Aoba gave a sigh of relief and nodded towards the assurance. His cute little baby animals would be safe. As much as he trusted Dani. . .he didn't trust Dani. He confused the angel a lot with his bipolar personality. Nonetheless, as Dani grumbled and walked away, Aoba humbly apologized. Dani didn't respond, but he also didn't growl and grumble, so, Aoba took it as an acceptance unless otherwise stated. Right after, Kuro lead him out of the barn and back into the sunlight. As he was scooped up, he immediately clung to Kuro. Even though he knew Kuro wouldn't drop him and he could easily catch himself if that ever happened, the feeling of falling was less than pleasant.

When they were down, he nodded to Kuro. "Clothes first, then. . . You know, we still have to fix the door." He reminded before taking another glance at Kuro's clothes. "Clothes first. Definitely." He nodded and walked out towards the store. For some reason, small children and dogs were all extremely friendly to him. It made him smile as he would wave to a child or pet a happy dog. He also noticed Kuro keeping his distance and the odd looks that he was given from older humans. And then, when they were walking side by side, he noticed that they both were given odd looks. Not to mention weird looks from the teens. Humans were really judgemental apparently.

Aoba brushed off the thoughts as he walked into the much cooler store. For a few minutes, Aoba followed Kuro around, wondering what he would get but afterwards he wandered around look at other clothing. The fallen angel had to admit, some of the clothing styles in the store were quite. . .eccentric, to be nice. The odd patterns and colors made his nose wrinkle, but he didn't want to come off as rude so he set them back where they belonged. "Hm? Oh, alright." He walked back to Kuro's side, looking at the clothes he was standing in front of. Aoba examined each shirt and then glanced at Kuro as if picturing the items on him. "I don't know, these don't really seem like something you'd wear."

He gave a small shrug and pointed to the shirt in Kuro's hand. "Not that one?" He scanned around the store again. Aoba pointed to a pair of shirts that were slightly darker in color compared to the ones they were near. "How about those?"

The women working in the store watched the two. There were others in the store, only a handful, but they still decided to keep their space. Aoba didn't pay much attention to them, at least not until one older male cleared his throat, trying to pass the two. "Excuse me." The fallen angel looked up and quickly moved out of his way and right after, he went about helping Kuro.

Aoba complies readily enough, toddling over when he's called upon. Kuro tries not to grin at this and instead focus on picking out something suitable. When the angel points out that the stuff on the rack is not stuff he would wear Kuro coughs lightly and nods. “Yeah, you're right. I'd look like a cowboy in this, and I'm more of a rock star.” He chuckles at his own comment and follows the smaller male over to the clothes he pointed at. They go back and forth a bit before the demon's arm is loaded up with a few different tops and bottoms and he wanders off to the changing rooms. 'Ah, this is fun. Like my own personal fashion show!'

Popping in and out of the changing rooms he shows off each of the pieces. He takes the yay or nay votes from Aoba and eventually he has a couple new outfits for cheap. The clerk lets him wear one of them, a black t-shirt with a faded blue jean jacket over it, and some supple form fitting jean looking pants that stretch more like spandex than jean. The lady behind the check-out counter smiles warmly at both of them, batting her eyes a bit at Kuro, however he ignores her politely aside from paying her. New threads on and old ones in the trash Kuro slips his arm around Aoba's waist and heads outside. “So, where to next Little Mouse?” he asks cheerfully, feeling much better having been out of the sun for so long.

Aoba laughed a little towards the comparison Kuro gave. Then he looked down at his own clothes. "Say, what would that make me look like?" It definitely didn't make him look like an angel. He wasn't in a robe like he normally had been used to. Now he was in plain shirts, and button up shirts with blue jeans and paler colored jeans and whatever else the two had bought the last time they went clothes shopping. He supposed his clothes made him look human enough. Back and forth Aoba followed Kuro, until the demon figured he had a decent amount of clothes to try on. Next was the process of trying them all on, in which Aoba quickly remembered that a worker was supposed to unlock the door for him.

Aoba sat down on a bench right across from the door and watched as Kuro showed off all the clothes he had gotten. The fallen angel would look at each outfit, giving a thumbs up if he approved or shaking his head if he didn't too much care for the items. Though, Kuro had good taste so he didn't have to shake his head that much. When it was all over, Kuro was paying for the clothes. Aoba quietly watched as the woman did her best to subtly get the demon's attention without causing too much of a scene. It was interesting for some reason to see the humans do such a thing, but for some reason it was also kind of bothersome to him. He didn't understand why he didn't like it so much, so he kept it to himself. Soon enough, Kuro had looped an arm around him and pulled him out of the store.

"Where to next?" Aoba echoed and looked around the small yet sufficient town. "We still have to get the door fixed you know. . . What store was it that we went to that could help with that?" He mulled over his thoughts. 'Not the market, that sells food. . . Diner, no food too. This is for clothes. That one was for the delivery trucks-' "The hardware store! That's what it was." His fist hit his palm in triumph when he remembered it. "Do you think they'll have something there to help?" He looked up at Kuro as they wandered the streets, passing stores and various civilians.

Kuro just enjoys the walk at the little angel thinks. The eyes of others not going completely unnoticed, his possessive nature kicking in every time those eyes would slide to the male at his side with either envy, lust, or anger. 'You all go ahead and keep looking. He is here at my side, and will stay here. None of you have a chance, with either of us, but who am I to get in the way of you engaging in the age old past time of displaying the seven deadly sins' There really are more than seven, however the movie was so good it's become a catchphrase in hell for many years now. His own gaze settles for a period of time on an old book set in the window on an antique shop, however his staring is interrupted by Aoba figuring out what to do next.

He smiles down at the angel. “Indeed they will! Good thinking.” He ruffles Aoba's hair playfully before leading the way to the hardware store. 'He is so adorable! Like a little kid, but at the same time having those moments where he gets totally serious. Too eatable!' He hums softly heading once more out of the sun and into the slightly cooler hardware store. Looking around he muses, “Well, we could get a patch kit, or a new door. Patch kit would be cheaper, save on funds. . . .” He looks down at Aoba with an eyebrow raised. “So, which do you think is better?”

Aoba stuck his tongue out playfully when he was pat on the head. "Thanks, I think." He smiled and huffed a little. "Let's just go get the items." He spoke with a playful annoyance, and then followed Kuro into the much cooler hardware store. He remembered the first time be had paid a visit to the store. He was practically terrified of all the people, but now they were. . .peculiar and interesting to examine. "Well, the door isn't that bad. Just a few holes. I say we go with just patching it up." If he remembered correctly, Father Gerard said that their money was limited. By the way things were done, meaning, as he watched Kuro pay for things, he noticed that sometimes he'd have to give a lot away and sometimes less. It was all based on the numbers on the tags. Obviously, he never had to buy anything. The closest way of purchasing he had ever gotten to was trading out old medical materials for new ones.

Aoba would eventually have to learn, especially since he was going to have to live the rest of his mortal life on Earth. As they walked out the store with supplies and clothes in hand, the fallen angel gave a curious look. "Since I'm mortal now, does that mean I'll get old and wither away like the humans do." He didn't sound upset about it, only because he was more worried about various other things, like death by random demons. To emphasize his point, an elderly male was sitting slowly making his way to the diner, using a cane. "Eh.." So maybe he was a little worried about aging too.

As soon as they got to a more secluded area, Kuro flew them off back home. Dani had scented them out before they had gotten there and quickly moved out of the pig pen after patting one of the pigs head. "Took you guys long enough." He spoke when the two landed.

"Aw, you didn't have fun watching the animals?" Aoba spoke with a slightly teasing manner before walking past to set the bag of clothes he was carrying into the house. The fallen angel had the urge to go and check on the animals, but he also felt that it would upset Dani more if he knew he was worried. He sighed softly, trusting that things were okay. If they weren't, Kuro would probably spot them out.

Once the decision is made Kuro strikes out in the right direction and quickly hunts down what they are looking for. He makes sure to keep Aoba within arm's reach the entire time, deflecting the few sets of eyes that actually seems to take an interest with sharp looks and the occasional showing of teeth. A few of the girls seem to find that last move sexy, but they take the hint and back off. 'It's like entering a den of coyotes. They all keep circling, wondering when the big predator is gonna step aside and give them a chance to sink their teeth in!' He huffs at this, but thankfully the moments are few and they are soon back outside and Aoba is once more directly against his side.

When Aoba speaks up about his concerns, as poorly hidden as they are, Kuro gives him a playful tug around the waist. “No. You will not age unless you really want to. Since angels naturally age slowly, you will have to consciously decide to appear older, or else have to move rather often to avoid suspicion. At least around other mortals.” He shrugs. “I guess Yahweh figures it will take several generations for you to be absolved of you guilt, and not just you, any fallen angel, that only giving you one is unfair. So yeah, your age has not been stunted. No withering for my Little Mouse.” He gives another playful tug and wanders them out of town and behind a mass of weeds before cloaking them and taking off.

The clothes bag is tucked carefully between them while the slightly clunkier sack with the patch kit is held carefully behind Aoba's back. The trip is short an uneventful and when they land Kuro can't help but roll his eyes at the exchange between the angel and the demon. As Aoba practically skips off to the house the taller demon's face falls from soft contentment into a more serious expression. Dani more senses than sees the change and whips around with a curious expression. The smaller demon slips over to his brother, his voice reverting to normal. “What's caught in your craw Little Black Cloud?”

Ignoring the nickname for now Kuro asks softly, “Was Pops upset when you left?Not over you leaving, I just mean. . . .What he upset?”

Dani rolls his shoulders, looking at the house. “This question have anything to do with.. . . . .?” Looking back to Kuro they stare at each other for a long moment. Realizing he's never going to get an answer Dani sighs and says, “Yeah, Pops was ordering some harder hits. He was focusing on the combat more than usual. Why?.”

The taller male shakes his head. “My words stand, no matter how far I go. You take care of him, or so help me, the furthest reaches of heaven will not spare you from my wrath.” Dani does not question this statement and instead follows his little brother to the house. Once inside he settles on to the couch and waits for his younger sibling to finish interacting with the angel so he can take over watch. Once Kuro locates Aoba he takes hold of the smaller male's shoulders and looks down into those sapphire gems Aoba calls eyes and smiles softly, but seriously.

“Little Mouse, listen. I have to go for a while. It shouldn't be longer than an hour, but I'll be leaving you alone with Dani. I don't want you to act skittish around him, he hates that. Just head to the field and dig up weeds or something. I put the fear of Satan into him, and as long as you don't trip one of his land mines, everything will be fine. But even if you do, he won't lay a hand on you. Promise.” Without giving the angel a chance to respond he leans in and places a soft kiss on the boy's lips before turning and leaving, slipping out the back door. Once outside he takes off, not wanting to open a gate too close to the farm. Once far enough away, he rips open a portal in mid air and heads into hell.

Aoba set Kuro's bag of clothes right on the couch. The materials for the door were set right beside it so they could get it fixed when they had the chance. The two weren't gone very long so there was little that needed to be done. The animals were fed and out grazing so he didn't need to tend to them, and everything else that needed to be handled- well, he supposed he could walk around and take a look to see if anything needed to be taken care of. As his thoughts wandered, he turned to his two demon companions as they walked in. He smiled as Kuro walked up, but with only a serious glance from Kuro, he gave a questioning look.

As Kuro explained what was going on, Dani watched Aoba closely with crossed arms to see how he'd react. Especially since Kuro gave the boy little leeway to speak. His eyes followed his younger brother as he vanished outside and then once more rested on Aoba, who was now scratching his head in confusion. "He's leaving? Where to? It sounded urgent."

Happy that Aoba didn't show any outward signs of panic, Dani relaxed and followed him out the door toward the field. "He's just taking a little trip home. That's all." He didn't see the need in telling the fallen angel exactly why. It seemed like it was one of those things that he'd get panicky about. Then again, there were a lot of things the angel would probably get panicky about. He paused along side Aoba and looked around to make sure no one harmful was around, relaxing once more when it was clear.

'A trip home? Right, he is a demon. . . So that means he went home to hell.' "Oh. . . Okay. Well, if he's only going to be gone for an hour, I might as well see if there are weeds to pull." Aoba received a shrug from Dani as he took post on a fence. Obviously he wouldn't be of much help so the fallen angel walked row by row in order to pull out any of the weeds he had seen- after finding gloves so he wouldn't hurt his hands. It had quite literally only been only five minutes before Dani had gotten bored of watching Aoba and smelling out nothing dangerous. He had already messed with the animals and Mama was so busy with that baby that she couldn't spare a conversation. So, he stretched out his wings and flew over to Aoba. He didn't a say word, not wanting to admit to being bored. Instead, he gave a childish pout that made Aoba smile. "Want to help me?"

Instead of answering, Dani huffed in response making Aoba laugh. "Okay, well all the things that look like this need to be pulled out. Like so," He stopped at one weed protruding out of the ground. He bent down and tugged as hard as he could until it was out of the ground. "That's it!" Dani hummed and nodded flying off to the opposite end of the field. He noticed Kuro would always start on the opposite end of the field when they were working and it normally got things done a lot quicker. The task was pretty easy, but he found some entertainment in it. Aoba watched for a moment and then called out to Dani. "Good job! Add it all to the pile over there!"

After being gone so long the screams of pain an horror echoing about him take a little longer to fade than usual. With his hell cloak firmly in place Kuro lands, keeping his eyes to the ground. All around him demons are torturing souls in every which way imaginable. He is barely spared a glance by these demons hard at work, the task before them far more entertaining than a smallish demon trying not to be seen. His footsteps are quick and even, his eyes only darting up when there is need. He doesn't really need to look where he's going. He knows where his father is. Ever one of his children can tell where Satan is when in hell.

'Man, the smell of this place. . .Nostalgic, but no less foul than I remember' This part of hell indeed permeates with a foul stench, but he isn't in the torture ring too long. The youngest son had landed just outside the demon's own personal hell, where most of them live or at least spend a lot of time enjoying themselves with less evil pursuits. His ultimate goal is the palace in the very center where he senses his father, however he didn't want “Pops” to be able to back track his path too easily. Unlike God, Satan is not all knowing and has to rely on his angelic talents. 'Unless of course he uses the book, but I know Pops. That would be too easy'

Once in the more “pleasant” part of hell it is harder for him to pass undisturbed, many a demon trying desperately to find a partner to either whip or bone. He isn't half way through the mass of writhing bodies laid out on the grass or slated stone before one of the realizes just who he is and in a flash a barrage of both proposals and slanders. Not really in the mood to put up with either due to his urgent need to get back to earth he partially erupts in black flame, the heat of it far hotter than any of them can pass through safely. They all back up, laughing and jeering however by the time he reaches the other side ten minute later it sputters out and he lets out a sigh. 'You know this? This I can handle. After coming into my own I can bat them off with a simple show of strength. However on earth? With humans!? Yeah. I almost prefer hell. . .'

~*~*~*~*~

Humming to himself the preacher bounces along the gravel road in his old pick-up, bopping his head to the music on the radio. His bible rides shotgun in the seat beside him, the symbolism evident to anyone who understand the word. Well, at least the way the Christians do. 'I wonder how the angel is doing today. Poor little guy, living with all those demons about' While consciously understanding the difference between the ones protecting him and the ones that want him dead, or enslaved, or whatever other horrible things demons can come up with, he doesn't in his heart feel there really is any difference. Aoba is being corrupted and to a devout man like Father Gerard, it would almost be better to be dead.

~*~*~*~*~

Dani pauses, sticking his nose in the air. With a faint hiss he looks off towards the road where a dust cloud can be seen in the distance. He is now close enough to the angel that he doesn't have to shout and with another his he announces, “It's that damn preacher man. . .” Not waiting for Aoba he bounds over to the fence at the edge of the field, baring his teeth and growling at the approaching truck. He doesn't go too far from Aoba, not wanting someone to take advantage of his distraction.

They had gotten through most of the field thanks to Dani zooming through it. As tedious as the task was, Aoba was pretty content. He didn't complain about the task and thankfully Dani didn't either. In fact, it seemed like he managed to make a game out of it, or at least entertain himself in the process. The two only had a row left but Dani bounded off before they could finish. "Aw man, Dani we were almost done. . ." Hearing him say 'preacher man', Aoba tilted his head for a moment. "Preacher man? Who-" His eyes widened and he smiled. "Oh, Father Gerard! He's here?" The fallen angel hurried over to the fence by Dani's side to see and watch the dust cloud form into a truck.

Obviously, Aoba was more excited than Dani. In fact, Dani looked a little annoyed that Aoba was so excited to see the priest. As the truck came to a stop, the fallen angel hurried over to greet the male. "It's nice to see you again!" The priest managed to get a quick examination of him before Aoba hugged him. He could sense the corruption, see that his wings were darker, and yet it was baffling to know that Aoba could still be so innocent. In the hug, like any other time, he tried to purify him at least a little bit. It was the thought that counted, and if he could still be purified so easily then there was hope still.

"Well I had to come check on you and see how you were doing with-" The sudden growl made him look up at attention. He watched as the newer demon lurked forward. Gerard only remembered him from the time he helped drop off all the animals, but Dani had been on the porch the entire time so didn't know how bad this demon was, or what his purpose was. Oddly enough, he looked like a child, albeit a menacing one at the moment.

"Don't worry. That's Dani. He is making sure I'm safe while Kuro is gone." Aoba nodded reassuringly before stepping away from the priest. He had forgotten once again about how the purity of the priest grossed out the demons. Dani didn't hesitate to growl when his name was given out, but the priest stayed calm the entire time. "Dani. . . That's not necessary." He tried to calm him down through soft words, but of course he was ignored.

"Kuro is gone?" He never thought that he'd ever be shocked or worried that a demon left an angel's side. In fact, he never thought that he would condone something like this for such a long period of time, or ever. Gerard gave a cautious look at Dani and then back to Aoba to get some answers.

"He just had to take care of something. He should be back soon. I've just been farming- oh our cow gave birth to a calf!" As he spoke, Aoba noticed something formulating in the priest's mind. The priest rested hands on his shoulders and gave a serious look. His voice was soft, making Dani narrow his eyes. He hadn't calmed down since the priest's arrival, and him being so close to Aoba didn't help that either. Kuro told him to watch the angel and protect him. Letting him run off with a priest was not watching him at all. Kuro would probably have his hide if he let that happen, but Dani didn't want that to happen either. That was going to be his toy to claim soon enough, and the priest putting his hands all over the angel was getting quite frustrating. Aoba would need a serious cleaning after all this. "Also Aoba, I wanted to talk to you. About figuring a way back home-"

At that moment, Dani leapt forward, pushing Aoba backwards to move in between the two. He made sure not to push Aoba too hard, but still with enough force to move him back. "No." The simple word was followed by another growl as he glared at the priest. Unlike Kuro, he wasn't planning on sparing lives of humans. Well, he wasn't until Aoba called out in panic about not killing or hurting him. For a moment, Dani ignored him, daring to inch forward, but there was only so much he could ignore before groaning in frustration. He didn't move from his spot though. Gerard would not be able to get near Aoba again.

Aoba was quietly shaking his head behind Dani. He knew Father Gerard meant well, but there was no hope in talking things out with Dani. None whatsoever. However, Aoba was ignored and the priest continued. "You're being absolutely foolish and completely childish. In this place he probably attracts several demons around! And you think just the two of you can fight them all off? How do you think that's affecting Aoba and his health! Look at him! He's better off being in a church, being purified in order to get back to where he belongs. With other angels!"

Dani at this point was bristling with frustration and the urge to attack the filthy male. Not only had he called him childish, but he dared to believe that he and his brother couldn't handle a couple of low class demons. How dare he be so disrespectful! He should he happy Dani allowed him to step foot on the property! In response, Dani growled at him, clearly angered by Father Gerard's presence and his words. "What do you know about what's best for him!? The last time I checked, he was kicked out of that stupid pristine place! Obviously they don't want him back! And obviously you don't know who I am. . . These demons that lurk around all have death sentences if they dare step foot near him. We are better protection than you any day! You just left him here, expecting him to fend for himself! He is perfectly fine here. You go anywhere near him and I'll happily kill you."

That of course caused Aoba to panic, albeit silently. 'Oh dear, Dani please don't attack him!' He was afraid to say anything to him, not wanting that anger to be directed his way. He could only hope that Father Gerard held his tongue, sparing his own life. Dani was still in one place, and it didn't look like he planned to move one bit. The priest still had a chance. All he had to do was accept it and go. As much as he didn't want for him to go just yet, it seemed like the better option. In an extremely soft whisper, Aoba called out to Dani, wanting him to calm down- at least a little bit, but he was ignored. He thought about what Dani said. . .about how the angels probably didn't want him back. . .and the idea only saddened him, making him look at the ground. Making matters worse, Gerard spoke once again.

"This is the kind of behavior that will get Aoba killed. He is not one of you. Aoba is an angel, one not capable of fighting for that matter. He has a chance to return home and you and the other demon are preventing that. The taint you two are causing will ruin those chances for him." Aoba helplessly listened to the two of them go at it. It was such an odd thing, hearing Gerard talk of 'home'. It seemed so foreign now. . . His home was the farm and as much as it hurt, Dani was right. The angels didn't want him anymore. That's why they casted him out without even giving him a chance. But, Aoba was silent, and silently hoping Dani didn't do anything brash.

Yet he had a bad, bad feeling about that. . .

Dani doesn't like this, not at all. All these pretty words, they're going to win the toy over! This is his pet, no matter what it or his brother thinks. He's not giving it up, not for anything nor anyone! No one’s allows to take away what's rightfully his! His growling becomes deeper and father Gerard’s eyes narrow. 'He seems to be working himself into something. No matter the power he wields, the lord is stronger. I will not back down!' His hand slips into his pocket, wrapping around a amulet of his faith. When in prayer, he focuses all of his faith into it, and after a time, such objects become holy relics. He got this one from his father, who got it from the pastor of his church, and so on for at least nine generations. The faith built up in it is quite powerful, and the Father is not wrong to think he has a chance as long as he has it.

With a growling hiss Dani steps forward. “Get lost preacher man! He's happy here, I know, it makes me sick when that happy flares and pours all over the place like toxic waste, but at least he's happy and he belongs here. He's not yours, and he loves the animals, I like'em to, and if you try and take him they'll almost as pissed as I am you old fool!” Taking another step forward his eyes go to the mains hand as it whips out of his pocket holding an odd little device. He recognizes it a little to late and with a bellow he falls back a few paces, holding his face as Gerard begins praying aloud. Snapping his teeth, Dani has had enough.

Throwing his head back, his arms out and down, Dani lets out a howl. In that instant his body begins to grow. His simple outfit takes on more complex contours, a red long coat of shining leather erupts on to his body, the many buckles clinking as an invisible wind seems to blow tossing his clothing and hair about. His short, blood red hair grows from shoulder length to somewhere around his waist and thickens in such a way that it makes him look like he's bristling. His canines grow into fangs and his eyes brightening into vivid dark purple flames. His fingers become a little longer, his nails blackening and growing into claws, and by the time his howl fades he stands there, a whole new beast. He is still unmistakeably Dani, however he looks almost like he has wolf blood in him.

The impression isn't entirely wrong. His mother was one of the werewolves that Lucifer let loose on earth. While he is fare less hairy than his mother, and lacking the snout, Dani indeed does resemble his mother quite a bit. Werewolves were more human than humans would like to admit, which is why they put so much more wolf into the modern portrayals of the beast, however Dani looks ten times at terrifying as any depiction of his mother's kind on the silver screen. With his transformation over his wings, now double in size, flare out to block Aoba from passing and with a fierce roar Dani charges the now wide eyes priest. He knows he's not going to survive this, however his faith remains strong and he prepares to give the beast heaven before being taken down.

Less than a pace from striking distance the charging demon suddenly falls to the ground with a sound akin to a kicked puppy, however on a much larger scale. Dropping like a stone Dani falls flat on his face before rolling on to his side, clawing at his back and crying out for mercy. Father Gerard watches stunned, his gaze snapping up as he notices something moving out of the corner of his eye. The vision that greets his eyes is almost as remarkable as the child demon's transformation. Wreathed in pure black flame that gives off darkness rather than light Kuro stalks slowly closer and closer to the group. Fresh blood and wounds can be seen here and there making him look like a scene straight out of hell, however his calm relaxed expression seems entirely out of place.

The crying voice on the ground suddenly changes and the Father looks down to see the child there once more, his eyes full of tears as he continues to paw at his back. Despite what Dani was about to do not moments before Gerard can not help but pity the child like being. 'I pity him, but there is nothing I can do for him. . .' Stepping away from the creature he watches as Kuro kneels at the smaller demons side, his hand held out in an odd fashion, like he's holding something, but the for the life of him the priest can not see it.

“Kurotama, stop, please! It hurts, it hurts! He was being mean, he wanted to take it away! It's not his, he can't have it.” At that last word Kuro's hand snaps out and smacks Dani across the mouth. The fear and pain in Dani's eyes turn to a stunned look as he stares up at his little brother, tears still flowing freely.

In a voice as calm as could be, Kuro responds to that wide eyed gaze. “Aoba is not an it, he is a he, and he is free to decide where he wants to go, and what he wants to do. If he really can not abide this place, or me, I will follow him wherever he wants to go. My goal is not to possess this angel it is to keep him safe after he saved my life. No matter how much he wants to deny it, I owe him, and I will not leave him. If he wants to join a church, I will follow. If he wants to become a circus clown, I will laugh, but I will follow. It is not for us to decide what he does with this life forced upon him, and I will not abide anyone trying to make such decisions for him.” Glancing up at the preacher he adds, “And this is Aoba's friend. Gross, and a pain to be around, but he is Aoba's friend, and you will not harm him.” That last 'not' is the only time his voice raises and it is only a little bit. However Dani feels the effect of it as a new order is input into his collar.

Whining and sobbing as soon as he feels the collar loosen Dani nods and launches himself at his little brother, hugging and crying into his collarbone as if this isn't the very demon who caused him so much pain. Kuro holds his big brother, as tender as could be, and stands up with Dani still clinging to him. The smaller male wraps his legs around his brother waist, not showing any signs of letting him go any time soon. The flames die and rubbing between Dani's wings he gives Gerard a slight bow, before turning to Aoba. “Sorry he's being such a bother. Close one, huh?” His tone is light with a smile that doesn't quite reach his eyes. His eyes seem to almost have a pleading look to them as he presses a soft kiss awkwardly to Aoba's forehead before moving off towards the house to continue calming Dani down.

Oh, why did he have to be right. . . Why did his assumptions have to be right at a time like this?! "F-Father Gerard that's not a good-!" The howl nearly made Aoba jump out of his skin. "Dani, please! Just relax!" But that wasn't happening any time soon. In fact, it looked like things were only getting worse. Seeing such a transformation made his eyes go wide in absolute terror. 'It's- It's still Dani. . . He's not going to hurt me. And hopefully this transformation won't try killing the priest either. '

Aoba had been a little too hopeful. Dani began to stalk forward, making the fallen angel's heart race. At the last second, something like- Aoba's mind wandered over what it was called- a deus ex machina for the priest occurred. In the matter of seconds, Dani was on the ground crying for mercy. "Dani?! What's wrong-" His eye caught something moving and he turned to see none other than Kuro making his way to them. But, why was he all bloodied!? Aoba took a moment to breathe. He was going to have some sort of panic attack or something worse happen if he kept it up. Then again, he was almost positive that the panic attack was already happening or already happened.

He relaxed long enough to hear what Kuro had to say. Father Gerard was still in a state of shock from the sudden near death experience not going as planned. Aoba's eyes went to the ground when Kuro spoke of his freedom and choices, knowing that the priest would probably say something about that. He gave Kuro a worried look before turning back to Father Gerard as the two demons walked away. It seemed he had taken the time to compose himself, but it was obvious he was a little more than upset. "Is that what you want to stick around to? That's safe? Aoba you can't possibly be serious about wanting to stay here. You have a chance to go back home. You have a chance to have a life again. But the longer you stay here, the harder it will be to help. One of those demons doesn't even treat you like a person, but a mere object- probably to be played with. The other, good intention or not, is the son of Satan himself. How long do you think it'll be before you end up meeting him too? Do you really think you'll survive something like that? Aoba, come to your senses."

Despite the calm tone he had, Aoba flinched under the hidden anger in them. The fallen angel had no idea of what to say. He was stuck. Everything that had ever been said to him about it was running through his head all at once. 'Even if I go, those angels will treat me worse than they have. . . But I don't belong here either. My life is in danger even more with them. . . But they promised to protect me.' The idea of meeting their father made him grow cold. He couldn't handle the pressure of such a huge decision. Aoba didn't know what to do, and it seemed that he was always reminded of where he was not supposed to be. These guys just wanted what was best for him, but he had no clue what that was. Despite not seeing them as much, he could only imagine his parents disapproval- did they even know about him being kicked out? All the thoughts pulling him left and right were going to kill him one day.

"Aoba-"

"I-I don't know, okay! I. . .just don't know right now. . ." The fallen angel broke out into tears and he stepped back as the priest moved forward. "Please, just-" He paused and his wings snapped open. Aoba turned and quickly flew off to the barn. He didn't know what else to do. He pulled the door closed, not bothering to lock it. The back door was still opened as well, considering the animals were still out grazing. Aoba huddled into a shaded corner and let his wings cover him. His tears were still there, but he cried silently. It felt like the first day all over again. He was alone and confused. How did he end up having the world against him? He hugged on to his legs tighter and tried to stop his crying.

The priest stood outside for a moment now alone. Eventually, he sighed and walked back to his truck. "Lord forgive me, I'm trying my best to save one of your own." He couldn't stay all day and he decided it wouldn't help Aoba if he kept prodding at him. But that didn't mean he wouldn't return. He just had to think of a way to encourage him.

Overhearing the first thing the priest has to say, not even waiting for the two of them to get out of earshot to start running them down, Kuro rolls his eyes as well as lets out a little growl of his own. 'You were the one in danger, and you prompted it. Dani doesn't freak out over nothing. His triggers may, at times, be easy to trip, however there always is one, and so far Aoba hes gotten good at spotting and avoiding them. You're the ones who need to learn something here, not my Little Mouse. . .' He knows he's been just as possessive as Dani over Aoba at times, however he's always tempered it. He doesn't let it consume him, so he doesn't fault himself for thinking “Mine” once in a while.

Mounting the steps up to the porch Kuro slips inside and settles on to the couch, continuing to calm his little brother down as he babbles on and on about how naughty the preacher man had been in Kuro's absence. At a few points Kuro grows tense, and each time Dani seems to take comfort in it. Somehow, Kuro also getting upset makes him feel like he was in the right. When he is done with the laundry list, only about ten percent true, Dani at last lets his little brother go a little. Slipping back he looks up at Kuro with a pout. “That bad preacher man wants to take him away. I-he's not gonna leave, is he?” He catches himself before calling the angel “It” again, hoping it will become more natural. He may tussle with Kuro often, but that smack was reminiscent of his father's discipline.

“Aoba will do what he does. I like him happy, and if that happy isn't here, I'm not going to let anything stop him. . .” This time it sounds much less like a threat and more like a sad statement of fact. Dani nuzzles against his little brother, feeling quite cuddly despite himself. However as Kuro feels a surge of sadness coming from outside he plops Dani down on the couch causing the smaller male to whine loudly and growl. “And don't think you're getting away with sending me down there without forewarning about Pops.” Dani looks up at him with an innocent gaze that says quite obviously 'What else are older brothers for?' Kuro swats him hard on the head and leaves Dani as he curls up on the couch for a nap. Transforming so suddenly, not once but twice, has tuckered him out.

The demon exits just time time to see Gerard getting into his truck Once seated the priest looks at him and for a long moment they share a gaze. They look one to another, a clash of minds between them, and for the first time the priest wonders just what he's missing behind those eyes. What is in that dark twisted brain that kept him from trying to banish the beast right away. 'Well, I'm not going to figure it out just sitting here. . .' he muses, starting his engine and looking behind him so he can make his turn without hitting anything or ending up in the nearest ditch.

Kuro meanwhile lets out a sigh and licks on to the trail of sad leading into the barn. Seeing the front doors closed he makes his way around to the large back doors and slips in silently. His footfalls are quiet, but not silent. He doesn't want to startle the angel. Once he finds the smaller male, tucked away in the corner of a vacant stall, he moves in after him and pauses a few steps away. With a soft exhale he kneels, resting his back against the side of the stall. Tucking his knees up against his chest he laces his fingers together in front of them, biting back a hiss of pain at the pressure it puts on his ribs, grinding them bone against bone. He'd planned on going to the pools to heal a little at least, however for some reason he knew he needed to get back as soon as possible. Staying silent for a few seconds he tires to think of what to say, until at last he says simply, “I am here if you need me Little Mouse. . .” before falling completely silent, and waiting.

The sound of footsteps made the fallen angel cower away. At first he was going to shoo away Gerard, thinking he followed after him, but the footsteps seemed far too light for a fully grown male. His wings shifted ever so slightly causing a crack for him to peek through. He spotted and recognized Kuro's pants and decided to let him stay. Since Kuro decided to stay, Aoba wiped his tears away quickly. It was obvious he had been crying and the fact that he might have had a breakdown, but for some reason he didn't want to cry in front of Kuro. . .or anyone for that matter. The two sat in silence for awhile after Kuro offered his aid. The fallen angel didn't know what to say or do and that was the problem. He felt so out of place with everything and nothing seemed right anymore.

"I have no idea what's right or wrong anymore. What I think is right is apparently wrong. . . And what makes me happy isn't- well it's wrong too." His voice was soft and barely audible. Slowly, his wings pulled back, dragging on the ground and returning behind him. His eyes stayed on the ground now that he revealed himself and his saddened form. Aoba didn't expect an answer from Kuro. He wasn't sure if his answer would even be one he wanted. Then again, not knowing what he wanted made it easier to accept whatever Kuro had to say. "Sometimes. . ." Aoba heaved a sigh, not even sounding upset about what he was about to say. "Sometimes I think I was bound to end up becoming a mortal even without your influence." Aoba shook his head before huffing and flopping on his side as if giving up on the conversation.

It was a little uncomfortable with his wing bent under him, but Aoba made no effort to move it. Eventually that uncomfortable feeling would probably become painful, but he decided to wait until that time came. His deep blue eyes stared at the ceiling for a few seconds before they closed. His free wing came up and shielded face as he wiped it again. "Sorry. . . I shouldn't be so depressing. It's not, um, healthy." Still, he laid there, not bothering to move no matter how dusty or dirty the ground was. Something turned on in his mind and for the first time since Kuro walked in, Aoba made eye contact with the demon. His eyes were clouded with emotions, but his face was blank. In this 'calm' state he decided to ask Kuro what he wanted to while he was having a panic attack.

"What happened to you? You don't look okay. . . Dani told me you went home. . ." Was it a demon thing to come back from home injured?

Kuro listens silently to everything the angel has to say, looking over ah him with half lidded eyes as he waits for the boy to come to his senses. 'As long as he's “woe is me”ing, there's no way to get through to him. I need him out of his own mind if I'm not just going to take advantage of his saddened state. . .' And sad he is. The conflicting feelings running through the smaller male riles up mixed feelings in the demon as well. A mix of hunger, and sorrow. He wants to comfort Aoba, but also to consume him. As he flops over on his wing Kuro refrains from saying anything, wanting, no, needing to wait for the right opening.

When at last Aoba seems in the present rather than dwelling on his own inner turmoil Kuro finally moves. Slowly and carefully, both for his sake and the angels, he scoops the smaller male up and settles him in his lap. Making sure his wings are safe and clear he leans back against the wall of the stall and holds Aoba close like a human mother would her distraught child. With a long sigh, he begins addressing the issues in order, his mind rather numb from the pain, lack of energy, and his worn controls from having to restrain himself. In the back of his mind he notes that he should go feed soon.

“What's going on here is you're just being silly and caring more about what other people are telling you is right instead of listening to your own heart. Even Yahweh knows that your heart is your best guide, and that preacher man, Gerard, was just upset because of his own personal biases. . . Which I don't blame him for, I hate him too, but that's besides the point.” Kissing Aoba's temple he whispers, “What is right is what you think it is, and nothing else. I'm not saying this as an evil corrupting demon either. Remember, I have angel in me too. I can do good things, even if they make me ill.” He chuckles hugging Aoba gently.

~*~*~*~*~

Fenrir has no idea what he missed, but when he finally gets the chance to look at the mirror again and spots the demon sitting in the stall with Aoba he nearly flies off to earth without a second thought. However when the demon begins talking he stills, halfway out of his chair, to listen. He is so astounded by the demon's words however that he falls hard back into his chair. He never, in a million years, thought he'd hear a demon, talking like an angel. His only solace is that yes, he is part angel. . . .'That's right. That demon is the son of Satan, so. . .He's half angel. . .That. . .That could explain why Aoba was so drawn to him, and why the guards hated him so much. Each of them was acting on a different natural instinct. . .I was not around him long enough to be affected. . .'

~*~*~*~*~

“As for coming down here. . .” he continues, no longer whispering but still speaking softly. He thinks about it for a moment then shakes his head. “Nah. You are an amazingly kind, caring, and loyal kid. If you never were assigned to me, you never would have seen that side of heaven, and you never would have doubted.” He pokes the angel's nose playfully. “You are what every angel should hope to be, however being a perfect angel has one major downfall. It puts you on a razors edge which is easy to fall off of. You are the kind of kind that would make even Gabriel jealous.” He laughs lightly, wincing as it once more reminds him of his broken ribs.

“Also, you're not depressing, just honest. . .You don't have to hide your tears around me. . .Though I would keep them from Dani. They make you look tasty.” He chuckles, adding to his pain. Carefully he rubs gently between Aoba's wings to help him stay calm as he goes on to address his own injuries. “Speaking of Dani, I am so whupping his ass.” Before Aoba can ask Kuro goes on to explain. “See, I knew Pops would know I was captured, and be upset over it, but I checked with Dani so I would know just how upset he was, but Dani lied. . .Pops was a lot more upset than Dani said, and after tearing me a new one for worrying him, he added a few broken bones because I didn't come right home afterwords.”

Holding tight to Aoba so he doesn't immediately try and doctor him, wanting to finish the story. “See, Pops is a little extreme in his expressions of love since he was cast out. He would never hurt me so bad that I'm disabled or anything, but he will make sure that his kids know that they've done something he doesn't approve of. It's why I'm using the method I am with Dani for control. He grew up with it, he's use to it, and it works for us.” He gives Aoba a faint peck on the lips, praying he doesn't flip out. “Pops loves me, very very much, he just overreacts. We're different from humans and angels, so don't go thinking that “you don't hurt the ones you love”, okay? Every species is different. . .”

~*~*~*~*~

'You know, this explains why the interrogators never got anything out of him' Fenrir muses, a part of him satisfied to know that the demon is hurt. A part of him he doesn't quite acknowledge at the moment. 'If he's use to his own father, the king of hell, tearing him a new one out of love, nothing we could ever even conceive of doing to him would even phase him. . .'

Aoba stared at Kuro for a few seconds until his gaze went to the ceiling. He heard the slow shifts of movement but didn't turn to look back at Kuro, instead he found himself staring up at the demon as he scooped him up. The fallen angel became limp as a ragdoll and let Kuro carry him. He was a bit confused as he was put in his lap, but decided to just roll with it. It was oddly comforting. . . It reminded him of when the nanny he had comforted him when he cried. It was odd to think Kuro would also use the same tender methods, but it was nice nonetheless. Instead of dwelling on that, he focused on what Kuro had to say. Though the first thing he said made him give a puzzled look. He was being silly? What a non reassuring thing to say. Aoba's face relaxed and he glanced around. 'Listen to my heart. . . Well my heart got me in trouble in the first place. Or was that my brain? Probably that. I don't know. You silly demon, what would you know about hearts anyway? You're all hollow right there.' There was a moment in his rambling thoughts where he reached up and started to place his hand over where Kuro's heart was supposed to be, but he pulled away thinking it was a bad idea.

He couldn't help but smile as Kuro mentioned his half blooded nature. 'You are half an angel. . . Is that why I'm so interested in you?' He blushes at the thought, around the same time Kuro kissed his head. If anything, he could use the kiss as an excuse instead of having to admit his blossoming feelings for the demon. Once more, he pushed that thought to the back of his mind. 'For another day Aoba. . . Another day.'

It put a smile on his face to know that a demon, half or not, considered him a perfect angel. Even if he didn't think so, someone who didn't care for angels noticed his purities more than any angel did. The compliments and shows of gratitude he never received were like little gifts and he enjoyed them. A small, embarrassed laugh escapes him as he's compared to Gabriel himself. "I don't know about that one..." His smile turned into a more embarrassed look as he averts his eyes towards the mention of him hiding his tears.

It lasted only moments before he was curious again when he mentioned what happened when he had went home. His eyes went wide, but Kuro was already ahead of him, holding on tight so he wouldn't move off him. In attempt to but less strain on him, he wiggled away from Kuro's chest and stomach as much as he could. Understanding that he wanted to finish, Aoba quietly let him finish. 'If only I had my medical abilities. . . I could easily heal him. But he could heal himself, but. . .' His eyes went to his hands for moment, but he put them back in his lap. He paid more attention to what Kuro had to say. With a little 'Hmph' noise, Aoba crossed his arms and rolled off Kuro's lap after the kiss. "Well you don't. . . But fine. Either way, you should really go get healed up. You're going to make your injuries worse." He had been sitting up in front of Kuro, but soon got up, dusting his clothes off. He held his hand out and helped Kuro up.

"I remember. . . You told me about a healing pool in h- your home." He didn't really like saying Hell considering, normally it was said with disgust or resentment wherever he heard it. And, well, it was Kuro's home. "Could you go there?"

- - - - - * * * * * * - - - - -

Fenrir noticed Aoba staring down at his hands when they were talking about Kuro getting injured. He cringed at the memory of Aoba getting his powers torn from him and being kicked out of heaven. It was a terrible memory, and Fenrir could only imagine the feelings Aoba had when he wanted to help the injured demon, but couldn't. 'It was all he wanted. . .'

That adorable pout on Aoba's lips makes Kuro chuckle, watching as the angel turns from a depressed mess into something resembling his normal self as he worries of the demon. 'I know talking about my pain would at least distract him from his own. He worries about those around him, and since he actually likes me, or so I hope, his distraction is even greater' Watching him clear away some of the dust on his clothes rather than having that 'don't give a crap' attitude he did only minutes before Kuro can feel a faint sense of calm pass though him as the broken angel seems to be repairing. Letting Aoba help him to his feet he suppresses most of his pain, though a small whine manages to find it's way out when his ribs scrape against his lungs.

Shaking his head he says softly. “No, not right now. Dani is still upset and I have to stick around in case anyone tries to attack. After that sudden rise and fall of demonic energy, with the addition of holy energy, and energy that left alive, we can expect an attack today. . .” He glances out the open back door. “We man wanna bring in the animals early just in case. . . .Drops some feed in their stalls. . .” Using his limited healing abilities Kuro fixes his broken bones, at least enough that they stop grinding, and smiles at the angel. “I'll be fine. I just wont to make sure you're safe first. Then you can do the doctor thing.” He smiles, wiping away some of the blood still trying to drip into his eyes from his split brow.

~*~*~*~*~

Watching his father race through the halls, calling in all manner of demon who fall into his own perception of sexy, Homura chuckles softly at the image. “Well, he's feeling better. . .”

From the corner of the room a deep gentle voice asks, “Father?” Out from the shadows of Homura's cloth bedecked room a slightly taller version of Lucifer steps forward into the soft light created by his little brother's seeing pool. His hair is shorter, and his black leather outfit is a stark contrast to his father's love or white Athenian robes, or nudity for that matter however despite the black horns coming out from his head, there is no doubt that he is the son of Satan. As the first son he was born from the coupling between his father and a female still very much angelic, making him the most like an angel out of the throng of Lucifer's offspring, however he is still innately evil and must feed like any other demon for his power.

Homura turns his unseeing white eyes upon his elder brother and nods slowly. In the safety of his own room Homura wears only his simple underclothes, a simple white long sleeve button up and some loose fitting black sweats. His short silvery gray hair seems to almost glow in the dull light and as he offers his brother a smile the only real demonic part of his appearance shows with a flash of long pointed fangs. Though he can not see, not in the conventional sense, the sixth born's sight is far and true when it comes to viewing the worlds in his own special way. He was born without sight and almost died several times as his mother did not view him as worth the trouble. As such, he is a bit of shut-in and stays in his room most of the time.

It was actually Issho who did a lot of the raising of the smaller male, having been born with his father's protective spirit. The tall blond returns the nod, touching Homura's arm as a way of saying good-bye, before slipping past several bits of fine cloth and exiting the room. The smaller male watches him go, staring at the place he vanished for several long minutes before wandering over to his wardrobe and pulling out his normal outdoor wear. 'I wanna know what our dear little brother did to make Pops so happy. And that look on his face. . .There’s something important going on out there I can't see due to his barriers, and I wanna see what it is. . .'

Aoba sighed and complied to Kuro's wishes. The idea of demons coming to attack was convincing enough at least. "Fine, but I don't think you should be straining yourself if you're injured." He looked back at the door and then nodded. "We can bring the animals in- actually, I'll go start with the birds. You just rest for now until we have to get the cows and sheep. . .Well, I could ask Dani. He likes scaring them inside." As Aoba pondered ways to get things accomplished, he walked out to where they were roaming about.

"Come on little birdies, time to go inside early." He nudged them one way as they stubbornly stayed in one spot. With a 'hmph', he opened his wings and flapped them once, causing a forceful breeze to make them move. Aoba grinned and herded the packs onto their respective places. "I'll come back to feed you in a minute. I have to get everyone else inside." He hurried off to the pig pen. Fortunately, he had less of a problem. They all were already inside the barn where he hoped Kuro had stayed to wait for him. "And that's all of you. I'll get your food. Hold on." He went back and forth feeding the pigs, and then went out to feed the birds. Aoba left Kuro to himself for the time being although he doubted he would really listen. The fallen angel had no problem getting some of the tasks done by himself. It was just getting the cows and sheep inside that was the difficult part.

Kuro rolls his eyes but stays silent. Leaning against a stall door he watches the angel exit with vague interest, letting his pain flow for a bit to keep him from ust wandering out after Aoba. 'I know he means well, but truthfully, I've had worse, and I lived through it. I'm more worried about what I feel out there ehading this way. Damnit Dani, why did you have to transform!? I've got soooo many reasons to beat you when my blood stops flowing. . .' With a sigh he truns to watch the calf instead as it hobbles around his mother. His gaze becomes soft as it brays a few times before going in for another snack.

'I wonder what the Little Mouse is going to name it. The first life he's helpped into thei world as a mortal. Well, as mortal as they could make him. He's still technically immortal, but, whatever, I hurt. . .' He whines softly, wipeing more blood out of his eye before sealing the wound. 'I need to eat. . .I can feel the weakness getting to me. . .I haven't eaten in weeks. . . .' His focus shifts to the angel as he returns, herding all the pigs into a couple stalls where the grunt and dig through the hay. Rolling his eyes as Aoba begins talking to the pigs like Dani does in a way. 'Oh, right, we'll need him. . .'

Hobbling his way tot the barn door he takes a breath and steadys himself before stepping out, his pace now smooth and steady. 'Gotta do my best not to look weak right now' Right outside the door he spots Dani bounding over from the direction of the house, and excited look on his face. Catching him as he tries to pass he ignores the whinning, holding him still until he finally looks up at his little brother.

“But, but, I can feel, them, I can smell them! I wanna kill something!” Before Dani can ramble too much however Kuro swats his nose making him fall silent with a snarl.

“Yes, you can go kill them soon, but for now, we need your help getting the animals inside. They are coming from the direction of the pasture and if we don't get the animals in, we may lose some.” He speaks calmly, carefully, and tugs gently on one of Dani's wings bringing his focus around. The smaller demon whines and pouts then nods rapidly, getting the idea that he'll be able to kill things faster if he helps out. Calling out he motions for Aoba to take his place before moving over to the gate. Dani is herding the animals in record time and in no time Kuro has the gate open and the beasts are racing past. “Lottle Mouse, keep your wings out! They're in a bit of a hurry!” He smiles, knowing that by now the angel knows what he's doing, but he can't help but mother the angel.