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Jan. 8th, 2013 02:27 am![[identity profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/openid.png)
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Title: Dinners in King Arthur’s Court
Recipient:
vulgarweed
Author:
puokki
Characters/Pairings: Aziraphale/Crowley, Dream (borrowed from Neil Gaiman’s Sandman), Lucifer (not borrowed but mine), Arthurian characters
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: Explicit sexual content involving wings, mention of incest (sticking to Arthurian canon)
Betas: garnetcapricorn (who corrected my grammar but all mistakes mine, of course, especially the last-minute revisions) and knaccfornerdiness on tumblr. Thank you both so much!
Word Count: 6,500
Author's Notes: Due to a mishap and some necessary retrofitted pinch-hitting, this story wasn’t originally written to fill any of your prompts, but I hope you still enjoy it. Happy Holidays!
Summary: Crowley and Aziraphale work at cross-purposes in King Arthur’s court, but Lucifer pays a visit and complicates things.
Dinners in King Arthur’s court were an absolute bore. Aziraphale had played his cards right enough to get an invitation to dine with other nobles but he was still a newcomer, so he was seated with the most unpopular of them. Aziraphale’s replies had become shorter and curter but Baron Callard still prattled on. When the entertainers started he sent a little thank-you to upstairs.
He felt a little guilty about it afterwards.
Just as Aziraphale blinked to change the course of the juggler’s knife so it wouldn’t pierce its human target, he felt a tell-tale itch. Aziraphale wrinkled his nose in irritation. He would have preferred more Baron Callard. Honestly, he would have preferred a staff meeting with Gabriel. Sighing, he rose discreetly from the table, confident that no one would see him go.
There was a high cliff not far from the walls of Camelot and Aziraphale managed to climb it with effort and was trying to catch his breath. The view was quite marvellous, especially then when the peak of spring had finally come around. Looking up at the clear sky, he could make out a flying spot of red approaching. Just before it’d have collided with him, Aziraphale took a step left. The creature landed gracefully and turned to him.
“Hello, angel”, said Crowley, giving his wings a lazy flap. His black hair was a mess from flying and he looked exhilarated, though his expression was quickly schooled into nonchalance. He would look infinitely more pleasant if he smiled more, Aziraphale observed absent-mindedly.
“I’d say welcome expect you are not.” Aziraphale paused and gave Crowley’s clothes, a red ankle-length tunic, a critical glance. He tried to conjure a smile. “You were in India? Lovely weather there I’ve heard. Nothing like that here I’m afraid. You wouldn’t enjoy it at all, dear boy, better just to turn around fly straight back-“
Aziraphale was interrupted by Crowley holding his hand up.
“Nothing doing, Aziraphale. The boss himself gave me this assignment. Sorry I have to sabotage your valiant efforts here.”
Crowley peered down at the citadel and the town surrounding it. “If it’s any consolation to you, I’d have liked to stay there too. Much more civilised. But you know downstairs, no thought for job satisfaction at all.”
“I do not know “downstairs”, thank you very much”, Aziraphale replied a bit frostily.
“Now, don’t give me that face. Is that any way to greet old acquaintances? Tell me all about the last decade. Or better yet, don’t. I’ll tell you about how I overthrew the Guptas for Hephthalites and damned them all.” Crowley gave him a winning smile. Aziraphale merely huffed in response.
“So,” Crowley said, unfazed by Aziraphale’s disapproval, “shouldn’t we get going? I’m dying to see your new project. “
“If you must but I’m not helping you to get in.”
“No need. I’m good at getting in where I’m not welcome. Just watch and learn.” And with a wink Crowley spun around and started making his way downhill.
“Crowley, wait!” shouted Aziraphale and ran after the demon. Serpents, he thought. They should have never been given back their legs.
***
Unsurprisingly, everyone took to Crowley immediately. Well, everyone expect Merlin who dubbed Crowley as a spawn of underworld. He was right of course, but he really didn’t have a leg to stand on in Aziraphale’s opinion.
“That one is a nasty old bugger, isn’t he?” Crowley asked and gestured towards Merlin one evening as they strolled along one of the main streets. Those standing nearby shot him a nasty look as Crowley hadn’t bothered to lower his voice.
“Keep it down, Crowley. He’s respected in the court,” Aziraphale looked around them carefully and added, “though I can’t imagine why. He’s a horrid man. It’s completely unnatural, what he does.”
“So you don’t approve? From what I remember, your lot was never fond of sorcerers. Maybe that’s what you are doing here, trying to get rid of him and magic altogether. Am I close?” Crowley asked.
“Perhaps,” Aziraphale retorted, annoyed by how easily Crowley could read him.
“I suppose it’d be fair to tell what I’m doing here but then again, I don’t play fair.”
“I wouldn’t expect you to.”
“And again with the personal remarks. Honestly, I had hoped you’d have learnt some manners with all these knights around.”
“I fear the knights don’t have very good manners either.”
“No? That’s good to hear. Makes my job so much easier.”
Aziraphale sighed. “Let’s go for a drink, shall we?” he suggested and directed them to a tavern before he could give Crowley any more ideas. They had walked quite far from the better part of the town, so it wasn’t the most luxurious establishment they had visited. Then again, it couldn’t smell any worse than the streets did, so in they went.
“This place is a hellhole,” Crowley sneered as he was forced to bow his head entering the building, “and trust me, I’ve seen a few. Why can’t people get the hang of floors? I like floors. Floors are nice.” Aziraphale looked as Crowley spotted a rat running in the corner and gave small smile. Seeing his expression reminded Aziraphale how he was sometimes fond of the demon.
“And now when you’ve got the obligatory sarcastic comment out of the way, can we get down to business? Could you bring drinks here, there’s a good chap?” The keeper nodded mutely and didn’t return Aziraphale’s smile.
“We have business to settle? I thought this was merely a social dinner.”
Aziraphale dropped his smile. “Yes. I need to know what you are doing here.”
“And if that doesn’t go well with what you are planning? We duel and the loser gets going?”
Aziraphale gave a solemn nod. He was fairly certain he’d win as he had done several times in the past but he wanted to avoid that if possible. For some reason, he was growing bored with fighting Crowley. There had to be some other solution, something that would save them both time and effort. His thoughts were interrupted when the tankards were slammed down before them, spilling over some ale. Crowley took a gulp but wrinkled his nose at the taste. Aziraphale waited.
Finally Crowley sighed. “I already said, Aziraphale. I have to be here. But don’t worry, I won’t do anything too evil.”
“That’s hardly reassuring.” If they continued, the conversation probably would have ended in a pub brawl. Before they managed to gear themselves up for a fight, Aziraphale spotted a group of knights entering the tavern. He turned to Crowley just in time to see a glimpse of snake eyes observing their prey. Aziraphale flinched but the glamour Crowley had created slipped instantly back into place. He would have said something or ushered them out but as always, Crowley was too fast and the angel could only go after him and hope to prevent any further damage.
Crowley was already introducing himself when Aziraphale had managed to reach them. “And you must be the one who fought Maleagant. I heard them saying you are the finest of all the Knights of the Round Table.”
“You flatter me, Duke Crowley. I was only fulfilling my duty to my Queen.”
Crowley smirked maliciously. “Yes, I have had the fortune to have an audience with the Queen. She is a fair lady, indeed.”
“She is the fairest of them all, my lord. Camelot is fortunate have a queen so compassionate.”
“Certainly. But I must bid my leave of you now; my companion here has a kitchen boy waiting for him.”
The knights’ laughter followed them to the street.
“Must you be so horrible every time a possibility presents itself?” Aziraphale asked, exasperated.
“Yes,” Crowley replied, “but only because you would be disappointed otherwise.”
Aziraphale merely shook his head and hoped his amusement wouldn’t show. Crowley must have still noticed it in his expression, for he smirked. “That’s more like it!” he said gleefully but there was certain softness in his eyes. After a few steps, he slipped his hand into Aziraphale’s arm and Aziraphale let him.
***
Back in his quarters in the castle’s guest rooms, Aziraphale dismissed the servant sent to attend to him and sat on the bed, thinking. Crowley was being moderately agreeable but he wasn’t sure whether it would last. Perhaps it’d be for the best if he just got the demon out of the way first and then concentrate his efforts on Merlin. And he still didn’t know what Crowley was up to…
Aziraphale shook his head. Maybe he should approach Crowley again, this time in private. He knew how to make Crowley talk. Determined, he rose and tried to smooth his unruly hair. Aziraphale walked through the corridors, listening through the key-holes to determine whether someone was in. He had no idea where Crowley was located but he hoped he would find the right room before he walked in on any more questionable affairs. Finally he heard a familiar voice through the door. He touched the rusty lock and pushed the door only few inches open so he could peer inside. Quite luckily, Aziraphale realised, for there was a staff meeting of sorts taking place.
“And pray tell me, how is the King faring? I am ever so eager to see him with us,” said Lucifer. “But then again, that is the problem with human souls. You never know where they will end up. Though that’s not quite right, for it is, after all, Adonai himself who makes the decision in the end. The bastard.”
Lucifer’s smile didn’t fade as he assessed Crowley. A black silk cloak completely hid his body. Aziraphale couldn’t tell how tall he was or how he looked exactly; the only constants about him were a regal air and a burning gaze. This was how he had appeared in Heaven and just as then, Aziraphale felt forced to look away. His gaze stopped on Crowley who stared at the Morningstar with rapt attention.
“He has a kid with his sister and then commits an infanticide but he still fancies he is doing the right thing. But that’s life, I guess.”
“All men believe they are righteous in their mundane quests. That is the human condition. But then again, did we not believe in the purity of our cause when we took arms against our brothers in Heaven?”
Crowley didn’t provide an answer, only looked at the floor. He usually did that whenever the Fall was mentioned.
“Ha! But listen to me, I’m getting poetic.” Lucifer cackled loudly and wiped a nonexistent tear from his eye. “I do hope when they get around to writing epics about me they’ll have the sense to give me a quick tongue."
Crowley nodded, his eyes still on the ground.
“Don’t look so worried, little serpent. I only came here to observe how things among mortals are progressing. Though perhaps I should warn you that some of your superiors feel that your latest schemes haven’t been up to snuff but that’s very small-minded of them, of course. Also, I haven’t seen daylight in centuries and there is much going to and fro to do. You are just the first stop on my journey.”
“Sounds fun,” Crowley said, his tone as agreeable as Aziraphale had ever heard. “I was just in India. The weather was really nice, if that’s your kind of thing.”
“Yes, I think I’d prefer warmer climates this time. Your associates in Dis don’t appreciate the fires of damnation enough. After all, it is a cruel fate to be trapped in the frost and ice of the ninth circle. Be careful to never end up there, Crawly.”
Without a warning, Lucifer took Crowley’s hand and in a second he had a snake in his arms. “As you know, the ninth circle is for traitors and the lowest part of it is for those who have betrayed their masters.” Lucifer trailed his finger across Crowley’s scales. He seemed to grow and the strength of his aura burned Aziraphale. “And if you fail me on this task, I shall drag you there with me. I wasn’t kidding when I told you that you have displeased several demons with your clever stunts. Causing slight irritation doesn’t really count as demonic activity. Just think about eternity in Hell. No more daylight, no more pleasures. And certainly no more of your charming angel.” Lucifer turned, looked straight into Aziraphale’s eyes, winked and vanished, leaving a bewildered snake in his wake.
Aziraphale rushed to him. “Crowley! Are you alright?” he fussed. Soon Crowley was sprawled on the floor in a graceless mess. Aziraphale gently took his face in to his hands and forced Crowley to look at him. His eyes were yellow and haunted, his face pale and drawn. Aziraphale’s touch lingered until Crowley seemed to pull himself together and shook Aziraphale’s hands off.
“Still want to duel and send me on my way to the continent, angel?” Crowley spat. “Because if you do, I will be out of your hair forever. Must be a lovely thought.”
“Don’t speak such rot, dear boy,” chided Aziraphale sternly. “You must tell me what you are assigned to do.” He hauled Crowley up, led him to the bed and sat beside him.
“Oh, nothing important,” Crowley waved his hand airily, “just to make sure that Camelot will fall in disgrace.”
“And what about King Arthur?”
Crowley shot him a dirty look. “I don’t need to do anything about him. He’s damned himself well enough.”
Aziraphale hummed, thinking of a brave king who had led his men into many victories, never shying from the danger.
“So? What are you going to do with me?” Crowley asked edgily when Aziraphale remained quiet.
Aziraphale didn’t know.
They stared at each other for a moment. Crowley broke the silence with a bitter laugh. “So this is how it goes then? I get chained to a desk job and you get some nice new demon to get into fights with?”
“I don’t think you were offered a desk job there.”
Crowley snorted. “I know that. You really know how to cheer someone up, don’t you? I will miss that optimism of yours when I’m forced to listen to Brutus and Cassius for the rest of eternity.”
“Surely it won’t be that bad.”
“You think? I guess I’m needlessly feeling threatened when Lucifer himself is warning me.”
“He is the father of lies.”
“He is a scumbag. And, you know, not known for his sense of justice. His sense of injustice is fine, especially when it comes to himself.”
“Well that reminds me of someone I know.”
Crowley stared at him, looking betrayed. “I’m practically a saint when compared to Him.”
Aziraphale laughed. “That’s hardly saying anything.”
Crowley still looked peeved but chuckled softly with Aziraphale. “I guess it isn’t.” A silence descended again between them. Crowley stared at him silently, his eyes taking in every aspect of Aziraphale’s face. It looked like Crowley was memorizing him. He let out a shaky breath.
“Well, if this is it I should make the most of it, yeah? The last chance to carpe every diem?” There was a sudden intensity in Crowley’s expression that unnerved Aziraphale. They were sitting awfully close when he thought about it.
“Crowley, I really don’t think this is the moment you should be doing any rash decisions-” Aziraphale started to say when Crowley reached out and ran his fingers through Aziraphale’s hair.
“Err…”
“What do you say, angel? One last time before the curtain falls?”
There were hands cupping his face and he felt Crowley’s breath on his face. Crowley’s glamour had disappeared and Aziraphale stared into the yellow eyes. Aziraphale was sure it was a bad idea but he couldn’t bring himself to push Crowley away because Crowley was right: it could be the last time they ever got to do this and Aziraphale found himself to be quite opposed to the idea of losing him. Besides, there had always been a certain charm to Crowley when he wanted something.
“Think of it as a parting gift. Think of it as a kindness for all I care but-” before the demon could plead, Aziraphale leaned over and kissed him. Crowley made a pleased sound and they sat there for a while, pressing kisses on each other’s faces, necks and in Crowley’s case behind his ear. They let their hands wander and there was something fundamentally pleasing in that leisurely exploration, something gentle that was uncharacteristic to them. Usually they were rougher with each other, sharing a bed being only another kind of fight but perhaps the time for fighting was now over. Still, Aziraphale began to grow impatient and tugged Crowley closer. Encouraged, Crowley crawled to Aziraphale’s lap and his touches became more demanding. Aziraphale slipped his hands on Crowley’s arse and pulled him closer. A soft whimper escaped Crowley’s lips.
Crowley had always preferred sleek bodies and running his hands over Crowley’s back Aziraphale could feel the muscles and suggestion of wings. Crowley brought his hands again to Aziraphale’s hair and angled Aziraphale’s head so he could deepen the kiss. When they drew apart after some time, Crowley looked searchingly at Aziraphale who trailed his fingers on Crowley’s face. The demon sighed contentedly and leaned into the touch. Then suddenly he froze and looked away from Aziraphale, obviously embarrassed. Aziraphale took his hand into his own and waited Crowley to look at him again. He smiled gently.
“Let’s take these ridiculous clothes off, shall we?” He gripped the hem of Crowley’s tunic and lifted it off, leaving a trail of kisses on the exposed skin. Crowley’s breath hitched. Feeling bolder, Aziraphale circled his tongue around Crowley’s nipple and continued downwards, kissing his abdomen. Aziraphale chuckled at the soft sounds he was making. Crowley opened his eyes to glare at Aziraphale and he felt Crowley’s legs tightening around him, hands gripping his arms.
“You are wearing far too much,” Crowley growled and took to unfastening Aziraphale’s belt. Aziraphale resisted the urge to still Crowley’s hand, and let Crowley to undress him. Crowley had to climb out of the bed to manage it and when he had got rid of their remaining clothes, he leaned over Aziraphale, hands on his thighs. Crowley mouthed gently across his throat while squeezing his growing erection. Aziraphale moaned and urged Crowley to go faster but his strokes remained slow.
“You like that? Or would you prefer something else?” And before Aziraphale could decide if that was an honest question or just a flirtation there were soft feathers brushing against his cheek, and opening his eyes he saw Crowley’s wings, impeccably groomed as always. Wings caressed Aziraphale’s face, brushed against his chest and inner thigh, tickled his calf. Crowley raised his eyebrows in question and Aziraphale nodded breathlessly. Crowley’s blush had reached his chest but Aziraphale was quite annoyed with how collected he still seemed to be, so Aziraphale gripped Crowley’s hands and pulled him on top of him. They grinded their hips together, taking full advantage of the friction caused by the movement.
Aziraphale trailed his fingers across Crowley’s chest and lower to his stomach, taking his time before taking Crowley into his hand. Moaning helplessly, Crowley buried his head in Aziraphale’s neck. His wings loomed just over Aziraphale’s face so the angel raised his other hand and smoothed the feathers gently until Crowley came with a soft cry. He slumped boneless against Aziraphale’s chest, wings lying low on the bed.
“Crowley?” Aziraphale asked when it seemed Crowley would be content to lie there for the rest of the evening. The nerve of some people, he thought, irritated.
“Just a minute, angel. Dammit, give a chap some time to recover.” Aziraphale sighed in satisfaction. Crowley lifted his head enough to draw Aziraphale into a messy kiss, biting his lower lip none too gently. Getting excited again, Aziraphale rolled them over and ended up straddling Crowley’s hips. He felt wings on his back, feathers caressing his spine, moving lower. He gasped as the other wing was positioned between them, sweeping the length of his cock. The soft touches teased him to the edge and he needed only a roll of his hips against Crowley’s stomach to send him over it.
“Thanks a lot for the favour,” Crowley hissed as he settled against Aziraphale to sleep. Aziraphale let him cuddle close but rose after Crowley’s breathing evened. He leaned over and planted a small kiss at now wingless shoulder blades before gathering his clothes. As he glanced towards the sleeping figure that looked oddly small and alone enveloped in the red sheets, he came to the realization that he might miss his adversary terribly when the time came. The heavy door groaned slightly when Aziraphale slipped out but Crowley didn’t stir.
***
The following days Aziraphale didn’t see Crowley much; the demon was either conversing with the knights and bribing their squares or trying to speak to the maids. He skipped dinners at the guests’ table where Aziraphale managed to converse with other nobles though his gaze often wandered to the royal family’s table. The king would frequently turn to his wife to make a private comment. They looked quite untouchable, even unreal when soft candlelight illuminated their features and the evening glow created haloes around their heads. If Aziraphale concentrated hard enough, he could hear the whisperings of destiny, a glimpse of the legends that would follow.
Aziraphale suddenly felt small and doubted he could get into the royal family’s circle before Crowley made his move. He wondered if it wasn’t time to take a shortcut.
Walking into someone’s dream was highly unpleasant, so Aziraphale avoided it if he could. Besides, the Dream Lord rarely let anyone disturb the stability of his realm without a penalty. Aziraphale didn’t see Crowley before anyone went to their chambers. He wasn’t sure that he’d wanted to. The angel waited for a few hours, sitting in the dark before lying down on his bed and closing his eyes. And then, for the first time in a century, Aziraphale dreamed.
The first thing he saw was the sea. He was standing on the shore and he knew behind him there would be blazing fire. This wasn’t a memory he liked to dwell on, so he stepped over the boundaries of his own dream and walked into the next, concentrating on Camelot and particularly on the Queen.
The dream he had entered seemed to be a good one; he thought he recognised the fields and hills from outside the walls of Camelot. Aziraphale looked around for the dreamer and spotted someone lying on the field, arms and legs outstretched, looking at the vast and impossibly blue sky. A short look told him this wasn’t the right dream so he prepared to leave it behind just as he heard a voice.
“Angel of the Eastern Gate, do not leave just yet.”
Aziraphale froze where he stood. He turned around, trying to look as imperial as he could though he feared it wasn’t much. Dream stood a few steps from him, dressed in a black robe which contrasted with his pale skin. His eyes held the mysteries of stars in them.
“Dream Lord, I hope you will grant me the permission to walk in your realm. I’ve a duty to perform.”
”You desire permission, yet you did not ask for it before you entered a dream not your own.” Dream seemed displeased and Aziraphale had heard stories about what happened to those who had crossed one of the Endless. He held his head high.
“I apologize for my breach of decorum but I feared if I didn’t act quickly, a demon would cause harm to my mission.”
“I know your companion, Principality, and I should not consider him a threat to you,” Dream said.
“You know Crowley?”
“I know everyone who enters my realm. He has always respected the rules you have broken.”
“Perhaps, though I shouldn’t think respecting rules was something he’d know how to do. I don’t know how well you know Crowley but he might endanger my assignment. I had wished you would appreciate the weight of my responsibilities.”
Dream was silent for a moment, his head cocked to side.
“Yes, I appreciate your duties. You are wise to remind me of that. Continue your journey then but do not touch the dreams of those not involved.”
“I thank you, Morpheus.” Aziraphale nodded and left, leaving the King of Dreams to his thoughts.
He ended up in a forest. The trees were tall and green enough to block out the sun but he couldn’t feel the chill in a dream.
Two people were standing close in the shadows, lost in each other. The other flinched when Aziraphale moved. As they came out cautiously from the shadows, Aziraphale recognised the delicate features of the Queen Guinevere and those of the knight Crowley had talked to earlier. The knight stood impassively, whereas Guinevere eyed him in confusion so they had to be in her dream. Aziraphale shook out his wings, preparing his speech in his head.
“Fear not, Queen Guinevere, for I am here to bring you a warning. There is a snake in your midst and it will bring destruction...” Aziraphale paused, considering the two figures in front of him properly for the first time. “But before all that poppycock, your majesty, could you kindly explain exactly why you are having an intimate dream about a knight of your husband’s?”
Guinevere had looked slightly baffled and very irritated when he had spoken but her expression changed to one of embarrassment. “You say this is a dream and surely it is, for I have never betrayed my king. But still you slander me, dream creature, when I only imagine a kiss with my beloved.”
“You are in love with this knight?”
“I am. He is the most righteous among them and I am sure he loves me. But the king would have our heads if he knew, so I will never know the sweetness of his mouth, the tenderness of his touch.” They both turned to look at the motionless knight. “But even if it brings us sorrow, I cannot regret it. Are you here to warn me, dream creature? For surely you are not an ordinary man but neither are you a fairy nor any other creature I know of.”
“I am an angel and I really don’t think I am your best choice when it comes to love advice, young lady.”
“I have never heard of angels but I surely will ask about them when I wake. But could you not hear me out, for there is no one else- I dare not speak of this while awake. In the court, the walls have ears and the king would know.”
“You are afraid of your husband?”
“Who wouldn’t be afraid of a man like that? He has slain thousands of men alone and would slay my beloved without regret if he was compromising my virtue.”
Aziraphale hummed in agreement, not really knowing what to say. An affair would complicate his mission as the King would not trust his wife and her judgement. Furthermore, Guinevere was his best hope for sabotaging Merlin since Arthur was less likely to take heed of a warning he had only heard in a dream. Also, the angel was quite sure he wasn’t supposed to encourage adultery.
“But is love not something sacred, something pure?” Guinevere pleaded.
Aziraphale looked at her wordlessly, thinking of Lucifer who Fell because he loved. Himself or God, no one knew. He thought of Crowley, terrified of being dragged back to Hell. There had to be something he could do for the demon, nothing too drastic of course, but something simple that could be overlooked. Perhaps this was what Crowley was hoping to achieve, something to wreak havoc in court… Guinevere looked hopefully at him and Aziraphale made his decision.
“Yes,” he said determinedly. “It surely is.”
It was the truth, per se, but Aziraphale still felt as he had lied. He knew Guinevere would take his words as a blessing and well, he might have meant them as such.
Guinevere sighed in relief. “I thought so too. I thank you, angel. I wish I could reward you, but I fear I don’t have anything to offer you here.”
“That’s very kind of you, but I don’t need any rewards.” Though it was nice to hear there was someone who approved what he had done. He realized with a sinking feeling she might be the only one. “I will go now and you’ll dream whatever you like best. Like you did before I came, I suppose.”
He forced himself out of the Dreaming, relieved that he didn’t meet any resistance. His expedition couldn’t have taken more than a couple of hours so there were only a few servants moving around in the castle. Aziraphale lay in his bed and breathed, waiting for the sun to rise.
***
The next few days, Aziraphale fretted. None of his superiors would be glad to learn what he had deliberately set in motion. The legacy of King Arthur was to be one of Heaven’s grander schemes, something that would incite awe and righteousness in those who heard the tale. But now Aziraphale might have destroyed that by encouraging Guinevere to recklessly sacrifice her comfortable life in search of something divine. It really was a miracle of sorts that he hadn’t already been called to a disciplinary meeting. He felt a twinge of something like hope. Perhaps helping the Queen to find some happiness had been an act of charity. Aziraphale was an angel, after all. In his mind, he could hear Crowley’s laughter.
Aziraphale sighed. Perhaps he should bite the bullet and be the one who contacted them. He contemplated doing just that for a few hours. But then again, perhaps it wouldn’t be the right thing to do. His superiors might be annoyed if he asked for retribution when they weren’t even planning on giving it. That was the right thing to do, he assured himself. He decided to look for Crowley before he could change his mind.
Aziraphale found his room easily enough now and had to send a giggling servant couple back to their duties. He straightened the sheets and sat on the bed. There were red smears on the stone floor that probably couldn’t be cleaned by any of the staff. Aziraphale tsked at the sight. Crowley was terrible at cleaning up his own messes, but surely he should be trusted to close portals he happened to open. Aziraphale raised his hand to erase it when it started to crack open, red light seeping through ominously. He lowered his hand slowly and covered his eyes. Then the temperature of the room rose slightly as he heard someone appear in the room.
“Well, look at that. An angel in a demon’s bed, that’s a sight for sore eyes,” came the drawling voice.
“Lucifer.”
“The one and only. And you are the angel who is distracting my agent.” Lucifer tutted and took a step towards Aziraphale. He was starting to wish he had never given up his sword. Sympathy hadn’t ever turned out well for him, it seemed.
“I’m the one who thwarts his plans if I’m able to- as it is surely intended.”
“Let me tell you, you two have done a lot of things that weren’t intended. But then again, who am I to know how it all pans out in the end.”
“Only He knows how it will end, but however it happens, you will be destroyed at the end of it,” Aziraphale reminded him.
“And all of the Fallen with me. Not such a pretty thought anymore, is it?” Lucifer smiled as he watched Aziraphale flinch. “Don’t worry, though. It might be your lot who’s eviscerated when it’s all over.”
Aziraphale opened his mouth to answer but then the treacherous thought pierced him. For the first time in his existence, Aziraphale thought of the option that Heaven might not automatically win when the time came. He might have gaped a little for Lucifer’s smile turned into a predatory grin.
“Yes, angel? You might want to switch sides when you still have time. Just think of it- Heaven’s mighty bureaucrats in the action. Your side doesn’t have the gut to win. And perhaps you won’t have it in you to slay even your precious demon.”
Aziraphale crossed his arms over his chest. “You can’t tempt me, Lucifer. Crowley knows better than to even try and he’s the serpent, after all.”
Lucifer just shrugged. “You can’t blame the old devil for trying. After all, I only got the third of the host with me.”
“That seems enough for you to get people to sin.”
“If it only was all my doing I’d call my job done but I’ve got to tell you something about humans. Sometimes, rarely, they manage to do it all by themselves.” And Lucifer laughed sharply as Crowley sauntered in. He stopped on his tracks as he saw both of them, looking from one to the other in bewilderment.
“Hullo,” he managed after a while. “What did I miss?”
“You are a scream, Crawly. The rest of eternity would be so much bearable if you were down there along with Judas and Brutus. They are such pills. They managed to kill those they couldn’t stand but are they happy? No! Instead they are endlessly waning how they regret it and it gets old real fast, let me tell you.”
“You mean you won’t take me there?” Something joyous appeared in Crowley’s expression and Aziraphale couldn’t help but worry that one day that optimism would just end up breaking Crowley’s heart.
“Oh yes, I needed to make one more stop here to tell you this before heading downstairs: Guinevere and Lancelot’s little agreement fits the bill perfectly. So keep up the good work or if you would prefer, bad work. And also your angel seems to be staying here, though I’m quite sure I should be allowed at least to take him as a console prize for what he did. Such a cruel world it is.” With that he disappeared and the last thing to vanish was his predatory grin.
“What just happened?” Crowley asked Aziraphale. “I didn’t expect the lovebirds to hitch up this easily.”
“They didn’t,” Aziraphale retorted. “You owe me, Crowley.”
“You did something?” And he’d be damned if there wasn’t something pleased in Crowley’s voice.
“As a matter of fact, I did. But don’t get excited because surely it was the right thing to do. She’d have suffered otherwise.”
“Sure it was,” Crowley drawled. “Don’t fret, Aziraphale. I won’t tell anyone you aren’t perfect. I even think I like it.”
Aziraphale frowned. “Remember what I said. You owe me a favour and I won’t listen to any complaints you might have about it.”
“We’ll see about that when the time comes. I don’t like putting my name on contracts I haven’t properly read.”
Aziraphale shot him a warning look but Crowley merely smirked.
“Let’s deal with it the next time, okay? I should be taking off soon- I have a long way to fly.”
“You are leaving so soon? Camelot is very nice in the summer.”
“I’m sure it is, but I know you don’t really want me around that long. Better I go before I outstay my welcome.”
“That’s never bothered you before. If I remember correctly, I’ve sometimes had to discorporate you before you got the hint.”
Crowley smiled ruefully. “We had fun this time, right? Let’s not spoil it.”
Aziraphale knew Crowley’s words made sense but he still wanted to protest. However, he only nodded and looked as Crowley’s face fell. Then he seemed to realize something and brightened up.
“I have to go tomorrow but I just remembered I’ve got to do something before I leave.” With that, Crowley slipped out of the door and left a confused Aziraphale sitting on the bed.
At least the floor was now unmarked.
***
The next day came and he saw no sign of Crowley anywhere. Demons and their promises, he thought as the sun began to set. Before the curfew bell rang, he went out for a walk and watched the bustle of people trying to finish their chores for the day. The sky was nearly dark when he finally saw a familiar figure strolling towards him.
“All hail Satan,” Crowley greeted him. There was a smirk on his face. Aziraphale just stared at him and raised his eyebrows minutely.
“I thought it’d be funny,” Crowley shrugged. “But whatever. I found what I was looking for and I bet my wings you’ll like it. It’s a girl. Not for you, obviously, I wanted you to like it. But just introduce her to that foul-smelling sorcerer, okay? She should make your life easier.”
“What are you talking about? Did you kidnap someone?” Aziraphale asked indignantly. “Really Crowley, I’m of course pleased you should try to do some good but I wish you would think it through properly before you do something like that.”
Crowley was rolling his eyes by the time Aziraphale finished. “First of all, I didn’t kidnap her. I’m not sure if I even would have been able to. Her name is Nimue and she is dying to meet Merlin. I told her you would fix up a meeting with him. She’s actually waiting for you in your room, so you’d better go to her before she gets impatient. I’ll be going then. Don’t get discorporated.”
Crowley saluted him lazily but didn’t make a move to leave. They stared at each other and neither seemed to know what to say.
“You’ll come back, won’t you? I think I will be staying here for a good while but you can always come visit me.”
“That’s not what you said when I came here.”
“That’s because I had time to remember how horrid you can be.” Crowley grinned but there was something unhappy behind it. “And perhaps I had time to forget how sympathetic you sometimes are.”
“You don’t need to say it.” Crowley scowled and Aziraphale couldn’t help but smile.
“Go on, then. I’ll see you in a few centuries.” Closing the distance between them by a few steps, Aziraphale took Crowley’s hand.
“Yeah. Bye, angel.”
With a final squeeze, they let go of each other. Crowley turned around and walked out of the courtyard, his heavy travelling cloak on his shoulders flapping behind him. Crowley had always loved making an overly dramatic exit. Aziraphale sighed, his thoughts moving to the woman waiting in his rooms. He knew she would probably solve his problem, for Crowley was nothing if not ingenious, but for a moment he didn’t care about that. Looking where Crowley had vanished, he felt a pang of regret. It could have been nice, enjoying the summer with Crowley since the demon was comically torn between wanting to bask in the warmth and wanting to keep his skin untouched by sun. He suddenly felt lonely. With a final glance to the skies he went back inside and consoled himself by thinking that Crowley would come back someday.
For some reason, he always did.
Recipient:
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Author:
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Characters/Pairings: Aziraphale/Crowley, Dream (borrowed from Neil Gaiman’s Sandman), Lucifer (not borrowed but mine), Arthurian characters
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: Explicit sexual content involving wings, mention of incest (sticking to Arthurian canon)
Betas: garnetcapricorn (who corrected my grammar but all mistakes mine, of course, especially the last-minute revisions) and knaccfornerdiness on tumblr. Thank you both so much!
Word Count: 6,500
Author's Notes: Due to a mishap and some necessary retrofitted pinch-hitting, this story wasn’t originally written to fill any of your prompts, but I hope you still enjoy it. Happy Holidays!
Summary: Crowley and Aziraphale work at cross-purposes in King Arthur’s court, but Lucifer pays a visit and complicates things.
Dinners in King Arthur’s court were an absolute bore. Aziraphale had played his cards right enough to get an invitation to dine with other nobles but he was still a newcomer, so he was seated with the most unpopular of them. Aziraphale’s replies had become shorter and curter but Baron Callard still prattled on. When the entertainers started he sent a little thank-you to upstairs.
He felt a little guilty about it afterwards.
Just as Aziraphale blinked to change the course of the juggler’s knife so it wouldn’t pierce its human target, he felt a tell-tale itch. Aziraphale wrinkled his nose in irritation. He would have preferred more Baron Callard. Honestly, he would have preferred a staff meeting with Gabriel. Sighing, he rose discreetly from the table, confident that no one would see him go.
There was a high cliff not far from the walls of Camelot and Aziraphale managed to climb it with effort and was trying to catch his breath. The view was quite marvellous, especially then when the peak of spring had finally come around. Looking up at the clear sky, he could make out a flying spot of red approaching. Just before it’d have collided with him, Aziraphale took a step left. The creature landed gracefully and turned to him.
“Hello, angel”, said Crowley, giving his wings a lazy flap. His black hair was a mess from flying and he looked exhilarated, though his expression was quickly schooled into nonchalance. He would look infinitely more pleasant if he smiled more, Aziraphale observed absent-mindedly.
“I’d say welcome expect you are not.” Aziraphale paused and gave Crowley’s clothes, a red ankle-length tunic, a critical glance. He tried to conjure a smile. “You were in India? Lovely weather there I’ve heard. Nothing like that here I’m afraid. You wouldn’t enjoy it at all, dear boy, better just to turn around fly straight back-“
Aziraphale was interrupted by Crowley holding his hand up.
“Nothing doing, Aziraphale. The boss himself gave me this assignment. Sorry I have to sabotage your valiant efforts here.”
Crowley peered down at the citadel and the town surrounding it. “If it’s any consolation to you, I’d have liked to stay there too. Much more civilised. But you know downstairs, no thought for job satisfaction at all.”
“I do not know “downstairs”, thank you very much”, Aziraphale replied a bit frostily.
“Now, don’t give me that face. Is that any way to greet old acquaintances? Tell me all about the last decade. Or better yet, don’t. I’ll tell you about how I overthrew the Guptas for Hephthalites and damned them all.” Crowley gave him a winning smile. Aziraphale merely huffed in response.
“So,” Crowley said, unfazed by Aziraphale’s disapproval, “shouldn’t we get going? I’m dying to see your new project. “
“If you must but I’m not helping you to get in.”
“No need. I’m good at getting in where I’m not welcome. Just watch and learn.” And with a wink Crowley spun around and started making his way downhill.
“Crowley, wait!” shouted Aziraphale and ran after the demon. Serpents, he thought. They should have never been given back their legs.
***
Unsurprisingly, everyone took to Crowley immediately. Well, everyone expect Merlin who dubbed Crowley as a spawn of underworld. He was right of course, but he really didn’t have a leg to stand on in Aziraphale’s opinion.
“That one is a nasty old bugger, isn’t he?” Crowley asked and gestured towards Merlin one evening as they strolled along one of the main streets. Those standing nearby shot him a nasty look as Crowley hadn’t bothered to lower his voice.
“Keep it down, Crowley. He’s respected in the court,” Aziraphale looked around them carefully and added, “though I can’t imagine why. He’s a horrid man. It’s completely unnatural, what he does.”
“So you don’t approve? From what I remember, your lot was never fond of sorcerers. Maybe that’s what you are doing here, trying to get rid of him and magic altogether. Am I close?” Crowley asked.
“Perhaps,” Aziraphale retorted, annoyed by how easily Crowley could read him.
“I suppose it’d be fair to tell what I’m doing here but then again, I don’t play fair.”
“I wouldn’t expect you to.”
“And again with the personal remarks. Honestly, I had hoped you’d have learnt some manners with all these knights around.”
“I fear the knights don’t have very good manners either.”
“No? That’s good to hear. Makes my job so much easier.”
Aziraphale sighed. “Let’s go for a drink, shall we?” he suggested and directed them to a tavern before he could give Crowley any more ideas. They had walked quite far from the better part of the town, so it wasn’t the most luxurious establishment they had visited. Then again, it couldn’t smell any worse than the streets did, so in they went.
“This place is a hellhole,” Crowley sneered as he was forced to bow his head entering the building, “and trust me, I’ve seen a few. Why can’t people get the hang of floors? I like floors. Floors are nice.” Aziraphale looked as Crowley spotted a rat running in the corner and gave small smile. Seeing his expression reminded Aziraphale how he was sometimes fond of the demon.
“And now when you’ve got the obligatory sarcastic comment out of the way, can we get down to business? Could you bring drinks here, there’s a good chap?” The keeper nodded mutely and didn’t return Aziraphale’s smile.
“We have business to settle? I thought this was merely a social dinner.”
Aziraphale dropped his smile. “Yes. I need to know what you are doing here.”
“And if that doesn’t go well with what you are planning? We duel and the loser gets going?”
Aziraphale gave a solemn nod. He was fairly certain he’d win as he had done several times in the past but he wanted to avoid that if possible. For some reason, he was growing bored with fighting Crowley. There had to be some other solution, something that would save them both time and effort. His thoughts were interrupted when the tankards were slammed down before them, spilling over some ale. Crowley took a gulp but wrinkled his nose at the taste. Aziraphale waited.
Finally Crowley sighed. “I already said, Aziraphale. I have to be here. But don’t worry, I won’t do anything too evil.”
“That’s hardly reassuring.” If they continued, the conversation probably would have ended in a pub brawl. Before they managed to gear themselves up for a fight, Aziraphale spotted a group of knights entering the tavern. He turned to Crowley just in time to see a glimpse of snake eyes observing their prey. Aziraphale flinched but the glamour Crowley had created slipped instantly back into place. He would have said something or ushered them out but as always, Crowley was too fast and the angel could only go after him and hope to prevent any further damage.
Crowley was already introducing himself when Aziraphale had managed to reach them. “And you must be the one who fought Maleagant. I heard them saying you are the finest of all the Knights of the Round Table.”
“You flatter me, Duke Crowley. I was only fulfilling my duty to my Queen.”
Crowley smirked maliciously. “Yes, I have had the fortune to have an audience with the Queen. She is a fair lady, indeed.”
“She is the fairest of them all, my lord. Camelot is fortunate have a queen so compassionate.”
“Certainly. But I must bid my leave of you now; my companion here has a kitchen boy waiting for him.”
The knights’ laughter followed them to the street.
“Must you be so horrible every time a possibility presents itself?” Aziraphale asked, exasperated.
“Yes,” Crowley replied, “but only because you would be disappointed otherwise.”
Aziraphale merely shook his head and hoped his amusement wouldn’t show. Crowley must have still noticed it in his expression, for he smirked. “That’s more like it!” he said gleefully but there was certain softness in his eyes. After a few steps, he slipped his hand into Aziraphale’s arm and Aziraphale let him.
***
Back in his quarters in the castle’s guest rooms, Aziraphale dismissed the servant sent to attend to him and sat on the bed, thinking. Crowley was being moderately agreeable but he wasn’t sure whether it would last. Perhaps it’d be for the best if he just got the demon out of the way first and then concentrate his efforts on Merlin. And he still didn’t know what Crowley was up to…
Aziraphale shook his head. Maybe he should approach Crowley again, this time in private. He knew how to make Crowley talk. Determined, he rose and tried to smooth his unruly hair. Aziraphale walked through the corridors, listening through the key-holes to determine whether someone was in. He had no idea where Crowley was located but he hoped he would find the right room before he walked in on any more questionable affairs. Finally he heard a familiar voice through the door. He touched the rusty lock and pushed the door only few inches open so he could peer inside. Quite luckily, Aziraphale realised, for there was a staff meeting of sorts taking place.
“And pray tell me, how is the King faring? I am ever so eager to see him with us,” said Lucifer. “But then again, that is the problem with human souls. You never know where they will end up. Though that’s not quite right, for it is, after all, Adonai himself who makes the decision in the end. The bastard.”
Lucifer’s smile didn’t fade as he assessed Crowley. A black silk cloak completely hid his body. Aziraphale couldn’t tell how tall he was or how he looked exactly; the only constants about him were a regal air and a burning gaze. This was how he had appeared in Heaven and just as then, Aziraphale felt forced to look away. His gaze stopped on Crowley who stared at the Morningstar with rapt attention.
“He has a kid with his sister and then commits an infanticide but he still fancies he is doing the right thing. But that’s life, I guess.”
“All men believe they are righteous in their mundane quests. That is the human condition. But then again, did we not believe in the purity of our cause when we took arms against our brothers in Heaven?”
Crowley didn’t provide an answer, only looked at the floor. He usually did that whenever the Fall was mentioned.
“Ha! But listen to me, I’m getting poetic.” Lucifer cackled loudly and wiped a nonexistent tear from his eye. “I do hope when they get around to writing epics about me they’ll have the sense to give me a quick tongue."
Crowley nodded, his eyes still on the ground.
“Don’t look so worried, little serpent. I only came here to observe how things among mortals are progressing. Though perhaps I should warn you that some of your superiors feel that your latest schemes haven’t been up to snuff but that’s very small-minded of them, of course. Also, I haven’t seen daylight in centuries and there is much going to and fro to do. You are just the first stop on my journey.”
“Sounds fun,” Crowley said, his tone as agreeable as Aziraphale had ever heard. “I was just in India. The weather was really nice, if that’s your kind of thing.”
“Yes, I think I’d prefer warmer climates this time. Your associates in Dis don’t appreciate the fires of damnation enough. After all, it is a cruel fate to be trapped in the frost and ice of the ninth circle. Be careful to never end up there, Crawly.”
Without a warning, Lucifer took Crowley’s hand and in a second he had a snake in his arms. “As you know, the ninth circle is for traitors and the lowest part of it is for those who have betrayed their masters.” Lucifer trailed his finger across Crowley’s scales. He seemed to grow and the strength of his aura burned Aziraphale. “And if you fail me on this task, I shall drag you there with me. I wasn’t kidding when I told you that you have displeased several demons with your clever stunts. Causing slight irritation doesn’t really count as demonic activity. Just think about eternity in Hell. No more daylight, no more pleasures. And certainly no more of your charming angel.” Lucifer turned, looked straight into Aziraphale’s eyes, winked and vanished, leaving a bewildered snake in his wake.
Aziraphale rushed to him. “Crowley! Are you alright?” he fussed. Soon Crowley was sprawled on the floor in a graceless mess. Aziraphale gently took his face in to his hands and forced Crowley to look at him. His eyes were yellow and haunted, his face pale and drawn. Aziraphale’s touch lingered until Crowley seemed to pull himself together and shook Aziraphale’s hands off.
“Still want to duel and send me on my way to the continent, angel?” Crowley spat. “Because if you do, I will be out of your hair forever. Must be a lovely thought.”
“Don’t speak such rot, dear boy,” chided Aziraphale sternly. “You must tell me what you are assigned to do.” He hauled Crowley up, led him to the bed and sat beside him.
“Oh, nothing important,” Crowley waved his hand airily, “just to make sure that Camelot will fall in disgrace.”
“And what about King Arthur?”
Crowley shot him a dirty look. “I don’t need to do anything about him. He’s damned himself well enough.”
Aziraphale hummed, thinking of a brave king who had led his men into many victories, never shying from the danger.
“So? What are you going to do with me?” Crowley asked edgily when Aziraphale remained quiet.
Aziraphale didn’t know.
They stared at each other for a moment. Crowley broke the silence with a bitter laugh. “So this is how it goes then? I get chained to a desk job and you get some nice new demon to get into fights with?”
“I don’t think you were offered a desk job there.”
Crowley snorted. “I know that. You really know how to cheer someone up, don’t you? I will miss that optimism of yours when I’m forced to listen to Brutus and Cassius for the rest of eternity.”
“Surely it won’t be that bad.”
“You think? I guess I’m needlessly feeling threatened when Lucifer himself is warning me.”
“He is the father of lies.”
“He is a scumbag. And, you know, not known for his sense of justice. His sense of injustice is fine, especially when it comes to himself.”
“Well that reminds me of someone I know.”
Crowley stared at him, looking betrayed. “I’m practically a saint when compared to Him.”
Aziraphale laughed. “That’s hardly saying anything.”
Crowley still looked peeved but chuckled softly with Aziraphale. “I guess it isn’t.” A silence descended again between them. Crowley stared at him silently, his eyes taking in every aspect of Aziraphale’s face. It looked like Crowley was memorizing him. He let out a shaky breath.
“Well, if this is it I should make the most of it, yeah? The last chance to carpe every diem?” There was a sudden intensity in Crowley’s expression that unnerved Aziraphale. They were sitting awfully close when he thought about it.
“Crowley, I really don’t think this is the moment you should be doing any rash decisions-” Aziraphale started to say when Crowley reached out and ran his fingers through Aziraphale’s hair.
“Err…”
“What do you say, angel? One last time before the curtain falls?”
There were hands cupping his face and he felt Crowley’s breath on his face. Crowley’s glamour had disappeared and Aziraphale stared into the yellow eyes. Aziraphale was sure it was a bad idea but he couldn’t bring himself to push Crowley away because Crowley was right: it could be the last time they ever got to do this and Aziraphale found himself to be quite opposed to the idea of losing him. Besides, there had always been a certain charm to Crowley when he wanted something.
“Think of it as a parting gift. Think of it as a kindness for all I care but-” before the demon could plead, Aziraphale leaned over and kissed him. Crowley made a pleased sound and they sat there for a while, pressing kisses on each other’s faces, necks and in Crowley’s case behind his ear. They let their hands wander and there was something fundamentally pleasing in that leisurely exploration, something gentle that was uncharacteristic to them. Usually they were rougher with each other, sharing a bed being only another kind of fight but perhaps the time for fighting was now over. Still, Aziraphale began to grow impatient and tugged Crowley closer. Encouraged, Crowley crawled to Aziraphale’s lap and his touches became more demanding. Aziraphale slipped his hands on Crowley’s arse and pulled him closer. A soft whimper escaped Crowley’s lips.
Crowley had always preferred sleek bodies and running his hands over Crowley’s back Aziraphale could feel the muscles and suggestion of wings. Crowley brought his hands again to Aziraphale’s hair and angled Aziraphale’s head so he could deepen the kiss. When they drew apart after some time, Crowley looked searchingly at Aziraphale who trailed his fingers on Crowley’s face. The demon sighed contentedly and leaned into the touch. Then suddenly he froze and looked away from Aziraphale, obviously embarrassed. Aziraphale took his hand into his own and waited Crowley to look at him again. He smiled gently.
“Let’s take these ridiculous clothes off, shall we?” He gripped the hem of Crowley’s tunic and lifted it off, leaving a trail of kisses on the exposed skin. Crowley’s breath hitched. Feeling bolder, Aziraphale circled his tongue around Crowley’s nipple and continued downwards, kissing his abdomen. Aziraphale chuckled at the soft sounds he was making. Crowley opened his eyes to glare at Aziraphale and he felt Crowley’s legs tightening around him, hands gripping his arms.
“You are wearing far too much,” Crowley growled and took to unfastening Aziraphale’s belt. Aziraphale resisted the urge to still Crowley’s hand, and let Crowley to undress him. Crowley had to climb out of the bed to manage it and when he had got rid of their remaining clothes, he leaned over Aziraphale, hands on his thighs. Crowley mouthed gently across his throat while squeezing his growing erection. Aziraphale moaned and urged Crowley to go faster but his strokes remained slow.
“You like that? Or would you prefer something else?” And before Aziraphale could decide if that was an honest question or just a flirtation there were soft feathers brushing against his cheek, and opening his eyes he saw Crowley’s wings, impeccably groomed as always. Wings caressed Aziraphale’s face, brushed against his chest and inner thigh, tickled his calf. Crowley raised his eyebrows in question and Aziraphale nodded breathlessly. Crowley’s blush had reached his chest but Aziraphale was quite annoyed with how collected he still seemed to be, so Aziraphale gripped Crowley’s hands and pulled him on top of him. They grinded their hips together, taking full advantage of the friction caused by the movement.
Aziraphale trailed his fingers across Crowley’s chest and lower to his stomach, taking his time before taking Crowley into his hand. Moaning helplessly, Crowley buried his head in Aziraphale’s neck. His wings loomed just over Aziraphale’s face so the angel raised his other hand and smoothed the feathers gently until Crowley came with a soft cry. He slumped boneless against Aziraphale’s chest, wings lying low on the bed.
“Crowley?” Aziraphale asked when it seemed Crowley would be content to lie there for the rest of the evening. The nerve of some people, he thought, irritated.
“Just a minute, angel. Dammit, give a chap some time to recover.” Aziraphale sighed in satisfaction. Crowley lifted his head enough to draw Aziraphale into a messy kiss, biting his lower lip none too gently. Getting excited again, Aziraphale rolled them over and ended up straddling Crowley’s hips. He felt wings on his back, feathers caressing his spine, moving lower. He gasped as the other wing was positioned between them, sweeping the length of his cock. The soft touches teased him to the edge and he needed only a roll of his hips against Crowley’s stomach to send him over it.
“Thanks a lot for the favour,” Crowley hissed as he settled against Aziraphale to sleep. Aziraphale let him cuddle close but rose after Crowley’s breathing evened. He leaned over and planted a small kiss at now wingless shoulder blades before gathering his clothes. As he glanced towards the sleeping figure that looked oddly small and alone enveloped in the red sheets, he came to the realization that he might miss his adversary terribly when the time came. The heavy door groaned slightly when Aziraphale slipped out but Crowley didn’t stir.
***
The following days Aziraphale didn’t see Crowley much; the demon was either conversing with the knights and bribing their squares or trying to speak to the maids. He skipped dinners at the guests’ table where Aziraphale managed to converse with other nobles though his gaze often wandered to the royal family’s table. The king would frequently turn to his wife to make a private comment. They looked quite untouchable, even unreal when soft candlelight illuminated their features and the evening glow created haloes around their heads. If Aziraphale concentrated hard enough, he could hear the whisperings of destiny, a glimpse of the legends that would follow.
Aziraphale suddenly felt small and doubted he could get into the royal family’s circle before Crowley made his move. He wondered if it wasn’t time to take a shortcut.
Walking into someone’s dream was highly unpleasant, so Aziraphale avoided it if he could. Besides, the Dream Lord rarely let anyone disturb the stability of his realm without a penalty. Aziraphale didn’t see Crowley before anyone went to their chambers. He wasn’t sure that he’d wanted to. The angel waited for a few hours, sitting in the dark before lying down on his bed and closing his eyes. And then, for the first time in a century, Aziraphale dreamed.
The first thing he saw was the sea. He was standing on the shore and he knew behind him there would be blazing fire. This wasn’t a memory he liked to dwell on, so he stepped over the boundaries of his own dream and walked into the next, concentrating on Camelot and particularly on the Queen.
The dream he had entered seemed to be a good one; he thought he recognised the fields and hills from outside the walls of Camelot. Aziraphale looked around for the dreamer and spotted someone lying on the field, arms and legs outstretched, looking at the vast and impossibly blue sky. A short look told him this wasn’t the right dream so he prepared to leave it behind just as he heard a voice.
“Angel of the Eastern Gate, do not leave just yet.”
Aziraphale froze where he stood. He turned around, trying to look as imperial as he could though he feared it wasn’t much. Dream stood a few steps from him, dressed in a black robe which contrasted with his pale skin. His eyes held the mysteries of stars in them.
“Dream Lord, I hope you will grant me the permission to walk in your realm. I’ve a duty to perform.”
”You desire permission, yet you did not ask for it before you entered a dream not your own.” Dream seemed displeased and Aziraphale had heard stories about what happened to those who had crossed one of the Endless. He held his head high.
“I apologize for my breach of decorum but I feared if I didn’t act quickly, a demon would cause harm to my mission.”
“I know your companion, Principality, and I should not consider him a threat to you,” Dream said.
“You know Crowley?”
“I know everyone who enters my realm. He has always respected the rules you have broken.”
“Perhaps, though I shouldn’t think respecting rules was something he’d know how to do. I don’t know how well you know Crowley but he might endanger my assignment. I had wished you would appreciate the weight of my responsibilities.”
Dream was silent for a moment, his head cocked to side.
“Yes, I appreciate your duties. You are wise to remind me of that. Continue your journey then but do not touch the dreams of those not involved.”
“I thank you, Morpheus.” Aziraphale nodded and left, leaving the King of Dreams to his thoughts.
He ended up in a forest. The trees were tall and green enough to block out the sun but he couldn’t feel the chill in a dream.
Two people were standing close in the shadows, lost in each other. The other flinched when Aziraphale moved. As they came out cautiously from the shadows, Aziraphale recognised the delicate features of the Queen Guinevere and those of the knight Crowley had talked to earlier. The knight stood impassively, whereas Guinevere eyed him in confusion so they had to be in her dream. Aziraphale shook out his wings, preparing his speech in his head.
“Fear not, Queen Guinevere, for I am here to bring you a warning. There is a snake in your midst and it will bring destruction...” Aziraphale paused, considering the two figures in front of him properly for the first time. “But before all that poppycock, your majesty, could you kindly explain exactly why you are having an intimate dream about a knight of your husband’s?”
Guinevere had looked slightly baffled and very irritated when he had spoken but her expression changed to one of embarrassment. “You say this is a dream and surely it is, for I have never betrayed my king. But still you slander me, dream creature, when I only imagine a kiss with my beloved.”
“You are in love with this knight?”
“I am. He is the most righteous among them and I am sure he loves me. But the king would have our heads if he knew, so I will never know the sweetness of his mouth, the tenderness of his touch.” They both turned to look at the motionless knight. “But even if it brings us sorrow, I cannot regret it. Are you here to warn me, dream creature? For surely you are not an ordinary man but neither are you a fairy nor any other creature I know of.”
“I am an angel and I really don’t think I am your best choice when it comes to love advice, young lady.”
“I have never heard of angels but I surely will ask about them when I wake. But could you not hear me out, for there is no one else- I dare not speak of this while awake. In the court, the walls have ears and the king would know.”
“You are afraid of your husband?”
“Who wouldn’t be afraid of a man like that? He has slain thousands of men alone and would slay my beloved without regret if he was compromising my virtue.”
Aziraphale hummed in agreement, not really knowing what to say. An affair would complicate his mission as the King would not trust his wife and her judgement. Furthermore, Guinevere was his best hope for sabotaging Merlin since Arthur was less likely to take heed of a warning he had only heard in a dream. Also, the angel was quite sure he wasn’t supposed to encourage adultery.
“But is love not something sacred, something pure?” Guinevere pleaded.
Aziraphale looked at her wordlessly, thinking of Lucifer who Fell because he loved. Himself or God, no one knew. He thought of Crowley, terrified of being dragged back to Hell. There had to be something he could do for the demon, nothing too drastic of course, but something simple that could be overlooked. Perhaps this was what Crowley was hoping to achieve, something to wreak havoc in court… Guinevere looked hopefully at him and Aziraphale made his decision.
“Yes,” he said determinedly. “It surely is.”
It was the truth, per se, but Aziraphale still felt as he had lied. He knew Guinevere would take his words as a blessing and well, he might have meant them as such.
Guinevere sighed in relief. “I thought so too. I thank you, angel. I wish I could reward you, but I fear I don’t have anything to offer you here.”
“That’s very kind of you, but I don’t need any rewards.” Though it was nice to hear there was someone who approved what he had done. He realized with a sinking feeling she might be the only one. “I will go now and you’ll dream whatever you like best. Like you did before I came, I suppose.”
He forced himself out of the Dreaming, relieved that he didn’t meet any resistance. His expedition couldn’t have taken more than a couple of hours so there were only a few servants moving around in the castle. Aziraphale lay in his bed and breathed, waiting for the sun to rise.
***
The next few days, Aziraphale fretted. None of his superiors would be glad to learn what he had deliberately set in motion. The legacy of King Arthur was to be one of Heaven’s grander schemes, something that would incite awe and righteousness in those who heard the tale. But now Aziraphale might have destroyed that by encouraging Guinevere to recklessly sacrifice her comfortable life in search of something divine. It really was a miracle of sorts that he hadn’t already been called to a disciplinary meeting. He felt a twinge of something like hope. Perhaps helping the Queen to find some happiness had been an act of charity. Aziraphale was an angel, after all. In his mind, he could hear Crowley’s laughter.
Aziraphale sighed. Perhaps he should bite the bullet and be the one who contacted them. He contemplated doing just that for a few hours. But then again, perhaps it wouldn’t be the right thing to do. His superiors might be annoyed if he asked for retribution when they weren’t even planning on giving it. That was the right thing to do, he assured himself. He decided to look for Crowley before he could change his mind.
Aziraphale found his room easily enough now and had to send a giggling servant couple back to their duties. He straightened the sheets and sat on the bed. There were red smears on the stone floor that probably couldn’t be cleaned by any of the staff. Aziraphale tsked at the sight. Crowley was terrible at cleaning up his own messes, but surely he should be trusted to close portals he happened to open. Aziraphale raised his hand to erase it when it started to crack open, red light seeping through ominously. He lowered his hand slowly and covered his eyes. Then the temperature of the room rose slightly as he heard someone appear in the room.
“Well, look at that. An angel in a demon’s bed, that’s a sight for sore eyes,” came the drawling voice.
“Lucifer.”
“The one and only. And you are the angel who is distracting my agent.” Lucifer tutted and took a step towards Aziraphale. He was starting to wish he had never given up his sword. Sympathy hadn’t ever turned out well for him, it seemed.
“I’m the one who thwarts his plans if I’m able to- as it is surely intended.”
“Let me tell you, you two have done a lot of things that weren’t intended. But then again, who am I to know how it all pans out in the end.”
“Only He knows how it will end, but however it happens, you will be destroyed at the end of it,” Aziraphale reminded him.
“And all of the Fallen with me. Not such a pretty thought anymore, is it?” Lucifer smiled as he watched Aziraphale flinch. “Don’t worry, though. It might be your lot who’s eviscerated when it’s all over.”
Aziraphale opened his mouth to answer but then the treacherous thought pierced him. For the first time in his existence, Aziraphale thought of the option that Heaven might not automatically win when the time came. He might have gaped a little for Lucifer’s smile turned into a predatory grin.
“Yes, angel? You might want to switch sides when you still have time. Just think of it- Heaven’s mighty bureaucrats in the action. Your side doesn’t have the gut to win. And perhaps you won’t have it in you to slay even your precious demon.”
Aziraphale crossed his arms over his chest. “You can’t tempt me, Lucifer. Crowley knows better than to even try and he’s the serpent, after all.”
Lucifer just shrugged. “You can’t blame the old devil for trying. After all, I only got the third of the host with me.”
“That seems enough for you to get people to sin.”
“If it only was all my doing I’d call my job done but I’ve got to tell you something about humans. Sometimes, rarely, they manage to do it all by themselves.” And Lucifer laughed sharply as Crowley sauntered in. He stopped on his tracks as he saw both of them, looking from one to the other in bewilderment.
“Hullo,” he managed after a while. “What did I miss?”
“You are a scream, Crawly. The rest of eternity would be so much bearable if you were down there along with Judas and Brutus. They are such pills. They managed to kill those they couldn’t stand but are they happy? No! Instead they are endlessly waning how they regret it and it gets old real fast, let me tell you.”
“You mean you won’t take me there?” Something joyous appeared in Crowley’s expression and Aziraphale couldn’t help but worry that one day that optimism would just end up breaking Crowley’s heart.
“Oh yes, I needed to make one more stop here to tell you this before heading downstairs: Guinevere and Lancelot’s little agreement fits the bill perfectly. So keep up the good work or if you would prefer, bad work. And also your angel seems to be staying here, though I’m quite sure I should be allowed at least to take him as a console prize for what he did. Such a cruel world it is.” With that he disappeared and the last thing to vanish was his predatory grin.
“What just happened?” Crowley asked Aziraphale. “I didn’t expect the lovebirds to hitch up this easily.”
“They didn’t,” Aziraphale retorted. “You owe me, Crowley.”
“You did something?” And he’d be damned if there wasn’t something pleased in Crowley’s voice.
“As a matter of fact, I did. But don’t get excited because surely it was the right thing to do. She’d have suffered otherwise.”
“Sure it was,” Crowley drawled. “Don’t fret, Aziraphale. I won’t tell anyone you aren’t perfect. I even think I like it.”
Aziraphale frowned. “Remember what I said. You owe me a favour and I won’t listen to any complaints you might have about it.”
“We’ll see about that when the time comes. I don’t like putting my name on contracts I haven’t properly read.”
Aziraphale shot him a warning look but Crowley merely smirked.
“Let’s deal with it the next time, okay? I should be taking off soon- I have a long way to fly.”
“You are leaving so soon? Camelot is very nice in the summer.”
“I’m sure it is, but I know you don’t really want me around that long. Better I go before I outstay my welcome.”
“That’s never bothered you before. If I remember correctly, I’ve sometimes had to discorporate you before you got the hint.”
Crowley smiled ruefully. “We had fun this time, right? Let’s not spoil it.”
Aziraphale knew Crowley’s words made sense but he still wanted to protest. However, he only nodded and looked as Crowley’s face fell. Then he seemed to realize something and brightened up.
“I have to go tomorrow but I just remembered I’ve got to do something before I leave.” With that, Crowley slipped out of the door and left a confused Aziraphale sitting on the bed.
At least the floor was now unmarked.
***
The next day came and he saw no sign of Crowley anywhere. Demons and their promises, he thought as the sun began to set. Before the curfew bell rang, he went out for a walk and watched the bustle of people trying to finish their chores for the day. The sky was nearly dark when he finally saw a familiar figure strolling towards him.
“All hail Satan,” Crowley greeted him. There was a smirk on his face. Aziraphale just stared at him and raised his eyebrows minutely.
“I thought it’d be funny,” Crowley shrugged. “But whatever. I found what I was looking for and I bet my wings you’ll like it. It’s a girl. Not for you, obviously, I wanted you to like it. But just introduce her to that foul-smelling sorcerer, okay? She should make your life easier.”
“What are you talking about? Did you kidnap someone?” Aziraphale asked indignantly. “Really Crowley, I’m of course pleased you should try to do some good but I wish you would think it through properly before you do something like that.”
Crowley was rolling his eyes by the time Aziraphale finished. “First of all, I didn’t kidnap her. I’m not sure if I even would have been able to. Her name is Nimue and she is dying to meet Merlin. I told her you would fix up a meeting with him. She’s actually waiting for you in your room, so you’d better go to her before she gets impatient. I’ll be going then. Don’t get discorporated.”
Crowley saluted him lazily but didn’t make a move to leave. They stared at each other and neither seemed to know what to say.
“You’ll come back, won’t you? I think I will be staying here for a good while but you can always come visit me.”
“That’s not what you said when I came here.”
“That’s because I had time to remember how horrid you can be.” Crowley grinned but there was something unhappy behind it. “And perhaps I had time to forget how sympathetic you sometimes are.”
“You don’t need to say it.” Crowley scowled and Aziraphale couldn’t help but smile.
“Go on, then. I’ll see you in a few centuries.” Closing the distance between them by a few steps, Aziraphale took Crowley’s hand.
“Yeah. Bye, angel.”
With a final squeeze, they let go of each other. Crowley turned around and walked out of the courtyard, his heavy travelling cloak on his shoulders flapping behind him. Crowley had always loved making an overly dramatic exit. Aziraphale sighed, his thoughts moving to the woman waiting in his rooms. He knew she would probably solve his problem, for Crowley was nothing if not ingenious, but for a moment he didn’t care about that. Looking where Crowley had vanished, he felt a pang of regret. It could have been nice, enjoying the summer with Crowley since the demon was comically torn between wanting to bask in the warmth and wanting to keep his skin untouched by sun. He suddenly felt lonely. With a final glance to the skies he went back inside and consoled himself by thinking that Crowley would come back someday.
For some reason, he always did.
(no subject)
Date: 2013-01-09 04:47 am (UTC)Also, EEE MORPHEUS. And oh, poor Guinevere. I love how you portrayed the conflict with Arthur too, how you've shown him as a courageous righteous man but he has sinned and he can also be too righteous.
And it's hilarious that Aziraphale automatically assumed Crowley kidnapped someone, has this happened before? XD And Nimue! :D And awww, the ending. ♥
Lovely work!
(no subject)
Date: 2013-01-09 05:52 am (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2013-01-10 11:55 pm (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2013-01-10 07:43 pm (UTC)Crowley might have a fool-proof solution to every problem, and it is to kidnap a suitable person and just let them to create some havoc. But thank you for the comment!
(no subject)
Date: 2013-01-09 09:18 pm (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2013-01-10 07:51 pm (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2013-01-10 01:40 am (UTC)Crowley's arrival is such a beautiful mental image in a story full of them; Aziraphale being accosted by Dream and the surprising revelation that Crowley always respects his rules; Lucifer turning Crowley back into his snake form; Guinevere's dream and the way Aziraphale poisons the well with words that are so reassuring on the surface--well, that was utterly chilling. And, I think, totally in-character, at least in this darker time before the Arrangement really got comfortable and Aziraphale had to be more active in human affairs.
And I love the rough-edged tenderness between them - the way it comes out that they've slept together before but it's been more combative, the idea that gentleness with each other is something that they have to grow into...amazing.
The tension of this is beautiful, and the resolution of it has such a temporary quality, even though we know it turns out all right, more or less. I was pretty breathless during Aziraphale's conversation with Lucifer too.
(I'm a big fan of the Sandman and Lucifer comics too, so the crossovery elements worked very well for me, no worries there!)
Thank you so much for a wonderful story!
(no subject)
Date: 2013-01-10 11:51 pm (UTC)(oh and I wanted to mention that originally I was going to write more of the Sandman into this; a scene in the end where Aziraphale wants to reassure himself by doing an act of kindness and then stopping Death taking Mordred and later realizing that it'd have been better for him to die but then I decided not to)
(no subject)
Date: 2013-01-11 04:37 am (UTC)Thank you so much for sharing this with us <3
(no subject)
Date: 2013-01-11 04:04 pm (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2013-01-15 11:53 pm (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2013-02-26 05:20 pm (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2013-02-12 12:48 am (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2013-02-26 05:21 pm (UTC)