KYLE POV
(A week after the fateful night)
As Kyle woke in the apartment, the faint murmur of Lucas moving about in the kitchen reached him. He lay still momentarily, savoring the comfort of another's presence. He thought, "This is new. After years of solitude, it's strange but... nice." The soft clinks of dishes and the aroma of coffee brewing coaxed him out of bed.
Stepping into the common area, Kyle encountered Lucas deep in thought at the kitchen table, papers strewn about as he prepared for the day ahead. "Morning," Lucas said, looking up with a smile. "Coffee?"
"Please," Kyle replied, taking a seat. He watched Lucas move with practiced ease. "He's settling in well," Kyle thought, a sense of pride swelling. "What are you working on?"
Lucas glanced at the papers. "Just some notes for class. Victor and Manuel have been helping me catch up."
Kyle's eyes glinted with mischief as an idea started to form. "You should bring them over one evening. It would be fun."
Lucas opened his mouth, then nodded, smiling. "Sure."
Kyle grinned as he observed Lucas expertly preparing coffee. "You always get the coffee just right. It's like you have a magic touch."
Lucas handed him a cup. "Thanks. It's just a lot of practice and a bit of love for the craft."
The gentle sound of ceramic touching the countertop and the inviting scent of freshly brewed coffee filled the apartment. Taking a sip, Kyle blurted out, "Delicious. You're making this place feel more like homeânot just because of the coffee."
Lucas blushed slightly. "Thanks, Kyle. That means a lot."
Their morning exchanges, brief yet significant, contrasted Kyle's silent mornings from before. Acts of kindness continued to ease Lucas's heart, evident in his freer smiles and openness to his aspirations. Kyle, too, felt a shift within himself, embracing a newfound sense of companionship that had been absent for a long time. Lucas's presence became a comforting rhythm, blending harmoniously with the familiar sounds of nature amidst the urban cacophony.
The apartment seemed alive now, filled with Lucas's belongings mingling with his own. Clothes hung on the drying rack, books stacked neatly on the coffee table, and a faint scent of Lucas's cologne lingered in the air. "It's different," Kyle mused, "but it's good." He felt a warmth he hadn't realized he'd been missing.
Kyle and Lucas usually left the apartment early when the city was awakening. Walking through the bustling streets of Madrid, the sounds of cars and people chatting filled the air around them. Kyle observed Lucas growing more cheerful and open, his steps lighter as they strolled through West Park. They enjoyed the crunch of leaves beneath their feet and the gentle wind rustling through the trees.
The morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of dew and distant exhaust fumes. Bus stops had a schedule, but they often had to run to catch the vehicle. Kyle observed people hurrying on the streets from his window, their footsteps steady against the pavement. Kyle noticed an old lady struggling with her bags as she boarded the bus. One person rudely shoved past her, while another kindly offered her a seat.
Kyle's muscles tensed as he watched the scene unfold but relaxed when he noticed the slight smile on the wrinkled face when she got cozy in her seat. He inhaled deeply; a faint smile now adorned his face. As he observed the people around him, Kyle reflected on his plan, which was rooted in the duality of human nature. His father created Earth from ocean mud, and humans, born of this substance, were inherently capable of both good and evil. This dual nature explained their capacity for both corruption and kindness.
On the bus, Kyle stared out the window, his thoughts drifting toward his past, ruling the judgment of souls and the terrible creatures that lived in the Underworld; they were only teeth and darkness. He recoiled in his seat. Not even the fallen angels could have a sure victory against those monsters.
Kyle looked at the greenery in Madrid's avenues and the sky and mused, "But Earth's elementals are divine sparks, ancient and powerful." Water, air, fire, and earth elements sometimes created sentient beings as by-products of the divine sparks that brought life to everything. They were everywhere initially, but now they only inhabited places where nature's magic still existed.
He clenched his fists, determination hardening his resolve. "If I can harness this power...I know it is not enough, but it will help to balance the odds."
The bus jolted, snapping him back to reality. He glanced at Lucas, who was immersed in his phone, unaware of the cosmic battle unfolding. Returning to his thoughts, Kyle reflected that the elemental spark of divinity had previously been used to teach humans the control of the elements. He recalled when Manannán mac Lir long ago rescued baby Lugh and nurtured him until he was an adult.
His mind drifted back to the otherworldly hues at dawn in Manannán mac Lir's domain and the early harp lessons young Lugh had to endure from his strict mentor. The music lessons were accompanied by stories of sleeping dragons, primal oceans, and ancient melodies that could enchant listeners, invoke emotions, and even alter reality.
Kyle concluded, "The clever bastard used multiple elemental forces: fire for smithing, water for healing, earth for agriculture, and air for music."
Kyle smiled inwardly. His plan was feasible, as it had been done before, but it required tracing places where elementals had ascended to the heavens. Those places still held the magic of their former inhabitants and felt like holy places. Blessed by their former inhabitants, these lands often contained flora imbued with concentrated divine sparks. Such occurrences were rare in the 21st century, but Kyle had heard of one recently in Patagonia about three years ago. He traveled there to investigate, finding a primal lake where untamed magic thrived.
Kyle remembered the inexplicable joy and delight he felt when he walked into the valley two and a half years ago. Every step towards the lake through the lush greenery of the surrounding forest was filled with divine grace and beauty. The sight of the deep blue water soothed his mind and soul. He felt an ancient call to submerge himself into the water and join in the endless, immeasurable love of creation.
He obliged.
"I could have stayed there forever, in that lake. It felt like an ocean like my soul and the universe were the same. It felt like in the beginning when I saw the world above and below, in those primordial waters. Back then, when I thought I knew it all," Kyle recalled.
Kyle gulped. He didn't know how much time he had spent there, lost in contemplation of a mere speck of divinity left on Earth by an elemental that had ascended to the Silver City. He was lucky that a research team was collecting plants in the area during his wake, including a new species of mushrooms only found on that shore. He joined them and followed the group to Madrid.
Professor Sanchez's team at the Complutense University of Madrid had unwittingly collected mushrooms from the shores of the lake, intrigued by their potential for mood enhancement. Kyle eagerly joined their research when the mushroom experiment was proposed. Over the last two years, his research on the plants from that area has been quite fruitful. He could stay long enough to see the results come to fruition with some luck.
Upon reaching his stop, Kyle stepped off the bus and walked through the campus garden. The cold morning breeze invigorated him, clearing his mind. He entered the neuroscience laboratory, greeted by the scent of antiseptic and the hum of high-tech equipment. The lab was a haven for innovation, blending science and magic unbeknownst to its technicians.
In the lab, subjects evaluated food samples, and participants engaged in computer tasks to test frustration levels after consuming the mushrooms. Professor Sanchez documented results, focusing on whether the mushrooms affected concentration.
When he noticed Kyle sitting at his desk, Professor Sanchez came forward, "Good morning, Kyle. How are the samples looking today?"
Kyle glanced up from his workstation. "Morning, Professor. The mushrooms show some interesting properties. The subjects' concentration levels seem to improve significantly after consumption."
Professor Sanchez nodded thoughtfully. "That's promising. Have you isolated which compounds are responsible for these effects?"
Kyle pointed to a chart on his computer screen. "I've identified a few key alkaloids that are the main contributors. I'm running additional tests to confirm their exact roles."
Kyle smiled inwardly since Lucas's knowledge of endocrinology provided valuable clues to run different compound tests. They now needed a way to expand the results widely. Kyle thought the key might lie in his job at the supermarket.
Kyle's work rarely ended after he left the lab, and he had to continue at home. He didn't mind at that moment since there were exciting results after a while. There was a palpable sense of anticipation as Kyle unlocked the apartment door and stepped inside. Walking through the living room, Kyle noticed the comforting traces of Lucas's presenceâa jacket casually draped over the back of a chair, an open book left on the coffee table, and a pair of shoes neatly lined up by the door. These subtle reminders brought a smile to Kyle's face, reinforcing the sense of familiarity and the shared life they had built together.
Before six, Kyle checked the clock more frequently, listening for the familiar sounds of Lucas's footsteps ascending the stairs. The wait was not just about passing time but also about reconnecting after a day apart. Kyle felt a mixture of eagerness and comfort, knowing that soon Lucas would walk through the door, bringing with him conversation, laughter, and a sense of companionship that had become integral to Kyle's sense of purpose.
The quiet click of Lucas closing the door behind him each evening relieved Kyle. Their camaraderie grew through shared meals, studying together, and exploring Madrid's corners. Their bond deepened daily, echoing a connection beyond mere friendship, as Lilian's tarot readings foretold. Kyle found solace in the subtle magic of their shared moments, believing their paths had crossed for a meaningful reason.
During their peaceful days together, Kyle allowed Lucas to reflect on his past while he focused on preparing his research for presentation to supermarket executives. Kyle silently supported Lucas, recognizing the importance of facing old wounds, a process he understood well from his distant past with Lilith.
When Kyle felt frustrated, he turned to cigarettes or lost himself in a book, while Lucas coped by retreating to his room to sort through his emotions. The distant hum of traffic and occasional bird chirps through the apartment window accompanied their introspective moments.
After lighting a cigarette or two, Kyle would resume his work. He was thinking for hours until Lucas brought him a cup of water. Concerned, Lucas asked, "Why are you so interested in these mushrooms, Kyle?"
Kyle shrugged, not thinking about what he was saying. "They have properties that could help humanity connect with everything. It's crucial for our research."
Kyle drank the water in one gulp. "Thanks, man, I needed that. By the way, did you like the sandwiches I brought?"
Lucas beamed. "They were delicious; what was that with the tuna paste? Peanuts?"
Kyle laughed a little. "Close. I was told those were Cajun nuts."
Sharing sandwiches "from work" became a bonding ritual between Kyle and his new roommate. Although Lilian prepared the sandwiches, adding potions to soothe Lucas's heartbreak, Kyle couldn't help but smirk or raise an eyebrow as he observed Lucas's positive reaction to the food. Lucas happily munched away, and Kyle noticed a subtle improvement in his complexion.
One evening, as the sun dipped over bustling Madrid streets, casting long shadows into their apartment, Lucas casually mentioned meeting a friend at a Romanian bakery near Plaza Mayor. Kyle felt a pang of jealousy stir at the thought of Lucas with someone else, though he chided himself silently amid the ambient city sounds.
"Why am I feeling this way?" Kyle muttered to himself, struggling to reconcile his emotions.
Despite his efforts to suppress these feelings, Kyle was relieved when Lucas returned that night. The footsteps ascending the staircase signaled Lucas's presence, reassuring Kyle of their connection.
However, Kyle's relief was short-lived. Pouring a glass of water in the dimly lit kitchen, he sensed faint traces of blood magic on Lucas, unsettling him. "Madrid teems with supernatural intrigue," Kyle reminded himself, considering Lucas's heritage as a child of Lilith.
The Striga clan, vampires practicing blood magic, operated under a structured hierarchy. They viewed themselves as ancient families defying Heaven and Hell's dominion. Kyle assured himself that they posed no immediate threat to Lucas or himself, resolving to visit the Romanian bakery soon for further clarification.
When Jacob delivered Lucas's belongings, Kyle found him overwhelmed by the disarray. Determined to lift Lucas's spirits and ensure his escape plan was viable, Kyle took him to a pub frequented by leprechauns and other fae.
Lucas marveled at the pub's decor and the lively band, smiling faintly when asked about the staff. He explained, "They're immigrants from a wilder land than ours," he remarked casually. "Let's grab a seat and some beers."
Approaching the bar, the aroma of roasted beans and warm empanadas created a cozy ambiance. Kyle ordered two pints of Guinness from a cheerful bartender with a thick Irish accent.
The pub offered warmth and laughter, a welcome contrast to their apartment's solemnity. Settling into a snug booth, Kyle sighed contentedly, his thoughts drifting through memories. "You know, some days change everything. I still remember the day I defied my father's wishes."
Kyle felt protective of Lucas as they settled in, leaning forward to listen intently as Lucas opened up about his past. Lucas carefully avoided mentioning his sexuality, which Kyle found endearing.
Unable to reveal his identity as Lucifer Morningstar, Kyle vaguely described his departure from a life of power struggles. Lucas pondered Kyle's intentions throughout the night, playfully discussing their potential business ventures.
Kyle shook his head thoughtfully. "Not yet. First, I want to understand managing large groups of people."
Lucas warmed to Kyle's company, sensing a hint of uncertainty. "Will you seek help from your brothers?"
Kyle's gaze drifted to a vintage poster of the Cliffs of Moher. "Nah, I prefer to handle things on my own. Besides, I don't want them assuming I'm taking an easy route."
After encountering Sullivan and other fae at the pub, Kyle appreciated Lucas's honesty and understood his cautious approach.
When Lucas touched on his father, he reassured Kyle gently, "Have you thought about making peace with him and having a conversation? Parents worry, you know."
Kyle's expression turned distant. "Yes, I think about it, but I'm not ready to follow his every word."
Throughout the night, Kyle was drawn to Lucas's warmth and vulnerability, recognizing the depth of someone with a complex and painful past. The pub was alive with laughter and clinking glasses, the murmur of conversations blending with the occasional cheer from a rowdy table.
Kyle was impressed by Lucas's intelligence, dedication to his studies and work, and ability to overcome personal hurdles to achieve his goals. Lucas's support and encouragement made Kyle feel valued and understood. Kyle noticed Lucas's eyes sparkling with enthusiasm as the night progressed, his laughter genuine and infectious. The lively atmosphere of the pub, filled with warmth and camaraderie, excited Kyle about the future. He realized that maybe it was the effect of the joyous environment, but he believed he could achieve anything, do anything if he had someone like Lucas by his side.
After paying the bill, the two men left and walked to their apartment. Streetlights cast a soft glow, and the night's cool breeze satisfied Kyle's heart. Through their conversations, he discovered they shared similar values, dreams, and goals for the future, solidifying his feelings. The now-familiar streets of Arguelles served as a backdrop for the growing sense of belonging to the place he had started to call home inadvertently until then. Kyle understood that he was looking forward to the small, everyday moments they shared in the apartmentâlike making coffee together, discussing their days, or simply enjoying each other's company.
A life with Lucas was worth fighting for.
"Tomorrow, we can spend some time sorting out the boxes; it will be fine," Kyle said when returning to their living room, where unsorted stuff reigned supreme over every available space.
"Nah, don't worry. I can do it on my own," said Lucas.
Kyle thanked the universe for concealing his worried face in the darkness. He nodded and secretly plotted a way to help Lucas the following day while Lucas prepared their food.
When saying goodnight to Lucas, Kyle thought of kissing him, quenching the thirst he had been feeling for a long time. However, he settled for a hug and gently brushed Lucas's hair, feeling a profound connection.
As Kyle settled into bed, the awareness of Lucas sleeping nearby brought comfort and security. The evening's conversations, shared laughter, and moments of silence before sleep echoed softly in Kyle's mind, fostering a sense of contentment and fulfillment. Despite knowing he couldn't pursue a romantic relationship with Lucas, their friendship flourished, and Kyle looked forward to sharing his deepest secrets soon.
Before drifting off, Kyle reflected on how far they had come togetherâbuilding a life and forging a bond that brought joy and meaning to their lives. He felt grateful for having Lucas as a roommate and friend with whom he shared mundane and profound moments.
Kyle wished he could share his whole being with Lucas, and for the first time in a long time, he acknowledged that he craved a deep bond that would allow him to experience true intimacy with someone.
"Perhaps Lucas is the person who could know everything about me," Kyle thought before falling asleep.
However, the pleasant dreams of sharing a barbecue with Lucas suddenly turned into his memories of the aftermath of his battle against the great dragon at the beginning of time. He started to sweat uncontrollably as he noticed who was looking for his deepest secrets: Lucas. In the dead of night, Kyle awoke abruptly, his body trembling, his heart racing with a flurry of thoughts. The room felt unnaturally cold, and shadows stretched and twisted into shapes that echoed unsettling memories.
Dim moonlight played tricks, transforming familiar forms into eerie silhouettes that reminded Kyle of creatures from the chaotic depths of the Underworld. Whispers, like distant echoes, haunted his mind.
"Could it be Lucas?" Kyle wondered aloud, his thoughts drifting to the dragon he had battled, a memory stirred by Lucas unknowingly.
The apartment was silent as Kyle emerged from his room, each footfall echoing in the stillness. Approaching Lucas's partially open door, moonlight spilled softly, casting a gentle glow over his friend's serene figure.
Lucas now possessed crucial knowledge about the dragon's whereabouts, information pivotal in the cosmic balance between Heaven and Hell. Kyle's mind raced with the potential consequences should Hell's agents discover what Lucas had learned in his dreams.
In turmoil, Kyle paced, his movements shifting shadows across the walls. Distressed, he summoned his flaming sword, its fiery light illuminating the room and reflecting his inner turmoil.
Tears welled in his eyes as he sank to his knees, overwhelmed by guilt. He couldn't allow harm to come to Lucas; it wasn't his fault.
Reflecting on their bond, Kyle resolved to protect Lucas at any cost. For now, his priority was to ensure Lucas forgot the dangerous knowledge he unwittingly possessed.
With resolve tinged with sorrow, Kyle cast a spell to conceal the dragon's location from Lucas's memory.
Retreating to his room, shadows of his past clung to him, a constant reminder of the weight he bore. Kyle lay in bed, the room's chill exacerbating his despair.
If Lucas were to remember, Kyle vowed to defend him against any who sought to use him to trigger Armageddon. Shoulders slumping under the weight of responsibility, he embraced resignation and determination.
"Dad, you always loved a good chess game," Kyle murmured, contemplating his role in the looming battle.
Kyle's stomach churned with bitterness and anger, especially towards his father and the other celestial beings who manipulated and used him. He cursed his father for the burdens placed on him and the relentless chess game played with him and Lucas.
Kyle sat on the couch, the moon illuminating the room. He focused on the essential things: Lucas deserved better than being a tool for his father's whims. Straightening with determination, Kyle readied himself for the challenges ahead.
He would protect Lucas even if he had to battle Heaven and Hell.
cover: A lost street in Madrid