one who hung the moon and the stars. And as he leans to press his cheek into the other's palm, feeling his own face heat up and just the smallest tears stinging the corners of his eyes...
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
no subject
But, yeah, he can already see the issue, too. The reason Lucifer's struggling with this.
Seeing the way Lucifer reaches for a rubber duck, Louis's going to go ahead and stand again - crossing over to Lucifer's chair so he can offer the devil his hand to hold instead.
Or a hug, if he wants it.]
Just because you ended up not being what she wanted, doesn't mean you don't matter, Lucifer.
[No titles, no honors, nothing. Just speaking to Lucifer as his friend, now, instead of his ruler.]
Is that something you're afraid of? The idea that you don't matter...?
no subject
Heaven cast me out and left me with those Sinners. And there was nothing I could do. I couldn't DO anything. I just wanted to help but they threw me away like I didn't matter.
Then she left. She left and she never calls. She never returns even my text messages. Charlie...until recently she never called me. I was so scared to reach out I always had to find an excuse or just admit I was bored when I was lonely and I missed her. And...
What if I shouldn't matter? Is that part of my punishment, even outside of Hell?
no subject
...
May I show you something? It's... something very personal. But... I feel it may give you something solid - something real - to prove that you do matter.
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You're offering so...if you are okay with it, a-alright. I trust you.
out here writing u novels i guess
That, too, gets placed on Lucifer's desk, and he holds his hand over it...
And after just a second, a pink-orange flame alights on the duck's back to burn an image onto it.
Once the flames die away, leaving nothing but a glittering, glowing light behind, he takes the duck and moves it closer so Lucifer can see it.]
...
This... is my seal. As a Grim Reaper. It is formed from curves and points taken from the letters in my name - my real name - and is what binds my real name so that it has full control over me.
The colors and shapes that form it are all taken from my subconscious, things that symbolized things that were deeply, deeply important to me.
The moon, from my nocturnal nature and my deep-running love of the night and its solitude. The Eye of Providence, taken from the useless currency I was forced to revolve my entire life around, as the heir to a wealthy family.
The color pink, so bright and overtaking the seal, as it's my very favorite. And...
A pentagram. For you.
While I was alive, a lowly human, I often told myself I believed in nothing as it comforted me more than whatever stupid teachings I had been forced to take - but in the back of my mind, always, I thought of you.
That there was something as powerful and beautiful as an angel that was just as unwanted and shunned as I was. This thought was something that comforted me in some very dark moments; to the point that I began to revolve my entire styling around you and those associated with you.
Surely you've noticed I own earrings with your own sigil by now, hm?
But... I promise you, I am not the only one who ever felt this way, either. Ignoring those crazed people who drank blood and somehow deeply believed you wanted the suffering of others -
There were many people who simply loved you for who you are, and what you meant to them. You mattered deeply to them, just as you do to me.
Thousands of people felt this way. All over the surface of the Earth.
Just because your ex-wife felt you didn't matter to her, doesn't mean you don't matter at all. And... something tells me that Macaque likely feels this very strongly, himself.
Otherwise, why would you feel so loved by him that you wish to marry him, hm?
[...
And now he lifts the duck, so he can hold it out for Lucifer to take.]
... This is imbued with my own power, by the way. You can use it to invoke my carefree state of mind, temporarily - though it only works the one time.
Simply hold it in your hand, and call my true name - "Lazarus."
Though, ah - that's such an important trait of mind, I would appreciate a text beforehand so I know what to expect...
[Otherwise, he'll end up a paranoid mess in the middle of a cafe or something. Ellipsa doesn't really need that, probably.]
Re: out here writing u novels i guess
Tears well up in his eyes. He gently takes the duck and looks it over. Then he sets it down so he can stand and hug his friend again. He hugs him tight, lifting Louis up off the floor about an inch.]
...Thank you. And I'm here for you too. If you ever need me and can't call for any reason. Just draw a pentagram in something and say my name. I'll be there. My wonderful friend. Heh. Your parents were obviously religious but couldn't they go with something less...tied to doom? Like Noah. I mean...maybe a bad example.
Abel? ...No same problem.
Um. Uh. No that wouldn't...
...Nevermind. Point is, I appreciate this so so much. [He finally sets Louis down.] And all of that is safe with me. I won't tell a soul.
no subject
He had no idea Lucifer was strong enough for this, but honestly, why would he ever think otherwise... it's Lucifer? Lucifer Morningstar???
Even once he's back on his feet, though, he doesn't pull away - instead holding Lucifer tighter for just a moment.]
Mmm. If you ever feel so unwanted again... please know that all of us - not just myself, but all who felt that way - think of you as the lightbringer for a reason.
[And now he lets go, opting instead to take Lucifer's face and give him a big, bright smile.]
You are the Morningstar, sire. ... And you may call me anytime you need someone to remind you have that.
...
As an aside... it's truly for the best my name wasn't Abel. The one who killed me already has such a deep complex about it, he wanders around Nightwake with a hatchet strapped to his belt to "remind him of his sins" -
No one needs that added to the fire.
no subject
All I ever wanted was to create. Have big bold ideas. I guess this is another big bold idea. Marriage again. And it won't just be some small affair.
Thank you. I...I needed to hear this. All of it.
I mean, you're probably right on that. Especially if he carries a hatchet. Wait. A hatchet? He murdered you with a hatchet?
no subject
[You know what? You know what?
Louis's going to be brave for once in his life. Because, honestly, seeing Lucifer smiling up at him like that... he can't help but to be brave, if only for a second.
Namely... he's going to lean in to give the devil just the quickest, chastest little peck, as if they aren't, you know, friends with benefits who've already gone to town on each other at least once.
And then, with that same energy of "why are you like this, you guys literally fuck", he steps back and folds his arms behind himself politely, as if he's pretending he didn't just do that.
And, yes, that little peck is his response to all of those thanks. He's even flushing a little over it. Idiot.]
Well - where else do you think scars like this would come from? It's not as though some teenager down in Louisiana could actually acquire a sword or something, and machetes weren't his style back then.
...
They are now. But not back then.
no subject
I have a feeling I know who it is and I'm not going to get in the middle but fucking rude.
no subject
He's got gold blood too, why doesn't he blush gold??
(Probably because he's not Literally Fallen Angel Lucifer Morningstar:tm:.)]
Hm... to be fair to him, it was over a decade ago. He was young and stupid, as was I.
And he has plenty of scars attributed to me, as well.
Though, I do still loathe and despise him for it. It wasn't even the hatchet that killed me - I'm assigned to collect the souls of those who drown in their own blood, for fuck's sake.
He could have at least had the decency to finish me off, but no, he had to be a coward about it.
[Moving, now, to sit back down and take his tea... and maybe pocketing one of the rubber ducks while he's here.]
... I will admit, though, that dying so horribly had strongly brought you to my mind, once I was among the dead properly. Did you know Grim Reapers have a fair-sized Luciferian population?
Not where I dwelled for the last twelve years because I'm the unlucky bastard who had to drown in his own godforsaken blood, but still - even the dead adore you, sire.
no subject
Hm. I...am glad that I could bring solace to you in such a time of need. Even...such a horrible one. Do you want another hug, by chance? Or a new duck? Or maybe a bit of alcohol for your tea? Just making sure because all of that sounds incredibly and painfully awful, Louis. I am sorry but it does.
no subject
[The stupid half-grin that had been on Louis's face falters before falling entirely, and he looks down at his tea. It's clear he hadn't actually expected warm, genuine concern in the face of all that -
Back in the land of the dead, other Grim Reapers would honestly laugh about it. He's grown so used to just talking about his method of death like it's a punchline to the joke his life had been.
...
After a moment of silently staring at his drink, he lifts it to take a quiet, sober sip.]
... I suppose I wouldn't mind another duck. Alcohol wouldn't do much for me, I'm afraid -
As a Grim Reaper, I'm immune to such things. I drink regardless, as it helps dilute the toxins in my blood and bring me a moment of clarity, but...
...
No, a duck is fine. There's an empty spot on my shelf, back in my suite.
no subject
I'll think of a duck buuut I might have another idea. You like karaoke by chance?
no subject
[Well, if Lucifer's going to do that - Louis's going to reach up and gently take that hand of his, just to softly press his cheek into the devil's palm.]
It would be silly if I didn't, Your Excellency - I sing professionally, after all.
no subject
Will you sing with me? [His thumb brushes across Louis's cheek gently as he asks.]
no subject
Frankly, sire, you ought to have realized by now that I'll do anything you ask of me, oughtn't you?
You could ask me to sit and listen to number stations with you, and I would do it without question.
...
But yes, I'll obviously sing with you. Singing is one of the few things I enjoy - something that's mine and mine alone.
[As in, not influenced by his father in any way. If anything, he probably used to tell Louis to stop singing.]
no subject
~I could find the whole meaning of life in those sad eyes
They've seen things that you never quite say, but I hear
Come out of hiding, I'm right here beside you
And I'll stay there as long as you let me
Because you matter to me
Simple and plain and not much to ask from somebody
You matter to me
I promise you do, you, you matter too
I promise you do, you see?
You matter to me~
no subject
When Lucifer had helped him to his feet, Louis almost expected to be whisked away like that - he's never had that happen to him before, but he's seen Lucifer do it enough that it would make sense.
But to suddenly be on the roof of the hotel, looking out at everything Dayrise has to offer...
He steps up next to Lucifer as music starts to swell from -
Nowhere? Everywhere? His own mind?
And while the devil starting to sing takes him off guard for a moment... he regards Lucifer from the side of his eye before turning his head to look at him a bit more properly, feeling the other's voice compelling him to join...
Though, considering all Lucifer has heard him sing thus far was much, much harsher, it wouldn't be strange if Louis's voice takes him by surprise.
It's not a song he knows - not one he's heard before - and yet, somehow...]
It's addictive the minute you let yourself think -
"The things that I say just might matter to someone,"
All of this time I've been keeping my mind on the running away,
And for the first time I think I'd consider the stay.
Because you matter to me -
Simple and plain and not much to ask from somebody;
You matter to me ,
I promise you do, you, you matter too -
I promise you do, you matter too,
I promise you do, you see...?
[...
But that's where he stops.
His magic kicks in, eyes flashing orange for a split second - and the compulsion is gone.
And he has to close his eyes for a moment, facing out toward Dayrise again as he clearly turns all of this over in his mind.]
...
You know... it isn't every day that someone is able to simply impress their will upon an Orange magician -
Especially not one as powerful as myself.
[Opening his eyes again, he takes a step to turn and face Lucifer fully. No more to say - at least not yet.
But it's only right he regard the devil properly after that.]
no subject
~Because you matter to me -
Simple and plain and not much to ask from somebody;
You matter to me,
(Out of hiding I'm right here beside you)
You matter too
(As long as you have me)
I promise you do, you, you matter too
(Out of hiding I'm right here beside you)
I promise you do, you, you matter too
(I do, I promise you do, you matter to me)
I promise you do, you see
You matter to me~
[Louis stops singing first and Lucifer meets his eyes, fully facing the Grim Reaper. Still, he smiles softly.]
It's less of a impression of will. More of a invitation to sing. A musical thread that runs through well. Everything.
I just wanted to sing with you. To let the music express the feelings I was having and invite you to come along as you felt the same.
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[... Despite his words, though, he's going to reach out and take one of Lucifer's hands into both of his own.]
It's impressive. To be able to pierce through my innate barriers so easily. Yet...
Perhaps it's a bit silly for me to be surprised.
It's you, after all.
[Following that, he pauses - looking down at the devil's hand that he holds, moving to gently play with his fingers just a bit.]
... When I feel the need to express something so deeply, there's something else I often prefer to rely on...
If I may?
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Of course you may. Express yourself as you wish, Louis.
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Formulating something in that muddled mind of his... and when he speaks again, it's -
Well, he's speaking. Not song... but poetry.]
"The devil fits through pinholes,"
They'd tell me,
As we gathered 'round the father's chair;
"Your heart must be steel,
Adamantine and complete,
Lest he find his way in
And make it home."
The others cowered at the thought,
Impressionable,
Believing every word the father said;
"Just one crack is all he needs,
Build your walls strong,
Fill holes with faith,
Let him freeze outside, alone."
It was these thoughts I held
Deep inside,
Knowing my heart to remain unwalled,
Unprotected and open,
Ready, willing, and waiting -
So my death would be a door.
As I lay upon the marsh,
Broken, bleeding,
My thoughts turned inward;
Thinking of the door,
My unwalled heart -
The cruelty of others,
Cruelty for cruelty's sake.
"And who prays for the devil?"
Asked a man,
Wiser than those before or since;
And as I died, I did pray -
Not for the devil,
But to him, openly
Asking to be by his side.
[... It's here that he pauses, but it's clear he's not finished.
It's more like the last stanza is hard for him to get out.]
...
And so, here I am upon Ellipsa,
At your side;
My mind a fortress, protected -
Yet my heart open, ready,
Willing and happy,
Allowing you in
Through a door made for you.
...
I think it's less that you have some way of going beyond my powers, but... rather that my powers are unconsciously lowered for you, specifically.
Never in my life have I ever felt safe with someone merely for who they are -
But it's different with you, sire. It's taken me some time to realize it... but it is - it's different with you.
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His gloved hand gently cups Louis's cheek, thumb tracing the cheek slowly.]
Why not call me Lu when we're alone? And thank you. For building me such a beautiful door. And the key to it I will treasure forever. As I will treasure our time together, you and I.
I will treat your heart with tenderness and care. The kind I believe you deserve. I want to see the light you shine, Louis. See it shine bright in this world. You can paint the skies and melt the walls. I want to see the art you will create. Hear the songs you will sing. And be there through times of turmoil and times of triumph.
As your king and as your dear dear friend.
😶🌫️
[There's no way Louis can keep himself from staring.
His hand comes up to cover Lucifer's, warm and soft in the way his fingers cup over the devil's, face-to-face with a look in his eyes as if Lucifer's the one who hung the moon and the stars.
And as he leans to press his cheek into the other's palm, feeling his own face heat up and just the smallest tears stinging the corners of his eyes...
Well, you know.]
Have I told you how beautiful you are... Lu?
Re: 😶🌫️
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