#trezo | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

theratboyking · 1 year

Text

Softly Into The Night

Chapter One: You Call On Me As Bell Begin to Chime

Pairing: Cardinal Copia/Reader/Papa Emeritus iii (this will also have eventual Copia/Terzo but that won't be for a while)(This is also a slow burn so it's gonna be a while until we even get here)

Word count: 6.5k

Summary: Demons are real, angels exist, and my father is the Prince of Darkness. A dream I can’t seem to wake up from. And two mysterious strangers that seem to have a connection to me. What could possibly go wrong?

Chapter Summary: Everything is spinning around me. This wasn't my room, this was somewhere else entirely. I was so lost in thought that I had completely forgotten about the strangers in the room with me... The two incredibly handsome strangers. Oh no.

Warnings: 18+ (this is going to get be a wild ride folks,) Slow burn, Idiots in love, kinda soulmates? poorly translated Italian (I am sorry to all the Italians out there) fluff, angst, this is a ghost fic so you know religious trauma, some chapters will likely get kinda deep in the religious philosophy but maybe not depending on the direction this goes, eventual smut (Chapter will be labeled)

AO3 link <-Previous Next ->

Lucifer’s P.O.V:

It is simply extraordinary, I have simply never seen anything like it before. I have heard of children of both human and demon parents living into adulthood, some even coming when the darkness called them. This was something else entirely. Never have I heard of one taking a demon form before. Perhaps father too has plans for the future. This seemed impossible.

But here she was. Hovering several feet off the floor. Hair losing its color - turning into a stark white sticking out in all directions. Her body started to elongate an inky black spreading from her fingertips to her biceps, her nails sharpening. Her mouth hung open as a silent scream ripped through her throat, teeth looking as if she could rip through a man. In her eyes, a fire broke out - blue flames sprang to life casting a glow to her face. Her skin had changed now resembling that of porcelain.

“Extraordinary.”

Suddenly she collapsed to the floor. The fire has extinguished and she’s stopped thrashing, but she was still breathing. Her body slowly returns to normal, her clothes ripped at the edges but for the most part held together. It was as if it had never happened. She had fallen into a deep slumber. Nothing remained of her eldritch form, only a streak of white that now took residence in her hair. It was as if nothing happened.

The clock chimed. The world beginning to wake with the sun. Let’s hope my timing is not off tonight. I snap my figure a ring of fire erupts in the living room. One of my ghouls appeared in existence. He stiffens at the sight of me, quick to attention. They were always so stiff when they first came to this world.

“Do you have a name, ghoul?” He seemed surprised that I had asked.

“Y-yes sir.” The response was quick and unsure of itself. “Nova sir.”

“Nova,” His skin looked like the night sky, his horns sticking up from his head and coming to a sharp point. His hair looked like a dirty mop. His eyes were the only contrast, pure white. Truly nothing stood out about him, he was rather small for a ghoul, and surely others would be a better fit for this task. The clock chimed again, hanging heavy in the air. Dawn is approaching fast.

A sigh escapes me, “You will have to do I suppose. Now, I have a very important job for you Nova.” I pause looking towards (Y/N), gently picking her up from the ground and turning my gaze to Nova.

“Sir?” His head tilts in confusion. Clothes slowly materialize on him, his face covered by its mask.

“You will be tasked with ensuring the Princess is safe.”

Nova looks on in shock, unsure if he should protest against my order. Ultimately deciding to not test how good of a mood I was in, he bows slightly “As you command, my Dark Lord.”

A smirk finds its way to my face, “Excellent, now come along. We don’t have much time and we have places to be.” I begin to hand my princess to Nova.

“Where are we going?” His question was hurried as I entrusted her to him.

“Isn’t it obvious Nova? We’re almost late for church.” My voice is carefree as I snap my figure. Flames overtake us as we begin to fade out of this plain.

The Living room soon began to transform into the familiar walls of my church. The tiniest bit of light begins to stream in from the stained glass, the colors begin to spread through the room. The large organ was displayed proudly on the back wall, silver pipes just starting to shine from the light. It does appear that they have gotten the figure of Baphomet fixed, they will be happy to hear that. Darkness took up most of the room, I had some time left. No candles had been lit yet and the Pews remained empty, the bells haven’t even been rung yet, it looks like I’m just a bit too early.

“Te l'avevo già detto che non avrei fatto parte delle tue idee a metà, idiota!” An irrorated voice breaks through the calm morning. Ah here they are.

“I am truly hurt Cardinal, have you so little faith in me? It is my first mass back from touring, I have to make it one to remember. Besides, you worry too much, you need to relax” The other voice was much more carefree.

Their steps grew louder the closer they got to the massive doors that separates the Nave from the hallway. Light is spreading through the room, the morning light beginning to cover the darkness. The door begins to open, their bickering continuing.

“How can I possibly relax with you constantly pulling me into your theatrics? Even as Papa you always find a way to get me in troub…” The cardinal sentence came to a dead stop, his strides fatling, taking in the sight before him. Papa soon followed behind, wondering what had shocked his companion so.

“Copia what is… it” Papa’s words failed just as the Cardinals had, “My lord.” he dropped to his knees, head bowed. This seemed to knock the Cardinal from his trance following Papa to his knees. The light had taken up most of the room.

I clasp my hands together. Staying in the darkness the sun had yet touched, I began my journey to them. My excitement was on full display, “Ahh, Papa Gabriele Trezo Emeritus iii and Cardinal Antonio Copia. Truly a pleasure,”

The cardinal brought his gaze to mine, uncertainty falling as he spoke, “How… how may we serve you, dark lord?”

I came to a stop in front of them, “Please no need for formalities at the moment. There is very little time left and I have a very important task to give. Rise, my sons.”

Quick to their feet they dare not speak as I continue, “The Antichrist has been set free.” I gesture towards Nova, beckoning him forward. “I am entrusting her safety and her training in the hands of my most loyal followers. She will stay here until destiny calls. When the time comes you will know what to do.”

Their eyes never left her form, captivated by her small form. They did not show any fear, only curiosity, the aura that surrounded the three of them held something familiar, as if reaching out to grab onto each other.

Oh, how interesting. Perhaps fate had been kind in its grace, this will be fun to watch unfold. By now the morning sun had almost completely taken over the room, light taking the shadows. My time had run out. I can feel myself being pulled by the darkness of my realm.

“I am afraid my time is up,” Turning my head back to the pair, they have yet to look away from her sleeping body. Nova is protective in his hold, only seeming to tighten the more I fade. Perhaps she truly will be ok here.

“And boys,” This caught their attention, and they looked toward my fading form. “Do take care of my daughter.” They share a look of shock, unsure of what to say. I chuckle, relaxing, allowing myself to be pulled back to the depths of hell. Destiny is now in motion.

Back to Reader’s P.O.V:

It’s dark, everything is so dark.

I’m floating. Am I dead? I don’t think I am. I can’t feel any of my limbs. I can’t find it in myself to care, it was comfortable wherever this was. I feel like I could sleep for eternity, maybe I can just go back to sleep?

“You need to wake up, little one.” A voice broke through the silence.

What was it talking about? I’m so tired I couldn't even imagine wanting to get up. I’m too comfortable to even consider it. I was completely fine - just five more minutes.

“You never make things easy do you? I shouldn't be surprised, your father never did either.” The voice sighs, “Let’s speed this up shall we?” A sharp snap breaks through the silence.

I gasp for air, jolting my eyes open, throwing my head in any direction it would go. It felt like I was feeling what it was like to be inside of a body for the first time. There was a sound in the distance. It sounded like the ocean. Where am I? Despite being able to move again, there was still no light.

I start to walk through the void in the direction of the sound. The breeze hits my face, the smell of salt water fresh in the air. Am I at the beach? I've only ever been to one once in my life when mom and I were living in Maine, I remember how cold it was. But it wasn’t cold here - It was warm and welcoming it felt like it was hugging me. The faint sound of seagulls made its way to my ears.

The closer I get to the sound I can start to make out what looks like a balcony. I’m walking into someone’s house. Stepping out into the open a comforting warmth spread through me. As I looked around I couldn’t help but feel as if I had been here before, there was a familiar feeling to it but I know I had never been here before. The home looked old, almost like it had been in someone’s family for generations, looking Mediterranean in style. It felt lived in despite there being little there. The space wasn’t small but it looked like whoever lived here probably just moved in. Boxes were placed all around the room that the balcony led to. Despite this it was beautiful.

The balcony was, for the most part, plain. A small dark oak table and some chairs sat in the corner looking like someone was just sitting there. Coffee cups littered on the table and the chairs were pulled out as if someone had just left. Was there anyone here?

“Hel-” I choked out the sound of the ocean cutting me off.

I had never seen anything like this before. The last time I had seen the ocean it was overcast and the cold ocean breeze almost froze me to death. This was entirely different, the sunlight bounces off the clear blue, making it shine like it was made of diamonds. It was breathtaking. I could get used to a view like this.

“Piccolo topo? Are you alright? You’ve been up here for a while.” A voice arose from inside the room. The voice was deep and incredibly smooth, there was a distinct accent to it. It was warm and welcoming.

Another voice soon followed, there was also an accent to it but was slightly higher in pitch and was dripping in charm as he spoke, “Si, weren’t you the one that you, and I quote, would die if you didn't eat something in the next hour, il mio tesoro.”

There was something so familiar about their voices but I don't think I have ever heard them a day in my life. A wave of comfort washed through me and I could feel a smile forming. I could feel a tug in my chest, pulling me towards where they were.

“Coming,” I yell in their direction, it feels like my body is moving on its own but I didn’t want to stop. I had to be near them but I don’t even know who ‘they’ are.

I make it to the door trying to push it open to let myself into the room. It wouldn't budge. In fact, it was as if everything around me had been frozen in time. The breeze had stopped and the waves no longer crashed to the shore. It was as if everything around had been frozen, all sound leaving the scene. Everything was getting impossibly bright, I had to shield my eyes. I was so close to them. I could feel it, but I didn’t know where. I could feel pressure in my hand like someone was holding it - pulling me to them. It was only getting brighter, I couldn’t see anything anymore. Frantically looking around for a sign of anything, it was a voice that broke through. It sounded like it was directly in my ear but that was impossible, no one was near me,

“Some things are better to experience in the waking world, dear.” Mom? I jerked my head to the side, it was mom. She was far away but it was her, and there was someone else standing there with her, I just couldn’t see who it was.

“Mom!? Mom! Wait!” I could feel my legs moving toward them, I’m running but no matter how fast I went they were not getting closer.

“It’s time for you to wake up, my little princess. They’re waiting to meet you” Lucifer? He was further away than mom’s voice, what did he mean? I am awake, aren’t I? Who were they?

“Wait. What’s going on? Mom! Dad! Wait. Stop. What do you mean” It’s getting dark again. I’m falling through the air again, frantically searching for anything to grab onto. I’m being swallowed whole and I had nothing to save me. I can’t see it but it felt like the ground was nearing, I braced myself waiting for impact.

```````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````

I wake with a start, almost gasping for air. Fuck, my head is pounding, everything still feels like it's spinning. A deep ringing in my eyes lingered. What happened? The last thing I remember was passing out after shaking Lucifer’s hand, then pain. Wait, Lucifer… Last night… So I’m not dead. Did it happen or was it all a dream? It felt so real.

I tried to sit up only to find a weight on my chest and my legs prevented me from stretching out my sore limbs, I could feel the rising and falling of their chests on my body. Something was gripping my hand. There was someone else in bed with me.

I can feel the panic setting in my chest, I can’t seem to catch a break this week. Groaning, I struggled to bring myself into a sitting position, stirring whatever had been resting on me. They were saying something but I couldn't hear what it was. I was blinded by the light that flooded the room, it took me a second just to get my eyes to focus on anything. When I could finally make out the room I had found myself in, I was stunned. This was not my room.

My eyes drift around the room. The space was large with a high ceiling. The walls were made of dark wood in contrast to the beds that lined the wall in front of me. There were about twelve of them all perfectly made and covered in light gray sheets. The windows took up the top half of the wall, they were lined with what looked like dark gray bricks that looked older than the rest of the room, spanning the length of the room. My eyes drift to the one that was in the center. It was the tallest going all the way from the floor to the ceiling and was made entirely of stained glass. The picture displayed what looked like Lucifer standing watch over those who were unfortunate to be there. It felt like he was looking directly at me. Stunned, my panic subsided for a moment at the sight. I began to take in my surroundings.

Realization began to dawn on me, last night wasn’t a dream. The events of last night play through my mind, Lucifer appearing, my mom and him telling me everything… My powers. It was all real. It did happen. Was this the Ministry Lucifer was talking about? What about what I saw before I passed out? My hands look the same as they always have. Besides the fact that I feel like I’ve been hit by a truck, I feel completely fine. I was so lost in my thoughts that I had completely forgotten that others were in the room with me.

“Signora, you’re awake” Gently one of the strangers spoke up. The hand that was gripping mine left. The comfort going with it.

Wait, that voice, I’ve heard it somewhere before. But that can’t be right.

Sitting in the chairs that had been placed by my bedside were two strange men. Two very handsome strange men. One was taller than the other, He was dressed in a black cassock. He held a look of concern on his face, his hair slicked back and was a chestnut color with streaks of gray throughout it. A thin line of a mustache rested above his lips. His eyes were adorned with black pain around them, but it was the color of his eyes that stood out. One eye was almost chocolate the other however was absent of all color only the black of his pupils was visible. It was hard to look away from his eyes, they held something so familiar about them, it felt like coming home.

The man sitting next to him had the same striking eyes, only one eye was a soft green instead of brown. They also felt familiar, almost beaconing me in, telling me never to leave. They stood out on his face, paint covering most of it resembling that of a skull. His hair was black and parted in the middle and was pushed out of his face. He was wearing what looked like tails, his face also had a similar look of concern etched onto his features. I couldn't tell if it was because I hadn’t fully processed what is going on or if it was them; but I wasn’t scared, just more confused than anything.

“What happened?” Cringing at my voice, it was coarse and incredibly dry. I would kill for some water right now.

“We were hoping you would be able to explain that.” The shorter of the two spoke, his voice hypnotic. He lifted his hand signaling over a lady who seemed to work there.

She was dressed in what looked like a habit, almost surprised to see that I was awake, “How can I help you, Papa?”

“Sorella, if you wouldn't mind fetching Sister Imperator, I’m sure she would love to meet our guest now that she is awake.” His eyes looked into mine, they were intoxicating, and I wanted nothing more than to get lost in them. He looked away a smirk forming on his lips, “And please if you could get our guest a glass of water.”

“Yes right away Papa.” Bowing her head as she turned to complete his request. I couldn't help but notice that there was a lift to her voice, almost as if she was flirting with him.

The other man rolled his eyes, shaking his head, “I suppose some introductions are in order.” he turned to look towards me, as he cleared his throat. “My name is Copia. I am a cardinal here. And this i-...” The other man interrupted him, a fond irritation forming on Copia’s face.

“Papa Emeritus iii, but you cara mio, may call me Trezo.” grabbing my hand, and placing a light kiss on my knuckles. I couldn’t help the heat that rose to my cheeks.

“(Y/N)” I was flustered by them, there was something I couldn’t place but I just wanted them near me. “Where am I?”

“You’re in the hospital wing here at the church. You’ve been here for close to a week.” Copia tried his best to lessen the news, an awkward chuckle escaping as he rubbed the back of his head. Something was enduring in his display. I would find it cute if it wasn’t for the bombshell he just dropped.

“A WEEK!” I shriek, out of the corner of my eye, I see the candles on the table beside me flicker upwards from my outburst. That can’t be right, how could it have been a week? It was just last night that Lucifer came to my home.

“Sì, you gave us quite the scare. The ghoul with you hardly ever left your side. We just convinced him to make himself home in the ghoul quarters.” Trezo’s voice seemed to always hold a carefree nature.

“How could it have possibly been a week? He said it would hurt not to knock me out for a fucking week.” My voice is quiet, I would have expected Lucifer to stay till after I woke up to at least explain what was going on. He had time to fucking do his little horror show before introducing himself, but didn't have time to at least tell me of anything else that now suddenly exists. I hardly even know where I am let alone what a ghoul is. Fuck this migraine is getting worse. Bring my hands up to rub my temples I groan.

The sudden force of Trezo’s hand on my thigh brought me out of my thoughts. My gaze snaps up to meet his as he rubs circles in a calming motion. There was something so familiar about his touch. It was something I never knew I could crave, I never wanted it to go away. Wait… what was I thinking. I had never met either of these men before in my life. Yet, as I looked between both of them and as they looked back at me… It felt like I had known them my whole life.

It was as if that thought had hit me like a train, “I’m sorry I don't want to seem rude, but why are you here?”

By the looks of it, they’ve been here for a bit. Trezo’s hair looked a bit messy so did Copia’s, their clothes were wrinkled. Their outfits made it seem like they were important parts of the church, surely they had other things to attend to. Yet here they were as if it was the only place they could even think about being.

“Well, that is a bit complicated, haha.” Copia began rubbing the back of his head, “ We were the ones your father entrusted to, or in a way we were. He appeared in the main cathedral just before dawn. Trezo and I were on the way to be ready for morning mass when he appeared with your ghoul. He left us with the message to make sure you are safe and taken care of till the time is right. He told us who you were, and rest assured you are safe here but there are still many questions that need answering, I'm afraid.” He was looking anywhere that wasn't me, it felt like there was something he was leaving out but I didn’t want to push it further. What did Lucifer mean by when the time is right?

So he also has time for cryptid messages. Good to know. Copia was right though, there were a lot of questions and I did not have the answers to most of them. I was just as in the dark as they were.

“You’ve caused quite the commotion, bella. It’s not every day we have newcomers, much less one that makes such an entrance. We’ve been taking turns sitting with you, waiting for you to wake up since you arrived. We didn’t want you to wake up alone in a strange place.” There was something earnest in the way Trezo spoke. I couldn’t help the blush that rose to my cheeks, whatever fear I had was gone. A moment of silence passed over us but it wasn't uncomfortable. We were taking each other in. There was something about them that pulled me in, and I couldn’t help but feel that they felt it too.

The rapid sound of footsteps approaching ruined the moment. The newcomers came rushing around the corner soon after, the sister from before following closely behind. The one leading the bunch was an older woman and two older men followed her soon after. The woman was the shortest of the three, hair gray with a stern look on her face. It looked like she never smiled. I’m not sure how the shorter of the two men was even able to keep up. He looked like one good gust of wind could kill him - his eyes were a milky white color. His face was done in a similar fashion to Trezo's. The tallest of the bunch had what looked like it was permanently stuck in a ‘don’t fuck with me’ look, he was baled and had a thin mustache on his face. He had sunglasses covering his eyes and was incredibly intimidating to look out… And they were all coming our way… Great.

“Sister, please. She has just woken up. I will not allow you to harass my patients.“ The Sister’s protests were hurried, but the new women did not seem to care. She was on a mission and would not rest till she had what she was looking for. This was gonna end well.

“Here we go '' Copia's soft remark confirmed my suspicions. The look on his face was one of annoyance as he punched the bridge of his nose.

Trezo tightened his grip on my thigh, providing a little bit of comfort. “Aww sister, lovely of you to join us. And I see mio padre e mio fratello has also decided to join you. Always a nice surprise to see you, Secondo.” The carefree nature he had when it was just the three of us now had a sharp edge to it.

I could see the eye roll from behind the tall guy's glasses, so he must be Secondo. Odd names to have, does that mean that there’s another sibling? The older man must be Trezo’s father. They came to a stop in front of the bed. The looks they gave me ranged from curiosity to displeasure.

It was as if both Trezo and Copia had done a complete 180. They both sat up straight, no longer relaxed. Their faces no longer held their smiles, instead replaced with hard stares towards the newcomers. There was a building tension in the room with each passing moment - A pit was beginning to form in my stomach. My anxiety came back with a vengeance.

“...Hello” Fuck, why didn’t I just stay quiet.

“It is good to finally awake. We were starting to fear that you weren’t going to wake up.” The older man spoke, “It’s not every day that the Antichrist shows up at our doors. I am Papa Nihil, I see the Cardinal and my son have been keeping you company. What is your name cara?”

“We do not know for certain if this girl is truly the antichrist” the woman was quick to correct Nihil, not even giving me a chance to give them my name. So she was the one I was gonna need to convince.

“Don’t be rude sister, she hasn’t even been allowed to give her testimony. Now, what is your name piccolo?” The taller man sounded bored, almost unbothered by the way the sister was acting. So this was normal then? Or was he just like that? I couldn't help but shiver under his intense gaze, he was terrifying.

“(Y/N)” it was hurried but I wasn’t about to back down, “now it's only fair I get everyone’s name.”

“Forgive me, I am Papa Emeritus ii. This is..”

The woman interrupted him, “Sister Imperator.” There was something in the look she was giving me I couldn’t place, but I refused to look away. I was not about to show my fear to her. Not after everything I had just been through. “Now why are you here?” a look of disdain falling onto her face with her question.

“Isn’t it obvious sister? (Y/N) has been entrusted to us, and she will be staying here as the dark lord has said.” Trezo cut in. There was something deadly in the way he spoke. While he still had his smirk there was something else under the surface of it.

“I would strongly advise against it, Papa. Some random girl shows up unconscious with a demon and a ghoul. Does this not seem a little strange to anyone else?”

“I am aware of the circumstances but I also was there, and so was the Cardinal. We know what we saw. There is nothing to question here regarding the legitimacy of who she is.”

“Who is to say this demon was truly our Dark lord?”

“Are you questioning my judgment Sister?”

“No, of course not. We do however have rules Papa, as you like to forget, these are very questionable circumstances. We should be thorough with our questioning before blindly making a decision.”

I feel like I should interject, this has been going on for a minute and it didn’t seem like either was going to back down. It was almost a display of power, to see who was truly in charge here. No one seemed to give it much thought. did this happen often then? I took a breath sitting up more, ready to make my case but I was beaten to it.

“Perhaps we should allow her to tell us what happened, there is still more to this story that we don’t have answers to.” Copia broke through their bickering, gesturing to me to begin my story.

I hesitate, meeting Copia’s eyes offering me the slightest bit of reassurance. He nodded telling me to speak.

“Well… It all started when…” The events of that night spilled from my lips as I explained what had happened. I left no detail out: I had told them of what had happened the night before, how Lucifer had appeared in my apartment. I told them what Lucifer had told me, about how I needed to learn to control my abilities, and how it was unsafe for me to be in the open anymore. There was a moment of silence after I finished, everyone seemed to have their thoughts on the matter.

�� “And what proof do you have on the matter?” Imperator’s voice was cold like ice, still not convinced by my account.

“Is what Papa and I saw not proof enough in the matter Sister?” Copia questioned, coming to my defense.

“This is not the first time someone has shown up on our doorstep claiming to be the Antichrist, nor will it be the last, Cardinal. There has already been a rise in supernatural activity around the world. Even if one of her parents were of supernatural descent, she will only be a beacon to those who don’t much care for what we represent. It is incredibly foolish to allow her to stay here unless it is truly the wishes of Lucifer himself.” She was quick to shoot him down, I could feel a twitch of anger forming in my chest at the way she spoke to him. Deep breaths calm down and remember what Lucifer said, I need to keep calm.

“Yes but sister, this is the first that an actual demon has brought its offspring to us. That cannot be a mere coincidence.” Secundo interrupted her, still looking deep in thought. “I don't doubt her story, the signs have been clear for quite some time. She has been sent here for a reason. I am more than willing to teach her but it will be no easy feat. I don't believe there is much choice in the matter. I have only heard stories of what happens to those like her if left to their own devices. They never end well.” There was little emotion in his voice as he spoke. Trezo and Copia seemed to go stiff at his warning.

“He does have a point, Sistor, the circumstances are extraordinary.” Nihil finally spoke up, looking towards Imperator.

“Yes but what of the safety of the abbey?” Sister Imperator's response was impatient, almost not looking for an answer. Her stance dared anyone to challenge her.

It was Trezo who spoke up “We have more than enough keeping us protected Sister, if need be we can put more ghouls around the place, more protection markings around the Abbey. We cannot just kick her out with no real way to protect her.”

“Her presence here would only further put a target on our back. She cannot stay here.” she dismissed him with a wave of her hand.

Trezo stood from his chair, his patience finally leaving him. His hand left its place on my thigh. “I’d watch your tone with me. Need I remind you, Sister I am Papa, I am the one who’s in charge here not you.” His aura was dangerous, he was the complete opposite of the man who I had just met. If it wasn't for the circumstances the change would have left me feeling a completely different way.

Copia stands from his chair to stand behind Trezo, gently grabbing his shoulder, “Trezo…” It was a warning, telling him to calm down before this escalated further. Trezo relaxed slightly but his body remained rigid, ready to jump to my defense at any moment.

Imperator refusing to back down. “And I will tell you that it is foolish to jeopardize everything based on what some halfbreed is telling us.” Her words were cold and full of venom, I was taken aback by her words. What did she just call me?

This is the match that finally sparked the argument. Chaos started to erupt around me as I looked on helplessly. Everyone was yelling at the other trying to get their point across, even Copia had joined in on the yelling. The pressure that had been growing in my chest only seemed to be getting harder to push down. The only one truly opposed to me staying being Imperator. Secondo said I could learn to control this, he would make sure of it. I haven’t even been here long enough to cause any issues but Imperator was determined to ensure that I would not stay there.

It was getting too much. I feel like I can’t breathe, everything is just too loud. I can feel my heart hammering out of my chest, my breathing was starting to come out in quick irregular breaths. This needs to stop, everyone needs to shut up. I just need it to be quiet so I can think. The rising pressure grows with each passing moment.

The windows around me begin the rattle, I can see the fire in the room beginning to rise with my breathing. Ooh no. I hadn’t even noticed the chaos around me quieting. “Bella, are you alright?” Copia’s voice breaks through my breakdown, hand coming to gently rest on my arm.

The pressure in me finally snapped, I could feel the pulse that went through me. The shattering of glass filled the room as well as the groans of the gathering around me. All of the windows had been shattered excluding the stained glass of Lucifer, his eyes feeling as if they were baring into my soul. The candles still standing as if nothing happened, the flames hanging high in the air. The force of the blast sent everyone to the ground, excluding Copia who had been pushed into the wall behind us. There was a shift in the air as everyone began to stand to their feet. They all held their look of shock, almost not sure how to react to what just happened.

"As I said Sister, this is no ordinary case. If what myself and the Cardinal saw is not proof enough for you then surely that was.” Trezo’s voice grew colder with every word he spoke, his eyes bored into the sister, “She will be staying here. Secondo will see to her training. And we will do everything in our power to make sure she is safe. It is Lucifer’s command as it is mine. Have I made myself clear?” He was no longer the carefree man I had met moments earlier, no, Trezo’s voice held venom to it and a commanding aura had taken over him. He was a man of power and he knew it, he was no longer playing this game.

Her icy staring turned to meet me. If looks could kill, I would be dead. “Yes, very clear your eminence.” Still holding the same chilling voice, bowing slightly before she stormed out of the room. Barking to the siblings that had come to see what all the noise was about to clean up the mess, completely disappearing from view.

“Welcome to the Satanic Church, your grace.” Nihil's hoarse welcome did little to ease the tension in the room, he smiled before he began his journey back to the depths of the Abbey. At this point the room was filling with other members of the clergy, all wondering what the

“Looks like I will have work cut out for me.” Secundo chuckled, a ghost of a smile on his face as he turned to leave. “We begin Monday morning, I expect you in my office by the time the morning bells finish ringing. Don’t be late.” Shooting a pointed look that sent shivers down my spine before exiting the room. Why does he have to be so scary?

I fell back into bed, I didn’t realize how exhausted I still was. The room was getting incredibly loud and my head still felt like it was spinning. The reality of the situation is finally dawning on me. What have I gotten myself into?

As if sensing my discomfort, Copia grabs my hand, rubbing soothing circles into the skin, “If you would like to sleep, you should. We can give you some space bella ragazza.” He nodded toward Trezo, as they both began to leave.

I don’t know what came over me but my hand shot up to grab his arm, stopping him before either of them could get too far. “No. Stay. Please. I just really don’t want to be alone right now.” They shared a look of surprise, neither went to leave but they didn't say anything either.

“I completely understand if you have other things to attend to. You don't even know me. I’m sorry, that was probably a dumb request.” I stammer out trying to backtrack.

“Of course, we will stay.” Trezo cut me off, a genuine smile gracing his lips. “If you will excuse me for just a moment. The job does come with some perks sometimes” He winked as he began to disperse the growing crowd. Copia took his place back in his seat, going back to rubbing circles on my hand. My heart fluttered as a soft smile formed on my face.

Maybe this wasn’t so bad.

Translations:

Te l'avevo già detto che non avrei fatto parte delle tue idee a metà, idiota! - I already told you I wouldn't be tricked into your half thought ideas, idiot!

Piccolo topo - Little Mouse

il mio tesoro - My treasure

cara mio - my dear

Bella - pretty

mio padre e mio fratello - my father and brother

Cara - Dear

Piccolo - little one

bella ragazza - beautiful girl

9 notes · View notes

theratboyking · 1 year

Text

Softly Into The Night

Chapter Five: The Neon God They Made

Pairing: Cardinal Copia/Reader/Papa Emeritus iii (this will also have eventual Copia/Terzo but that won't be for a while)(This is also a slow burn so it's gonna be a while until we even get here)

Word Count: 3.4k

Chapter Summary: “Fine, you chose the hard way.” He clears his throat. Snapping his fingers, the book I had been holding springs to life. The pages fly open as he brings his staff to the grown. His white eye starts to glow. “Now, you will fight me like your life depends on it. I am your enemy in these moments, and I will not stop until you cannot fight anymore.”

Warnings: 18+ (this is going to get be a wild ride folks,) Slow burn, Idiots in love, kinda soulmates? poorly translated Italian (I am sorry to all the Italians out there) fluff, angst, this is a ghost fic so you know religious trauma, some chapters will like get kinda deep in the religious philosophy but maybe not depending on the direction this goes, eventual smut (Chapter will be labeled)

AO3 Link Masterlist

<- Previous Next ->

“We’re going to try something different today.” Secondo’s voice echoed around the halls. He wasn’t wearing his usual robes. Instead, he was dressed in a white button-up shirt and black slacks. He had his sleeves rolled up, exposing the tattoos on his arms. He was carrying his staff in one arm. He was moving with little urgency, but I was a nervous wreck.

This morning started with me receiving a rather large book shoved into my arms by a waiting Secondo and very little explanation of where we were going. In fact, this was the first thing he had said to me since I made it to his office door this morning. I started to fear that he was finally sick of me being late.

“Can I ask where we’re going?”

My arms were starting to hurt from just how heavy this book was. It was well-loved, as if it was out of someone’s personal collection. There wasn’t a title, but it looked old and essential.

“The graveyard.” He said it so nonchalantly.

I stubble over my steps, almost falling. “I’m sorry, what?” So this was it, wasn’t it? So this was how I was going to die.

“Calm down; I’m not going to kill you,” He cast me a sideways glance. “ Mio fratello avrebbe avuto una crisi, per non parlare del cardinale.” I really need to learn Italian…

I gulp–my grip on the book only tightens. I didn’t even know that there was a graveyard. What would we even be doing down there? Why were we even going to the cemetery, of all places? I could feel a pit forming in my stomach, one I hadn’t felt in quite a while. I take an uneasy breath.

The large doors at the front of the Abbey came into view. Each step is met with the pounding of my heart. I couldn’t tell you, but I had a sinking feeling in my stomach. It felt like I would fall into it if I weren’t careful.

The blinding afternoon mid-April sun nearly blinded me. The forest surrounding the Abbey seemed to breathe with each passing breeze. The feeling wasn’t going away; if anything, it was getting worse. We were only getting closer to the forest.

“We will be back before sundown. Others know this and will not come looking for us until then. Do you understand?”

My breathing was picking up, but I nodded my head nonetheless. I have an awful feeling about this. This isn't going to end well. The sound of snapping thighs and crushed leaves echo in my ears. They seemed so far away.

Up a little bit from the path was a clearing. A fence lined the outside; several large boulders lay near the entrance. Graves lined the grounds, some older than others. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see a mausoleum in the distance. There was an energy that radiated from this place. We were not alone; whoever else was still here with us was very old.

He continued despite me falling behind. His assurance from earlier didn’t do much to help with the ever-increasing sense of dread in the pit of my stomach. I picked up my pace so that I wasn’t alone. This place was beyond creepy; it felt like my every move was being watched.

He comes to a sudden stop. I collided right into his back, crashing to the ground.

“Throw something at me.” He was being so nonchalant with every word he said to me. I was left in a state of shock. I honestly really wasn’t sure how to react.

“I’m sorry, what?” I looked at him like he had three heads, slowly bringing myself to my feet. Was he looking for me to do something to have an excuse to kill me? But he said others knew we were out there.

“You head me, throw something at me.”

I slowly bent down to grab a stick before he stopped me, “No, not like that. Use your powers.”

“I can’t do that.”

“You can, now, do it.”

“I can’t throw something with my mind.”

“We can either do this the easy way, and you stop hiding from yourself, or we do this the hard way, and I won’t be so nice. We are running out of time here principessa, and my patience is running thin.”

I gulp, looking toward one of the smaller rocks in the area. Settling on the smallest I could find, I tried to do as he asked. I could feel myself straining, but it didn’t move. Despite my best efforts, the rock did not move. Finally, I could hear Secondo let out an exasperated sigh.

“Fine, you chose the hard way.” He clears his throat. Snapping his fingers, the book I had been holding springs to life. The pages fly open as he brings his staff to the grown. His white eye starts to glow. “Now, you will fight me like your life depends on it. I am your enemy in these moments, and I will not stop until you cannot fight anymore.”

“Now, let's begin.” The word came from all around. It was almost impossible to tell where he was even despite being right in my sight. The whole atmosphere changed with his words. A chill ran down my spine.

He lifts his staff, bringing it barreling to the ground. A thunderous clap sounded off throughout the graveyard. A ring of white and orange flames sprang to life around us, trapping me in here with him.

“You cannot run this time, Principessa.” It almost didn't sound like him anymore. A low rubble echoes around me, and I try to regain my bearings.

This had to be a test, a joke even. There was no way I could do this. Then, a bright flash of orange and red whizzed past my head.

Ok, maybe he wasn't joking.

I could hear him muttering something in Latin as another ball of fire missed my body. He really wasn't joking; I don’t even think this is the full extent of what he could do. How was I going to get out of this? What do I do? Do I run, or do I hide?

Running wasn't exactly an option; a wall of fire was blocking my way. I couldn't stay here, though; he wasn't letting up–I could take cover for a second so I could at least think of what to do. I make a run for it taking cover behind one of the gravestones. It’s not much, but at least it was something.

“Come on, do we really need to do this?” It did little to stop Secondo’s attack–continuing to throw the balls of fire toward the stone. Ok, think, what can I do to stop him? The heat of the fire was starting to get to me; sweat was falling down my body from either the adrenaline or just how much I was moving. I really wasn’t sure.

Fire, that’s it. Ok, focus. Remember what he taught you. I take a deep breath, trying to get something to happen. Focus.

I could feel my hands heating up. A spark was forming in between my hands. Focus. I can do this. Finally, a tiny ball of flames erupts in my hands.

“Yes!” I threw my hands up in victory. The ball of flames going with it. It flew towards Secondo, missing him completely and landing in the space beside him, leaving little more than a scorch mark on the earth.

Secondo turns his gaze towards my misfire. A dark laugh leaves his lips as I return to take cover behind the gravestone.

“Is that the best you can do?” He practically roared, throwing the ball of fire back towards me. I just barely managed to dodge it. “Do you think the enemy will go soft on you? Attack me!” He raises his staff once more.

“Stop it. I can’t do this.” I lift my head, peeking out to look at him. “You don’t have a choice. The enemy does not care what you can and can't do. They only want you dead.” He paused for a moment. “Or would you rather they kill those you care about?” He points his staff to the side, his eyes turning to look in the direction, “Vide quid vult”

I could see two figures beginning to appear out of the corner of my eye. Terzo and Copia materialize out of thin air—a look of horror on their faces. Despite whom had summoned them, they still seemed utterly horrified by what was happening. They stood there motionless, only letting out ragged breaths; they looked like they couldn't move even if they wanted to

“Leave them out of this.” I could feel what little control I had left me. I seriously didn’t want to hurt him, but now I wasn’t so sure.

“They will not stop until you are destroyed. They do not care who gets in the way.” His eyes break from me, looking towards one of the large boulders that stood unmoving at the gateway.

“Praecipio tibi, ut tollas de somno tuo” Pointing his staff to the side, the boulder began to lift from the ground. He hurled his staff in the direction of my boys. The boulder follows his command.

“No!” I don’t know what came over me. It was as if time had stopped; everything was moving so slowly. My legs were moving without me having to think about it. I could feel every beat of my heart racing as I desperately tried to reach them in time. Reaching them just in time for the boulder. I brace myself for impact. All air left my body as the boulder rammed into my outstretched hands. It fell to the ground with little resistance.

Taking deep breaths, I looked behind me; they weren’t there. I could feel what little restain I had left me. I could feel my body changing. My gaze snapped to where Secondo stood.

Terzo and Copia stood by his side—the same look of horror present on their faces. Secondo looked utterly pleased with himself. He let out a dark chuckle; a smile was plastered on his face. This was the most alive I had ever seen him before. “Good! Now the real fun begins.”

I screamed–even that seemed to have changed into something monstrous. I couldn't recognize my own voice, but I didn’t care. Charging towards him at an inhuman speed, despite this, he still managed to dodge me. It only served to add fuel to my anger. I could feel the snakes Lucifer had put on my side burning with every move I made, but it didn't stop me. I couldn’t stop. I had to get to them.

Dodging every shot of fire, he threw at me with an accuracy I never knew I could possess. I make my way to them. I could feel an icy fire on my face, the cold air hitting me with how fast I moved. I was getting closer. The last bit of control I had left me as I let out one more demonic scream.

This was the only time I have ever seen him show true fear. The cockiness he had completely vanished from his face. His eyes had finally returned to normal. He sprints to where I have collapsed. “Prohibere!”

I could barely make out the feeling of him flipping onto my back. My vision faded in and out, and I couldn't hear the word leaving Secondo’s mouth. My head was pounding. I just wanted to close my eyes. Yeah. I should just close my eyes.

“Are you ok?” It was distant despite him being right next to me.

The world around me goes black.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Fuck, it felt like there was a boulder on my chest. I couldn't move. Darkness surrounded me–there was a ringing in my ears that didn't seem to want to leave.

“(y/n)...”

Where am I? Wait… The cemetery, Secondo… Terzo, Copia… The last thing I remember was Secondo screaming something. The rest was a blur in my memory. What exactly happened?

“(y/n)!”

Secondo? Why was he screaming? I think he’s screaming at least; everything feels as if I was floating through the clouds. My head was pounding.

“Are you there, principessa?”

I groan, the light blinding me as I try to open my eyes. “What happened?” I was in desperate need of a glass of water.

“You were beginning to lose control.” He turned his head to the side, looking towards the mausoleum.

The realization dawns on me, and with a small burst of energy, I try to sit up, “Terzo… Copia…”

“They were not real. Only illusions.”

“Oh…” I tried to sit up; my body, however, had other plans. The world around me began to spin; sighing in defeat, I lay back down. Secondo looked down at me. He looked lost in thought, a look of worry etched on his face.

“I may have gone just a little too hard on you.” He paused, looking anywhere else that wasn't me. “I should not have pushed the limits… I’m sorry.” It was so low I was surprised I heard it, and my head snapped toward him. I don't think I ever heard him apologize for anything before.

He looked like a lost kid, unsure what to do, let alone say. He let out a long sigh looking towards me. He offered me his hand. Helping me sit up before pulling a juice box out of his back pocket.

“Did you have that in there this whole time?” I ask, thankful for it. It took everything in me to not down it in one gulp.

“This isn't my first rodeo…” There was that far-off look

“What do you mean? I thought I was the first?”

“No. The first antichrist, yes, but not the first hybrid to have stayed in the Abbey.”

“Who was it?” I had to know. This was the most I have ever heard about this. I knew others had a demon parent, but to know there was another here was.

Secondo’s gaze moved back to the mausoleum for a moment before snapping back to me. He didn’t say anything, just looked.

“Come on, you can’t just say that and then not tell me!”

He seemed to hesitate but knew I wouldn’t stop until I got an answer. He sighed, “My wife…”

“YOU WERE MARRIED!?” I bolted upright, ignoring the pain in my head. I didn’t mean for it to come off like I was surprised. I was, however, beyond surprised to hear that Secondo, of all people, was married.

He only nodded, “She was the daughter of a ghoul and a man of this earth…”

“Well, where is she?” I could help but push more.

“She died a few years back…” A far-off look in his eyes.

“Oh…” There was a moment of silence that passed between us.

“Can I ask where we’re going?”

My arms were starting to hurt from just how heavy this book was. It was well-loved, as if it was out of someone’s personal collection. There wasn’t a title, but it looked old and essential.

“The graveyard.” He said it so nonchalantly.

I stubble over my steps, almost falling. “I’m sorry, what?” So this was it, wasn’t it? So this was how I was going to die.

“Calm down; I’m not going to kill you,” He cast me a sideways glance. “ Mio fratello avrebbe avuto una crisi, per non parlare del cardinale.” I really need to learn Italian…

“We will be back before sundown. Others know this and will not come looking for us until then. Do you understand?”

He comes to a sudden stop. I collided right into his back, crashing to the ground.

“Throw something at me.” He was being so nonchalant with every word he said to me. I was left in a state of shock. I honestly really wasn’t sure how to react.

“You head me, throw something at me.”

I slowly bent down to grab a stick before he stopped me, “No, not like that. Use your powers.”

“I can’t do that.”

“You can, now, do it.”

“I can’t throw something with my mind.”

“You cannot run this time, Principessa.” It almost didn't sound like him anymore. A low rubble echoes around me, and I try to regain my bearings.

This had to be a test, a joke even. There was no way I could do this. Then, a bright flash of orange and red whizzed past my head.

Ok, maybe he wasn't joking.

Fire, that’s it. Ok, focus. Remember what he taught you. I take a deep breath, trying to get something to happen. Focus.

I could feel my hands heating up. A spark was forming in between my hands. Focus. I can do this. Finally, a tiny ball of flames erupts in my hands.

Secondo turns his gaze towards my misfire. A dark laugh leaves his lips as I return to take cover behind the gravestone.

“Leave them out of this.” I could feel what little control I had left me. I seriously didn’t want to hurt him, but now I wasn’t so sure.

“They will not stop until you are destroyed. They do not care who gets in the way.” His eyes break from me, looking towards one of the large boulders that stood unmoving at the gateway.

Taking deep breaths, I looked behind me; they weren’t there. I could feel what little restain I had left me. I could feel my body changing. My gaze snapped to where Secondo stood.

“Are you ok?” It was distant despite him being right next to me.

The world around me goes black.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Fuck, it felt like there was a boulder on my chest. I couldn't move. Darkness surrounded me–there was a ringing in my ears that didn't seem to want to leave.

“(y/n)...”

Where am I? Wait… The cemetery, Secondo… Terzo, Copia… The last thing I remember was Secondo screaming something. The rest was a blur in my memory. What exactly happened?

“(y/n)!”

Secondo? Why was he screaming? I think he’s screaming at least; everything feels as if I was floating through the clouds. My head was pounding.

“Are you there, principessa?”

I groan, the light blinding me as I try to open my eyes. “What happened?” I was in desperate need of a glass of water.

“You were beginning to lose control.” He turned his head to the side, looking towards the mausoleum.

The realization dawns on me, and with a small burst of energy, I try to sit up, “Terzo… Copia…”

“They were not real. Only illusions.”

He looked like a lost kid, unsure what to do, let alone say. He let out a long sigh looking towards me. He offered me his hand. Helping me sit up before pulling a juice box out of his back pocket.

“Did you have that in there this whole time?” I ask, thankful for it. It took everything in me to not down it in one gulp.

“This isn't my first rodeo…” There was that far-off look

“What do you mean? I thought I was the first?”

“No. The first antichrist, yes, but not the first hybrid to have stayed in the Abbey.”

“Who was it?” I had to know. This was the most I have ever heard about this. I knew others had a demon parent, but to know there was another here was.

Secondo’s gaze moved back to the mausoleum for a moment before snapping back to me. He didn’t say anything, just looked.

“Come on, you can’t just say that and then not tell me!”

He seemed to hesitate but knew I wouldn’t stop until I got an answer. He sighed, “My wife…”

He only nodded, “She was the daughter of a ghoul and a man of this earth…”

“Well, where is she?” I could help but push more.

“She died a few years back…” A far-off look in his eyes.

“Oh…” There was a moment of silence that passed between us.

“How?” I should stop talking, but I could not help but want to know. She was like me… That was the most I have ever gotten to help explain what I am, and if I could get more out of him, then maybe I should press a little bit more.

“A rogue angel took her from me…” His voice was unsettlingly even, but there was a fire in his eyes. It was an anger I had never seen before, not in him.

The air around us had changed. It was as if the very spirits themselves were angry. I shudder; I don't know what I should say. The tension in the air was thick.

“She died in my arms.” he finally whispered, staring at the mausoleum once more. If I didn't know any better, it almost looked like he had tears in his eyes. They were glossed over like he was in a different, much simpler time.

“Are you ok?” I ask, my hand coming to rest on his shoulder.

This seemed to snap him out of it. He turns to look at the hand, letting out a rather long sigh. “To be completely honest with you, no. But it gets easier with time, or at least that’s what they tell me. Love is a blessing and a curse. Yet I would do it all again if I could just hold her one more time.”

I stared at him dumbfounded. I don't know what to say. We stayed like this for a while, his words repeating in my mind. Maybe I was in more danger than I thought I was. I didn’t even know angels were able to kill others. Not only that, but what does that mean for me?

I couldn’t tell you how long we sat like that. We were both in our little worlds, our thoughts racing. I glanced over at him to see him staring at the ground. I bring my hand to his shoulder, breaking him from his thoughts. He snaps his head up to look at me. I offer him a smile–one he does not return. His once-tense body relaxes under my touch as he lets out a long, drawn-out breath.

“We should start heading back. I’m sure mio fratello and the cardinal are wondering where we are.” He finally said, looking towards the sky. The sun was beginning to set– the light was leaving the graveyard, and an ominous glow was beginning to cast itself around the grounds.

The walk back was, for the most part, quiet. Secondo led the way, his staff clicking with every step he took.

“You remind me a lot of her.” He finally broke the silence. “Both of you were stubborn beyond belief; you never know when to quit. It’s something that I admire about you principessa.”

“Who are you, and what have you done with Secondo.” I retort, not really sure what to say. He was doing a good job of throwing me for a loop today. “I never exactly took you for one to fall in love. You really give the silence suffering alone kinda type.”

“I never thought I would until I found her. She called me out on many of my behaviors and brought out the best in me. I don't think we would have this conversation right now if it wasn't for her.”

“I figure you would take love for weakness,” I mutter.

“Love is not a weakness. You are not weak for being in love–it makes you all the more powerful. Don’t forget that piccolo.”

I’ve never heard him talk like this before. He was genuine with his words; nothing was hidden behind them.

“Thank you for today. I don’t think I could do this without you.”

We were approaching the edge of the woods. I could make out two figures waiting for me. One was pacing back and forth, while the other looked like he was sitting down. A soft smile formed on my face as the realization dawned on me. Terzo and Copia were waiting for me. Dispute everything; they were still waiting for me, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.

My pace quickens as my thoughts race. What I had been feeling for them for months is now hitting me. I was hopelessly in love with them. I was in love with them and was scared of what that meant. Secondo’s words replay in my head. I trip over my feet, slowing up. My realization was still fresh in my mind.

As if sensing my hesitation, Secondo let out a soft chuckle–a similar smile made its way to his face, “Go to them.” He nudges my shoulder--throwing his head in their direction. I look towards him, a silent understanding passing between us. I turn my attention back to my boys. I took off to where they stood waiting—a new fire lit in my heart.

There really was no going back after today. I have too much riding on me. I was done hiding from myself. Now it was just time to stop hiding from how I felt.

27 notes · View notes