Beware Of Butterflies, They'll Break Your Heart.

by thedistantstarsawait

Summary:

Elves and Demons. Natural enemies for as long as anyone can remember, due to the elves magic being a good food source for the demons.

One man out for revenge and a demon with a purer heart than one would think. What happens when they meet?

I guess only time will tell.

Notes:

This is Prinxiety focused!!! 👏 Other ships will appear throughout, but the main focus will always be Prinxiety.

Virgil uses he/xe/zir pronouns in this fic.

Be warned. The slowburn is HEAVY.

Chapter 1: I Was Falling Hard, With An Open Heart...

He walked through the bushes, zir hands in the pockets of his hoodie. Xe was exhausted. He hadn't even been out hunting, not that xe did that often enough to constitute being hunted back in turn. It was just easier to focus on the sounds of the forest, keep zir hood up, and pray to Hades and Hel that he wouldn't be noticed.

Today had evidently not been the day to go out for a walk, as the elves were out in force and pissed, although he didn't know why. It wasn't a special day or anything, at least as far as xe knew.

Whatever. Maybe they just decided to get their murder on today, he supposed. Maybe, just maybe, xe'd get lucky and get back to the mountain without a problem. Seemed unlikely, with how many blades and traps he's had to avoid so far. So xe coiled zir tail closer to himself and resumed walking, trying to make zirself smaller. Harder to hit the target if you didn't know the target was there, after all.

And it worked. For a little while, at least. He managed to avoid any elves, although that caused xem to deteriorate from zir usual path, which led to him in front of a grand manor. It's roofs were grand and scarlet, with flags hanging from above the front door. Xe stopped and stared, almost in awe.

Unfortunately, that caused him to drop zir guard, and xe only just registered the ringing of a bell before zir back hit the ground and he felt a blade at his throat. Zir eyes snapped up and xe froze, his tail going still.

Above him stood an elf, the moonlight glinting off a golden circlet almost hidden by a mess of deep brown hair. The sword pressed a little further into zir throat as the elf's brown eyes, filled with nothing but pure hatred, met zir own.

For a split second, the two of them were in stasis. and then, in a flash, Virgil's tail wrapped around the elf's blade, throwing it aside and bolting.

Chapter 2: A Heart and Its Facets.

Summary:

Virgil runs. And xe runs for help from the one creature he knows without a doubt that xe can trust.

Notes:

Patton is a fae of the Seelie Court in this!
This one's a little more filler/lore dump, but don't worry. :)

“I'm not here!”

Those were the words he heard as his door slammed shut and his curtains rustled. Unfortunately, he knew that voice, and what it meant, by heart. Virgil had gotten himself into yet another situation, and as always, he came to the one creature who literally couldn't lie.

Patton sighed, lifting his glasses up and rubbing the bridge of his nose, before going to the door and opening it.

An elf in royal regalia stood there, his fist raised to knock. He looked surprised, before clearing his throat and straightening out. “Pardon me for the intrusion, dear fae. I was simply wondering if you had seen a devil run in here?”

Patton shook his head. “No, my apologies. Were you looking for someone?” It wasn't technically a lie, he hadn't seen Virgil. He just knew xe was in the house.

The elf hummed, taking his hand off the hilt of his sword. “No. Apologies again for the intrusion.” He bowed just slightly, and Patton bowed back before closing the door.

Virgil crawled out from under the couch, lowering zir hood. Patton turned to him, arching an eyebrow at the young demon. Virgil raised zir hands, rolling xeir eyes. “Fucking sue me, Patton, I got scared!” He huffed, shoving his hands in zir pockets.

Patton sighed, his eyes scanning over Virgil for any wounds. “There's a nick on your throat, kiddo.” He moved over to xem and ushered him to his little sofa. Virgil let him, albeit with a slight hiss and a tail flick.

“By Garm's teeth…” Xe muttered, as Patton slipped out to get the bandages. “Hey, Pat, who was that elf anyway? I've never seen one with that much gold on them.”

Patton stiffened, rubbing the bridge of his nose. Of course Virgil didn't even know who he was pissing off. The kid barely even left zir cave, xe couldn't have known. He grabbed the bandages and headed back over to the couch, sitting down next to Virgil.

“That was one of the royal members of the Sylpeiros clan. You'll recognize the Sylpeiros clan by the patch on their clothing.” He hummed, gently wrapping Virgil's neck. “Although, why you'd come here? You know I can't lie. Why not go find Janus's cave?”

Virgil rolled zir eyes, crossing his arms and glaring at Patton. “Right. Lead Mr Royal Circlet straight towards another demon to murder in cold blood.” Patton sighed, shaking his head.

“V, it's not their fault that the demons have been hunting them for millennia.”

Virgil scoffed, zir tail lashing. “And it's also not my fault that demons so long ago decided that elves were our best food source. There's plenty of other creatures to feed upon.” Xe snarled, his eyes narrowing to slits.

Patton sighed, putting a hand on Virgil's shoulder. Xe sagged and pulled zir knees up to his chest. “At this point, I just think both sides like the fighting.” He whispered.

Patton pulled Virgil into his side, rubbing xeir arm comfortingly.

Chapter 3: This Is What You Asked For...

Summary:

The devil got away. He knows it did and it pisses him off. And his mother is far from pleased...

“Romulus.” the stern voice cut through his thoughts as he stared down at the pond. He turned his head to see his mother, her hands folded in front of herself as she approached.

He turned, bowing a little. “Mother. You do not usually come to the garden this late at night.” He knew why she was here. He wasn't foolish, despite what some of the elders claimed.

“There was a devil on the property.” Her voice was as sharp as a mirror's shard, cutting into him without even trying. “And you let it escape. Again.”

He kept his head bowed, his eyes closed. He could still see those eyes staring up at him in what appeared to be fascination. “I am aware, Mother. But it fled to the area around a fae's cabin. I could not risk upsetting him.”

His mother scoffed, stepping closer and tilting his chin up. “Romulus. One fae upset at us? If he was not with other fae, there was no point in not finding that devil.” Her eyes locked onto his, and he felt just the slightest shiver run up his spine. “Do not let it happen again.”

The words seemed to settle like steel in his bones, and he nodded, folding his arms behind his back. “Yes, Mother. It will not happen again.” He watched a smile form on her face, and for a moment, he allowed himself a fleeting moment of pride.

Her hand came to rest atop his head for only a moment. “You make us proud, Romulus. You have done so well avenging our lost.”

Chapter 4: Cause You're Still Choking On Your Words.

Summary:

Virgil is still reeling from the events of the night before. Unfortunately, a certain royal asshole has decided that he can't let zir walk this world any longer.

Notes:

Homoerotic fighting, can I hear it for this?
We're getting close to the actual beginning of the slow burn, don't worry. ;)

Patton had insisted that he stay the night, and so Virgil had. But the next night, xe set back out, determined to get back to the mountain. He'd like to sleep in zir own bed tonight, after all.

Unfortunately, that didn't seem to be happening, considering xe was pretty sure that he was being followed. So xe'd deteriorated from zir usual path, again, this time heading deeper into the forest and hopefully further away from that manor.

Although. That elf had caught zir eye, he couldn't lie. Taller than xe was, clearly very strong, and the few scars he'd seen on his face? All of it together, combined with the fact that he was apparently of high standing, told a story that Virgil wanted to know.

Sue zir for being fascinated with an elf that xe'd seen once and who had tried to kill him, xe supposed. But last he checked, typically high elves didn't engage in fighting.

Then, xe heard a rustling from behind zim, and xe realised that he'd stopped in the middle of a clearing. “…well, shit.” was all he got out before the bushes rustled again and xe dodged to the side, hearing the 'woosh' of a blade cutting through empty air.

When he turned, xe saw the elf from the night before, those eyes locked on zirs form, his teeth bared in a snarl. Virgil snorted, putting zir hands on his hips. “Damn, Princey, you get a stick up your ass?” Xe asked, zir tone taunting as his tail flicked from side to side.

The elf stood up straight, flicking his sword to the side as he stared at xem. “No. I'm simply here to finish what I should've done last night.” He hummed, his voice steady but cold. Virgil clasped zir hands together, grinning a little.

“Aww, you thought of murdering me? I'm touched, truly, I am.” His hands moved back down to zir side as xe got into a defensive position. “Well, I'm sorry to tell you, pretty boy, but I'm not exactly easy prey.”

The elf's lips formed into a wicked grin. “Neither am I,” left his mouth before he lunged at xem, his sword glinting as it passed through a beam of moonlight. He barely got a chance to dodge, woefully underprepared for the elf's speed. Xe felt the blade nick zir arm, and a hiss of pain left his lips.

Xe didn't give the elf a chance to turn around and go for another strike, however. As the elf passed him, xe yanked a dagger out of zir jacket and sliced at his back.

The elf let out a huff of pain, whirling back around and knocking the knife out of zir hands. Without letting up for a second, he raised his sword up and swung it down diagonally, forcing Virgil to bring zir arms up in a desperate bid to protect himself.

The sword cut through zir sleeves, black blood staining both sweater and blade. The elf seemed surprised by this, giving Virgil a chance to move. Xe grabbed his sword and ripped it out of his hands, ignoring the now stinging cut on the palm of zir hand.

As the elf stumbled, he pinned him, zir claws digging into the elf's shoulders. Elvish and demonic curses mixed as the two of them spat at each other in their respective languages, the elf trying to push Virgil off of him to no success.

Eventually, the two of them stilled as Virgil got his hand around the elf's throat, zir claws putting just enough pressure to be a warning. Virgil exhaled, and properly studied him.

He was pretty, xe supposed, in a conventionally attractive way. Much more of a masculine face shape than the elves xe usually saw, his eyes half lidded and his nose bleeding slightly.

Virgil hummed, running a claw along the elf's cheek before swiftly cutting the skin with zir claw. “To remember me by,” he hissed, before shoving zirself off of him and taking off into the depths of the forest.

Chapter 5: You're Not As Brave As You Were At The Start.

Summary:

Two months after their initial fight, Roman locates the devil again, determined to finally kill this thorn in his side.

Notes:

slight two month timeskip! enjoy this one...

Roman was leaning against the tree, probably more relaxed than he should be, considering what he was here to do.

Two months of prowling the forest, getting into various scuffles with it and memorizing its schedule…and it would all finally pay off. Finally, he'd be able to claim that beast's life and maybe please his mother. She'd been so disappointed after he came home with the cut on his face…he shook that thought off.

No. He had to concentrate. He couldn't let the beast–

“You look lost in thought, Princey.” he jumped, whirling around and looking up at the branches above himself, catching a glimpse of a purple tail.

…–sneak up on him.

“Do you sneak up on every elf you see?” Roman huffed, a hand on his hip. The devil chuckled, hopping down from the branch. Roman stepped back a little, his hand moving to the hilt of his sword.

“Only the ones I like.” was its response, its tail flicking back and forth. Roman rolled his eyes. He'd grown weirdly accustomed to these comments from the beast, but they still irritated him. He drew his sword, and the devil snorted.

“Really? You're always using that. Wouldn't you want to try another method? Like hand to hand?”

“I'm not stupid enough to think I could beat you in hand to hand.”

“But you're stupid enough to think you could beat me?”

Roman bared his teeth and lunged, aiming to stab rather than slash this time. The beast grabbed the blade, pushing it away from itself and tossing it to the side. Roman let out a curse, and tried to move for it. Hands wrapped around his waist and pulled him back, causing him to stiffen. There was a dark chuckle from next to his ear and then his back hit the ground, scales wrapped around his neck.

He yelped, grabbing the tail and trying to pull it off. The devil chuckled again, letting go of his neck and stepping back. “Come on, pretty boy. I know that's not all you've got.”

A groan escaped his lips and he shot up, making another grab for his sword, only for his hand to close around the tail of the beast. He glared at it and yanked, causing a cry to escape it. He grabbed one of its horns and wrestled it to the ground, ignoring the sting of its claws in his shoulders.

Roman yanked on the horns, and the beast threw him off with a yelp of pain. He felt rough bark scrape his back, and before he could get up, he was slammed back against the tree as the demon launched itself at him. Its claws tangled in his hair, trying to pull him with it. He kicked its knee, and the two of them tumbled to the dirt, scratching and biting at each other like animals.

Then, there was the sound of a crack and a splitting pain went through Roman's head. He may have screamed. He didn't know. All he knew was it hurt, and that he couldn't see…not for a while.

When his senses began to return, he felt…clear. His head didn't feel heavy for once in several years, and he felt the grass under his hands. He blinked his eyes open to find the moon shining directly overhead, and no demon in sight.

He sat up, a flash of gold catching his eye.

Pieces of his circlet were scattered around him, almost forming a perfect circle.

Roman blinked, before pushing himself up. He needed to get back to the manor…

Chapter 6: Why Would You Let This Voice Set In Your Head?

Summary:

With the circlet broken, and Roman's mind clear, he is forced to come to a conclusion he didn't want to be true.

Notes:

Heed the updated tags! This entire chapter is very "Mother Knows Best (Reprise)" coded, so be aware!

“Come in.”

His mother's voice rang clear in his ears, like a bell that just sounded wrong. But even so, he pushed the door open, leaning on his sword. “What did that circlet do?” He demanded, his voice as sharp as a demon's claws.

She stiffened, and her head turned just slightly. “What do you mean?” Her voice was flat yet firm, like a cold sheet of metal. His hand clenched into a fist, and he took a step forward, his knees feeling weak.

“You know what I mean, Mother. What spell was on that circlet?” As he spoke, he watched her shoulders drop down and heard her exhale. She turned around, scathing eyes like the sharpest edge of a glacier raking over him.

Eventually, she leaned back against her vanity. “Well, can you blame me? After your brother, I had to make sure that my only remaining heir wouldn't run off with another of those filthy devils.”

He went as still as a statue, staring at his mother. His mind began running several miles a minute, and he could swear he heard his own heartbeat as clear as the night sky. “only remaining heir.” “run off-filthy devils.”

“Are you going to keep standing there, Romulus? We have to get you refitted, evidently.” her words snapped him out of the sort of daze he'd entered, and he shook his head.

“No.”

Her head snapped back to him, and he took a slight step back. Her eyes narrowed. “No?” She stood up. “Is that so?”

He took a deep breath, ignoring how his hands shook and how his heart pounded in his chest. “Yes. That's so.” He met her eyes, earth brown meeting glacier blue. “I won't be controlled by you.”

She began walking towards him, her movements slow but clearly deliberate. He took another step back, still leaning on his sword. “I see how it is,” she murmured, her voice like ice. “You think you're so smart, hm? All mature?”

She crossed the room in a few steps, grabbing his chin. “Where else would you go, Romulus? To that miserable piece of filth who gave you this?” She flicked the cheek that the demon had cut, causing him to flinch. “They'll eat you up in a heartbeat. They did it to your brother, and they'll do it to you.”

He pushed her away, stumbling back. “At least I'd be walking into the lion's den of my own free will!” He snapped, stepping back towards the door. “With you, I don't know what's real and what's not, what's me and what's you!”

“I am only doing what's best for you! You're still a child, Romulus!” She tried to grab his arm, but he backpedaled, his hand now on the handle of the door.

“Well in this case…you don't know what's best for me.” He whispered, before pushing open the door and bolting.

Chapter 7: Gravity Hurts, You Made It So Sweet...

Summary:

Running from what he once called home, Roman runs into something-someone, willing to extend a gentle hand.

Notes:

This chapter is meant to be an almost direct parallel to the first one! See if you can spot all the callbacks!

He didn't know how long he'd been running. Could one consider it running if it was more like hobbling as fast as one could? Technicalities, he supposed. He didn't even know why he was thinking about this. Maybe just something to distract from the pain and the betrayal–

And there's the tears, coming heavily and obscuring his vision. He stumbled over something he couldn't see, hitting the ground with a thump. A hiss of pain escaped his lips as his head seemed to swim.

Dammit, dammit, dammit!

He had to get up, he couldn't get caught off guard. His mother would certainly be looking for him and he would not go back there. He couldn't. Not ever again.

He could see why Remus would've chosen the demons over their mother. Death seemed like a kinder fate.

Footsteps caught his attention, and his head shot up. He blindly felt around for his sword, trying to blink away the tears and the blurry vision.

The footsteps came to a stop in front of him before he could find his sword, and he felt something scaly brush the vulnerable part of his neck. He shuddered as a finger tilted his chin upwards, letting him catch a glimpse of purple.

“Holy Hel, you look a mess, Princey.” its voice sounded softer now, when they weren't fighting, and Roman could've cried. Scratch that, he was crying.

He could feel the tears rolling down his cheeks, against his will. “…tell me something I don't know.” He whispered, trying to go for a biting tone. He was pretty sure it just sounded broken, though.

He heard a soft sigh, and hands cupped his cheeks, gently wiping his tears away. They didn't speak for a long while, just…sitting there with him. Wiping his tears away, holding his face. And it was far softer than his life at the manor had ever been.

He knew he shouldn't take it, he shouldn't chase it. But when the demon's hands pulled away, he grabbed their wrists, holding them tightly. “Don't leave.” he pleaded, the shame coiling within him at his desperate tone.

That tail brushed under his chin, and his vision was clear enough, albeit for only a moment to see violet eyes, the color of the break of dusk, gazing down at him with such softness and empathy that it almost made Roman start bawling like a child.

“I won't. But I need to get you somewhere safe. You look like you're about to pass out.” Roman blinked, trying to focus back on those eyes as darkness crept in. He mumbled something before his body gave out and everything went black.

Notes:

And with this, we've officially ended this arc and started the next...with the actual slowburn this time!

Chapter 8: Pretty Little Lamb, Don't Come Down Here.

Summary:

Virgil has to turn to someone he's not exactly fond of talking to for help, now that the elf's basically begged him not to leave.

Notes:

Remus's official design!!!

Well. He didn't want to come here. But xe knew nothing about elves or how to treat what seemed to xem like magical poisoning…so here he was, under the canopy of golden and orange leaves, looking for the wall with an unconsious elf in zir arms. It was a struggle, trying to balance Princey and keep from running into trees, but xe was managing.

Barely.

He shook off the whisper in his ear, zir tail moving branches out of the way as xe caught sight of the lanterns in the near distance. “There you are, you bastard.” He muttered, picking up the pace a little. The stone of the stairs up the hill cut into zir bare feet, adding to the various other nicks and splinters from running through the forest.

Xe reached the top, and took a deep breath, zir lungs filling with air that smelled of freshly bloomed flowers. He bundled the elf closer to zir chest, following the path through the trees towards the little two story cottage at the end of it.

Xe didn't waste any time, zir tail knocking on the door. He knew the bastard was home, it wasn't like either of them really left their stupid cottage, so he better answer–

The door swung open, and xe was greeted by a knife in the face. “Rude much, Janus?” Virgil grumbled, zir tail lowering.

Janus let out an irritated hiss, lowering the knife in turn. “No, what's rude is banging on a demon's door in the middle of the night. We were cuddling.” He sheathed the knife at his side.

“Yeah, well, it's an emergency so sue me for not showing up at a better time than when you and your husband are being all sweet and domestic.” He held up Princey. “He needs help.”

Janus' eyes widened and he straightened out. “And you brought him here?? Are you mad!?” His claws dug into the doorframe, and Virgil bared zir teeth.

“Unless you know someone else that knows elves as intimately as you do and is willing to help out a demon, you're kind of my best option, Jan!” he hissed out, his voice hushed. Janus opened his mouth to retort before arms wrapped around his shoulders and brown eyes met Virgil's own.

“What's going on? A party, and no invite for me?” Janus sighed, reaching back and cupping his husband's cheek. Virgil held Princey a little closer.

“Remus,” Janus greeted. “Look at what Virgil dragged in, hm?”

Remus peered over Janus's shoulder, studying the elf in Virgil's arms before shoving Janus out of the way and meeting Virgil's eyes with a sudden seriousness. “What happened?”

Xe blinked, surprised at the directness, but quickly recovered. “Well, we were fighting earlier today, and I broke the circlet on his head. That caused him to scream and pass out, and then I found him a little while ago. He was pale and crying and had clearly been running from something…and then he passed out in my arms.”

Remus's brow furrowed and he cupped Princey's cheek. “Oh, Roman, what did she do to you..?”

Virgil blinked, but xe didn't get a chance to ask any follow-up questions before Remus took Roman out of zir arms and slipped back into the house.

Xe looked at Janus, who rolled his eyes and shoved his hands in the pockets of his zip-up. “I guess you're staying. Come in, Virgil.”

Chapter 9: We've Come A Long Way From Where We Began...

Summary:

Roman finds himself in an unfamiliar house with a very familiar face...

Notes:

sorry for the slightly later update, life got a little hectic! either way, enjoy!!!

The cold was the first thing that registered with his senses. Something cold and wet, resting on his forehead. He let out a low groan, trying to move whatever it was off of him.

As he raised his hand, a hand wrapped around his wrist, keeping him from reaching up. He let out a little whine, weakly trying to pull his hand away. There was a soft chuckle, and a hand brushed his cheek. “Yeah, you always did get whiny when you were sick, Ro.”

The voice sounded so familiar, but he must've been dreaming. He was gone, after all.

But even so, he leaned into the hand, not wanting to open his eyes. “I'm fine, Re…” He mumbled, and Remus laughed softly. Roman felt his hand wrap around his brother's, and he relaxed just a little.

“Yeah, tell that to someone who hasn't been getting the remnants of mom's spell off of you.” Roman hummed, squeezing Remus's hand. Silly Remus. Their mother had never put a spell on him before his death.

Wait a minute.

Roman's eyes flew open, and he was met with the image of Remus, different but still the same, sitting right next to him. Remus grinned at him, tilting his head to the side. “I was waiting for you to realize.”

He sat up, despite Remus's protests, and took his brother's face in hand. His eyes were a little different, wilder, and the silver streak in his hair was brand new, but…by Hekate's magick, he was alive. And Roman just stared, trying to take it in.

Remus gave him an awkward smile, shifting in place a little. “Listen, Ro, I know what I did was a shitty–” Roman cut him off with a sharp slap across the face, causing the other elf to let out a sharp yelp of pain.

Roman didn't give him a chance to recover before pulling Remus into a tight hug, burying his face in his brother's shoulder and trying not to cry. Remus hesitated for a second before wrapping his arms around Roman in turn. “I know,” he whispered, “I'm sorry.”

Roman nuzzled into him, his hands gripping the fabric of his shirt. “You better be, you fucking bastard.” He whispered back, his voice sounding broken.

They stayed like that for a long while, silently holding each other. Later, Roman would vehemently deny that he'd ever cried, but he trusted Remus.

Even if the bastard had run off with a demon…and speaking of-

“Remus?” Remus let out a little hum as Roman spoke, meeting his brother's eyes. Roman sat up straight.

“Why?” He asked, his voice breaking slightly. “Why did you leave? I can't blame you, knowing what I know now, but you still left without me.”

He watched Remus's eyes soften further and his shoulders sag. “…I didn't know how you'd react,” he began, cuddling into Roman like he used to when they were younger.

“I mean. Janus is…a demon. The very thing that we were raised to hate. And…well, he was a fun game at first. Trying to catch and kill him became a regular occurrence, and it felt exhilarating to do something mom couldn't control. But she found out. As she usually does.”

Roman ran his fingers through Remus's hair, letting him talk without interruption.

“It was that night that I really saw Janus. Not the demon, Janus. He noticed something was off and…he offered me a hand. A friend. So I brought back a few bloody scales for proof, and told you I had a new friend.”

Roman let out a breath. He remembered that night. He remembered the guilt over not pushing for more information.

“and over the years…it just blossomed into something else. Something beautiful. So one day, I went to him, and told him I wanted out. And…he gave me an out. Said he could help.” Remus met Roman's eyes. “He corrupted me. And it was freeing, Ro.”

Roman just silently stared, trying to wrap his head around it. “…what does that do?” he whispered.

“It made me sick, at first. It gets into your magic and twists it. But…it's freeing. It frees us from whatever mother had on us. She can't control us, Ro.” Remus took his hand, and Roman squeezed it.

“is that what's happening to me?” He murmured, looking down at his brother. Remus nodded.

“I don't think Virgil meant to do it. Xe doesn't have good control over zir influence or magic yet.”

Roman blinked, staring at Remus. “Virgil? Is that the demon?” Remus nodded again, cuddling closer.

“Yeah. You two can properly introduce yourselves later. For now, I'm taking care of you.” He pushed Roman back down into laying, and flopped on top of him. “Sleep, Ro. You need it.”

Chapter 10: It Always Feels So Quiet...In The Dark...

Summary:

Late at night, two souls finally have their first proper conversation.

Notes:

FINALLY. 4,682 WORDS LATER, AND THEY'RE HAVING THEIR FIRST CONVERSATION!!!!!

The moonlight shone through the window, the raindrops hitting the glass in a rythmic pattern. It wasn't something Roman usually liked, but somehow, it felt…more peaceful now. Maybe that was due to the figure standing in front of the sink, staring out the window as the moonlight reflected off zir horns. He hadn't actually talked to Virgil since being brought here, but for some reason, even just being close to xem seemed to settle whatever had been done to him.

Roman cleared his throat, almost a little awkwardly. Virgil whipped around, his tail shooting straight up in what Roman could only guess was surprise. The two of them locked eyes, and Virgil let out a breath. “…you're supposed to be resting.” Xe murmured, setting a mug he'd been holding on the counter.

Roman shrugged, holding onto the door frame. “Couldn't sleep, then got thirsty…and Remus sleeps like the dead.” He shrugged, idly tugging at the sash still draped over his chest. Virgil let out a little breath, and came closer, offering Roman zir hand.

“I'll make you something. But let's get you sitting first.” Roman's eyes darted down to the hand and he hesitated before taking it, accepting the help over to the table. He sat down, letting out a little puff of air.

He watched Virgil pull a jar out of a cabinet and check the label before pulling some of the leaves contained inside out, zir touch clearly gentle. “What's that?” Roman asked, tilting his head. Virgil looked back at him, silently offering him the jar. As Roman took it, reading the label, Virgil spoke.

“Remus made it. It's his own blend, supposed to ease the dark fevers or something.” The label was nothing more than a little doodle of a cup of tea, and Roman chuckled, setting the jar on the table before he looked back at Virgil.

Virgil had traced something on a little stone before pressing it to a mug xe'd grabbed, and Roman heard the sound of water bubbling. He watched as Virgil crushed up the leaves and put them into the mug before setting it down to let it steep.

Roman let out a little breath, almost in awe at how easy zir movements seemed. He seemed relaxed and comfortable, although he couldn't understand why.

“How?” he heard himself asking, causing Virgil to turn back towards him. Virgil blinked, tilting zir head to the side. He probably shouldn't have, but he kept talking. “I mean, how can you be so calm? Between me and the other demon.”

Virgil made a little ‘oh’ sound, taking the mug and handing it to Roman. “Well,” Xe began, grabbing his mug and sitting on the counter. “you can barely stand without help, much less wield your sword so there's not much threat from your end.”

Roman opened his mouth to protest, but thought better of it and closed his mouth again. Virgil continued as if Roman had never even intended to speak. “And Janus…I may not like him, but he won't hurt me. And he won't hurt you, for Remus's sake.”

Roman let out a puff of air, causing Virgil to chuckle as he took a sip of zir tea. “Yeah, that's about my feelings on the matter.” Xe sighed. Roman didn't answer, picking up his own mug and taking a sip. His eyebrows furrowed and he stuck his tongue out a little. That…wasn't pleasant. In the slightest.

He heard Virgil snort, and he shot him a glare. “Hey, you try this and see if you can hold a straight face, prick.” Roman challenged. Virgil chuckled, taking the mug from his hand. Without breaking eye contact with him, Virgil took a swig, only for zir face to scrunch up too.

Roman had to cover his mouth to keep from bursting out into laughter. Virgil shook zir head, scrunching his nose. “Wow, that is…somehow worse than it's ever been.” Xe set the mug down, rubbing the bridge of zir nose, before meeting Roman's eyes again. “Okay, you proved your point, are you happy?”

Roman flashed him a grin. “very much so.” Virgil rolled zir eyes and hopped off the counter to make another cup of tea, leaving Roman giggling.

Soon enough, there was another cup of tea in front of Roman, and the room had fallen back into silence. Roman picked it up, and took a sip. This one tasted much better, almost a little fruity. It was nice. Much nicer than the other blend. “What's this one?” He asked, softly.

Virgil looked up, a little taken aback. “Oh, uh. That's one of my own blends. I was surprised Janus kept it around.”

Roman hummed, taking another sip. “It's good. Much better than Remus's.” Virgil snorted, zir tail draping over his knees.

“Owl shit is better than Remus's blends.” Xe murmured, taking another sip from zir own tea. Roman snorted, almost choking on his tea.

“Careful, I'd almost think you were bitter about it.” He joked, before going quiet again. “…why did you do it?” he asked a bit later, breaking the silence. Virgil let out a sigh, looking away.

“…I didn't mean to. Didn't even know it could happen.” He admitted, setting zir mug down. “If I'd known, it wouldn't have happened, I swear–”

Roman cut xem off. “Don't…don't apologize. I'm…I'm not exactly mad?” he ran a hand through his hair. “I mean. You didn't know. Remus said you're not quite sure of how all this works yet. And…and it got me away from a woman I didn't even know I needed to be away from? It's just…”

“a lot.” Virgil finished, causing Roman to look back at him. Xe was sitting up, leaning forward a little. “I mean. I don't know how to feel about the fact that I've corrupted an elf that literally a few days ago was coming for my head, or that that's what Remus is, or any of this. But it's still a lot.”

Roman smiled softly. “…it's complicated. And that's okay.” Virgil smiled at him, zir head tilting to the side a little.

“yeah. It is.”

Notes:

and 1,023 words later, the boys have taken the first step.

i'm such a proud mama 😭

Chapter 11: She's One Parent You Don't Want To Meet...

Summary:

As the moonlight illuminates one side, its shadow falls on a certain matriarch and her side.

Notes:

This one's a shorter filler chapter, a little bit of time for the Mother to shine.
The Mother's Design.

Foolish boy. Still so naïve, despite the years of her lessons.

She supposed it couldn't be helped, both of the twins had inherited their father's bleeding heart after all, despite all her efforts to counteract that. It was highly disappointing. Did he not know she was only doing what was best to keep their lineage strong and finally eradicate the devils?

Maturity clearly didn't run amongst the men in this family, despite what any of them thought. All three of them falling to the exact same fate…although she'd be lying if she said she hadn't enjoyed what happened to their father.

She pulled the curtain closed, turning towards her vanity. She hadn't wanted to get her hands dirty again, but with both of her heirs having been blindsided and corrupted by the devils, she saw no other choice. It would be hard to undo it. But necessary.

She clicked open the sides, pushing it up and pulling out a secret compartment. Her eyes landed on the silver circlet and the pristine white dagger within it.

To do things right, it seems you have to do it yourself.

Chapter 12: There's A Part Of Me That's Appealingly Sweet...

Summary:

A few weeks after Roman is brought to the cottage, he's finally able to stand and walk around on his own. Janus and Remus have left to go hunting, leaving him and Virgil alone together.

Notes:

Hey!!!! Sorry, it's been a bit!!!
Hit a little bit of a creative block with this chapter, but that's alright! I got it out all the same, and I hope you enjoy more of Virgil and Roman being fluffy!

They hadn't talked too deeply since that night in the kitchen. Idle conversation, trading fighting tips and talking about their lives in minimal detail. It'd been nice to see at least a little of what was beneath each other's masks. Although neither of them seemed fully ready to drop their guards, especially not with Janus in the house.

So maybe it was a good thing that pretty much the second Roman was able to walk on his own, Remus and Janus left the house to go 'hunting' for a while. Virgil was pretty sure it was just an excuse for them to spend time with each other, and Roman was inclined to agree, although he appreciated the quiet.

It wasn't exactly unusual to catch random smells from around the cottage, but it was unusual for the smell to be some kind of baked goods. Roman raised his head, closing the book he'd been reading. Whatever it was, it smelled good. Good enough that he was curious.

He pushed himself out of the bed, heading out of the room and limping towards the kitchen. It wasn't much of a walk, maybe a minute in total. He poked his head in the doorway.

Virgil was standing there, in front of the oven, holding up a black cat with startlingly yellow eyes. “I told you, you don't get to eat this, Nightmare!” Xe scolded, getting a meow in return. “Don't sass me, young lady!”

Roman snorted, covering his mouth. “Are you a cat dad now?” He teased, coming into the kitchen. Virgil looked over, setting Nightmare on the table with a shrug, putting zir hands on his hips.

“Kinda always have been? Janus and Remus watch over her for me, cause a cave isn't exactly the best environment for a hellcat.” He crossed zir arms, leaning back against the counter. Roman's eyebrows furrowed.

“…you live in a cave?” He asked incredulously, and when xe only shrugged, Roman shook his head. “I'm starting to think killing you might've been a mercy.”

Virgil choked. “Wh-huh!?” he sputtered, staring at Roman with wide eyes. Roman raised his hands in surrender, watching as Virgil stood up straight. “What is that supposed to mean?!”

Roman shrugged. “Well, you live in a cave, I've never seen you actually eat any real food or go hunting, and your only friends are my brother, his snake husband, and a fae.” He leaned against the doorframe, gesturing vaguely at the empty air. “that's not exactly a life.”

“And you had a life?” Virgil stepped closer, leaning forward, using the table for support as xe did so. “You spent your entire life holed up in a grand manor, doing nothing but training to eradicate demons and then hunting them down. I'm willing to bet that you didn't even have friends aside from your brother or your mother, who we've established wasn't really that great!”

Both of them stared at each other for a solid minute before bursting out in giggles. Virgil covered zir mouth, and Roman shook his head. “Why are we even debating this? Neither of us have any room to talk on the other's life!”

Virgil shrugged, pushing off the table and heading over to the stove. “Dunno. Maybe it's cause it's the first proper conversation we've managed to have and we're trying to break some kind of tension?”

Roman opened his mouth to answer before closing it again, thinking for a minute. That…actually made sense. They'd never actually seen each other without the masks they put up whenever Janus was in the house. They were, for all intents and purposes, still just strangers.

He was pulled out of his thoughts by Virgil shoving a bite of the baked good into his mouth. It tasted good, although he was taken aback by the action.

It tasted almost like how he expected vanilla to taste, sweet and just a little bitter in a pleasant way, the filling warm and just a little gooey. He let out a little hum, swallowing the bite down. “Oh, that's good. What is that?”

A smile formed on xeir face as Nightmare hopped onto zir shoulder. “It's a vanilla cherry pie. I wanted to experiment, since I haven't exactly gotten to do that in a while.” Virgil scratched Nightmare's chin, softly humming. “You like it?”

Roman nodded, meeting his eyes. “Yeah...it's good. Definitely a good first introduction to vanilla and baked goods in general.” That got Virgil's eyes to widen and xem to gasp.

He grabbed Roman's shirt, pulling him close. “You've never had baked goods before!? Oh by Hades' grace–” Xe seemed to register just how close the two of them were, and immediately let go of the shirt, zir tail rapidly moving from side to side.

“Oh my gods, I should not have done that, I'm so sorry–holy Hel I'm a mess–” he was cut off by Roman bursting out into laughter, and he stared at the elf in shock. “…is this funny to you!?”

“Endlessly!” Roman wheezed out, covering his mouth. Virgil set Nightmare on the table, grabbed a wooden spatula and lunged at Roman. Roman squealed, trying to defend himself against the onslaught from the very indignant demon.

Their laughter and voices filled the kitchen and the house in a way that felt like home.

Chapter 13: No Man Is Worth The Aggravation...

Summary:

It's been almost a year at this point. Not that long, especially for their extended lifespans. So then why is Virgil falling harder than a landslide?

Notes:

6,778 words. Twelve chapters. It was either this or just jump straight into the fire...and I figured y'all'd want a little pallet cleanser.

“Yeah, trimming her claws can be…a hassle, at the best of times.” Xe chuckled softly, watching as Roman scratched Nightmare's cheeks while cooing at her.

“Aw, she's just a spoiled princess, aren't you?” Roman teased. Nightmare mrowled, batting at Roman's hands with her claws sheathed. “Yes you are, just a spoiled little darling…”

“So…like you?” Virgil asked, leaning back a little on the log they were sitting on. He couldn't help it, Roman was just…so easy to tease.

“Exactly,” Roman agreed with a nod, before the comment hit him and he whipped his head around to glare at the demon sitting next to him. “Hey!”

Virgil burst out into giggles, covering zir mouth. Roman swatted at his arm, and xe leaned out of the way, only to fall off the log and hit the ground with a thud.

He let out a little huff, putting a hand to zir head as xe sat up. When he looked up, he saw Roman standing above xem, offering zim his hand. “Are you okay?”

Virgil stared, something fluttering within him as xe met Roman's eyes, their warm umber tones seeming deeper than ever right now. “Uh. Yeah, yeah, I'm…fine.” He mumbled, reaching up and taking Roman's hand.

Roman let out a relieved breath, pulling xem up. “Good, I was afraid I'd hurt you.”

Virgil froze at that, staring at him with wide eyes. “…you…were afraid you…hurt me?” Zir voice was hushed, as if he couldn't believe it. Roman nodded, tucking some hair behind zir ear.

“Yeah. Was I not supposed to be?” He asked, frowning slightly. It was adorable on him, and it made Virgil's heart skip a beat.

Virgil shook xeir head, zir tail coiling around his leg. “Uh…no, I never said that. I do, however, think I'm going to get a glass of water. Excuse me for a moment!” Before Roman could respond, Virgil darted into the house, slamming the door behind xemself and sagging against it.

Motherfucker. This was not happening, it couldn't be.

“Son of a bitch, I've done this already!” Xe exclaimed, burying his face in zir hands.

“Done what?” Remus asked, coming over with Scorcher in his arms.

Virgil shot it a glare, giving the other hellcat a pet. “Love, Remus! And look what it got me!” Remus's brows furrowed.

“Avoidance issues?”

“Remus!”

Remus stepped back a little. “I'm just saying, Vee, you really shouldn't be this worked up over it.” It shrugged. “Normal people wouldn't be.”

Virgil glared at him, getting only a shit eating grin in return. “Remus. Are you going to leave or do I need to make you?” Remus huffed.

“Touchy…touchy…I'll leave, relax. But…maybe talk to him. I don't think it's as bad as you're making it out to be.” Remus winked at Virgil, turning to leave. Virgil sighed, looking off to the side.

…only to hear Nightmare yowl from outside in pain.

Notes:

teehees evilly

Chapter 14: Before You Start A War, You Better Know What You're Fighting For.

Summary:

They took him. They took him and they're trying to keep xem away from him. Xe won't let that happen.

Notes:

Welcome to the endgame, readers. Buckle up and hold onto that angst with a happy ending tag, because it only gets worse from here.

The smell of metal filled the air, the wind rushing through xeir ears as he moved. The grass under zir feet, stained red with the blood of those who dared to enter this place. His blood sang with an energy he'd never felt before, the blade cutting through flesh like it was paper.

A stinging sensation in zir arm, barely registered through the haze. A scream not his own, barely heard over the blood rushing in xeir ears. The image of red, so out of place on his face. His eyes, shut. His body carried off. The blade plunging through someone's heart and xeir scream bouncing off the stone walls, a cry of a name known so well despite so little time shared.

Darkness coiling within xem, unleashed upon the unsuspecting forms of the elves who'd entered zir safe space. Who'd taken him away. He had never felt such pure rage towards the elves. But now.

Now, they would suffer.

—————————————————————————

…everything hurt.

That was what registered with his senses first, was the pain. Xe let out a hiss, forcing zirself into a sitting position. Nightmare yowled at him, and xe turned zir gaze in her direction. She was sitting on the back of the couch, a yellow and scarred hellcat sitting next to her.

Nightmare hissed at Virgil, her hackles raising when he tried to sit up. Zir brow furrowed, but xe relented. “Alright…I'll lay back down…” he murmured, watching Nightmare relax. Xe looked down at zirself, trying to figure out what hurt.

Oh. The bandages wrapped around zir midsection probably explained a good bit of it. Although…

Roman. The elves.

He shot up, to the displeasure of both Nightmare and Scorcher, xeir claws digging into the couch.

They'd taken him. And Virgil had been powerless to stop it.

“Vee. You're supposed to be resting.” Remus' voice cut through the fog, and Virgil's head snapped towards where Remus was leaning against the doorway, looking exhausted, with Janus close behind him. Virgil bared zir fangs, turning towards them.

“Where did they take him?” Xe asked, and his voice sounded cold, even to xeir own ears. Janus put a hand on Remus' shoulder, meeting Virgil's eyes with his own.

“We don't know. And we haven't tried looking either.” His voice was curt, firm. Simple and to the point.

It pissed xem off. He stood up, ignoring how Nightmare hissed at him. “What the fuck do you mean that you haven't tried looking? You're just going to leave him there?” a sharp pain erupted in zir back as xeir tail lashed.

Remus shook his head. “Obviously not. But you're hurt and we don't have the resources or the manpower to go up against Radelia's entire army, and believe me, she'll have them all on guard now that she's got Roman back.” It shook his head, leaning back against Janus. “I don't exactly want to leave him there either, but–”

“Shut. up.” Virgil hissed, zir hands clenching into fists. “this is not something you two get to stand aside on. This is something that I'm handling, with or without your help. Move.”

“Absolutely not, Virgil. Not in your current state.” Janus stood up straight, baring his own fangs. “Sit back down.”

Xe met his eyes, baring xeir fangs in response. “No.”

“You really want to challenge me in my own home?” Janus moved Remus behind him, stepping forward. Virgil tilted zir head to the side.

“Maybe. Unless you let me leave.”

“No.”

“You won't stop me.” Virgil stated, pushing past Janus. Janus grabbed zir arm and yanked xem back.

“I said you're not leaving.” Janus hissed, his grip tight on xeir arm. Virgil met his eyes, feeling far too calm for the situation he'd found himself in.

There was a flash of pain, and then a splash of black blood as a spider leg dug itself deep into Janus' shoulder. “And I told you to let me go, Janus.” Xe hissed, getting right in the other demon's face. “I played nice. But the second you try and keep me from bringing him home, all bets are off.”

He shoved Janus away, the new appendages on zir back clacking against each other. “This is why I left. Keep that in mind, you double skinned snake.” Xe spat, before turning to the door.

Blood demanded blood. An eye for an eye. She would pay for taking Roman.

Notes:

Full disclosure? i was listening to gravity the entire time i wrote this. It just fits this arc of Virgil a little too well :3

Chapter 15: The Flood's Coming.

Summary:

Roman's back in the manor, and The Matriarch is pissed that he dared to leave.

The pain was what woke him. The sharp dig in his neck when he tried to roll to the side, the prick in his arm. The click of heels came from nearby, and he opened his eyes to see his mother, talking to one of the medical staff. She paid no mind to him, if she even knew he was awake, instead taking a vial from the medic and studying it.

Roman let out a soft hiss, trying to sit up. The sharp dig returned and he yelped, feeling a cold weight around his neck. His entire body froze, and his eyes flicked back up to his mother-Radelia. She still didn't deign to turn her gaze to him, the same way she treated all prisoners.

He wasn't her son. He was a tool that dared to defy her. She was just done hiding it.

“Hm. Well, this is a distressing development. But no matter.” Radelia handed the vial back to the medic. “Work on fixing it. And don't rush. You know how much I hate sloppy work.” She watched the medic leave, before speaking again.

“I'm rather disappointed in you, Romulus. I thought you were better than your father and your brother, but here I am, cleaning up yet another mess.” Roman's hands clenched into fists, and he scooted closer to the wall so he could sit up.

“That's not my name.”

Her head turned towards him, and he met her eyes, his gaze hard. “You heard me. That's not my name.” She turned to him, bending down to his level.

“You don't get to tell me what is or is not your name, Romulus. I named you.” She hissed, her voice as cold as the glaciers within her eyes.

He held her gaze, entirely relaxed, a soft chuckle escaping his lips. “Oh, I have every right to, Radelia. You're not my mother, therefore, I don't answer to you.” That got a reaction out of her. She grabbed his chin, her eyes narrowing to slits.

“How dare you? I raised you, I birthed you, I taught you everything you know. And you have the temerity to disrespect me like this!?”

Roman just smiled. “I don't see the point in trying to respect the woman who brainwashed me.” He leaned into her touch, meeting her eyes. “Especially when said woman has already committed exceptionally elaborate suicide by 'reclaiming' me.”

Radelia's eyes seemed to narrow ever further. “Is that a threat?”

“no,” he murmured, shaking his head. “it's a warning.” He pulled away from her touch, letting out a breath. “Xe had no reason to be mad at us before now. But you took me.”

A flash of red came from his eye as he grinned, feeling nothing but swelling pride and relief. “I can see the clouds, Matriarch.”

Roman leaned forward, meeting Radelia's eyes once more. “And no running's gonna save you now.”

Notes:

This one was soooo fun to write. Roman's finally leaning into what Virgil did to him...and it is beautiful.

Chapter 16: I Heard That You're Afraid Of Monsters.

Summary:

With Janus and Remus seemingly unwilling to support Virgil, xe's turned to doing things on his own...until now.

Notes:

Thank you to my older brother for helping me write this bit of Patton <333

Maybe running off on his own wasn't the smartest move Virgil ever made. But xe had to find Roman. Not that he'd made any progress in the past few months.

Whatever. Xe was here now, so he supposed it didn't matter. Xe knocked on the door, his bloody sword resting on zir shoulder. The door swung open and he came face to face with an owl harpy who adjusted his glasses the second he saw Virgil.

“Virgil,” Logan began, studying xem. “You look different.”

“Way to state the obvious, Lo.” Virgil huffed, zir legs twitching impatiently. “Is Patton home?”

Logan nodded, turning around. “Patton! It's Virgil, xe's here!” He called, and within a second, Patton emerged, cupping Virgil's cheeks.

“Kiddo! Oh, by Titania–” He studied Virgil, noting the spidery changes, and it was clear that he was pushing his arachnophobia down. “…come inside. Tell me what happened, hm?”

Virgil nodded, before one of zir legs hooked around the cocoon xe'd brought with him. “And…what do I do with this?” Logan's brow furrowed and he leaned forward, his wings twitching.

“And what exactly is that, Virgil?” He asked, entirely unbothered. Virgil shrugged, tossing it at him. Logan caught it easily, testing the weight.

“No one important. Just one of Radelia Sylpeiros' top generals.”

Patton choked, his eyes going wide. “The–I'm sorry, what!?” Logan hummed, turning around and taking the cocoon further into the house.

Virgil shrugged again, entirely unbothered. “I didn't stutter, Pat. I need your help.” Zir legs folded behind xeir back as he stepped forward. “She took Roman, Patton. And I don't know what she'll do or has done to him.”

Patton's eyes widened. “…she has him?” When Virgil nodded in response, Patton's gaze hardened. “Then we'll find him. Come in, kiddo.”

Virgil entered the house, taking a deep breath as Patton headed for the kitchen. Xe shot a confused glance at Logan, who was slowly untying the unconscious general.

He wasn't worried, however. That was why xe'd come here. Because he knew they could be trusted. So a few hours later, when the general began to stir and Patton ushered xem into a separate room, he didn't fight.

————————————————————————

If you asked Patton, he'd tell you the truth. That he preferred his quiet life with his husband, that he preferred to stay out of any of the messy conflicts.

The general awoke and was met with Patton, holding a plate of cookies, and Logan, one wing draped over his fae husband.

He'd also tell you that he wasn't generally a violent person, and that his house was a safe space for all, no matter who they were.

Patton watched the general devour the cookies in only a few seconds flat, his eyes hardening behind his glasses.

But all of that fell away the second his kid was involved in any of it. And he would stand by zir side, no matter what.

Patton leaned forward when he saw the general's eyes glaze over, his hand resting on the coffee table.

He could be cruel, nasty, straight-up malevolent. All xe had to do was say the word.

“Where is the Prince?”

There's a reason you never trust a fae.

Notes:

And with this, Virgil's cemented two allies and we're almost ready to face Radelia...

Notes:

Come scream at me about this on Tumblr!
Comments and kudos are always appreciated! <3

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 2 of Butterflies, Elves And Devils