tyrannicalcrown:

- “Do you want some? Eating them is better than providing an explanation and leaving you hungry.”

[Although Abel just ate. Well, it was better than answering this question in particular, and there wasn’t a problem in treating him to some sweets. Perhaps it would lighten the boy’s mood too, considering how he gave him a test without any warning and without considering that he would feel abandoned.]

- “Pick whatever you like, and how much you like. I will pay for it, so money isn’t a problem.”

[They had more important matters to talk about, but he wouldn’t destroy the other’s curiosity and innocence. It was something that Abel needed, but he needed to quickly read situations too. Hopefully these things they would fix with time, they would achieve their desired goal by the end of it. 

If Abel wanted revenge against the people who manipulated him or not, that wasn’t really his problem. It was time for Kaleb to be the teacher his time, although he… was an imperfect king too, wasn’t he? Or so he thought, the harsh stares of his mentor piercing his mind at the moment he thought about him.

… It was better to  keep some matters secret from Abel. Some people, too. It was a way to prove to himself that a good king could be made without completely erasing your past self.

He didn’t really want this kid to turn out the way he was right now.]

- “Do you really think I am a person who abandons others? Especially when I told you I would protect and teach you about the world. Go ahead and pick the ones that you are curious about. They are all edible.”

With Kaleb’s approval, Abel glanced over at what the patisserie had to offer.

“…This one.  And that one.  And…”

Well, he was allowed to take one for himself, right? He stared at the pastries in his hand as Kaleb paid.  He was mildly curious why there had to be an exchange at all, as currency had not existed when he was alive, but those details were irrelevant as of now.

He took a bite out of one of them—a circular thing with a pink substance on top.  

“…!”

It was sweet.  Really sweet.  Almost too sweet.  Some sort of red, gooey substance had begun to leak out of the centre of where he had bitten.  Were these things alive? Were they bleeding?! He licked it off, noting that it was also sweet.  Was it part of the pastry, then?

“…It’s good.”

Abel had never tasted anything like this before.  The taste of the crops that Cain had cultivated was still fresh in his mind, but compared to what he ate now, he realized how bland they had been.

How many more things had changed while Abel slept?

“…..”

Finishing with his first pastry, he started on his second, and then his third, finishing them in no time.  They were sweet too.  He wiped the corner of his mouth with his thumb, his tongue ghosting over it to salvage what was left of the icing.

“…How much more do I not know about?”

He looked up at him.

“How much more do I have to learn?”

He glanced away again.

“…How much has the world changed since I fell into slumber?”

(Source: sacrificial-kitten)

tyrannicalcrown:

- “And why wouldn’t it be?”

- “You have performed admirably well. It seems that you can do the basic, so there is no use for me to teach you how to track down whatever you are searching for… or did you think I would abandon you, Abel? What kind of a man would I be if I went back on my word?

No one trusts a king with empty promises, and nothing would come from picking you up when the whole world abandoned you and then abandon you myself. If you don’t trust me, this is going to be difficult.”

[Slowly turning his body to face the smaller male, he almost smiled. Why would he leave Abel when he found the boy so interesting and is spending time that he would rather (and obligated to) be doing other things teaching him about the world and everything? As if trying to make this even more clear one of his gloved hands was raised just to pat the boy on the head for a few seconds, then regaining his composure as the albino started walking once again.]

- “We will be repeating this often. You need to be able to track down the faintest trace of energy, smells that will blend out or that would be impossible to identify under normal circumstances - you must know them all. You must be stronger and wise, more than you are today. You are a king, Abel.

It is time for you to act as one.”

[This wasn’t entirely true, though. Not even what he really wanted to say, but it was the correct thing, something that he needed to say. This kid had no purpose in life, so it was his obligation to give him one. Or at least, Kaleb felt that way.

He couldn’t abandon Abel.

Even if he tried.]

- “But for today… Do you want to lead the way? I suppose this is completely different for you, so I will give you the luxury of exploring. I will follow you and explain things to you if you wish for that.”

Still disgruntled at the lack of warning and the impromptu exam, Abel huffed, but remained silent.  He should have been expecting this.  His purpose here was to learn, after all; nothing would be given to him on a silver platter, as it had been back then.  

He bit his lip before wincing slightly—he had forgotten about his fangs.  ”…You’d better not abandon me.”  It sounded childish, so he added, “I won’t forgive you if you do.”

Abel frowned—any other time and he would’ve threatened the other party with death.  And yet, he couldn’t bring himself to do that with Kaleb—he didn’t even want to entertain the thought of fighting him.  And it wasn’t because he knew the demon was leagues ahead of him in power.

What was it?

“…—!”

He tensed when Kaleb nestled a gloved hand in his hair.  Despite himself—infuriatingly!—he could feel his cheeks burning.  He looked away so as to hide his blush, relaxing only when the man turned around again.

He furrowed his brow—why did he feel so accomplished?

“A king…”

It was such a terrifying thought.  Abel didn’t want to be a king.  

But then, what else was there for him?

What did he want?

He wanted…

He looked up, staring at the back of Kaleb’s head.  

“…What?”

Oh.  He was talking to him again.  

“Lead…? Oh.”

Huffing, as if to mask his previous pensive episode, he walked past Kaleb without another word.  The capital was alien to him.  So many stalls…so many items he had never seen before! He was overwhelmed by the foreign smells and sights.  A pastry stall in particular caught his eye.  ”What is that?” he asked, turning to Kaleb and pointing at the stall.  ”What are those things…?”

They were colourful, but they smelled sweet.  Were they edible…?

(Source: sacrificial-kitten)

tyrannicalcrown:

- “You are free to wear this inside the castle, but outside you play by my rules, Abel. I do not want unnecessary questions about you from anyone, much less the clothes you wear. It would be preferred if you followed my suggestion and changed when you go outside.

As I said, you are permitted to wear whatever you want inside the castle. Cape and all.”

[What was this boy’s attachment to such a piece of clothing, really…? He couldn’t understand, but Kaleb didn’t say a word about it. It wouldn’t be polite, and now Abel was under his wing. No point in teasing and angering someone who was supposed to follow him, he thinks.]

- “If it is that important to you, I can try to think of some adjustments to whatever you are supposed to wear so it includes your cape, Abel. Although what you wear isn’t the main point here - it is your growth as a person and the training that awaits you. Hah… if you ever manage to beat me, I will perhaps let you waltz through the city in your usual clothes.

But for now, follow what I say.” 

[He gestured Abel to follow him, and the next instant he disappeared. This too was a challenge to the boy, to follow whatever traces of energy Kaleb left as he moved in an unbelievably fast speed towards his destination - the capital. There were other methods to get there, sure, but this was fast and convenient at least for him, providing a slight exercise as much as training. He could only hope Abel would successfully hunt him down, though.

Kaleb had great expectations, after all.]

“…”

He stared at Kaleb, indignant, but Kaleb’s reasoning was sound.  He was in no position to protest, especially not after the man had as good as adopted him.

“…Fine.”

If he was ever able to beat him, huh.  Those were arrogant words, but Abel knew that Kaleb had power to back that up.  He wasn’t the king for no reason, after all, and Abel wasn’t about to fight a battle he knew he would lose.

“I look forward to that day, then.”

He continued watching Kaleb with uninterested eyes until the man simply vanished.  

He looked around frantically, though the man was nowhere in sight.  He had been there a few moments ago, but it seemed like he had simply vanished into thin air.  But that wasn’t the case—his scent still lingered faintly in the area, as well as tiny fragments of energy.  He could focus on those and tail Kaleb.  Lacking that, he could find his way to the capital and locate Kaleb there—it had been their destination after all.

Though he was remiss to admit it, the enhanced senses, among other things, that came with demonic powers was useful.  He ran, demonic speed turning his surroundings into a blur, quickly morphing from forest into civilization.  He saw the white haired man standing some distance away, and slowed to a halt until he stood behind him.  

“Was that a test too?” he asked, trying and failing to mask the irritation in his voice.  He thought, for a moment, he had been abandoned again.

(Source: sacrificial-kitten)

tyrannicalcrown:

- “That is more like it.”

[A shadow of a smile crept on until now an expressionless face. Abel’s reactions were what he expected - someone dying to find their independence. Someone who got fed up of being played around, to be only a puppet in other’s hands. For a second, the tyrant considered raising his hand and ruffling the other’s hair gently, but decided against it.

Abel was much like him, back then.

… This was why.

It was dangerous. To let his guard down, to tell Abel the truth about everything. He seemed like a wounded animal, one that tried its best to hide his wounds and pretend things were okay. It didn’t evoke any kind of good memories for the demon, either.]

- “Let us go, Abel.”

[Deciding it was better to leave such matters untouched, Kaleb simply took the other by the hand, guiding (pulling?) him along. His grip was somewhat delicate, but still strong enough to let his confidence, his absolute power show. By then they started a small walk, between leaving the Blackwood’s castle and finally stepping into the outside grounds. Abel was met with the view of an enormous garden, big enough to wonder who exactly was able to take care of it. Not that the older demon seemed interested by it, anyway…]

- “I will show you the capital today. It should be enough for you to travel alone whenever you wish to. If anyone asks, you are a new recruit. We will get you proper clothes while you are there, too - ones that will properly fit you.”

[He went over it again, as if making it clear their destination, unsure if the boy would grasp everything at once. After all, it was a completely whole new world. And he doubted that Abel had enough experience with society and people as a whole.

 … He stopped. At first, it seemed like a pointless question, but…]

- “How fast can you run? You need to be fast enough to follow me.”

He didn’t say anything, silent as he tried to absorb Kaleb’s explanation.  New recruit, the capital, travelling alone, proper clothes… The words washed over him.

Despite everything, he was excited.  The only life he had ever known was that of a simple shepherd, living to serve the God that had abandoned him.  Kaleb’s life was an obvious contrast to Abel’s rustic roots.  He wondered what else there was in the unknown world.

It was almost terrifying.

But then he focused on the large hand gripping his own, gentle yet firm, and somehow, he was comforted.  Perhaps it was because of Kaleb’s strength, or perhaps it was his placid disposition; whatever it was, Abel found his presence calming.

“…Yes.  I can run fast, and leap if needed.”

He was a demon after all.

He looked down at his own clothes, suddenly feeling very exposed.  Was there something wrong with his choice?

“…I like these clothes,” he said simply.  ”Especially…this.” He tugged at the oversized collar of the black cloak with his free hand.  ”Is it really necessary to acquire new ones? Are they not fine the way they are…?”

(Source: sacrificial-kitten)

tyrannicalcrown:

- “How cute. Are you embarrassed, Abel? Is this why you are avoiding looking at me?”

[His tone was calm, but perhaps he was mocking the boy a little bit. It wouldn’t hurt to see more of these adorable reactions the shepherd was giving to him. Much like a kid, an adorable younger brother of sorts. Kaleb wouldn’t consider Abel one right away, but he’d have to admit that it was fun teasing him here and there. The surprised look and the pale red that tinted his cheeks, along with the uncomfortable air that was surrounding him - just what he wanted.]

- “Patience. You are not going to accomplish a thing if you’re too eager to know everything. Especially if you try to rule over demons - you have to keep offering things to keep them on a short leash. 

You do not have what it takes to torture and to control, so your tongue will be your greatest ally. That and your mind. You will mature - at your own pace. I hope that this will make you understand better your surroundings, and how a King determines his Kingdom.

You can use everything. Step on everything. Destroy everything. Turn them into weapons, shields, whatever you please. Doesn’t the idea of power sounds tempting to you?”

[He asked, slowly standing up and making his way outside, assuming that the boy would follow. It was really good to have someone that would listen to you - and someone so willing to learn.]

- “You will cease to be a puppet when that happens. I assume that would please you greatly.”

“…!”

Embarrassed!? “O-of course I’m not embarrassed! Why would I be, over someone like you?!”

“I just…I just don’t want to look at your sickening expression…!”

Gnashing his teeth, Abel growled in a feeble attempt to piece his tattered dignity together.  “What does it matter where I look? I don’t have to be staring at you all the time…! And why do you keep dwelling on it…!? Do you enjoy mocking me?!”

The initial embarrassment died down and he listened quietly to Kaleb’s spiel.

“You can use everything. Step on everything. Destroy everything. Turn them into weapons, shields, whatever you please. Doesn’t the idea of power sounds tempting to you?”

Even though he heard it from Kaleb’s mouth, he felt his heart sinking a little.  He wanted to be strong, but at the same time, he didn’t want these powers.  Though his heart was a shadow of what it had been, the corruption had not affected the innate kindness that lingered.  But what could he do? Nothing, there was nothing he could do.  

He would have to follow Kaleb’s ways, whether he liked it or not.  He would have to get used to them.

“…Yes.  I will no longer be a puppet.”

He looked up at the man, his eyes resolute.

“I will be strong… I will crush anyone.”

That’s what he wanted, wasn’t it?

He wanted to please Kaleb too.

(Source: sacrificial-kitten)

tyrannicalcrown:

[What a strange feeling. Was he feeling… accomplished? Perhaps happy? Abel’s reaction wasn’t something he was expecting, but it was extremely pleasant. How long has it been since someone was genuinely worried about him? And over something so small, too…]

- “Do not worry. I am thinking all the time, and soon you’ll understand why. There are a lot of matters in my mind at once all the time, so if I sometimes take some moments to arrange them accordingly, you shouldn’t worry about me.

[And it was then that a shadow of a smile formed on the demon lips, lingering for some good seconds and he did something that wasn’t quite fit for himself, or at least not something he would usually do: Kaleb merely pats Abel on the head, ruffling his hair for a few seconds. It was much like having a younger brother - one that wouldn’t turn his back on him, but wouldn’t follow him blindly either.]

- “I am sure you are going to meet my expectations, Abel. You are stronger than you think, and I am just here to make you use this power of yours in the correct way, and to think as a King rather than a betrayed child.

Thinking deeply about things is something you need to start doing too - maybe you will find the answers that you seek. Planning ahead, too. But you will have time. Shall we get going, or do you want to talk about something else first?”

“…!”

He wasn’t expecting such gentle words, or such a gesture. He was silent as Kaleb ruffled his hair, feeling both belittled and gratified at the same time.  Needless to say, Abel was quite confused.

“Alright, then… I will take your word for it,” Abel murmured, looking away.  “And…I wasn’t worried.  I’d never worry about you.  So you had better not assume that I was…!”

Hoping the subject would be dropped, Abel turned away as soon as Kaleb withdrew his hand.  “Let’s just get going,” he said, speaking into the collar of his long cloak.  He was embarrassed, and he didn’t know why, but he felt both uncomfortable and strangely satisfied. 

At least he could still feel.  At least he wasn’t a mindless monster.

“You still have to teach me everything,” he said.  “I’m looking forward to learning what it takes to rule over the masses.”

(Source: sacrificial-kitten)

tyrannicalcrown:

- “Nothing that you should worry about. I have my own issues to take care of, and I am merely thinking how I will arrange my schedule accordingly.

You will grow into a fine king, and I hope you will be able to assist me. If not, that you do not become a… weakness, so to say. My concerns lie on whether you will succeed on this training or not. Do not let anyone use you. Be it me or anyone else, I am merely giving you free will and thoughts of your own. 

They are just weapons. It is up to you if you want to be ruled or to be ruled, to reign over everyone or just be someone else’s puppet. I assume you are tired of the latter.”

[His words were cold, but Kaleb was sincere and kept his cool expression while saying so. Perhaps a tint of concern could be seen, not for himself but for Abel. 

Someone that reminds you of your past… this boy was dangerous. Dangerous in a way of saying that he could just break through his defenses, opening old wounds that he thought were completely healed on his mind.

… Was he making a mistake, taking this boy under his wing? He was too naive, and too nice for his own good. Completely unfit for a king… but at the same time just as good.]

- “Were you worried about me? Or were you just curious, Abel?”

“…Is that so?”

Abel seemed doubtful.

“You didn’t seem like the type to be lost in your thoughts, but I suppose people aren’t always what they seem—much less demons…”

That applied to himself as well—he presented himself as a frigid, cold person, but these days, anything was liable to make him snap.  He was remiss to admit to that.

“…You doubt my ability to succeed?”

“Hmph… Just you watch.  I’m not one to give in.  I’ll become a king that exceeds your expectations.  Or lack thereof.”

His weren’t entirely backed by conviction, however; a part of him still wanted to live like a normal human, as how he used to, and forsake his demonic heritage.  Still, Kaleb had taken him in.  It would be rude to follow through with his training and then abandon his work for a normal life.

“Were you worried about me? Or were you just curious, Abel?”

“…!”

Worried?

“Stop joking around! As if I would worry about the likes of you…!”

He wasn’t helping his case in any way, what with the slowly reddening cheeks and the angrily averted gaze. 

“I-I was just curious, of course! I was just…wondering what could prompt someone as cold and calculating as you into such deep thoughts…!”

Definitely worried.

(Source: sacrificial-kitten)

tyrannicalcrown:

[It was much like taking care of a small brother. Being the youngest one, Kaleb never had  this kind of worry, nor he knew very well not to do. But he refused to be a bad host (and more than that, a bad teacher) to someone so willing. Upon hearing Abel’s stomach growl, the albino almost smiled, but only the faint ghost of one was visible upon his lips.

In a way, he was extremely adorable. Maybe he was going too soft on him, but the ruler couldn’t help it.] 

- “My apologies for your clothes, Abel. This matter shall be fixed soon, I will provide you with clothes your size when we arrive. Can you go on with these ones? If not we can try to make quick adjustments before we leave…

Anyway, let us go. I doubt you can walk or learn much on an empty stomach.”

[The taller male started walking, downstairs and towards the dining room. His only preoccupation was… what if they used his student against him, someday? It was possible, if not almost certain that they would pull a move like that. As he let Abel sit by his side, the albino was deep in thought. The only way to escape this was by making Abel extremely powerful, to the point that he would not be a weakness, but someone that would, maybe someday, support him.

He still had a long way to go.]

- “Eat as much as you’d like.”

He followed Kaleb wordlessly, trying not to pay too much attention to his empty stomach.  It was strange, how he had never noticed the need for food until now.

Apparently unaware of Kaleb’s pensiveness, Abel stared at the array of dishes laid out before him.  He had never seen so much food before.  Were these really edible…?

Kaleb had allowed him to eat whatever he wanted and however much he wanted.  Abel took the liberty to do so.  Everything tasted foreign and unfamiliar, which was expected, as Abel did not have the most diverse choice of meals when he was still human.  Still, it didn’t take a lot to tell him that this was good food, and after a while, he wasn’t so much eating as he was inhaling it.

Sated now, he licked his lips for the last remnants of flavour before glancing at Kaleb.  He noticed now that the man seemed lost in thought.  Tilting his head and leaning over, he stared at him curiously.  “What’s wrong?”

(Source: sacrificial-kitten)

…Get off my head.  I don’t need another mess, especially not with feathers.

“…?”

His previous spiel seems to have been forgotten.

“Really? That’s a strange custom…”

“…”

He appears to be deep in thought.