"Follow me to your room, Ms Estelle," Azrael said to me as he motioned for me to follow suit, I nodded my head in response
He led the way as we passed by beautiful somewhat historical paintings which were hung on the walls which were intricately designed in a way that was too enchanting and lovely for a simple human to view its magnificent glory, the ceiling was too spectacular for me to comprehend it had a stunning mix of midnight blue to remind one of the deepest parts of the ocean and also it had a splash of crimson colour and gold making it so magnific and don't get me started on the chandeliers, so many, I was so full of awe and I wonder who lights all the candle's here, if I were to sell all these candles back at my place I sure would earn a lot. For some reason, these place doesn't seem so bad at all.
We passed by a couple set of stairs as I kept gazing and awing shamelessly at every stop, I was so caught up in everything that I didn't notice Azrael was talking to me.
"Sorry, I kinda spaced out, this place is stunning."
"Figures, it's alright but remember we have a task at hand, try to focus, will you?"
"Okay I will," I said kinda embarrassed
Azrael paused before a pair of intricately carved doors, their surfaces adorned with symbols of something I didn't understand, probably something ancient. He turned to face me, his expression unreadable yet tinged with a hint of anticipation.
"This," he announced, gesturing towards the doors, "is your new room."
My eyes widened in astonishment, my heart racing with excitement at the prospect of exploring my own personal sanctuary within the castle walls. "Wow," I breathed, scarcely able to contain my delight. "I can't wait to see it."
As I step inside, I'm greeted by the soft flicker of candlelight dancing across the walls, casting intricate shadows that seem to come alive in the dim glow.
The walls are draped in luxurious fabrics, deep crimson curtains cascading from the ceiling to the floor like cascades of blood, adding a dramatic flair to the room. Golden accents catch the light, gleaming softly against the rich backdrop, hinting at the opulence that lies within.
The centrepiece of the room is a grand canopy bed, its frame carved from the darkest ebony and adorned with intricate golden filigree. Soft velvet pillows in shades of midnight blue and onyx invite me to sink into their plush embrace, while silk sheets whisper promises of comfort and warmth.
Against one wall stands a towering bookcase, I can't wait to read those old books, this place leaves me stunned beyond words
A vanity, adorned with silver mirrors and delicate crystal bottles, occupies a corner of the room. Each bottle contains potions and perfumes crafted from rare ingredients found only in the depths of the underworld, adding a touch of magic to the space
"It's... amazing," I murmured, my voice filled with awe as I stepped into the room, taking in the sight before me. "Thank you, Azrael. This is more than I could have ever hoped for."
Azrael's smile widened at my reaction, a sense of pride evident in his gaze as he watched me explore my new surroundings. "I'm glad you like it," he said, his voice soft yet filled with warmth. "Consider it a token of our hospitality."
"Before I forget, have this" he gave me a small square box
"Well...open it," he said in anticipation
slowly I opened it praying to the gods it was not a box of frogs or snakes that would jump at my face, but the box its so small I'm sure they wouldn't fit, take deep breaths Estelle and stop panicking, I finally got to open it and saw a device inside the box. I looked back at him expecting some answers
"It is a SoulSync or in other words a device which you humans use to communicate, I've even placed my number and my brothers in it, in case of emergency you are to only communicate with any of us."
"Wow thank you so much, it looks similar to ours'"
"You won't have trouble knowing how to use it because there is a video to know how to use it, you will sit down and go over it to understand well"
"Sure thing, thank you once more," I said with a polite bow
"You don't have to worry about your stuff since it's already here, once you're done you can head down for dinner with us"
"Oh Ah yes... hold on I'm curious about how my stuff landed here," I said looking suspicious hoping that they didn't invade my room's privacy
"Nothing to worry about, with a bit of magic your female companion packed everything for you."
"if my mother is harmed you demons will not be spared," I said angrily
"Rest assured the spell that was cast on her is not dangerous, it's just to believe you went to a regular school for the whole year so that she doesn't go on a rampage," he said casually
Though I had lots of questions to ask, It was safe to believe his words only for now
"Very well," I conceded, though the distrust still lingered in my tone. "I'll join you for dinner once I'm done."
"I'll send someone to guide you to the dinner table, make haste then."
" Alright"
With a nod of approval, Azrael left as he closed the door behind him, the mention of my mom made me feel a tad bit more homesick, I started a hunt looking for where my luggage was and found them next to the vanity table
I unpacked them and found my whole set of clothes, jewellery, pairs of shoes, beauty and hair products and some letters
'aww that was sweet of her'
'I wonder what is written there-' my thoughts were disturbed by a knock at my door, I took hurried steps to go and open it
" Azrael asked me to bring you to dinner."
"Nice to meet you too Valin, I appreciate the invitation, 'll join you shortly."
He nodded in acknowledgement, I closed the door behind me as we were walking down I discovered he wasn't much of a talker but I decided to yap till our destination, he didn't seem to mind since he just maintained a straight face and didn't tell me to shut up or something, maybe I prefer someone who listens to me.
We finally reached a grand dining room, I was immediately struck by the opulent yet foreboding atmosphere. The room is bathed in a warm, dim light that emanates from elegant chandeliers hanging above, casting a soft glow on the polished marble floor.
The walls are adorned with dark tapestries depicting scenes of demonic triumph and power, adding to the imposing ambience of the space. Red velvet curtains frame tall windows, through which I catch glimpses of the swirling abyss beyond, a constant reminder of our otherworldly surroundings.
A long dining table dominates the centre of the room, its surface gleaming with an inviting array of demonic delicacies and treats. Velvet chairs with intricate designs line the table, each fitting for a demon prince or princess.
At the head of the table sits Azrael in an imposing chair, a throne-like seat crafted from obsidian and adorned with subtle but unmistakable symbols of his authority and the rest of the princes in their seats. Varin went and sat at a nearby seat, I stood there not knowing what to do, nervousness creeping
"Glad you could join us, Ms, Estelle." Azrael
"Yeah...thanks, you can just call me Estelle no need for the Ms," I said as I tried lightening up the conversation
Certainly! Here's a more prideful response from Lucifer:
"Very well, Estelle. Your wish is my command. However, do remember that acknowledging one's title is a sign of respect and decency in this realm. But if you insist on such informality, I shall oblige. Just know that I, Azrael, Prince of the Demon realm, am accustomed to a certain level of deference. Nevertheless, I shall graciously indulge your preference."
'shees did he have to be so all mighty and wordy before dinner'
"Whoa, slow down there, Azzy! It's Kazimir, your cheekier, less formal bro, stepping in. Estelle, don't mind him and his 'Prince of the Demon realm' spiel. We're all just demons trying to have a good time here. So, Estelle, feel free to drop the formalities and let's get this party started!"
"Can you quiet down I'm trying to sleep," Xavian said as he fluttered his golden eyes sexily, that was hot
"What are we having for dinner today." a happy voice chirped as Larkin's happy face came into view
"Once again you're late for dinner, your constant late-"
"Ah, my apologies for the delay, dear friends," Abraxas drawled, his voice smooth as silk. "But I simply couldn't resist the opportunity to make a grand entrance, especially when such a radiant beauty as Estelle awaits."
"Wow such a charming appease'" I said sarcastically
"Dare to come in late and cut my conversation short, as I was saying your constant lateness disrupts the harmony of this house, you may sit down Larkin and as for you Abraxas I appreciate your charisma but punctuality is equally important."
Estelle stifled a giggle, enjoying the playful banter between the three demons. "Well, in that case, I suppose we can forgive your tardiness, Abraxas. Just this once."
Azrael rolled his eyes in mock exasperation, but a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Very well, let us sit down as we wait for the food."
"Such a charming personality, I can't wait to know you more Estelle," Abraxas said flirtatiously as he sat next to Estelle. which earned an eye-roll from her
"Kazimir where is the food ?" Larkin whined as he asked him
"Oops, I forgot, but don't worry I'll wrap it up immediately."
"He makes the best edible food, "Larkin said beaming at me as others nodded at the table, the best I could do was give him a small smile and a nod of approval even though I've never tasted it
Everyone seemed occupied at the table Abraxas was engrossed in a flirty conversation with himself with a small pocket mirror, Valin was engrossed in a book, Xavian was fast asleep on the table, Larkin was chatting with Azrael although he was giving him a death stare, Malphus was looking somehow bored and annoyed as he was watching Larkin laughing by himself as he talked to an irritated Azrael.
"Food is ready" Kazimir exclaimed as he made his way to the grand dining room an array of different delicacies followed him as they arranged themselves on the well-lit table
"Gentlemen for today's meal we have-" Kazimir was announcing
"Ahem 'Cough' 'Cough, I'm a girl just so you know," I said kinda of offended like dude don't you acknowledge me
"Hahaha Kazimir where did you leave your brain at - the Oven," Larkin said laughing as others too teased him
"Guys, Estelle don't tease me like that I forgot," Kazimir said helplessly
"Alright everyone that's much fun for today," Azrael said as Kazimir's face was too red with embarrassment
As Kazimir's face turned as red as the tomatoes on the table, Estelle couldn't help but stifle a giggle. "Don't worry, Kaz, we know you have a lot on your plate," she teased, earning a chorus of laughter from the others.
"But seriously, let's give Kazimir a break," Larkin chimed in, trying to stifle his laughter. "After all, he's the one who's been cooking up all this deliciousness for us."
Kazimir let out a relieved sigh, grateful for the change of subject. "Thank you, Larkin. Now, where was I? Ah, yes! For today's meal, we have a delectable assortment of dishes fit for royalty." He gestured proudly to the array of food on the table, hoping to regain some dignity.
"Indeed, Kazimir's culinary skills never cease to amaze," Azrael remarked
"Ah since Estelle is a guest let me introduce you to the delicious wonders we have on the table and to the rest of you" Kaz said so happy and proud of himself
"Welcome, dear brothers to a feast fit for the gods themselves!" Kazimir's voice boomed with enthusiasm as he stood before the opulent dining table, a twinkle of excitement in his eyes. "Prepare to embark on a culinary journey like no other, where every bite is a symphony of flavours that will dance upon your palate and leave you craving for more." Malphus rolled his eyes at his introduction
"With a flourish, he unveiled the first course, a masterpiece of gastronomic delight. "Behold, the Garden of Temptation Salad," Kazimir announced, his voice reverent as he presented a vibrant medley of fresh greens, heirloom tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers, drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. "Each bite is a celebration of nature's bounty, a harmony of textures and tastes that will awaken your senses and leave you yearning for the next course."
His brothers and Estelle nodded in appreciation as they took their first bites, their eyes widening in delight at the explosion of flavours. "Magnificent!" exclaimed Larkin, his voice muffled by a mouthful of salad. "I never knew vegetables could taste so divine!"
"You ate salad during lunch, it's not a big deal," Malphus exclaimed
"Stop ruining the fun Malphy," Xavian said half awake as he proceeded to take a bite of the salad
"This time he outdone himself'" Larkin said as he proceeded to stuff food in his mouth
"Indeed," agreed Azrael, savouring each bite with relish. "Kazimir, you've truly outdone yourself."
But Kazimir was just getting started. With a flourish, he unveiled the pièce de résistance – the Crown Jewel of the Feast: the Fiery Diablo Shrimp Scampi. "Prepare yourselves, my friends, for a taste sensation like no other," he declared, his voice brimming with excitement as he presented platters piled high with succulent shrimp, bathed in a decadent garlic butter sauce infused with a fiery blend of chilli peppers and aromatic herbs.
As his brothers and Estelle dug into the fragrant dish, their taste buds ablaze with pleasure, their praises rang out like sweet music to Kazimir's ears. "Incredible!" exclaimed Estelle, her eyes shining with delight. "I've never tasted anything so... so divine!"
"Truly," agreed Abraxas, nodding in approval. "Kazimir, you are a culinary genius."
But Kazimir was not done yet. With a flourish, he unveiled the grand finale – the pièce de résistance: the Decadent Devil's Food Cake, a masterpiece of chocolatey indulgence that oozed with sinful richness and melted in the mouth like a dream.
As his brothers and Estelle took their first bites, their eyes widened in delight, and their praises flowed like honey. "Oh, Kazimir, this is heavenly!" exclaimed Larkin, his mouth full of cake. "I never knew chocolate could taste so... so sinful!" exclaimed Abraxas
Estelle nodded in agreement, her cheeks flushed with pleasure. "Indeed," she murmured, savouring each bite with relish. "Kazimir, you are a culinary wizard!"
As the evening wore on and the plates were cleared away, Kazimir basked in the warm glow of praise, his heart swelling with pride.
"Hey, Valin, you've been awfully quiet lately," Abraxas needled, a mischievous glint in his eye.
Valin caught off guard mid-bite, glanced up with a faint frown. "Can't a man eat in peace?" he muttered, a hint of irritation in his voice.
Abraxas chuckled, undeterred by Valin's response. "Sure, but where's the fun in that?" he teased, leaning in closer. "Besides, I thought you might be hibernating or something."
Valin shot him a deadpan look before taking another bite, clearly unamused.
Suddenly, Larkin, Valin's overexcited twin brother, bounded over, his energy infectious. "What's going on here? Are we talking about quietness?" he exclaimed, his voice a little too loud for the intimate setting.
Abraxas grinned mischievously, seizing the opportunity to stir things up even further. "Oh, you know, just trying to coax Valin out of his shell," he replied with a wink.
Larkin's eyes widened in mock horror. "Valin, in a shell? That's a scary thought!" he exclaimed dramatically, earning a snort of laughter from Abraxas.
Valin sighed, resigned to the inevitable chaos that seemed to follow his brother wherever he went. "Can we please just eat in peace?" he muttered, casting a pleading glance at Abraxas.
But Abraxas was already on a roll, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Come on, Valin, where's your sense of adventure?" he teased, nudging Larkin playfully. "Let's see if we can't liven things up around here!"
Valin sighed and seemed to accept his fate as his other brothers teased him, as I ate my food in peace I seemed to think maybe staying with them wouldn't be so bad after all.