TITLE    : Demonic Submission Ch. 03
STORYID  : demonic-submission-ch-03
SUMMARY  : Celestine argues with her desires and learns more about him.
AUTHOR   : TheLastChaosLord@lit
DATE     : 2013-02-06
CATEGORY : non-human-stories
FLAGS    : h
TAGS     : |demon|incubus|corruption|bathing|


<em>Hello again all.</em>



<em>Hope you have been enjoying my stories thus far. This chapter doesn't actually have any erotica in it though, so just a heads up. I will say however that it is more of an informative chapter then anything. A great deal of information on what demons are and how they work is in this chapter, which will be somewhat important later down the road.</em>



<em>There is a portion as well where Celestine is arguing with herself. The portions that are italicized are her talking to herself inside her head. The mental voice often speaks in 'We' and 'Us' terms when referring to what that aspect of her wants as well as Celestine's rational side. Often it will switch to 'I' or 'you' when referring to its perspective of things and what have you. Hopefully it's not too confusing.</em>



~~~~



Celestine slowly began to wake up but was encouraged by the warmth that surrounded her to simply curl up and continue to sleep. She could feel the comforting warmth of a soft blanket hugging her gently. However, despite her want to simply drift into a deeper sleep, part of her mind tugged at her to awaken. Wearily she tried to think exactly what was so important that she needed to be up at exactly this second. She had the next couple days off so that wasn't it... She didn't have any pressing chores or errands to run, so what was it? Her mind weakly grasped at any of the mundane worldly concerns a woman may have, and memories began to surface once again. Gabriel came to mind and she immediately recoiled from the memories of him and her embarrassing situation... Celestine decided then that sleep would be better then waking thoughts. But as she sought something better to fill her mind with, and lull her into a comfortable sleep, thoughts of another man slowly crept into her mind.



He was a truly magnificent man to look upon... Strong and beautiful, with a smile that made her almost melt... as features began to fill in, painting a clearer picture, Celestine realized this was not a man constructed of her fantasies but instead was someone she knew. Who though? It wasn't until the last feature was filled in that her mind clicked and realized whom she was imagining was Tristan... But, who was Trist-... Celestine's eyes snapped open and she immediately swung her legs off the side of the bed, looking about desperately to see if she was alone, hoping the self proclaimed demon was not beside her or inside the room. She also tried to determine where she was or anything to get some sort of bearing as to what was going on. Was it all just a dream or was she truly the captive of some monster. Her mind quickly whirred as she did mental checks of herself.



The first thing she noticed was not what her eyes saw, but that her mind was clear... Completely clear of the fog that the demon seemed to create that muddled her thoughts and made her hot and horny. It was a strange feeling, or rather it was the sensation of 'lack of feeling'. But Celestine didn't take long to get over it, as she realized that if she wasn't befuddled, she may be able to think of a way to escape... Looking about she realized she was on a large and very comfortable bed, and that she had just tossed away most of her blankets. Looking further she found she was in an extravagant bedroom. It was quite large and rivalled her places' living room in size... One wall seemed to have a large walk in closet which while dark at the moment, she could see held at least a few articles of women's clothing. Another wall was adorned with what appeared to be large windows, which led out into a balcony that overlooked the grounds. It was still somewhat dark out but she could tell the sun would be up in a few hours. The third wall she could see had two doors in it... one appeared to lead into a large bathroom, and the other looked as if it would lead into a hall...



Celestine also realized that she could hear what sounded like a bath running from the bathroom. She didn't have long to think on it though as a woman stepped out of the bathroom and into the bedroom. She wasn't someone Celestine recognized, but she also seemed to be wearing the attire of a maid. However unlike Rena, hers was far less revealing, though Celestine could tell she would likely be quite attractive without the obscuring clothes... The maid didn't seem to notice that Celestine was up until she was about a third of the way towards the other door. When she did realize, she looked to Celestine, and the two of them seemed to stare at each other for a long moment. Celestine was beginning to get frustrated with the silence and the quiet blank look the maid was giving her. But just as she opened her mouth to speak, the maid quickly headed out into the hall and closed the door behind her. Celestine was about to give chase, but as she moved she realized something that gave her a startling jolt. Her pants were moist... More specifically her crotch was wet... Looking down she saw that her jeans were damp and sticky, and it was then that she remembered all the details of this evening...



First Tristan had abducted her, and then drove her to orgasm inside his truck and made her cream herself within her pants... Then, he had forced her to watch as he coupled with Rena, all the while Celestine had been fingering herself... Unbidden, images of Tristan's impressive manhood came, and sounds of Rena moaning and crying out for more. As the scene played out in her mind Celestine did not notice her own breath quickening. She did notice when her fingers touched the wet fabric of her pants and she immediately snatched her hand back. What was she about to do?! Her mind raced trying to think of anything other then what the obvious answer was... She was about to begin masturbating again... Even as she was sitting in her soaked pants she was going to begin again...



Celestine wrapped her arms around herself and hugged herself tightly. "This can't be happening... It can't be!" she whispered to herself. She tried desperately to purge the memories from her mind, but it only seemed to bring them into greater focus... Every memory seemed to bring more and more shame as she realized that she could have told him to stop at any time... He may have not listened, but she didn't even try, and it made her sick with herself. Worse still, for some reason, Celestine found the whole ordeal arousing, at least at the time. Hell, he had even looked to her for approval when Rena was on the cusp of orgasm! Essentially asking if Celestine wanted to see Rena reach climax... <em>Damn him... DAMN HIM!</em> She screamed in her mind. He forced her into this... She didn't have a choice!



<em>Sure you did... but you chose to keep going... because you liked watching them. Because you wanted to join them... Because you wanted him to take control, lay you down and fuck you out of your mind like he did her...</em>



Everything in the world seemed to go still as Celestine's mind seem to freeze up after hearing the unbidden thought from the back of her mind. It was in her own voice of course, but unlike her normal tone, this voice was low and husky... sultry and riddled with lust...



"No... No that isn't right... I'm not like that! I don't want that!" Celestine whispered to herself after several long moments... dreading the response that may come unbidden... Several long moments passed, and when no response came Celestine let out a long sigh of relief. She was concerned she was going crazy there for a second... And starting a conversation with herself would not exactly disprove the concern. She wasn't hearing some alter ego of herself. That was crazy. So what could have it been? Perhaps some spell of Tristan's, or some after affect of his enchantment? It couldn't have been her actual thoughts...She had never wanted anything like that before, so why would it change now?



<em>Maybe it is because you've never met anyone like him before? Or maybe it's because you're afraid to let go of the control you've hold onto so tightly?</em>



"What?" Celestine responded to her own treacherous thoughts aloud. "That's not true. I don't always have to be in control... Not everything has to be preplanned. It's just... better If it is..." Maybe she was going crazy... but the tone of her own thoughts was pissing her off.



<em>You don't plan the little stuff... but when it comes to things that could bring you real pleasure, it has to be perfectly planned out and you always have to be in control... You don't let yourself feel everything that comes naturally because it rocks your control...</em>



"So I'm not a slave to my emotions and more basic urges. So fucking what!?" Celestine said, as if daring her own thoughts to come up with a response. "So I'm not some piece of white trash that gives into her every urge. If I always did that I'd end up dead or worse."



<em>Or you may have figured out Gabriel was gay a long time before you got overly attached to him...</em>



That floored Celestine for a long moment, but eventually she replied, trying to be rational. "No... No there is no way I could have seen that ahead of time... All I am doing now is venting my frustrations against myself, using some unrelated situation to try and bring myself down for something I had no way of preventing. It was unavoidable. Everyone else thought he was strait too, and you can't convince me they were all lying." Celestine said with an even tone. She was certain that was the case... Her friends wouldn't have lied to her, Cameron especially.



<em>You are wrong. Sure your friends thought he was strait, but you could have found out much earlier on. You just denied yourself the opportunity.</em>



"Oh really?" Celestine sneered at her own thoughts. "How exactly? Let's hear it." She said confident she had caught her other line of reasoning in a corner.



<em>We could have made out with him much earlier on, like we initially wanted to. He would have said no, and it wouldn't have ended as badly for us.</em>



Celestine blinked in response, surprised by the line of reasoning. "No... No I-"



<em>Stop lying. The first thing that ran though our mind when we saw him was 'I wonder what kind of kisser he is?' By our third meeting with him, it was driving us bonkers. We wanted to feel his lips against our own. Was he into tongue? Did he like to feel up his partner while kissing? Was he assertive? We wondered all these things and more... we wanted to find out. But you forced these desires down, because they came out of the blue, and didn't really fit in with any of the plans you had. If you had tried to make a move earlier, you would have found out. It would have been a bit awkward, and then funny, and then we could have still been friends or at least parted without the big embarrassment. Instead, you denied what we wanted initially, and now we are heartbroken.</em>



Celestine frowned and tried to think of some way to create a counter argument, but was quickly realizing she was the one who got backed into a corner. She began to grasp at straws. "I was waiting for him to make the first move." She tried weakly, already fearing where this would lead.



<em>Funny... Here we thought we didn't agree with preset gender roles and bullshit like that where the man has to take the first step. Didn't we decide it was okay to be the one doing the asking and shit like that? Or has that been a lie too?</em>



"No! It's not a lie... It's just... it is nice if the guy takes the first step and all..." Celestine said knowing what would come next...



<em>True. So long as it fits within the plan right? So long as we are absolutely sure we are ready, and that we actually like the guy and everything right? That he measures up to your standard...</em>



Celestine could hear the condensing tone coming from her sultry train of thought. Though now it was less sultry and more angry and frustrated. She recalled unhappily how many times she had been going out with guys and they tried to make a move. And she recalled how many times she had asked herself if she was ready, and if she really liked the guy... She also recalled how many times she told them she wasn't ready, and how often it never seemed to go farther than that...



"But wouldn't it be wrong to jump in if you aren't sure?" Celestine asked feebly, dreading the reply of the now much stronger voice.



<em>Bullshit! The only thing that matters or not is if we want to do it. If someone tries to kiss us and we don't want to, then we don't do it! It's that simple! If we want to fuck someone, we fuck them and enjoy the ride! Stop denying us because we are not absolutely sure! Right and wrong have nothing to do with it!</em>



Celestine listened to everything being said and knew that it was hugely irresponsible. To simply do something without any thought at all of the consequences could easily lead to a great deal harm, on both sides of the relationship. "I don't want to risk hurting someone... not... not a-"



<em>Again you are lying. You are afraid that we will get hurt again, afraid that anything we enjoy will disappear and leave us feeling empty and broken.</em>



"So I am cautious and lose out on some things, so what? It's better than sleeping around like some slut!" Celestine snapped back angrily. She didn't like being in a corner like this. She didn't like having what she usually considered good traits thrown in her face like they were flaws. Sure, maybe she could stand to loosen up a bit, but she wasn't going to become a whore who split her legs the moment the urge struck her.



<em>When did we start considering Cameron a Slut?</em>



"Wait.... what?" Celestine stammered out, completely ambushed by the sudden question.



<em>When did we start considering Cameron a Slut? After all, she seems to have a lot more fun than we do. If the urge strikes her, she finds someone and enjoys having sex with them. We know it's true, after all we even got to watch once. It wouldn't be a stretch to assume that Cameron didn't remember his name within a couple of days of humping him. It was just casual consensual sex, and she enjoyed it a lot. It was spur of the moment, and she just went with it... Unlike you who denies us at every opportunity because you are not sure if it's okay or not.</em>



"Cameron isn't a slut! ...She just... likes to have fun... I am there to look out for her, and keep her from doing anything too crazy!"



<em>Sure you are. Or maybe part of us is hoping that one of these times we'll get over this phobia of allowing ourselves to enjoy something and actually have a good lay. Or better yet, for someone to take the option away from us and simply force it on us. I sure as fuck know I like how that sounds.</em>



"I do not want to get raped!" Celestine hissed disgusted.



<em>Who said anything about rape? Having control taken away doesn't mean rape; in fact it's exactly the opposite when you</em> <em><u>want</u></em> <em>it to happen. You saw how Rena was... do you think she wasn't enjoying that? When he was the one deciding how things would go, and at what pace?</em>



"So what? I should just get on my knees and ask Tristan to fuck me like a good obedient woman? Didn't we agree we weren't into gender roles?" Celestine sneered back. She finally managed to stop back peddling and was trying to take back ground in this self discussion...



<em>HA! I wouldn't ask. I would just jump him and start tearing off his clothes. Though if we did ask, it wouldn't be because we are a woman.</em>



The arguing opinion had shifted back to his low and lusty voice, which sent a slow shiver down Celestine's spine. It brought back memories of fantasies she had concocted where she seduced men. She would never act on them, but still they were, 'Entertaining' to play out in her mind. She almost always spoke in this tone in those fantasies... "Then explain to me why?" Celestine snapped out once she broke out of her own memories.



<em>We would do it because the sex would be fantastic and because despite all your deep rooted arguments to the contrary, we want him to fuck us... We want to give in and lose control. We want him to take us and break us and ruin us on his magnificent cock. We want to taste his cum and feel it pump into our pussy as our cunt milks him dry...</em>



Celestine gapped in stunned silence at the tone of her own thoughts. How desperate they were, and wanton and rife with desire... She couldn't reply... instead her mind turned back to if she was sane or not... because a normal person... a normal person simply didn't think like that... did they?



<em>You are not crazy... All you have done is compartmentalize yourself to help settle an internal conflict, or at least make light of it within your mind. The alternate opinion which you have been arguing with is no different than writing down a series of important questions, and then going back and answering them in depth some time later.</em>



Celestine couldn't help but state an alternative to her previous thoughts. "...Or I really could be going crazy and trying to rationalize it to myself to keep myself from coming to the mind shattering realization of it..."



<em>...Or it could be an after effect of Tristan's Spell...</em>



"Yes! That's right it could be!" Celestine almost hopped up when the thought struck her again. It seemed far more rational to her then assuming she was arguing with herself. After all, she never had thoughts like that before. "That is right!" she said aloud reassuring herself. It was all Tristan's fault. It had to be.



"I'm sorry Miss Carrigan, what is right?" A deep baritone voice shattered her conversation with herself and she looked to the door that led to the hall. Just inside it, holding what looked to be a bathrobe in about her size, was the butler she met at the front door. He loomed over her even when standing a dozen feet away, and she was quite certain he had to duck his head to enter the room to avoid the risk of hitting his head.



"Uhm... No-Nothing." She replied back quickly. As confused as she was right now she didn't want to seem crazy... Then again she wondered if crazy was abnormal here... After all Tristan seemed to be a demon and so did Rena... who is to say Claude wasn't as well? Celestine looked him over for a long moment and was about to say something but Claude held out an arm towards the bathroom held out a bathrobe to her as well. "If it would please you Miss Carrigan, a bath has been prepared for you. I am certain it has been a long evening thus far, and I dare to suppose that you may wish to clean up some before going to sleep for the evening." Claude's voice was polite and crisp, hell it almost sounded like how butlers in movies actually sounded...



"I... I guess it would be nice to get cleaned up... There... There aren't any hidden cameras or anything like that in that bathroom is there?" She asked warily. So far she couldn't put anything past Tristan and his perversions. Claude smiled politely and shook his head. "None that I am aware of Miss Carrigan. Additionally, if it adds any confidence for you, I sweep the rooms for any sort of device after the stay of every guest we have." Celestine paused and realized that Claude was referring to her by her last name... and wondered how it was he knew it. She put voice to her curiosity as she approached the bathroom.



"Do you mind if I ask how do you know my last name?" She tried gently, hoping not to upset the large man. Claude simply chuckled and responded easily. "Why I checked the identification within your purse when I was clearing it of anything non-essential for your stay here." His voice was utterly calm and poise, almost as if he was speaking to some sort of nobility. However the mention of her purse made Cameron realize that she hadn't seen it since she had been carried out of Tristan's truck. "Where is it, my purse that is?" She asked carefully. If she could get it back, she could maybe use her cell phone. Claude smiled slightly apologetically, as if reading her mind. "I am sorry Miss Carrigan, but there was little that I deemed necessary for your stay here. Your purse, as well as its contents, have been disposed of." Celestine blinked at Claude. He had just admitted to destroying her purse and everything she had in it, effectively cutting her off from the world. More importantly, he spoke as if destroying her property was completely normal... Standard procedure...

<hr pg="2" />"I-I see..." Celestine stammered out as she entered the bathroom looking down at the smooth marble floor. Perhaps there was another way? She had driven to the club, if they hadn't done away with her car; someone might notice it there in a day or so. It may be enough to start an investigation and get her out of here. She was about to speak again but as she looked up she gapped at the bathroom that was laid out in front of her. It looked more like it belonged in a spa then in a house. It wasn't as big as her bedroom, but it was pretty freaking close.



From what she could tell there was a walk in shower, complete with a crystal glass door that allowed full view of anyone who might want to watch, and was big enough for three... There was a large Victorian tub as well, completely separate from the shower. It was smaller, but it was big enough for someone to sit in comfortably and have water up to her neck and be stretched out fully. Finally, there appeared to be some sort of Jacuzzi, large enough for three or four people. Both the tub and Jacuzzi were full of water. The tub seemed to also have some bubble bath added to it as a layer of foam rested on top of the water. The Jacuzzi rumbled lowly as the water swirled around inside. Finally, there seemed to be several points along the walls where a pull out barrier could be used to hamper the view of any onlooker. They were semi transparent, allowing a shadow to be seen in the brightly lit room, but nothing beyond that. In a corner there appeared to be a massage table, along with racks of what looked like oils and what have you. There were full body mirrors as well as smaller ones along counters and sinks.



Celestine gaped at the whole affair before turning towards the door about to ask Claude if this was all really necessary. It was then that she realized Claude was already inside the bathroom with her. He had taken off his suit jacket and rolled up the undershirt's sleeves, as if he was preparing to do work. "Uh... what are you doing?" Celestine asked ungracefully. Claude simply chuckled and smiled to her. "Why Miss Carrigan, I was about to offer my assistance to help in your bathing. Only if you wished it of course, I do understand for some, bathing is something they often enjoy conducting on their own. However I should inform you, I take pride in the skill that my hands possess. I can rival most masseurs that you would find in spas and the like." His tone was again completely polite and gentle, but utterly confident in everything he did and said. He looked to her as if waiting for her response, not assuming either way.



"I... No I don't think I will need the assistance, Mr. Claude." Celestine responded, wary of this easy going butler. "My dear miss Carrigan, just 'Claude' will do nicely. No need to address me with such formality, I am but a humble servant after all." Claude explained with a slight bow to her. Celestine nodded gently and then replied. "Just Celestine then, I have never really liked my last name all that much." Claude nodded gently and then stood upright again, making Celestine crane her neck to look him in the eye. "Which method would you like to use Celestine? All three are prepared for your use. Or perhaps you would like to try them all this evening?" He asked pleasantly, but Celestine shook her head. "No... uh... Well I'm not sure which I should try... But to be frank, I'd rather you not be watching while I did bathe..." Claude chuckled lightly. "If that is what you prefer then I shall not. I shall stay behind the screens however, in case you find yourself in need of anything at all. Plus, my lord has instructed me to answer any questions you may have while bathing, about him and your situation or anything for that matter that may be useful for you. I may not be able to answer everything, but I will try to answer them all as honestly and completely as possible."



Celestine blinked at this man's unique form of speech. As far as she could tell he was being completely honest and showed no signs of trying to lead her on or anything like that. Slowly she nodded and realized that this was a good opportunity... She still hardly knew anything of what was going on so she needed to know more if she had any hope of escape. "Okay... well thank you then... But I don't really know which one I should try... they all look very nice..." Claude smiled at that. "Why thank you. I installed these all myself, and I am quite proud of my labors. The Victorian tub was a difficult to find and restore, but I think it adds a level of elegance to the room. Though if you are looking to relax and work out sore muscles, the Jacuzzi would be the best option." Celestine again found herself gaping at Claude. "You mean to tell me you built this entire room? By yourself?" Claude smiled lightly. "Well not entirely. I did have a few hired hands to help with the heavy marble installations. Though I did all the design and piping work myself." Claude's tone was easy and relaxed, as if it wasn't some feat that he had created this beautiful place.



"I see... You realize that's amazing right?" Celestine asked, again with little grace. Claude simply smiled and nodded. "Yes I am quite aware that it was a feat. As I said, I take great pride in my works." That was a bit of a surprise for Celestine. She was expecting him to be modest... but instead he wasn't at all. He almost seemed arrogant, but she let it go... with this spread he could afford to be a little arrogant. She looked to the Jacuzzi and moved towards it. As she did Claude pulled the screen out to help block out the sight of her and after a quick explanation of the controls, Celestine was beginning to strip and dip herself into the Jacuzzi. True to his word, Claude was staying on the far side of the pull out wall and seemed to be standing with perfect patience.



Celestine eased herself into the warm churning water and immediately let out a sigh of relief. It was the perfect temperature, and had just enough force from the jets to help relax her body. This wasn't the sort of thing that would normally be used to help clean yourself, but it was on Tristan's dollar, so why the hell not? Celestine began to ponder what questions she would ask while she soaked, and eventually she spoke up.



"So... this is really happening isn't it? He really did abduct me and... is holding me against my will."



"That is correct Celestine, though I do believe he hopes that you'll soon come to enjoy your stay." Claude was calm in his reply, as if again nothing was wrong with her situation.



"Is it true, that he is a demon? An Incubus?" Celestine asked, realizing that despite his honest tone and candor, she may not want to trust everything he said.



"It is true. My lord is a powerful demon that has been walking this earth for at least a century in my estimation, though I have only come to be employed by him in the last sixty years."



Celestine blinked at that. Claude didn't look older then forty at the very most, but the fact that he said Tristan was a century old required elaboration. "So you are saying that Tristan has been around for a really long time now, and that he is very powerful?"



"Tristan?" Claude asked confused for a moment. "Oh. You mean my lord. I apologize; he hasn't used that name before so I was confused. But to answer your question yes he has been, though for a demon it is not so long. I myself am much older, but my own personal might is less by comparison. Not that I am complaining mind you. I take great pride in being able to serve my young lord, despite being his elder."



Celestine blinked at that...Tristan wasn't his actual name? "What do you mean he's not used that name before? Isn't it his name?" Claude chuckled lightly in response to that but eventually responded.



"I do not mean to laugh at you my dear and I do not mean to offend. My lord's name is indeed not 'Tristan'. In truth I do not know his full true demonic name, as it would give me power over him. Most demons keep their true name as secret as possible, as it gives power to those who know it over that demon. In reality, my name is not truly 'Claude'. Instead it is a human name that I go by."



Celestine tried to process this but eventually spoke out. "So what should I call him? What is the name you know him by?"



"I know him by the name of 'Master' or 'My Lord'. Though if you must know the name we know him by, it is 'Durial'. That said however, I assume you could likely continue calling him 'Tristan', as that is how he introduced himself to you, though you may wish to clear it with him."



Celestine fumed and spoke without thinking. "Damn him! Is everything he does a deception? Everything he says a lie?" Her anger was suddenly cut off when Claude chuckled again.



"Again, my apologies, it is simply refreshing to hear a mortals perspective on things. Not everything he does is deception, but you must understand, my lord is a powerful demon, with powerful foes, some secrecy is required. Never mind the fact that we all must keep the fact that demons exist secret from the human populace for all our safety."



"But... wait... you just told me. Doesn't that kind of let the secret out of the bag?" Celestine asked confused. Claude managed to stifle his chuckle this time and instead replied after a moment.



"Alas dear child, you are an exception. While I don't mean to insult your ability or strength of resolve, nor do I mean to frighten you, but it would be a small miracle if you managed to escape and an even greater act of divine intervention if you survived long enough to tell anyone."



"... I would be... killed if I ran?" Celestine asked dreading the response.



"Yes, but in all likelihood it would be quick and likely very nearly painless. My lord is not a bitter creature. If you did escape and he could not attempt to capture you, he would ensure his assassins would slay you as efficiently as possible. In a way you are lucky, most demonic nobility would have you dragged back and tortured, kept alive for weeks if not months just to pay you back for the insult before throwing you to mindless hell spawn." Claude was calm and gentle in his words, but even then it made Celestine shiver. Regardless she didn't give up, and pondered what to ask next for a long moment and eventually turned away from the subject of Tristan... Durial... Whatever his name was, and back to simpler questions. "... Are you a demon as well?"



"Yes, most certainly." Claude responded cheerily.



Celestine knew she couldn't put off her next question. She needed to know. "What kind are you? An incubus as well? And for that matter, what is Rena? I know she is a demon but what kind?"



That didn't insight a chuckle, but Celestine could hear an impressed sound come from Claude. It took him a moment to respond but eventually he did. "I am what many laymen's would refer to as a 'Demon of Pride', though specifically, I am a Kavakan demon, or a Seneschal demon. I take pride in my work, as I'm sure you've noticed, but it's more than just that. You see most demons have some sort of type of 'cardinal sin' associated with them. We call them 'spheres' and there are seven in all. A demon can have sway in more than one sphere, but the primary sphere, the one in which they have the most power, is what usually dictates their actions and motives, though it can have an effect on the type of demon they are as well. Are you following?"



Celestine nodded gently but realized he couldn't see her and responded. "Yes, I think so... though I have to admit it's kind of hard to take in... But never mind that... You say you are a Pride demon, specifically a Kavakan demon. I don't mean to offend, but I've never heard of that before, is it some sort of rare demon or something?"



"To an extent... We are by no means the rarest form of demon out there, but there are not legions of us either. We often exist to serve other demons, normally lords or dukes and what have you. That isn't to say we can't do other things, and Kavakan demons occasionally do rise to higher ranks of their own. But the thing is, we usually derive power from the pride we take in our works while serving others. Simply put, the phrase 'I take pride in my work' came from us."



"I don't think I understand... why is taking pride in your work important?"



"As I said earlier, every demon has a primary sphere associated with them. Be it lust, pride or any of the other sins. In my case, doing a good job allows me to take pride in my work. The greater my pride, the more strength I have within my sphere and the more power I can exert on the world around me. For example, I can force those around me to be shamed by their works if it isn't perfect, or more specifically isn't up to my standards, which I will admit are lofty. That shame forces them to try harder to meet my standards, even if the standard is impossible. In essence, each of our spheres of sin is directly tied towards our power, though often in obtuse and unique ways."



Celestine tried to follow but was having a difficult time of it. Still she felt she got at least a minor grasp on things. "So you are saying every time Tristan has sex, he grows in power?"



"Not quite. A demon's power is much like a battery. We have limits just like anything in the world does. If we use up all our power, then it's gone, until we are able to replenish it. Though usually if we lose all our power, it means that whatever we are using it on is about to kill us. The metaphor of a battery suggests we have a maximum capacity, and that is true. When demons are young, they tend to be very weak and have almost no power at all."



Celestine frowned at that and had to put voice to her wonder. "But... then how to more powerful demons come to be?"



"I am glad you asked that. As I said, we have limits, and unlike a muscle, our limits can't be strained and forced grow stronger over time just by ourselves. Instead, we have to take the capacity from others."



"...Take it?"



"Why yes. We steal the souls of others to increase the capacity of our spheres. I am sure you are aware that common lore says that demons corrupt and consume the souls of mortals to grow in power. This is very true, but I must admit that is not the only prey we can feed on."



Celestine's voice came out a whisper, but somehow Claude managed to hear her. "Y-you feed on each other..." She said as she remembered Tristan feeding on Rena...



"Correct. I must admit my dear; you are catching on very quickly. I would take pride in such a feat if I were you." Claude said pleased with Celestine and his own tutoring.



"But... but why would you do that?! That's... fucking cannibalism for god's sake!" Celestine said confused and somewhat afraid. Still she continued before he could respond. "And if you can do that, why the hell do you feed on humans then!? Why don't you just leave us alone!? You don't need us!"



Claude chuckled once again, but this time it made a chill run down Celestine's spine that even the warm water in the Jacuzzi could not shake right away. It was dark, low and terrible, and Celestine could hear it within her very mind. "Because my dear Celestine... we are what we are... Demons. We can feed on each other yes, but human souls are so much sweeter... We love the taste of a mortal soul, corrupted and beaten down, broken and helpless. We love the feel of them as we take them into ourselves, and our power tears them apart and consumes them. The feel of a humans souls hopes and dreams and wants being turned into fuel for the fires of our power... It euphoria to us Miss Celestine, one of the single greatest joys we can experience."



Celestine was hugging herself inside the tub, trying to force his voice out of her head. But still he pressed on.



"But then I would take some heart my dear... most of us have very specific appetites. Most demons simply don't take someone random and rip away their souls, though that can provide some sustenance I suppose. You see, for a soul to empower our spheres, the soul must be rife with the sins we crave. Only a person of pride will sustain me and help my power grow. If we take in souls that are lacking in sin, we get almost nothing out of them. There is a reason why many religions try and encourage their followers to avoid the cardinal sins; it's in an attempt to starve us out, though it's never been wholly successful." Claude paused to see if Celestine was still listening and to see if she had any further questions. After a long moment he was about to dare to come around the screen but she spoke again before he could.



"I am still here... But in essence, you are saying that a person that does not give into the carnal sins is not a good meal for demons?" Celestine asked a spark of hope growing in her voice.



Claude smiled lightly. "Of course. Indeed I would go so far as to say that if a demon did imbue the soul of a mortal that was free of sin, it would in fact be toxic to said demon."



Celestine pondered that for a long moment. This was good... it meant that she had a tool to resist Tristan... She could resist becoming his prey... She picked up a sponge and began to clean herself properly instead of just soaking. However she did not stop asking questions. "But what of Rena? You've told me you are a service demon... a Kavakan demon. What is she? Is she a succubus?" Celestine asked inquisitively.



Clause responded after a moment of thought. "I can see why you may think that, but in truth Rena is not a demon of lust at all, though she does hold some power within that sphere. No, in fact Rena is a demon of Wrath, and a fairly potent one at that. I've only seen her fully unleash her powers three times, and twice she brought a bloody ruin to everything that was the target of her wrath. Specifically she is a Varatoss demon, likely something you've also never heard of. Varatoss demons are a particularly rare breed of demon, which often are hyper-aggressive brutes amongst even the demons of wrath. Usually they are cowed and brought under the heel of a more powerful wrath demon early on in their lives, and it's only because of that, that they survive at all. Those Varatoss demons that reach maturity without a master claiming them usually end up dead because there has been nothing to curb their wanton thirst for destruction and death, or the inferno that is their blind hate for almost everything. As a result other demons have to put them down before they draw too much attention. Rena is even unique amongst the Varatoss because she is female. Something that was literally unheard of before her. "



Celestine was stunned by what she was hearing. "You have to be joking... Rena is a demon of wrath? How can that be? She was... she was... well she prostrated herself to Tristan... There was nothing wrathful about that. Plus she is quite small. I'm not saying size is everything, but really?"



"Ahh... I understand your confusion. You see Rena's second most powerful sphere is lust, which came about thanks to our lord forcing it upon her. When she first came under his service she was hardly the woman she is now. She was borderline rabid with anyone but our lord, and she obeyed him only because he was able to claim her forcefully. I can't count how many suits of mine she ruined in those early days." Claude listened to see if Celestine would respond but after a long moment he chuckled and asked, "You don't believe me do you?"



"No. No I do not." Celestine responded frankly.



Claude could only chuckle in response to that. Eventually he managed to speak again. "Well, whether you believe it or not, I would not anger her if I were in your position. She may not risk hurting you, for her love of our lord, but if pushed too far she will lose the already tedious grip on her control. Hurmm... How to convince you? Oh, I know. Perhaps you'll believe this. As she was learning to behave herself within the grounds, Rena began to understand what the maids and butlers did around here. However she also stumbled across the concept of a 'sexy maid' as I'm sure you've seen. After confirming with Lord Durial that he enjoyed said concept, Rena went to go claim one of the maids' uniforms in order to make herself more pleasing for him. The first maid she came across Rena demanded that she give over her uniform. The maid of course declined giving over her clothing, as is sensible in most cases. At the time Rena was almost completely unknown amongst the house staff, so the maid didn't know to keep her distance. The young girl did not have a second chance, as Rena quickly ripped into her." Claude sighed as if it was a tiresome memory. "It took us a week to clean up the mess. The amusing part of this is that Rena did present herself to our lord shortly afterwards. She had taken the maids uniform and ripped away a lot of the fabric to show a great deal more skin. The only issue was that the maid she had torn apart was still inside the clothing when she died, so it was a bloody mess. Lord Durial applauded Rena however, and rewarded her greatly for the steps she took to try and please him."

<hr pg="3" />"She sounds insane... though I still don't believe you." Celestine said simply.



"Well I do hope there is never a time when you need to see her for what she really is. It usually involves someone dying horrifically..."



After a long pause, Celestine eventually changed the line of questioning. "How... How powerful is he really? I mean... is there even an answer to that, or an answer that I could understand anyway?"



"An interesting question I must admit, though a slightly surprising one. Ultimately, Lord Durial is not the most powerful demon in the region, but he is one of them. He has plenty of power and is not hesitant to use it on individuals or groups..." Claude pondered how he could better explain, trying to think up a specific example.



"Let me guess," Celestine said half jokingly. "he can go into a convent and turn all the nuns into sex crazed nymphomaniacs, right?"



"Not quite, but the thought of trying has crossed his mind. He thought better of it though, it tends to attract the wrong kind of attention." Claude admitted casually.



"I... I was joking..." Celestine said half hoping he was too...



"Oh?... oh! I see it now. Heh. It is good you still can keep your humor about you Celestine, it shows the strength of your character." Celestine didn't know how to reply to that, so instead she simply continued to lather and wash herself.



"Oh! My lord occasionally likes to go clubbing as you've seen. However unlike in your case, he often goes simply to affect everyone in the area and feed off their lust. He particularly likes going to those... what are they called... Raves! To someone just passing by those he effects look like they are on ecstasy, and while that is true for some, it's often far fewer then what your eyes may tell you, or they take it because of the effect he has on them. They want to feel every sensation, and the ecstasy amplifies it."



Celestine frowned as she heard Claude explain. If he was being honest, it meant Tristan could affect whole crowds of people, not just one or two. "How many can he affect at once? I know it's more of an area effect but does it get weaker with more people or what happens?"



"Quite the contrary actually. The more people there are involved the more powerful it is. You see people are far more likely to find something they find attractive if they can see many people. Despite whatever morals people claim to hold onto, lust is almost hyper infectious. When a person sees another doing something sexual or erotic, it tends to make them want to do it as well... The more they see, the more they want to take part. In one instance my lord affected over three hundred people... and feasted mightily that night."



Celestine balked at the absurdity of Claude's claims. Three hundred people affected? How the hell could she hope to resist something that could sway so many at once? Still, it was possible that because they didn't know what was happening, they couldn't resist. Perhaps she could... "What other powers does he have? I mean it is one thing to make people go crazy with arousal, but there has to be more than that."



"Indeed. My lord has a range of powers, as he has power in multiple spheres as well as mastery over his own. He has a range of enchantment spells, some targeting individually or areas such as the one you've seen him use. He is also capable of impressive feats of strength, dexterity and endurance. In his true form he has wings that allow him to fly when the need arises. I admit I do not know his full range of powers, but there are many. It would be easier to say that he has great power within the spheres of lust, wrath and pride. However I should inform you that demons with power in any sphere can affect the emotions of others towards those spheres. Specifically, all demons can otherwise try and affect their targets emotions to try and push them into a specific sphere of power in order to make that sphere's power grow, though there has to be a measure of it there in the first place."



"I see... well that's at least somewhat helpful. I assume since I've been given such a nice room I'll be fed at least semi regularly?"



"Indeed. We have a fine chef. She is a bit lazy, but when she is told to do something, she'll do it. Just be specific in the food you order, otherwise she'll give you exactly what you ask for and no more."



Celestine pondered that for a moment and then eventually spoke again. "Are all the people here demons, or are there humans as well? Or... even other creatures?"



"The majority of the staff are demons yes. Often demons start off enslaving humans to do their bidding, but as time passes they begin to employ weaker demons instead. Despite what you may think, not all demons are powerful entities like Lord Durial, Rena and I. Most demons are that much more powerful then mortals except they live longer and always have the potential for growing in power if given the chance. Honestly that is why lesser demons will attach themselves to a demon lord, to gain the opportunity to grow in power while having a safe haven versus being picked off and used as food themselves. That said, many demons maintain networks of mortal vassals, simply to keep power over a region or sector of society. The mortal gets a powerful benefactor out of the deal, and the demon gets eyes and ears and a willing servant."



Celestine sneered at hearing that last bit. The concept of being a willing servant disgusted her. Those were not people in her mind. They were just dogs licking at their masters' boots and hoping for a scrap now and again. "Why would anyone do that? Kneel down and be a demons bitch? What reward could possibly be worth it?" Celestine said her disdain dripping from her voice as she stood up out of the Jacuzzi.



Claude seemed startled by her sudden scorn but replied regardless. "Financial benefits are one. Often a demons influence can make some venture very successful, or ruin a project. A demons' mark also extends the life and vitality of mortals, though it varies from soul to soul. That is the primary draw for most mortals. Then there are the benefits we usually don't tell mortals about, because it rarely comes to fruition, and we don't want to give them too much information. Otherwise they may try and remove other mortals that are more successful or gain more favor." Claude said impassively, dangling the bait in front of her...



However Celestine startled Claude when she stepped out from behind the screen, wrapped in nothing more than a towel. Claude quickly noticed how the dampness that clung to her skin seemed to make her sparkle in the bright light of the room. He also noticed the firm look in her eyes as she spoke. "You are leading me on in this conversation aren't you? I might be asking the questions but it is to some sort of script you have in your head." She said accusingly.



Claude blinked several times at that, and did his best not to stare at her. He was beginning to see why his master wanted to keep this woman for a time... She was startling to behold. Plus, he could almost feel her emerald like eyes boring into him intently. Surprisingly, he felt his own manhood stir as she stood there glaring at him, and when he tried to recall when it was the last mortal did this to him, he found he couldn't recall... She had a strong personality, even if it was occasionally a bit scattered.



"Well?" Celestine asked impatiently.



"You are correct. But then I have to wonder if it matters or not if I am. After all, without this information you will be ill equipped for the future." Claude said refocusing on other tasks. He quickly picked up the nightgown that had been selected for her and offered it to her. Celestine simply glared at it for a long moment before taking it in hand and disappearing behind the screen again.



Before Claude could speak again she piped up, still sounding cross with him, but proceeding anyway. "What is this 'secret benefit' that you so conveniently mentioned? And for that matter, you mentioned something about a demonic mark?"



"Ahh yes, I had hoped you would have caught that as well. It would be easier to start there than anywhere else. A demons' mark is like a signature that demons leave behind on their servants or those that are sworn to them. It is essentially something that is unique to both the master, and to the servants, as it is a reflection of the bond made with them. For Demons, it is largely a method of identification between us. Most demons can read the marks, and can see who works or belongs to which demonic master. If everything is running smoothly, it is essentially a "Do not touch" sign, though sometimes it ends up being a target if things are hostile between more powerful demons.



For mortals, the mark itself has several levels of intensity, which can be seen by how large or complex the visible marking is. The first mark, which is the most common, gives the one who is marked enhanced vitality and lifespan. Not so much as to be plainly obvious to a regular mortal, but enough that it might save your life in a scrape, or make an evening of pleasure last longer for everyone involved."



Celestine snorted from behind the screen when Claude finished. "Sounds like a huge price for a little gain. After all, you can achieve the same thing with a regular workout and eating right."



"True, but then it is only the first mark. The second mark is more powerful. It is comparable to what demons share in terms of marks, though with some added perks for mortals for whatever reason. First, the second mark allows the master to be aware of those he has marked and their locations whenever he or she wishes. It creates a sort of mental link as well, allowing the master to send orders or messages to those he has marked. In return, the servant gains a sort of innate sense of his or her master's feelings. If the lord is happy or pleased or more importantly, in danger, the servant knows it. That said, the master can 'fake' these outputs if they so choose, to play with or confuse their followers. For mortals, it further extends the lifespan and makes them quickly grow stronger and faster, and even partially making them resistant to the powers of other demons not under their lords service, usually enough to resist lower demons, but not much more. Additionally, the mortals' body heals much faster, it isn't a ridiculous speed, but it's fast enough to watch over the course of a day if the injury is not too severe. Those with the second mark need to become more cautious however, as their abilities would draw attention if they were identified."



Celestine stepped out from behind the screen and began to look about for something. "So you are saying a mortal with two demonic marks almost becomes supernatural themselves?"



"Oh quite defiantly. While most certainly not a demon, the mortals' soul begins to adapt to the mark and grow because of it. The more powerful a mortal's soul, the less natural they are, even if they are still technically human." Claude pointed out calmly.



"Great, so you become less and less human the more you sell yourself to a demon. Sounds accurate." Celestine said sarcastically. "Damn it... where are my clothes? I put them on the screen before I went into the Jacuzzi..."



"Oh, I disposed of them." Claude said helpfully.



"..." Celestine again turned her glare against him and he could only smile in response.



"The pants were so soaked through they were ruined and you know it. The shirt... well I don't feel it became you. It covered far too much." Claude said weathering the growing anger in Celestine's glare.



"So what am I supposed to wear later!? Or does HE expect me to walk around naked?"



"No, of course not. Clothes will be provided of course, but I understand you'll be taken shopping in the next day or so. You'll be allowed to pick out whatever you want, along with a few choices from Lord Durial I assume." Claude said as if he was looking forward to it.



"GOD FUCKING DAMNIT!" Celestine howled out, frustrated with her situation. He was going to dress her up like a doll now too!? To hell with that! "He can try. I will fight him every fucking step!" Celestine said to Claude angrily. Claude simply shrugged and nodded.



"I will of course inform him of your feelings on the matter. Regardless, shall I get back to explaining the marks while you dry your hair?"



Celestine grunted her assent as she sat down at the vanity and began to look inside it for a hair dryer. It didn't take long for her to find one and she immediately began to use it. However Claude's voice seemed to carry beyond its noise, and she could hear him within her mind. By now however, she was less unnerved by it.



"Very well. The third mark is unique in that it is rarely given. You have to understand that in comparison to the mark that a demon might receive, it is much more powerful. It is an exceptional show of trust, or far more commonly, dominance. This is because like the second mark, it creates an emotional bond between the master and servant, but unlike the second mark, the servant can speak back to the master, if the master allows it. Further, the understanding of each side's emotions and feelings is much greater. Notably, the master feels less than the marked mortal, but it is something. Further, the mortal essentially stops being mortal... The aging process stops, and while the marked mortal could still be killed by enough damage, it does take quite a bit more. Healing is increased further. Taking what would before take a day to heal, down to a few hours. Additionally, the marked mortal starts exhibiting very minor demonic powers within their master's primary sphere of power. For example, a mortal bearing the third mark of an Envy Demon, could stir others envy quite easily and make them jealous of themselves or others. Perhaps not many people, but one or two at least...



However those bearing a third mark are very VERY rare. As I said it requires that the demon trust the marked mortal a great deal, which is normally very difficult thing to do for a demon as we are not creatures that naturally trust others. The reasoning behind this is that while the master may be able to block out any words or thoughts that the servant may have, emotions still come through to some degree. If the demon is not careful, it could cause damage to their own psyche as many demons lack some aspects of human social behavior, most notably a conscience. When confronted with such things, it can be crippling at a very curial moment, or it simply might erode the demons soul beyond repair. Further, because of bond, it is possible that the demon may not realize it until it is already too late. That is why the demon has to be sure that the mortal is willing to accept the demons way of thinking without question, leaving things like conscience and guilt behind. "



"... What do you mean? Are you saying the emotions of a human could kill a demon?" Celestine asked cautiously. She was trying to sound confused and surprised... Really she was excited... It was a weapon... if it was the truth anyway...



"...Potentially... In truth, when it happens, a demon is weakened greatly by the experience. It requires slaying the mortal if any hope of survival is to be had. However, because the demon and the mortal are so linked at that point, I imagine it would very difficult. That said I've never actually heard of this happening to a demon. It's more like an old legend rather than proven fact. However demons do risk it on occasion for the potential rewards later on."



Celestine frowned at that. "There is more than having a human slave for essentially ever?"



Claude nodded lightly. "Indeed. As I mentioned before, there is the unspoken benefit beyond the blessings of third mark. The fourth mark is used to actually turn the mortal into a true demon, not some imitation like the third mark. But then just as the third mark is dangerous for the demon, the fourth and final mark is exceedingly dangerous for the mortal. It requires that the majority of the mortal's soul is consumed. Most of what they were when they were human would be taken from them, leaving them nearly empty, and quick to die. If the demon does not pour a portion of his or her own soul in to try and take up the gap, the mortal will die. Even if they are quick enough, there is a chance the power will simply overwhelm the mortals' soul, and consume it instead of transforming it into that of a demon."



Celestine gaped at Claude's' words. The notion that a human could be turned into an abomination like Tristan was tantamount to insanity to her... "I... I think I've heard all I need to for now Claude... thank you for telling me all this. I appreciate your honesty." Celestine said as she left the bathroom and began to walk towards the bed. She was very tired... even though she had napped not a half hour before. But between the warm soak and all the information, Celestine was ready to fall asleep. She looked to Claude who was outside the hallway door. He gave her a slight bow before reaching to turn off the lights in her room.



"Sleep well my dear." And with that Claude closed the door and the room was dark, save for the moon light coming through the windows... Celestine crawled into her bed and curled up again, trying to think what she was going to do, but sleep took her before she came to any conclusion.

