The Demon's Mark

The Second Most Powerful Demon In Existence

Jack tried to calm his nerves as he was being pulled along by the hand byAlex as they walked across the road toward the mansion he'd noticed the day before.

Now, up close, it looked even more intimidating—dark stone walls loomed above him, and iron-wrought balconies seemed to hang like silent watchers. This was no ordinary mansion; it was like a fortress, and every inch of it exuded a raw, oppressive power. The massive iron doors swung open without either of them touching them, likely Alex's doing, and Jack felt himself tense as he stepped over the threshold, unsure of what was waiting for him inside.

Alex noticed his hesitation and gave him a firm look.

"Keep it together," Alex murmured. "It's just a house."

"Right. Just a house... owned by Satan I assume." Jack muttered back, eyes flicking around at the intimidating decor and dark, gleaming floors.

Shadows seemed to move in the corners of the grand entryway, and the air was thick with a chilling energy. Despite himself, he felt drawn to it, but he quickly averted his gaze, unwilling to stare too long into the darkness that seemed to pulse around him.

Alex glanced down at him, clearly suppressing a smirk.

"Just do as I say, and you'll be fine. Lucifer—well, Satan as you call him—isn't as scary as people make him out to be. But remember, when we go in there, keep your eyes down, and speak only if he or I speak to you. Got it?"Alex warned again.

"Got it," Jack replied, swallowing hard. "Are there... others like me in there? Other 'pets'?"

"Yes," Alex replied, as they approached a set of grand double doors.

"There are other humans—some are a lot like you. Some of my... associates have preferences that differ from mine. My best friend Tyler, for example, keeps a female pet named Melinda. She's kind, in a way. I think you might like her. You will likely have play dates. But," he added, his voice lowering as they came to a stop, "don't take 'kind' to mean 'safe.' Down here, that term is... relative."

Jack took in the warning, his pulse thudding against his ribs. This wasn't a place for questions, so he just nodded and did as Alex said. The silence between them was dense, but it was clear that Alex expected him to obey without protest. His unease only grew as they ascended the staircase, Alex's grip steady on his arm. When they reached the double doors, Alex gave him one final, serious look.

"This is it," he said, his voice low. "Once we're inside, don't make any sudden moves. Stay close to me, and don't make eye contact with anyone unless I tell you. Trust me, they'll be looking right back at you."

Jack's throat felt dry as he managed a nod. His heart raced as Alex pushed open the doors, and the room fell silent. Jack kept his head down, but he could feel the weight of dozens of gazes landing on him, appraising, curious, and—most unsettlingly—lustfully hungry.

At the head of the table, the tallest figure stood—dark and imposing, with black wings that stretched with a powerful presence. His long black hair cascaded down his back, a tailored black suit fitting him perfectly. His massive black wings resting regally behind him, Jack noticed they were only a bit bigger then Alex's and he exuded an aura that was both magnetic and terrifying.

This was clearly Lucifer. But Jack was taken aback as Lucifer's expression shifted from stern to playful when he locked eyes with Alex.

"Well, well. Hello, little brother. Nice of you to join us." A smooth, powerful voice cut through the silence.

His tone was playful.

It took a moment to register- but suddenly, Jack's eyes widened, despite himself.