Demon Jack Lindsey @demonjacklindsey - Tumblr Blog

My mun is very low at the moment. If anyone has any pictures that would inspire, or poems, or messages to help, she'd be very grateful.

Thank you

~Hester

demonjacklindsey

Simon says “I hope you feel better soon.”

the-lady-witchitery

I'd attended the unveiling of Mrs. G's portrait. Since it was their dime I didn't mind. Two days of rich food and posh lodgings and a loaned motorcycle for the long ride to the airport. Halfway there I park the bike, grab my pack and head into the surrounding forest to forage for spell ingredients. But now I'm lost. No GPS. I don't dare shapeshift in daylight to try to fly out. I could get shot by a hunter. Luckily I see a house. Maybe they'll help. I try to ignore the faint prickle of magic.

When in her lynx form, Izzy’s senses were very heightened. He ears twitched and she sniffed towards the open window. “Mistress..? Did you feel that?”

Hester nodded; she, too, had been alerted by… something. She’d felt a subtle shiver in the wards protecting her home, like the trail left when a fish swims across a pool.

With Izzy walking beside her, she went to the front door, hiding her sword behind her back. She peered round the cedge of the door as Izzy took a few steps outside.

“It’s a man with a tail,” Izzy said, blankly, as though it were the most everyday thing to be standing there. “Shall I chase him off?” she asked with a glint in her eye. Quite a while since she had had a good chase of a trespasser.

“Nooo,” hummed Hester, “he’s…. interesting. And he was either sent or is lost. Either way, we shouldn’t ignore him.” She opened the door wider and called out, “You there! Are you all right?”

demonjacklindsey

the-lady-witchitery

Loki didn’t care to explain. He chuckled quietly, and walked on.

By the time they reached the cottage it was dark. Izzy, now an exquisite Ocelot, was lying along the windowsill in the moonlight.

“Why, hello, guestssss,” she said, as they headed for the door, “you decided to come back then?”

“Good evening, moggy,” Loki winked as he walked past.

Izzy rolled and sat up. “Watch out, Jack.”

Loki stopped short and glared at her. “Now, now, Isabella. No one likes an overly dramatic pussy.”

Inside, Hester had heard them, and waited by the stairs. The hint of a smile for politeness, maybe. Eyes fixed to Loki’s voice. Heart pounding.

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Jack eyed Izzy curiously. Why would she bother to give him a warning? And against who? Loki? Well that was a given. His god was unpredictable and Jack had been the target of his wrath on more than one occasion. But he wasn’t exactly afraid of any punishment Loki decided to hand out. Looked forward to it as a matter of fact. It just reinforced his belief that his god cared for him if he took the time to beat the shit out of him. correct him. Or was he being warned about Lady Hester? The witch had only shown him kindness, and he didn’t know what he might have done to upset her. He’d made no secret of his infatuation with Loki. And he was fairly certain he had made clear that he had no intention of trying to worm his way between Loki and Hester. In his mind they were Lovers, ex or otherwise and he was content to be Loki’s dog. His god was way too high maintenance for Jack to want a one on one relationship. Or had he broken some rule by using magic in her woods? Mages seemed to have so many rules and customs and protocols, and they never bothered to post them for the uninformed. It’s not like someone gave him the handbook “So now you’re a demon.” Jack shrugged. “Uh thanks?” he said to Izzy. He motioned for her to go inside ahead of him, manners installed from childhood kicking in. “Ladies first?”

@the-lady-witchitery

Izzy leapt in front of Jack and set herself down on the doorstep. There, she gracefully pointed one rear leg toward the sky, and had a wash. Didn’t need it, of course. But two legged beings seemed to find it quite distressing so what a perfect joke.

“Oh!” she looked up at him, leg still poised and paw splayed, “I’m sorry. I forgot my manners.” she flipped onto her feet, flicked her tail and swayed her hips through to the hallway, brushing against Loki’s leg as she went.

“Hey!” he brushed fur off his shin, muttering something about finest Asgardian leather.

“Are you mad?” -Hester’s voice met him a little off guard.

“Well some might say that,” he smirked.

“Did you even bother with Higher Wardings?”

No response. He was ‘busy’ with admiring glances up and down Hester’s form. Only Loki could make appreciation an insult.

“Did you even give him an amulet? Door protection spells?”

“Really? Hester? I had thought you above hedge witchery.” He stepped nearer.

“You know entirely what I mean.”

“Of course I gave him an amulet,” he stroked her cheek, “you really, really,” his hand slipped around her throat, only enough for the slightest contact of skin, just enougn to raise her chin and control her gaze, “really ought not to worry about demons.”

‘fuck you’ she thought.

“Oh very possibly, dear, but not at the moment, hey? We have company.”

She pushed herself away from him. “I took him under my protection. My vow to help whoever, whatever’s sent here.”

“Your fault to make such a vow. You think me mad? You’ve no idea what might come through.”

“He isn’t dangerous. I can see his aura.”

He couldn’t. Wasn’t even certain if he believed such things existed.

‘stupid child!’

“Loki, you can’t possibly protect him everywhere and now I have extra work to do.”

Loki looked at the ceiling towards the library.

“You better not delay too long then,” he smirked. “No telling how keen he is to try out his new powers.” With a wink he stepped away and turned towards the back door.

“Come on, Jack! What’s keeping you now?”

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“You aren’t the only one who can do that.” Jack said to Izzy with a low chuckle. “I just reserve my performance for more private moments.”

He followed the cat into the room and caught just enough of Loki and Hester’s conversation to know they were talking about him. He didn’t like being referred to as not dangerous. He could be dangerous, if he felt like it. “I can take care of myself. I’ve been doing it for the last 50 odd years.” Jack said. He smirked. “I seem to remember on Sakaar…”

Jack stopped. Not because he had any real compulsion to keep Loki’s secrets, but because what he’d started to recite as an antidote, had come back as a full force memory. He could smell his god’s blood and the reek of drugs in his sweat, see the way his elegant hands trembled uncontrollably, hear the mocking malevolence of the Grandmaster, and feel his own helpless rage.

His entire demeanor changed and he dropped his attitude. “Never mind. I can take care of myself.” Jack repeated quietly. “I can take anything…”

but seeing you hurt

. He glanced at Heather and tried to read her expression.

“I’m good in a fight. I don’t need to be protected.”

I need to protect. You as well and Clarice and even pain in the ass Izzy.

@the-lady-witchitery

the-lady-witchitery

“Jack, I didn’t mean-” Hester sighed. “I just meant you’re not a danger to me. Not that you can’t be dangerous. I- anyway, of course you can be. I didn’t mean in general. Just that I wasn’t wrong to invite you in- I-” It was like having two conversations at once,she felt, and with Loki over there giving a smirk behind Jack. Winking at her.

She glared at him, refused to entertain that smile. Jack had mentioned Sakaar again. This was not a light moment. Stop playing. What are you doing here any-

‘Think you invited me, my Lady,’ He snipped her thought in half, and bowed as he stepped away.

Hester flushed, wide eyed. Damn. She turned to climb the stairs. pausing with her hand on the newel.

“I guess you two will be wanting to turn in soon. Ask Izzy to fix you something if you like. I’ll say goodnight now though, as I have some work to do.”

She stared at the back of Loki’s head, searching what mood he was truly in. He chuckled and swished the back of his hair, and cut her off. Really? Really?

- - - -

Keep reading

demonjacklindsey

Jack returned Loki’s smile with a smarmy grin. He’d had every intention of making an obscene offer, but he damn well knew he was too tired to be capable of giving a stellar performance. That and he couldn’t bring himself to be disloyal to a woman who had been so kind to him, a stranger, by seriously trying to horn in on an established relationship. Which were both good excuses to not get further involved with Loki, to whom he felt such a conflicting mess of emotions. None of which changed a damn thing.

The grin slipped from his face. Why the hell did he always have to fall for total bastards? Why couldn’t he just fall in love with a normal nice guy and live a normal nice life? Because you idiot, you aren’t normal. You’re a freaking creature of darkness who was raised to think they were human. And there are thousand treads that weave and branch whenever you look at him. Possibilities untold.

Jack turned away and wondered around the room, looking at the various items on shelf and mantle as if they held his attention. “That’s up to you isn’t it? You know how I feel, my lord. You’ve been rifling through my mind like it was a pack of cards. I’m fighting this battle on both sides. Three sides if you count the scrap of reservation I have about insulting my hostess. The real question is what will you leave me with, when you do leave? I carry your mark in my flesh and around my throat.” Jack turned to meet Loki’s eyes. “I’m not worthy of more.” Jack trailed off, knowing Loki’s past he could not ask, yet,

In his mind there was a child, beautiful, wild and unbroken. Raven dark hair and a raven’s sharp mind, and laughter, sweet and wild. Playing in these woods, chasing Clarice through the trees, teasing Izzy. A dark cloak of raven feathers on their shoulders, or were they raven’s wings? His child to love, to teach, to watch over, and to protect. Child of his heart or his body he did not know. But it was born of his god’s visit, one way or the other.

@the-lady-witchitery

the-lady-witchitery

In the library, Hester was being circled. She had become weightless, limp, and hung several inches above the floor. The mind of the one she’d invoked was examining her, tickling her mind in tendrils. If she could have moved, she’d have shivered. Gradually this mental invasion slid away, returning her to the floor. As gravity reclaimed her she tripped and fell.

“Uff!”

A snigger from below.

“We’re always touched by your faith, Hessster.”

She climbed to her feet. “Faith?”

“-that we won’t be offended by your criticisms of our fatherr.”

‘Well you know him better than me,’ she thought.

“Hmm. Who is thiss.. demon?”

“His name is Jack Lindsey. I don’t know very much about him-”

“And yet you take him upon your sshoulderss.”

“He arrived here.”

“From whom?”

Hester was expecting to be asked from where, not whom.

“Who sent him to you?”

“I don’t know. I can’t see his mind. It’s protected by his magic.”

“HIS magic? Not anotherss?”

Her eyes widened. She hadn’t considered this. Had Loki arranged all this? Steered him to her?

“You sssstill underestimate him, little witch.”

“So-”

“What do you fearrr?”

“He taught Jack about portals. ALL portals. He didn’t teach him and locks, keys-”

“Loptr furnishedd him with talisman magic.”

They dipped below and set the floor into a swirl. Hester searched for them, yearning to know more than puzzles.

“Your demon isss not in the danger you think.”

Hester sighed with relief.

“There is another danger.”

The liquid grew darker, their voice grew quieter.

“Think Hessster! Why do you place candlesss in windowss?”

Hester’s eyes widened. She looked towards the window where she’d left a candle burning, though couldn’t see it clearly through the mist, its flame had grown much higher than a candle that size should carry. She felt her heartbeat rise.

The serpent chuckled quietly.

“So often you forget how capable you are, little one. And stronger than you think.”

They lifted their head to face her.

“Stop letting my father squeezzzze your heart. Your feelingss disssstract you. If you want to help this one, reach back.”

“Reach back?”

The serpent hissed.

“To old wayssss, little witch. To older timesss-”

They began to sink, the liquid gathered into a whirlpool around them.

“Wait!” Hester knelt down to watch, and willed them back, a dozen possibilities trying to capture her mind. “How? Why would that try to hurt him? How could they-?”

Their eyes slowly emerged.

“Come to me again when you think it’s finished. Come when you feel it’s done.”

And with that they were gone.

Hester stood, watching the liquid shrink. Breathing deeply, she took her dagger and sliced across her palm. She hissed with pain as she squeezed and let the blood drip into the dark; an offering, a payment, as the grey mist around her dissipated.

She stood awhile, absorbing what had happened, the words, the shock, the sights. Then set to clearing the objects she’d used in the ritual, and pulled the rug back in place.

Hester wondered how long she had been upstairs. The sky was pitch-black now, full of stars, she could see, through the window where the now extinguised candle stood.

- - - - - - -

“Oh do stop, Jack. I mightn’t leave a while yet. Calm down.. You’re in danger of becoming a nag” Loki paused to read the pictures in Jack’s mind, turning towards him with a smile. “Oh dear hound, such pretty pictures.”

Loki stood rubbing his fingers on a thumb. His gaze was miles away. “Ok-” he whispered to himself.

“Come here,” he invited, opening his arms, ready to embrace.

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Jack went to him. All of his esteemed morals and ideals could not hold him back. He shut his eyes and pressed his face to Loki’s shoulder and breathed in his god’s scent. He held tightly to Loki and shivered as Loki’s arms went around him. When Loki’s lips brushed his temples, Jack growled and bared teeth too sharp for a human’s mouth.. “It would be best to take this upstairs.” Loki said with a low chuckle.”Away from prying eyes.” *

The bright light of mid-morning was filtering through the curtains when Jack awoke. He turned over and yelped as his back twinged. It wasn’t the first time in his life he’d woken up from a rambunctious night, alone, or in a strange bed, but usually it was one or the other. He brushed the cobwebs out of his mind and took stock of his surroundings. Ah, he was in the room the witch had assigned to him. Loki had brought him here and … things got a little blurry after that. He was pretty sure they did more than talk. There were bruises on his wrists and he ached in several places. The back of his head for one. He rubbed his skull and remembered he’d tried to bite his god and… Well, Loki had not appreciated that. He also felt a little hung over. There had been a glass of something offered too… Jack gave up trying to remember. One way or another Loki had spent some time with him. If he’d not done more than tease him and rough him up a little, it really didn’t matter. Jack was content. He may have said something to that effect and Loki had baled. His god hated declarations of affection. Jack smiled. That was one reason why he did said them. Annoying Loki, hazardous though it was, gave him immense pleasure. But there were other things to think about. Jack considered portals as he washed up and dressed. Portals were very interesting. He’d always disliked them before, as they seemed to be an enigma which only complicated his life. But now the possibilities were astounding. Travel for one, he could go anywhere he wanted. Paris, Rome, Egypt were all only a few steps away. He could visit the great museums of the world, see art he’d only admired in books or on TV, in real life. Something else occurred to him. Being able to step in and out of places at will could be very profitable. Why make a living painting self-absorbed socialites, when all he’d need to do was pop into the vault of a local bank and make an unauthorized withdrawal? Jack’s larcenous little heart warmed at the prospect. He could live like a freaking king, if he was careful. And not just him. A lot of people could benefit from a few thou dropped into their laps. He checked his reflection in the mirror before he left. His face wasn’t bruised and other then the smug grin, he looked pretty much as usual. The guilt he’d thought he’d feel for Loki’s attentions had not manifested. After all, it wasn’t his decision, one way or the other. No one could blame him for obeying his god’s whims. Even the mild headache couldn’t keep the spring out of his step as he bounced down the stairs. He was looking forward to what the day would bring. More magic? Between portals and summoning things, there was a host of things he could do to upset the status quo. He was brimming with questions. “Good Morning!” He sang out when he reached the bottom of the stairs. @the-lady-witchitery

the-lady-witchitery

Hester pulled another cup from a hook.

“Hi Jack! Coffee?” she calle out.

Clarice, perched on the back of a kitchen chair, watched with one beady eye, the other squashed closed under a scratching claw. Hester pointed at her, and she fell off the chair backwards. “Fffff- very funny ftft,” she bounced along to the door and took off, swooping low over Jack and landing on the bannister. She cleared her throat.

“Gud morrrrning, young demon,” she tilted her head to one side, “did you sleep well?” She winked and flew upstairs.

Hester came out of the kitchen carrying a china cup. “Hi!” she smiled as she passed him, “I poured one for you. Help yourself to cream and sugar.”

Loki sat in a large leather chair, legs stretched out and booted ankles crossed. He was reading one of Hester’s grimoires. She didn’t mind him reading the small ones. There was nothing serious in those. An enormous row had blown up on one of his previous visits, when he’d tried to unchain one of the older ones shelved near the ceiling of the library. He’d only managed to enlarge some of the links, but with them, the locks, so they remained inaccessible. He never tried again, not after Hester had walked in on him. There were some kinds of witch magic that he couldn’t touch, as Frigga had often told him. And some kinds of witch anger that were better avoided.

“I wish you wouldn’t conjure chairs. What’s wrong with mine anyway.”

“Too prissy.” Loki grinned, and took the coffee from Hester. “And not befitting the reading material. Look at this. A spell for breaking tankards.” He gave Hester a quizzical look.

“Salem had lots of drinking holes, despite the religion.”

Loki sipped his drink, chuckling. “Did I hear Jack?”

“Yes! He’s getting his, I think.”

“Ah. I think he already got his.”

“What?”

“Oh- nothing,” Loki turned a page.

“Jack? Are you coming in?” Hester looked towards the kitchen.

Upstairs, Izzy pawed open the door to Jack’s room. “Hmm.” She perched on top of a bedpost and inspected the place. She jumped to the mirror. With a lick of the frame, a reflection of the night’s happenings played out. “You little demon. You really are a devil!” she chuckled. Another lick and the picture faded away. “What is this worth then, I wonder?”

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Jack sang “Good morning” back to Clarice. He grinned at Hester as he breezed past and sent a hurried “Thank you” in his wake. He picked up his cup. He took a sip and gazed out the windows. It was a beautiful morning. The sun seemed especially cheery, and the wood in the kitchen glowed in its soft light. The coffee was perfect too, hot and smooth with just a touch of the bitterness he loved. The garden looked so inviting. He would have to take a stroll so he could properly enjoy the flowers and herbs. He watched a passing butterfly with a smile on his lips. At Hester’s call he broke off his revere, topped up his cup and joined them in the other room. Without a thought he went to where Loki was seated, dropped down to sit on the floor at his feet and leaned back against his shin.

He took a slow drink of his coffee, lowered his cup and gave the soft chirping purr which signaled his contentment. He looked at Hester.

“You are looking especially lovely this morning Lady Hester.”

Jack turned his head to glance at Loki. “You also my Lord. Though handsome would be more correct, huh?”

“So my Lord and Lady, what is on today’s agenda? More magic? Traveling? Are there rules I should know about using portals? Or did you want me to demonstrate the energy conversion thing I can do?” He turned to Loki.

“I didn’t show you that did I? I don’t think so. I can be a pretty good battery in a pinch.”

He could feel his own magic thrumming beneath his skin, his reserve full to overflowing. Which only lent credence to the theory Loki and he had been intimate. Sexual energy had always been the easiest way of building power. He wondered that more mages didn’t use it, but then again few seemed to refill on death auras either. And the one time he’d asked a mage why they didn’t just use electrical power from an outlet, the guy had looked at him like he was an imbecile and started spouting off about mystical and auras and spiritual energy and how it was completely unrelated to “mere physical” power.

Which Jack considered silly. Energy was energy. He simply needed to figure out how to control the flow better, so he didn’t either trip the circuit breakers, melt the wiring or get scorched.

Jack brought his attention back to the room and noticed there seemed to be some tension.

“Uh… did I say something wrong?” @the-lady-witchitery

#Lady Hester #rp #Demon Jack Lindsey

the-lady-witchitery

I'd attended the unveiling of Mrs. G's portrait. Since it was their dime I didn't mind. Two days of rich food and posh lodgings and a loaned motorcycle for the long ride to the airport. Halfway there I park the bike, grab my pack and head into the surrounding forest to forage for spell ingredients. But now I'm lost. No GPS. I don't dare shapeshift in daylight to try to fly out. I could get shot by a hunter. Luckily I see a house. Maybe they'll help. I try to ignore the faint prickle of magic.

When in her lynx form, Izzy’s senses were very heightened. He ears twitched and she sniffed towards the open window. “Mistress..? Did you feel that?”

Hester nodded; she, too, had been alerted by… something. She’d felt a subtle shiver in the wards protecting her home, like the trail left when a fish swims across a pool.

With Izzy walking beside her, she went to the front door, hiding her sword behind her back. She peered round the cedge of the door as Izzy took a few steps outside.

“It’s a man with a tail,” Izzy said, blankly, as though it were the most everyday thing to be standing there. “Shall I chase him off?” she asked with a glint in her eye. Quite a while since she had had a good chase of a trespasser.

“Nooo,” hummed Hester, “he’s…. interesting. And he was either sent or is lost. Either way, we shouldn’t ignore him.” She opened the door wider and called out, “You there! Are you all right?”

demonjacklindsey

the-lady-witchitery

Loki didn’t care to explain. He chuckled quietly, and walked on.

By the time they reached the cottage it was dark. Izzy, now an exquisite Ocelot, was lying along the windowsill in the moonlight.

“Why, hello, guestssss,” she said, as they headed for the door, “you decided to come back then?”

“Good evening, moggy,” Loki winked as he walked past.

Izzy rolled and sat up. “Watch out, Jack.”

Loki stopped short and glared at her. “Now, now, Isabella. No one likes an overly dramatic pussy.”

Inside, Hester had heard them, and waited by the stairs. The hint of a smile for politeness, maybe. Eyes fixed to Loki’s voice. Heart pounding.

@demonjacklindsey

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Jack eyed Izzy curiously. Why would she bother to give him a warning? And against who? Loki? Well that was a given. His god was unpredictable and Jack had been the target of his wrath on more than one occasion. But he wasn’t exactly afraid of any punishment Loki decided to hand out. Looked forward to it as a matter of fact. It just reinforced his belief that his god cared for him if he took the time to beat the shit out of him. correct him. Or was he being warned about Lady Hester? The witch had only shown him kindness, and he didn’t know what he might have done to upset her. He’d made no secret of his infatuation with Loki. And he was fairly certain he had made clear that he had no intention of trying to worm his way between Loki and Hester. In his mind they were Lovers, ex or otherwise and he was content to be Loki’s dog. His god was way too high maintenance for Jack to want a one on one relationship. Or had he broken some rule by using magic in her woods? Mages seemed to have so many rules and customs and protocols, and they never bothered to post them for the uninformed. It’s not like someone gave him the handbook “So now you’re a demon.” Jack shrugged. “Uh thanks?” he said to Izzy. He motioned for her to go inside ahead of him, manners installed from childhood kicking in. “Ladies first?”

@the-lady-witchitery

Izzy leapt in front of Jack and set herself down on the doorstep. There, she gracefully pointed one rear leg toward the sky, and had a wash. Didn’t need it, of course. But two legged beings seemed to find it quite distressing so what a perfect joke.

“Oh!” she looked up at him, leg still poised and paw splayed, “I’m sorry. I forgot my manners.” she flipped onto her feet, flicked her tail and swayed her hips through to the hallway, brushing against Loki’s leg as she went.

“Hey!” he brushed fur off his shin, muttering something about finest Asgardian leather.

“Are you mad?” -Hester’s voice met him a little off guard.

“Well some might say that,” he smirked.

“Did you even bother with Higher Wardings?”

No response. He was ‘busy’ with admiring glances up and down Hester’s form. Only Loki could make appreciation an insult.

“Did you even give him an amulet? Door protection spells?”

“Really? Hester? I had thought you above hedge witchery.” He stepped nearer.

“You know entirely what I mean.”

“Of course I gave him an amulet,” he stroked her cheek, “you really, really,” his hand slipped around her throat, only enough for the slightest contact of skin, just enougn to raise her chin and control her gaze, “really ought not to worry about demons.”

‘fuck you’ she thought.

“Oh very possibly, dear, but not at the moment, hey? We have company.”

She pushed herself away from him. “I took him under my protection. My vow to help whoever, whatever’s sent here.”

“Your fault to make such a vow. You think me mad? You’ve no idea what might come through.”

“He isn’t dangerous. I can see his aura.”

He couldn’t. Wasn’t even certain if he believed such things existed.

‘stupid child!’

“Loki, you can’t possibly protect him everywhere and now I have extra work to do.”

Loki looked at the ceiling towards the library.

“You better not delay too long then,” he smirked. “No telling how keen he is to try out his new powers.” With a wink he stepped away and turned towards the back door.

“Come on, Jack! What’s keeping you now?”

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“You aren’t the only one who can do that.” Jack said to Izzy with a low chuckle. “I just reserve my performance for more private moments.”

He followed the cat into the room and caught just enough of Loki and Hester’s conversation to know they were talking about him. He didn’t like being referred to as not dangerous. He could be dangerous, if he felt like it. “I can take care of myself. I’ve been doing it for the last 50 odd years.” Jack said. He smirked. “I seem to remember on Sakaar…”

Jack stopped. Not because he had any real compulsion to keep Loki’s secrets, but because what he’d started to recite as an antidote, had come back as a full force memory. He could smell his god’s blood and the reek of drugs in his sweat, see the way his elegant hands trembled uncontrollably, hear the mocking malevolence of the Grandmaster, and feel his own helpless rage.

His entire demeanor changed and he dropped his attitude. “Never mind. I can take care of myself.” Jack repeated quietly. “I can take anything…”

but seeing you hurt

. He glanced at Heather and tried to read her expression.

“I’m good in a fight. I don’t need to be protected.”

I need to protect. You as well and Clarice and even pain in the ass Izzy.

@the-lady-witchitery

the-lady-witchitery

“Jack, I didn’t mean-” Hester sighed. “I just meant you’re not a danger to me. Not that you can’t be dangerous. I- anyway, of course you can be. I didn’t mean in general. Just that I wasn’t wrong to invite you in- I-” It was like having two conversations at once,she felt, and with Loki over there giving a smirk behind Jack. Winking at her.

She glared at him, refused to entertain that smile. Jack had mentioned Sakaar again. This was not a light moment. Stop playing. What are you doing here any-

‘Think you invited me, my Lady,’ He snipped her thought in half, and bowed as he stepped away.

Hester flushed, wide eyed. Damn. She turned to climb the stairs. pausing with her hand on the newel.

“I guess you two will be wanting to turn in soon. Ask Izzy to fix you something if you like. I’ll say goodnight now though, as I have some work to do.”

She stared at the back of Loki’s head, searching what mood he was truly in. He chuckled and swished the back of his hair, and cut her off. Really? Really?

- - - -

Keep reading

demonjacklindsey

Jack returned Loki’s smile with a smarmy grin. He’d had every intention of making an obscene offer, but he damn well knew he was too tired to be capable of giving a stellar performance. That and he couldn’t bring himself to be disloyal to a woman who had been so kind to him, a stranger, by seriously trying to horn in on an established relationship. Which were both good excuses to not get further involved with Loki, to whom he felt such a conflicting mess of emotions. None of which changed a damn thing.

The grin slipped from his face. Why the hell did he always have to fall for total bastards? Why couldn’t he just fall in love with a normal nice guy and live a normal nice life? Because you idiot, you aren’t normal. You’re a freaking creature of darkness who was raised to think they were human. And there are thousand treads that weave and branch whenever you look at him. Possibilities untold.

Jack turned away and wondered around the room, looking at the various items on shelf and mantle as if they held his attention. “That’s up to you isn’t it? You know how I feel, my lord. You’ve been rifling through my mind like it was a pack of cards. I’m fighting this battle on both sides. Three sides if you count the scrap of reservation I have about insulting my hostess. The real question is what will you leave me with, when you do leave? I carry your mark in my flesh and around my throat.” Jack turned to meet Loki’s eyes. “I’m not worthy of more.” Jack trailed off, knowing Loki’s past he could not ask, yet,

In his mind there was a child, beautiful, wild and unbroken. Raven dark hair and a raven’s sharp mind, and laughter, sweet and wild. Playing in these woods, chasing Clarice through the trees, teasing Izzy. A dark cloak of raven feathers on their shoulders, or were they raven’s wings? His child to love, to teach, to watch over, and to protect. Child of his heart or his body he did not know. But it was born of his god’s visit, one way or the other.

@the-lady-witchitery

the-lady-witchitery

In the library, Hester was being circled. She had become weightless, limp, and hung several inches above the floor. The mind of the one she’d invoked was examining her, tickling her mind in tendrils. If she could have moved, she’d have shivered. Gradually this mental invasion slid away, returning her to the floor. As gravity reclaimed her she tripped and fell.

“Uff!”

A snigger from below.

“We’re always touched by your faith, Hessster.”

She climbed to her feet. “Faith?”

“-that we won’t be offended by your criticisms of our fatherr.”

‘Well you know him better than me,’ she thought.

“Hmm. Who is thiss.. demon?”

“His name is Jack Lindsey. I don’t know very much about him-”

“And yet you take him upon your sshoulderss.”

“He arrived here.”

“From whom?”

Hester was expecting to be asked from where, not whom.

“Who sent him to you?”

“I don’t know. I can’t see his mind. It’s protected by his magic.”

“HIS magic? Not anotherss?”

Her eyes widened. She hadn’t considered this. Had Loki arranged all this? Steered him to her?

“You sssstill underestimate him, little witch.”

“So-”

“What do you fearrr?”

“He taught Jack about portals. ALL portals. He didn’t teach him and locks, keys-”

“Loptr furnishedd him with talisman magic.”

They dipped below and set the floor into a swirl. Hester searched for them, yearning to know more than puzzles.

“Your demon isss not in the danger you think.”

Hester sighed with relief.

“There is another danger.”

The liquid grew darker, their voice grew quieter.

“Think Hessster! Why do you place candlesss in windowss?”

Hester’s eyes widened. She looked towards the window where she’d left a candle burning, though couldn’t see it clearly through the mist, its flame had grown much higher than a candle that size should carry. She felt her heartbeat rise.

The serpent chuckled quietly.

“So often you forget how capable you are, little one. And stronger than you think.”

They lifted their head to face her.

“Stop letting my father squeezzzze your heart. Your feelingss disssstract you. If you want to help this one, reach back.”

“Reach back?”

The serpent hissed.

“To old wayssss, little witch. To older timesss-”

They began to sink, the liquid gathered into a whirlpool around them.

“Wait!” Hester knelt down to watch, and willed them back, a dozen possibilities trying to capture her mind. “How? Why would that try to hurt him? How could they-?”

Their eyes slowly emerged.

“Come to me again when you think it’s finished. Come when you feel it’s done.”

And with that they were gone.

Hester stood, watching the liquid shrink. Breathing deeply, she took her dagger and sliced across her palm. She hissed with pain as she squeezed and let the blood drip into the dark; an offering, a payment, as the grey mist around her dissipated.

She stood awhile, absorbing what had happened, the words, the shock, the sights. Then set to clearing the objects she’d used in the ritual, and pulled the rug back in place.

Hester wondered how long she had been upstairs. The sky was pitch-black now, full of stars, she could see, through the window where the now extinguised candle stood.

- - - - - - -

“Oh do stop, Jack. I mightn’t leave a while yet. Calm down.. You’re in danger of becoming a nag” Loki paused to read the pictures in Jack’s mind, turning towards him with a smile. “Oh dear hound, such pretty pictures.”

Loki stood rubbing his fingers on a thumb. His gaze was miles away. “Ok-” he whispered to himself.

“Come here,” he invited, opening his arms, ready to embrace.

@demonjacklindsey

demonjacklindsey

Jack went to him. All of his esteemed morals and ideals could not hold him back. He shut his eyes and pressed his face to Loki’s shoulder and breathed in his god’s scent. He held tightly to Loki and shivered as Loki’s arms went around him. When Loki’s lips brushed his temples, Jack growled and bared teeth too sharp for a human’s mouth.. “It would be best to take this upstairs.” Loki said with a low chuckle.”Away from prying eyes.” *

The bright light of mid-morning was filtering through the curtains when Jack awoke. He turned over and yelped as his back twinged. It wasn’t the first time in his life he’d woken up from a rambunctious night, alone, or in a strange bed, but usually it was one or the other. He brushed the cobwebs out of his mind and took stock of his surroundings. Ah, he was in the room the witch had assigned to him. Loki had brought him here and … things got a little blurry after that. He was pretty sure they did more than talk. There were bruises on his wrists and he ached in several places. The back of his head for one. He rubbed his skull and remembered he’d tried to bite his god and… Well, Loki had not appreciated that. He also felt a little hung over. There had been a glass of something offered too… Jack gave up trying to remember. One way or another Loki had spent some time with him. If he’d not done more than tease him and rough him up a little, it really didn’t matter. Jack was content. He may have said something to that effect and Loki had baled. His god hated declarations of affection. Jack smiled. That was one reason why he did said them. Annoying Loki, hazardous though it was, gave him immense pleasure. But there were other things to think about. Jack considered portals as he washed up and dressed. Portals were very interesting. He’d always disliked them before, as they seemed to be an enigma which only complicated his life. But now the possibilities were astounding. Travel for one, he could go anywhere he wanted. Paris, Rome, Egypt were all only a few steps away. He could visit the great museums of the world, see art he’d only admired in books or on TV, in real life. Something else occurred to him. Being able to step in and out of places at will could be very profitable. Why make a living painting self-absorbed socialites, when all he’d need to do was pop into the vault of a local bank and make an unauthorized withdrawal? Jack’s larcenous little heart warmed at the prospect. He could live like a freaking king, if he was careful. And not just him. A lot of people could benefit from a few thou dropped into their laps. He checked his reflection in the mirror before he left. His face wasn’t bruised and other then the smug grin, he looked pretty much as usual. The guilt he’d thought he’d feel for Loki’s attentions had not manifested. After all, it wasn’t his decision, one way or the other. No one could blame him for obeying his god’s whims. Even the mild headache couldn’t keep the spring out of his step as he bounced down the stairs. He was looking forward to what the day would bring. More magic? Between portals and summoning things, there was a host of things he could do to upset the status quo. He was brimming with questions. “Good Morning!” He sang out when he reached the bottom of the stairs. @the-lady-witchitery

#Lady Hester #RP #Demon Jack Lindsey

macrolit

“Authors like cats because they are such quiet, lovable, wise creatures, and cats like authors for the same reasons.”

— Robertson Davies

the-lady-witchitery

Cats like authors because they have lots of books to sit on.

the-lady-witchitery

I'd attended the unveiling of Mrs. G's portrait. Since it was their dime I didn't mind. Two days of rich food and posh lodgings and a loaned motorcycle for the long ride to the airport. Halfway there I park the bike, grab my pack and head into the surrounding forest to forage for spell ingredients. But now I'm lost. No GPS. I don't dare shapeshift in daylight to try to fly out. I could get shot by a hunter. Luckily I see a house. Maybe they'll help. I try to ignore the faint prickle of magic.

When in her lynx form, Izzy’s senses were very heightened. He ears twitched and she sniffed towards the open window. “Mistress..? Did you feel that?”

Hester nodded; she, too, had been alerted by… something. She’d felt a subtle shiver in the wards protecting her home, like the trail left when a fish swims across a pool.

With Izzy walking beside her, she went to the front door, hiding her sword behind her back. She peered round the cedge of the door as Izzy took a few steps outside.

“It’s a man with a tail,” Izzy said, blankly, as though it were the most everyday thing to be standing there. “Shall I chase him off?” she asked with a glint in her eye. Quite a while since she had had a good chase of a trespasser.

“Nooo,” hummed Hester, “he’s…. interesting. And he was either sent or is lost. Either way, we shouldn’t ignore him.” She opened the door wider and called out, “You there! Are you all right?”

demonjacklindsey

the-lady-witchitery

Loki didn’t care to explain. He chuckled quietly, and walked on.

By the time they reached the cottage it was dark. Izzy, now an exquisite Ocelot, was lying along the windowsill in the moonlight.

“Why, hello, guestssss,” she said, as they headed for the door, “you decided to come back then?”

“Good evening, moggy,” Loki winked as he walked past.

Izzy rolled and sat up. “Watch out, Jack.”

Loki stopped short and glared at her. “Now, now, Isabella. No one likes an overly dramatic pussy.”

Inside, Hester had heard them, and waited by the stairs. The hint of a smile for politeness, maybe. Eyes fixed to Loki’s voice. Heart pounding.

@demonjacklindsey

demonjacklindsey

Jack eyed Izzy curiously. Why would she bother to give him a warning? And against who? Loki? Well that was a given. His god was unpredictable and Jack had been the target of his wrath on more than one occasion. But he wasn’t exactly afraid of any punishment Loki decided to hand out. Looked forward to it as a matter of fact. It just reinforced his belief that his god cared for him if he took the time to beat the shit out of him. correct him. Or was he being warned about Lady Hester? The witch had only shown him kindness, and he didn’t know what he might have done to upset her. He’d made no secret of his infatuation with Loki. And he was fairly certain he had made clear that he had no intention of trying to worm his way between Loki and Hester. In his mind they were Lovers, ex or otherwise and he was content to be Loki’s dog. His god was way too high maintenance for Jack to want a one on one relationship. Or had he broken some rule by using magic in her woods? Mages seemed to have so many rules and customs and protocols, and they never bothered to post them for the uninformed. It’s not like someone gave him the handbook “So now you’re a demon.” Jack shrugged. “Uh thanks?” he said to Izzy. He motioned for her to go inside ahead of him, manners installed from childhood kicking in. “Ladies first?”

@the-lady-witchitery

Izzy leapt in front of Jack and set herself down on the doorstep. There, she gracefully pointed one rear leg toward the sky, and had a wash. Didn’t need it, of course. But two legged beings seemed to find it quite distressing so what a perfect joke.

“Oh!” she looked up at him, leg still poised and paw splayed, “I’m sorry. I forgot my manners.” she flipped onto her feet, flicked her tail and swayed her hips through to the hallway, brushing against Loki’s leg as she went.

“Hey!” he brushed fur off his shin, muttering something about finest Asgardian leather.

“Are you mad?” -Hester’s voice met him a little off guard.

“Well some might say that,” he smirked.

“Did you even bother with Higher Wardings?”

No response. He was ‘busy’ with admiring glances up and down Hester’s form. Only Loki could make appreciation an insult.

“Did you even give him an amulet? Door protection spells?”

“Really? Hester? I had thought you above hedge witchery.” He stepped nearer.

“You know entirely what I mean.”

“Of course I gave him an amulet,” he stroked her cheek, “you really, really,” his hand slipped around her throat, only enough for the slightest contact of skin, just enougn to raise her chin and control her gaze, “really ought not to worry about demons.”

‘fuck you’ she thought.

“Oh very possibly, dear, but not at the moment, hey? We have company.”

She pushed herself away from him. “I took him under my protection. My vow to help whoever, whatever’s sent here.”

“Your fault to make such a vow. You think me mad? You’ve no idea what might come through.”

“He isn’t dangerous. I can see his aura.”

He couldn’t. Wasn’t even certain if he believed such things existed.

‘stupid child!’

“Loki, you can’t possibly protect him everywhere and now I have extra work to do.”

Loki looked at the ceiling towards the library.

“You better not delay too long then,” he smirked. “No telling how keen he is to try out his new powers.” With a wink he stepped away and turned towards the back door.

“Come on, Jack! What’s keeping you now?”

@demonjacklindsey

demonjacklindsey

“You aren’t the only one who can do that.” Jack said to Izzy with a low chuckle. “I just reserve my performance for more private moments.”

He followed the cat into the room and caught just enough of Loki and Hester’s conversation to know they were talking about him. He didn’t like being referred to as not dangerous. He could be dangerous, if he felt like it. “I can take care of myself. I’ve been doing it for the last 50 odd years.” Jack said. He smirked. “I seem to remember on Sakaar…”

Jack stopped. Not because he had any real compulsion to keep Loki’s secrets, but because what he’d started to recite as an antidote, had come back as a full force memory. He could smell his god’s blood and the reek of drugs in his sweat, see the way his elegant hands trembled uncontrollably, hear the mocking malevolence of the Grandmaster, and feel his own helpless rage.

His entire demeanor changed and he dropped his attitude. “Never mind. I can take care of myself.” Jack repeated quietly. “I can take anything…”

but seeing you hurt

. He glanced at Heather and tried to read her expression.

“I’m good in a fight. I don’t need to be protected.”

I need to protect. You as well and Clarice and even pain in the ass Izzy.

@the-lady-witchitery

the-lady-witchitery

“Jack, I didn’t mean-” Hester sighed. “I just meant you’re not a danger to me. Not that you can’t be dangerous. I- anyway, of course you can be. I didn’t mean in general. Just that I wasn’t wrong to invite you in- I-” It was like having two conversations at once,she felt, and with Loki over there giving a smirk behind Jack. Winking at her.

She glared at him, refused to entertain that smile. Jack had mentioned Sakaar again. This was not a light moment. Stop playing. What are you doing here any-

‘Think you invited me, my Lady,’ He snipped her thought in half, and bowed as he stepped away.

Hester flushed, wide eyed. Damn. She turned to climb the stairs. pausing with her hand on the newel.

“I guess you two will be wanting to turn in soon. Ask Izzy to fix you something if you like. I’ll say goodnight now though, as I have some work to do.”

She stared at the back of Loki’s head, searching what mood he was truly in. He chuckled and swished the back of his hair, and cut her off. Really? Really?

- - - -

Keep reading

demonjacklindsey

Jack returned Loki’s smile with a smarmy grin. He’d had every intention of making an obscene offer, but he damn well knew he was too tired to be capable of giving a stellar performance. That and he couldn’t bring himself to be disloyal to a woman who had been so kind to him, a stranger, by seriously trying to horn in on an established relationship. Which were both good excuses to not get further involved with Loki, to whom he felt such a conflicting mess of emotions. None of which changed a damn thing.

The grin slipped from his face. Why the hell did he always have to fall for total bastards? Why couldn’t he just fall in love with a normal nice guy and live a normal nice life? Because you idiot, you aren’t normal. You’re a freaking creature of darkness who was raised to think they were human. And there are thousand treads that weave and branch whenever you look at him. Possibilities untold.

Jack turned away and wondered around the room, looking at the various items on shelf and mantle as if they held his attention. “That’s up to you isn’t it? You know how I feel, my lord. You’ve been rifling through my mind like it was a pack of cards. I’m fighting this battle on both sides. Three sides if you count the scrap of reservation I have about insulting my hostess. The real question is what will you leave me with, when you do leave? I carry your mark in my flesh and around my throat.” Jack turned to meet Loki’s eyes. “I’m not worthy of more.” Jack trailed off, knowing Loki’s past he could not ask, yet,

In his mind there was a child, beautiful, wild and unbroken. Raven dark hair and a raven’s sharp mind, and laughter, sweet and wild. Playing in these woods, chasing Clarice through the trees, teasing Izzy. A dark cloak of raven feathers on their shoulders, or were they raven’s wings? His child to love, to teach, to watch over, and to protect. Child of his heart or his body he did not know. But it was born of his god’s visit, one way or the other.

@the-lady-witchitery

#Lady Hester #Demon Jack Lindsey #rp

the-lady-witchitery

I'd attended the unveiling of Mrs. G's portrait. Since it was their dime I didn't mind. Two days of rich food and posh lodgings and a loaned motorcycle for the long ride to the airport. Halfway there I park the bike, grab my pack and head into the surrounding forest to forage for spell ingredients. But now I'm lost. No GPS. I don't dare shapeshift in daylight to try to fly out. I could get shot by a hunter. Luckily I see a house. Maybe they'll help. I try to ignore the faint prickle of magic.

When in her lynx form, Izzy’s senses were very heightened. He ears twitched and she sniffed towards the open window. “Mistress..? Did you feel that?”

Hester nodded; she, too, had been alerted by… something. She’d felt a subtle shiver in the wards protecting her home, like the trail left when a fish swims across a pool.

With Izzy walking beside her, she went to the front door, hiding her sword behind her back. She peered round the cedge of the door as Izzy took a few steps outside.

“It’s a man with a tail,” Izzy said, blankly, as though it were the most everyday thing to be standing there. “Shall I chase him off?” she asked with a glint in her eye. Quite a while since she had had a good chase of a trespasser.

“Nooo,” hummed Hester, “he’s…. interesting. And he was either sent or is lost. Either way, we shouldn’t ignore him.” She opened the door wider and called out, “You there! Are you all right?”

demonjacklindsey

the-lady-witchitery

Loki didn’t care to explain. He chuckled quietly, and walked on.

By the time they reached the cottage it was dark. Izzy, now an exquisite Ocelot, was lying along the windowsill in the moonlight.

“Why, hello, guestssss,” she said, as they headed for the door, “you decided to come back then?”

“Good evening, moggy,” Loki winked as he walked past.

Izzy rolled and sat up. “Watch out, Jack.”

Loki stopped short and glared at her. “Now, now, Isabella. No one likes an overly dramatic pussy.”

Inside, Hester had heard them, and waited by the stairs. The hint of a smile for politeness, maybe. Eyes fixed to Loki’s voice. Heart pounding.

@demonjacklindsey

demonjacklindsey

Jack eyed Izzy curiously. Why would she bother to give him a warning? And against who? Loki? Well that was a given. His god was unpredictable and Jack had been the target of his wrath on more than one occasion. But he wasn’t exactly afraid of any punishment Loki decided to hand out. Looked forward to it as a matter of fact. It just reinforced his belief that his god cared for him if he took the time to beat the shit out of him. correct him. Or was he being warned about Lady Hester? The witch had only shown him kindness, and he didn’t know what he might have done to upset her. He’d made no secret of his infatuation with Loki. And he was fairly certain he had made clear that he had no intention of trying to worm his way between Loki and Hester. In his mind they were Lovers, ex or otherwise and he was content to be Loki’s dog. His god was way too high maintenance for Jack to want a one on one relationship. Or had he broken some rule by using magic in her woods? Mages seemed to have so many rules and customs and protocols, and they never bothered to post them for the uninformed. It’s not like someone gave him the handbook “So now you’re a demon.” Jack shrugged. “Uh thanks?” he said to Izzy. He motioned for her to go inside ahead of him, manners installed from childhood kicking in. “Ladies first?”

@the-lady-witchitery

Izzy leapt in front of Jack and set herself down on the doorstep. There, she gracefully pointed one rear leg toward the sky, and had a wash. Didn’t need it, of course. But two legged beings seemed to find it quite distressing so what a perfect joke.

“Oh!” she looked up at him, leg still poised and paw splayed, “I’m sorry. I forgot my manners.” she flipped onto her feet, flicked her tail and swayed her hips through to the hallway, brushing against Loki’s leg as she went.

“Hey!” he brushed fur off his shin, muttering something about finest Asgardian leather.

“Are you mad?” -Hester’s voice met him a little off guard.

“Well some might say that,” he smirked.

“Did you even bother with Higher Wardings?”

No response. He was ‘busy’ with admiring glances up and down Hester’s form. Only Loki could make appreciation an insult.

“Did you even give him an amulet? Door protection spells?”

“Really? Hester? I had thought you above hedge witchery.” He stepped nearer.

“You know entirely what I mean.”

“Of course I gave him an amulet,” he stroked her cheek, “you really, really,” his hand slipped around her throat, only enough for the slightest contact of skin, just enougn to raise her chin and control her gaze, “really ought not to worry about demons.”

‘fuck you’ she thought.

“Oh very possibly, dear, but not at the moment, hey? We have company.”

She pushed herself away from him. “I took him under my protection. My vow to help whoever, whatever’s sent here.”

“Your fault to make such a vow. You think me mad? You’ve no idea what might come through.”

“He isn’t dangerous. I can see his aura.”

He couldn’t. Wasn’t even certain if he believed such things existed.

'stupid child!’

“Loki, you can’t possibly protect him everywhere and now I have extra work to do.”

Loki looked at the ceiling towards the library.

“You better not delay too long then,” he smirked. “No telling how keen he is to try out his new powers.” With a wink he stepped away and turned towards the back door.

“Come on, Jack! What’s keeping you now?”

@demonjacklindsey

demonjacklindsey

“You aren’t the only one who can do that.” Jack said to Izzy with a low chuckle. “I just reserve my performance for more private moments.”

He followed the cat into the room and caught just enough of Loki and Hester’s conversation to know they were talking about him. He didn’t like being referred to as not dangerous. He could be dangerous, if he felt like it. “I can take care of myself. I’ve been doing it for the last 50 odd years.” Jack said. He smirked. “I seem to remember on Sakaar…”

Jack stopped. Not because he had any real compulsion to keep Loki’s secrets, but because what he’d started to recite as an antidote, had come back as a full force memory. He could smell his god’s blood and the reek of drugs in his sweat, see the way his elegant hands trembled uncontrollably, hear the mocking malevolence of the Grandmaster, and feel his own helpless rage.

His entire demeanor changed and he dropped his attitude. “Never mind. I can take care of myself.” Jack repeated quietly. “I can take anything…”

but seeing you hurt

. He glanced at Heather and tried to read her expression.

“I’m good in a fight. I don’t need to be protected.”

I need to protect. You as well and Clarice and even pain in the ass Izzy.

@the-lady-witchitery

#Lady Hester #rp #Demon Jack Lindsey #frustrated guard dog #wants to be a mastiff but is only a little mutt

the-lady-witchitery

I'd attended the unveiling of Mrs. G's portrait. Since it was their dime I didn't mind. Two days of rich food and posh lodgings and a loaned motorcycle for the long ride to the airport. Halfway there I park the bike, grab my pack and head into the surrounding forest to forage for spell ingredients. But now I'm lost. No GPS. I don't dare shapeshift in daylight to try to fly out. I could get shot by a hunter. Luckily I see a house. Maybe they'll help. I try to ignore the faint prickle of magic.

When in her lynx form, Izzy’s senses were very heightened. He ears twitched and she sniffed towards the open window. “Mistress..? Did you feel that?”

Hester nodded; she, too, had been alerted by… something. She’d felt a subtle shiver in the wards protecting her home, like the trail left when a fish swims across a pool.

With Izzy walking beside her, she went to the front door, hiding her sword behind her back. She peered round the cedge of the door as Izzy took a few steps outside.

“It’s a man with a tail,” Izzy said, blankly, as though it were the most everyday thing to be standing there. “Shall I chase him off?” she asked with a glint in her eye. Quite a while since she had had a good chase of a trespasser.

“Nooo,” hummed Hester, “he’s…. interesting. And he was either sent or is lost. Either way, we shouldn’t ignore him.” She opened the door wider and called out, “You there! Are you all right?”

demonjacklindsey

the-lady-witchitery

Loki’s eyes scanned a quick, searching glance all over Jack, as he waited for his full attention. Once given, he tapped the side of Jack’s hands with his own, checking that there was no gap between them. Holding his hands above them, he began to let the grains of sand trickle gently down. He mumbled something, scarcely louder than his breath as they fell.

Once the sand had completely transferred, Loki closed his palms over Jack’s, slipping his thumbs beneath them. A green wave of light swept up and round, closing their hands together. The sand began to vibrate. Hidden, and sharp, it danced its way across Jack’s palms. “Be still,” Loki whispered, as the green became a white heat, burning and sealing.

Before skin could be scarred, the heat stopped. Loki lifted his hands and blew a fine brown dust away from Jack’s. Underneath it lay a pristine crystal cube, the size of a hazelnut. He smiled. “Would you like it on a chain, a ring, perhaps?” he pinched the end of Jack’s nose, “or eh, embedded somewhere, little mole?”

@demonjacklindsey

demonjacklindsey

Jack watched the sand fall curious about what Loki was doing. The cool slither of his magic over their hands and the way the sand tingled on his palms was a welcome thing, but the heat was not.

There was good pain and bad pain and fire was very much in the bad pain category. His first instinct was to pull back. Loki’s command held him steady. His jaws clenched and his nostrils flared but the fire was over before he made a sound.

He glanced up at Loki’s words. Damn mind reader. “A chain will suffice.” Jack said. “Embedding is not necessary.”

@the-lady-witchitery

Loki smirked. “You surprise me,” he said, as he picked up the cube.

He began rolling it between his fingers and thumb. A slither of silver began to fall from one corner of it, strands of pure white light, twisting together as they fell. Soon it was long enough to puddle onto Jack’s palm, where Loki guided it to trace out a sigil. When the sigil was complete, it glowed, and he dropped the cube into it, just as light became a solid chain.

He smiled again. He could have done all of that so simply, but he felt sure Jack would like the show.

—–

Hester was fidgetty.

It had been good to see her guests go off together. They had history. Well, so did she but theirs- she wasn’t sure how much detail she wanted to know about it. So it was nice to let them go and catch up on their own. Besides. For old friends, that’s normal, right?

But she felt something. And whatever it was, it made her fidgetty.

Clarice landed on the chair next to her.

“I know what they’re doing,” she clipped, her eyes glowing.

“Surprise me,” groaned Hester.

The pair stared at each other for a moment. Clarice twisted into a gaping grin as she felt the sounds and pictures of what she’d witnessed being tugged at in her mind.

Hester sat up straight with a bolt. “You’re not seriously-” she looked towards the woods. Twilight would be pulling in soon, but over by the lake it’d still be a bit lighter. “Portals?” she whispered, her hands clenched.

——

“Allow me, then,” Loki said, lifting the chain with both hands and raising it to Jack’s eyes. He waited for Jack to bow his head and receive the gift.

@demonjacklindsey

demonjacklindsey

Jack was impressed at Loki’s easy manipulation of matter as he changed the cube to pooling light to sigil to silver chain. For a second he regretted his choice to not have it written into his skin. But he already had that mark and he didn’t need to be tied any closer, he just needed the reassurance of his god’s… love? No ownership was more like it. A chain, a weight he could feel around his neck, however light, was a physical token of Loki’s possession.

Jack pulled his hair up out of the way and bent his head. He sighed when Loki fastened the metal around his neck. He could feel the power in it and welcomed it. The chain wouldn’t wear through like the thin leather collar had. It wouldn’t break and fall and be lost, and make him wonder what he had done to lose his god’s authority. A weight was lifted from his shoulders. He was no longer in charge. No longer desperately scrambling for answers. The answers were to be earned and he would be corrected if he went wrong. He straightened his shoulders and stood taller, raised his chin to look into Loki’s eyes, calm, assured, stronger and more centered than he had been since Loki’s arrival. He bared his teeth in a grin that was part joy and part challenge. There was no more need to try to kindle Loki’s favor. He was a very bad dog and would undoubtedly bite the hand that fed him. But he was Loki’s dog again.

“Thine.” Jack said proudly and without a trace of question. He glanced toward the cottage. “I’ve had more than enough for tonight, my god. Unless you want to give Lady Hester the impression that you have bent me over a handy stump and had your evil, though undoubtedly skilled way with me, we should head back. Though should you wish to indulge in that activity, I’ll be happy to oblige.” Jack chuckled and started back toward Hester’s home. He strutted a few steps and then his footsteps slowed, as his weariness overtook his triumph.

@the-lady-witchitery

the-lady-witchitery

Loki quickly followed and slipped his booted foot in front of Jack’s shin. “Excuse you, gods before dogs” he clipped, and walked slightly ahead of him with a passing wink.

- - - - - - - -

Izzy was clearing the side and desk of all the paraphernalia used for the invocation. As Hester walked by she reached in and nudged her. “Careful.”

“Of course. And where do you want this?” Izzy held up the helm that Loki had given her.

“Fuksake,” Hester snatched it away, and threw it up at the ceiling. Before it could crash, it disappeared, to settle into its honoured place in Hester’s chambers. She marched off to the kitchen.

“Psst, what’s wrong with her?” Clarice hissed from the windowsill.

“I don’t know….I’m- I don’t know…” she stopped her work and looked towards the noise of a coffee machine screeching.

Hester pulled the glass away from the pouring liquid so fast it splashed her face. “DAMMIT.” It hurt as she licked it.

She sat at the table, flicking a long fingernail against the handle repeatedly, swearing under her breath. “Fucking irresponsible power crazy-”

Clarice had perched opposite, and began to feign an inspection of her foot.

“Surely. It. Isn’t. That. Interesting. Little corvid!”

Hester’s mood made Clarice jump. Worse than she’d expected. Oh-oh.

- - - - - - - - -

Loki sauntered along, smiling at the sky.The stars were growing clearer.

“Ahhh.. eheh…. I think we shall receive a riveting reception at the cottage.”

@demonjacklindsey

demonjacklindsey

“Woof woof!” Jack said, as Loki passed him. He managed to not noticeably stumble as he avoided Loki’s attempt (or what he thought was an attempt) at tripping him, and picked up his pace to keep up with Loki’s long strides.

He didn’t mind following his god. It afforded him a glimpses of that nicely muscled arse between the flaps of the long coat. He amused himself with fantasy as he walked, knowing full well Loki could read his mind. Jack made elaborate thought pictures, in case his god was interested in how icy kisses could heat the blood if applied to his god’s hindquarters with discretion.

He was doing it solely to harass, as he was more bark than bite at this point. He loved nothing better than to annoy his god. Unless it was doing his bidding. Of course if his orders weren’t too important, he could follow them in the most maliciously compliant way and combine both pleasures. Maybe he’d even manage to piss Loki off enough to smack him, confirming him in his self-appointed role as Royal Pain in the Ass. Maybe he should ask for a stipend and a uniform to go along with the job.

Jack broke off from his idle musing to wonder what had happened cause this “riveting reception” Loki was expecting. Mostly he wanted to smooth things over, as he really did like Lady Hester and he didn’t want her upset. However, his reckless demonic nature, which was gaining dominance now that he was so tired, wondered how he could pour some gasoline onto the potential emotional fire. “So,” he heard himself say. “What’d you do to piss her off this time?” @the-lady-witchitery