Sacrificed

How's this for a quick update?

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Atrererus covered Ethan's body with a blanket. He had fed from him, and when he had fell asleep, cleaned him and put him to bed.

A week had passed since the human had woken up in his home, and the demon had taken his fill of him every other day. Normally, he took energy far less frequently, but having a willing 'meal' for him left Atrer a little more greedy than normal. Not that he was hurting Ethan by feeding from him. In fact, his body was naturally adjusting, and unless he was recovering from being fed from, he seemed to have more energy as each day passed.

Atrer watched as Ethan somewhat snuggled with the blankets. It hadn't taken TOO long for Ethan to realize that Atrer really wasn't going to hurt him, and once he had figured that out, he has began to talk to the demon constantly. The demon smiled, knowing it was more Ethan babbling and the demon wearily answering, but it figured it was better seeing the human cowering.

Atrer chuckled as he heard Ethan mumble something. The human had a tendency to 'talk' in his sleep. He was debating trying to rest himself, when he felt a tug of energy. The messenger demon was calling for him. It was about time.

The demon left through the darkness like he had done a week ago, and was met by a weak looking demon. The creature held up a scroll, bound in dark ribbon. Atrer wanted to roll his eyes. The message screamed that it was from a creature that was way too full of himself. When the messenger left him, he returned home to read the response.

'Dear Atrererus,

Your sudden request for a meeting is surprising. Even more surprising is when the news came to me that you took on a pet. That is rare for you, is it not? Forgive me, but I am delighted. In two weeks time, I will be inviting a small group of acquaintances to my home. We can meet then. As a request I would like you to bring your new pet. You shall not be the only though. I have recently acquired a new little one of my own, as have a few others. They of course, will be bringing theirs as well. I look forward to your visit.

-Sincerely,
Lord Tresporian

P.S. I forgot to mention, that in two weeks, when the time comes, I will be sending an escort. Please be prepared around mid-day for his arrival. If this letter arrived later than expected (you know how messengers can be) the day is Saturday for humans. If this arrived on Saturday, then you may simply disregard that. Best wishes to you and your new pet.'

Atrererus felt the strong urge to hit something. Tresporian was indeed rather full of himself, and he could easily imagine the haughty, arrogant tone that the 'Lord' would use while speaking. Technically, the demon wasn't a lord of anything. He had taken on the title after having defeated greater demons and gaining more power. No one strong enough to kill him bothered to though. He had control over many lesser demons, as well as alliances with a few that were his strength and more. To most, killing the pretentious demon wasn't worth the effort.

Atrer was still slightly relieved though. His request to meet with the Lord had been accepted. He didn't like the fact he had to bring Ethan along though. He would have to ensure that his little human behaved. He couldn't risk him stepping out of line. If he did, not only would Tresporian and his companions expect Atrer to punish the human, they would do it themselves if Atrer refused, AND attack Atrer for being 'weak'.

With a sigh, Atrer waited for his human to wake. He would tell him the news then.

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Ethan's reaction was highly energetic. The human went from groggily rubbing sleep from his eyes, to actually tackling Atrer into a hug. "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"

Atrer wanted to groan as the human held onto him. He suddenly wished he wasn't so nice, but continued to allow the human to cling to him.

"I didn't say that we were getting him back yet, I only said we were meeting with the Lord who has him.." He didn't really want to crush Ethan's hope, but he needed to make the boy think realistically. The statement didn't seem to discourage the human at all though.

"No, but we're a step closer!" He exclaimed, letting go and sitting on his knees on the bed. He was practically hopping up and down with excitement. Atrer rolled crimson eyes.

"You shouldn't be so excited. You need to think about how you're going to behave in front of Lord Tresporian and his group."

Finally, the human seemed to calm down slightly. "What do you mean?" He asked softly. Ethan knew Atrer was being serious, so he knew he had to listen.

Atrer let out a sigh. "First of all, other demons aren't like me in the slightest. At least most aren't. Lord Tresporian is egotistical and conceited, as are many others. To them, you are a toy, something to be played with. You know of slavery, correct?" When Ethan nodded, he continued.

"Well, I'm sure you've read of how slaves were treated, as property and nothing more. It is the same for most demons. They take humans as pets or slaves. They would not think twice about beating one into submission, or doing even worse. When we visit, they will expect the same of me. If you don't behave according to their standards, they will expect me to punish you for your actions. If I were to refuse, they would take their aggression out on the both of us. I don't really have a choice in the matter. I may be strong, but I am not foolish enough to take on a group of demons on my own. If your actions demand punishment, I will not hesitate in its delivery."

Ethan had paled considerably. "W-What do I do then?! I don't know how to behave as.. As a slave! Oh God.. I'm going to mess up.. I'm going t-"

The human was silenced as Atrererus placed his hand gently over his mouth before Ethan could continue panicking. "I'm aware that you don't know how to behave, but since the letter arrived on time, we now have two weeks to prepare for the event."

Atrer took his hand off Ethan's lips, and the human remained quiet. "Now, I don't expect you to be perfect. Chances are, you will make a mistake or two. More than likely though, it will be overseen if the mistake isn't severe. We still need to make sure it doesn't go past tiny mistakes though. First thing you need to remember, is that you are not to speak under any circumstance, unless it is asked of you."

"But what i- Ow!" Ethan placed his hand over his forehead where Atrererus had flicked him.

"I just said, no speaking. Though I will not enforce the rules when we are alone, they need to be practiced."

Ethan gave Atrer a mildly dirty look as he took his hand down, only to be flicked again. When Ethan pouted like a child, Atrererus chuckled.

"Another thing I would recommend is to never, under any circumstance to make a face like that. To them, that small act of defiance would instantly give a reason to hurt you for being insubordinate."

Atrererus watched Ethan struggle with his expressions for a moment before simply looking down, not looking at Atrer. The demon smiled. "Though you're already doing so, you should normally keep your head down. No looking any of them in the eyes. Should one ask for you to show your face to them, you will do so, but again you are not to look them in the eyes unless it is specifically asked of you." Ethan nodded.

"Very good. If you are asked by them to speak, you will address them as Sir, Ma'am, or, in the case of our host, you will call him Lord Tresporian."

Atrererus saw Ethan open his mouth, but bite his lip instead. "You can speak now if you want. As long as it's a question."

Ethan looked up slightly. "What am I supposed to call you?" He asked.

Atrererus paused for a moment. Most of his worshipers referred to him as the 'Lord of Shadows', but he personally hated the title. Unlike Lord Tresporian, his title had been gained through years of skill with controlling darkness and shadows. An extremely strong greater demon had taken interest in his power. He had be pestered until he had finally agreed to carry out tasks for the creature that the demon couldn't do himself. Afterward, he had been rewarded. A few gifts Atrererus had greatly enjoyed. There had been a book with many ancient spells within, allowing Atrer some practice with magics. There had also been enchanted armor, and a few blades that had been useful against Atrer's enemies. His favorite item among a few others though, was a special amulet, an item that allowed Atrererus to store energy within. It also held a few other magical properties, but Atrer didn't need them. Unfortunately though, not only had the demon given him the gifts, he had insisted that Atrererus have a new title. Before the demon could do anything, he had become known as the Lord of Shadows.

Breaking from his thoughts, he managed a small smile at Ethan. "Lord Atrererus, or my Lord."

"Lord?" Ethan asked softly, peering up at him cautiously.

"Yes, Lord. If you remember, a week ago the humans summoned me as the 'Lord of Shadows'."

Ethan nodded, remembering clearly, though he didn't want to. "Is there anything else.. My Lord?" He added after a moment.

Atrererus smiled slightly. He knew that Ethan would be able to learn quickly. He just had to make sure that Ethan actually followed these behaviors. Learning was one thing, but remembering was another.

"Basically, you do as your told, without question. If you manage to behave properly, you might even find yourself bored, but you are not to act without being told to do so. You will simply follow me, and behave."

"Yes, Lord Atrererus." Ethan said without looking at him.

"Very good. Now, you can relax for a short while. I'm going to have to get a few things for you so that you will be dressed appropriately for the occasion."

Rather happy that he didn't have to stay the way he was, Ethan relaxed noticeably. "What kind of clothing?" He asked.

"A few garments. Most of their humans will be dressed in rags or less, but chances are, a few of them, will enjoy dressing up their 'pets'. You shall be dressed properly as well, fully clothed. Though what you wear many not be entirely extravagant, I can easily pass off my desire to cloth you as possessiveness over you. A demon not wanting to share isn't uncommon, and they will see it that way. I am just being greedy and selfish because I want you all to myself."

Ethan looked extremely relieved when Atrererus told him he didn't have to wear rags, or even worse, nothing. The demon chuckled softly. "Don't fret. We shall be going to the human realm to get you some clothing."

Ethan looked at the demon for a few moments. "But..." He began, then looked down.

"But what? If you're going to say something, don't back down after you begin."

This caused Ethan to blush, but he continued. "But how will you, you know, go into the human world without people, well freaking out?" Ethan was looking over the demon. If the strange black and crimson skin and red eyes didn't scare them, the claws, fangs, and horns would.

Ethan found himself blushing again when Atrererus gave him a somewhat offended look. "Don't you think I have found a way to get around my appearance. I do recall telling you that I often feed from humans. Do you think any of them knew this form?"

The blush grew worse. Ethan's mouth opened, then closed before he could speak again. "I.. Didn't think about it at the time..."

Atrererus wanted to laugh at how embarrassed the human was, but instead smiled to soothe him. "I can see that. Don't worry. I'm not angry with you. You just need to learn to not underestimate me." He picked up a set of clothing, and handed it to the human. "Put this on. You and I are visiting the human realm."

Ethan looked at the clothing, having no idea when the demon had gotten them. It was a pair a jeans and a t-shirt. After putting them on, he found that the demon had somehow gotten him sneakers as well. He didn't bother trying to ask how.

When he was finished, he looked up at Atrererus. "I'm ready."

The demon nodded. "Alright." He walked to a drawer, opened it, and picked up a ring with a few different gems on it. There were a few symbols on it as well. Taking Ethan's hand, he put it on his ring finger. The ring was far larger than Ethan's finger though, and Ethan opened his mouth to tell Atrererus that it was going to fall off, but as it slipped onto his finger, he felt it fit snugly against his skin.

Ethan's mouth hung open for a few moments, causing Atrererus to chuckle. "I thought I told you not to underestimate me?" He chuckled again as Ethan blushed. "Now, I need you to hold onto me. No, no questions, just hold on tightly, and we'll go to the human world."

Ethan nodded before wrapping his arms around the demon and holding on tightly. Before he could react, there was darkness around them. He let out a small yelp, feeling a strange pulling as they were completely pulled into darkness. The pulling was gentle, but suddenly, it pulled at them hard. Startled, Ethan's arms released Atrererus. He shrieked as the darkness pulled him in.

Moments later, Ethan hit the ground hard. Quickly getting up, he looked around. It was dark, but there was a faint reddish glow coming from bright stones across what looked to be a large cave.

"Atrererus?!" He yelled, looking around frantically. Instead of a response from the demon however, he heard a low growl. A creature ran by the red light, and Ethan backed up, hitting a wall. When his hands touched it though, he quickly pulled off. The wall was slimy. A few more creatures ran by, and Ethan could hear the scraping of claws on the ground. The memory of Atrer explaining how lesser demons killed suddenly formed in his mind. "ATRER!" He yelled, as a creature crawled into the light. It was a little creature that looked like a small dog, or rather, it would have if it hadn't had a tail with spikes, spikes along its spine, and a mouth filled with teeth that resembled a sharks.

Ethan screamed as the creature ran toward him. He closed his eyes, waiting for pain, but it didn't come. Instead, he felt arms wrapping around him tightly, and he felt himself being pulled once again. This time, instead of him falling into the ground, when the pulling stopped he was on his feet. Opening his eyes, he looked up at Atrererus, shaking slightly.

The demon looked partly annoyed, but didn't look actually angry. "I thought I told you to hold on?"

"I.. I'm s-sorry." He stammered, slightly shocked, but mostly still terrified. He looked down, shivering. "I.. Thank you.. How did you find me after I.. let go?"

"That ring.. I didn't give it to you for no reason. I was afraid I would lose you in the busy human world, but it seems that it was useful even before I brought you here. That ring will allow me to track you down quickly. I could easily find you on my own without it, but it will allow my to find you instantly, where ever you are. It will not come off though until I take it off, so don't try."

"I wasn't going to. I still.. Need you.." Ethan knew that if he left the demon, he would never get Jesse back. Atrer knew what his thoughts were, but said nothing. Instead, he focused on other things.

Atrererus gently held the human for a moment, before his body began to change. He grew a little shorter, and his skin became pale, but not sickly. His eyes changed from red, to a plain looking brown, while his black hair remained the same. His horns, fangs and claws retracted, leaving the flesh like a human's. He was then suddenly clothed, wearing a shirt and jeans like Ethan was, only, while Ethan's shirt was red, Atrer's was black, and his jeans were a darker blue.

When Ethan looked at the demon again, he couldn't speak for a minute. He was shocked to see the demon looking, well, human. The demon took this opportunity to tease.

"I know, I'm not as handsome in this form as I am in my other form, but I think I still look pretty good."

When Ethan blushed, Atrererus smiled and turned to walk away. It was only then that Ethan realized they had been standing in a city alley. Not bothering to look around, he scurried after the demon.

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They ended up in a large mall. Ethan discovered quickly, to his amazement, that the demon was rich. He was probably rich enough to purchase every item in the mall a few times, and STILL have money left. Ethan had been amazing, but the demon shrugged it off, mentioning the fact that he had lived long enough, and had enough magic to build money easily.

Then the demon went off. He bought Ethan some clothing without waiting for the human to look at them, and Ethan ended up having to scurry after the demon as he went through the stores, buying multiple things. Eventually, the demon stopped to have Ethan try a few outfits on. There was mostly black, concealing clothing that left Ethan's body hidden, but there was also a few that made Ethan blush just looking at them. He was extremely glad when the demon declared that they had plenty.

"Is there anything you would like, before we leave the human world?" Atrer asked the human. He knew Ethan was extremely bored, and when Ethan wasn't sleeping, or being taken by Atrer, he tended to pester the demon. Hopefully, he could find the human something to occupy himself with.

Ethan had to think the question over for a few moments before answering however. "Um, if I wanted something that ran on electricity, would I be able to use it in your home?"

"You're able to use the shower and appliances in the kitchen, aren't you?"

"Oh.. So if I brought something back with us, it would run on magic too?" The demon only nodded, but Ethan smiled brightly. "Come on then!" He took a hold of Atrer's hand and dragged him toward a store with electronics. He pulled the demon to a section with televisions. "We're going to buy a t.v. and some video games."

Atrer only raised an eyebrow, before following the human, who had taken a large shopping cart and was filling it with various electronics. When they finally went to pay, Ethan had gotten a television, a DVD player, three different game systems with two controllers each, a bunch of different movies, and at least twenty different games. The cost totaled over one thousand dollars, but Atrer paid it without even flinching at the cost. Money didn't mean anything to him. Should he need any more, he could get it easily.

After paying, Ethan convinced Atrer to let them eat in the food court, before the demon finally insisted it was time to go back. Ethan didn't protest.

When they arrived back, Ethan had to sit down for a moment. The traveling made him slightly dizzy. Atrer, completely used to it was unaffected. "You may begin setting up your games. I shall return to help make it work shortly."

Without waiting for Ethan's response, he left through the darkness, shifting back into his demonic form as he did. He arrived in the middle of the demon realm, surrounded by glowing earth. Some of it looked like gems, while some looked like normal stones. Each had a soft glow however. These stones produced magical energy, and were what kept the energy in his home replenishing. If his human wanted to use more energy though, he had to bring more energy in for him to use.

Atrererus scanned the stones and gems, looking for particular kinds. He didn't want to remain there long. He was one of few allowed to use the magical stones. If anyone else had tried to enter the area, they would have been killed instantly. He guessed he had another reason to be thanking the old demon called Leorie. Even if the man HAD given him the irritating title he held now, he had given Atrer access to the magical stones. Collecting a decent few of them in a large pouch, he left for home, before Leorie could feel his presence and come see him.

When Atrererus suddenly re-entered his home, it caused Ethan to jump, nearly knocking over the electronics, which he had set up on a large table. The wires were all plugged in properly, except for the electricity wires, which were all attached to a piece that was normally used to create extra outlets where there was only a few. Though the wires were attached to it, there was nothing to attach it to. Ethan couldn't find any actual outlets.

The demon walked over, reaching into the bag and pulling out a stone. He held it toward the television, before allowing his hand to actually enter it. When he removed it, the stone wasn't in his hand any longer. Atrer repeated this for each of the game systems, and finally, the DVD player. He then reached down to where all of the electronics were plugged in, and pulled out a purplish gem that was glowing faintly. Setting it against the extension piece, he let it slowly slip into it. The little red light on the wire lit up, and Atrer stood, satisfied.

"There. Now do as you wish.." Atrererus walked to his bed and laid down, intending on ignoring the human, but instead, he felt the bed sink next to him. "Is there something else you need?" He asked, trying to keep the irritation from his voice. He knew he failed when he saw Ethan flinch.

"Well... I was wondering, if you wanted to play?"

Atrererus raised an eyebrow. "You're asking a demon to play a game intended for human youth?"

Ethan let out a soft giggle. "Not only young kids play. Some older people play too."

"Still asking a demon."

"So? It'll be fun..?" He looked at Atrererus hopefully.

"If I say no, you aren't going to leave me alone, are you?"

Ethan shook his head, giggling softly. Atrererus debated tearing some of his hair out for a moment. "You're rather lucky I'm kind, otherwise, you'd likely be gone by now.." Atrererus grumbled.

Knowing that he had won, Ethan jumped up happily and set up a game, while the demon watched him with a slightly bemused expression. Atrererus finally concluded that the human was slightly insane, but he sat up and watched him anyway. At least he was able to feed without having to work for it. Sighing slightly, he humored Ethan, and joined him in the game, wondering if the easy feeding was worth the trouble it brought. He knew one thing for sure though, any boredom he had felt before Ethan's arrival was without a doubt gone now. He doubted he could ever get bored with the human around.

He pulled away from his musing and listened to the human babble about the game. Slightly amused at Ethan's energy, he let himself relax, following Ethan's instructions on how to play the game. Watching the human, out of the corner of his eye as he played, he concluded that even if things continued to be more stressful, at least things would be interesting as well.

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Soo... Yeah. This is kind of a long-ish chapter...

Thankies to Smint45, Itrasheditgood, Will Treaty, Mdevries08, Fennymonja, and Kasia-chan for reviewing. Also thanks to GoddessBoiHel and LJV, but I can't tell which chapter they reviewed. I think it was the first one, but I didn't mention it in the thanks last chapter, so I'm doing it now.

And to Will Treaty, Jesse isn't going to be seen until Ethan goes with Atrer to go meet with Tresporian. Don't worry, you'll see him soon though.

Reviews make me happy and want to write. Reviews please?