Ever since I was blessed with the knowledge of a looming doom, the time around me seemed to slow down. It resulted in me locking that information away, somewhere deep within myself until I had time to deal with it again. I couldn't afford any more distractions. I had to see this plan through otherwise we'd all be doomed, not just me. In a way, what Abaddon told me sharpened my senses. I saw the goal clearly now. Unfortunately, along with the information, I had to lock a lot of emotions away. There was no room for spiraling anymore. As I realized that not even vices could help, the only solution for me was to hit the switch.

A lot of demons were capable of this - turning off the passion and emotions within them. It wasn't recommended however. What makes demons so charming is the ability to feel every emotion very intensely and to understand humans on a very profound level. It also made existing a lot more bearable. That was why not many of them hit the switch. In fact, the ability to connect with humans was the only way they managed to get deals done.

The only thing that was left within me was a small spark of vengeance. I had to leave some of it so I could actually get something done. I needed drive.

The first time in a long while I had to walk through the outside parts of Hell's palace. I wasn't sure where Mammon was enchanting the ring but I had to do my part of getting Astaroth on our side. The outside of Hell was the same as always - eternally fiery and hot. One of the rare times humans were correct about depictions of parts of Astral was certainly this. It wasn't at all charming, it was very grim and unfriendly looking. The sky was always a crimson color with smoke from volcanic craters usually covering most of it.

I assumed Astaroth was near the gate as he was nowhere to be found inside the palace's walls. Mammon used to be a lazier guard as he'd just spectate from inside. Astaroth, however, seemed to be a much stricter one. It could be tricky fooling him.

Nonetheless, I strolled on across the cracked ground, trying to find the mysterious demon. Mysterious to me as he was also one of those I had barely talked to. He was just far too neutral. At least with Mammon I knew he disliked me in the beginning, I had never known what Astaroth was thinking.

After a while, the gate loomed just ahead. It was constructed from the sturdiest material found in Hell, resembling Earth's iron but imbued with magical properties. The material blocked anyone who wasn't a demon from entering. If anyone attempted to pass through, they would be sent flying back. If someone managed to breach it, as Loki had the first time, the guard was supposed to intervene. Something Mammon had never done with Loki. The gate itself towered high, reaching almost as high as a two-story building, making it an imposing barrier.

A little bit above it I noticed black smoke stretching out far alongside the fence. For a non-demon, it would just be a simple puff of smoke. But for a demon, it would be another demon. We were also able to shapeshift, as I mentioned before, but we weren't as versatile as Loki was.

"Astaroth." I spoke loud and clear as I stared directly at the blackness floating above me. Demons in this state were very much conscious, they only couldn't communicate verbally.

There was no budging for a minute or so despite me patiently waiting. "I have something important to discuss with you." I said as confidently as I could to show him I was being serious. Considering we hadn't really talked before it was reasonable why he was being cautious.

At once the black smoke along the fence started shrinking until it all collected in a spot right in front of me. The mass enlarged until it was about my height and started shaping out a human visage, resembling a shadow person. Soon the smoke started drawing back until an actual physical manifestation of Astaroth formed. The first thing one would notice about his appearance were horned featherless wings and long goat horns on his head. His hair was dark brown and wavy, reaching his neck. His skin was ghostly pale and the deep-set black and piercing eyes, one would feel them in their soul. For some reason, Astaroth preferred walking around shirtless so him appearing bare-chested was not that concerning. I assumed it was his way of showing even more of how much he didn't care about anything.

"Asmodeus, right?" He asked in a deep voice, his eyes scanning me from top to bottom. There was a hint of mistrust in his tone, making my confidence falter.

"That is me." I replied. Astaroth straightened his back, looking down at me with a piercing gaze and folded his arms across his chest. "I came here to ask you for a favor which isn't exactly... easy."

Astaroth shifted in place but kept his gaze fixated on me. He was almost more intimidating than Abaddon. "How bad can it be?" He asked, raising his eyebrows.

"I just need to let you know I'm in no way doing this out of disrespect rather it is out of benefit for us all." I began with my speech that I was just now making up in my head. I didn't know what his personality was like so I couldn't really prepare. "I'm going to need you to let a certain being inside when the time comes which will be in a few days."

Astaroth looked at me questioningly but there was a hint of curiosity. "What's in it for me?" Despite his seeming neutrality, even this demon was able to be bribed.

"You don't care for the reasons or who it is?"

"Well..." Astaroth suddenly chuckled and came one step closer to me. "I wouldn't expect for a king such as yourself to want to put this kingdom in jeopardy. Or should I worry?" He smiled mischievously and slightly tilted his head to the side.

I got taken aback by his sudden questioning. There was a bit more chaos within him than expected. He knew exactly what I was trying to do.

"I know we don't know each other that well and you have every right not to trust me. Especially after all the stunts I pulled lately but the boss can vouch for me. We've been having meetings daily now." This was a rather risky move, I was aware. "I'm trying to do better."

There was a sudden spark in Astaroth's eyes and I knew that it meant he didn't trust me at all. He was, however, rather amused by my whole speech.

"So, you're saying if I called up the Devil, he'd vouch for your good intentions? Is that it?" Astaroth smirked, then burst into laughter. "I'll give you one more chance. If you're not convincing, forget about it." He exhaled deeply, almost in annoyance.

I started to worry that I was wasting Astaroth's time and using up all my chances. My nerves were getting the better of me, and his skeptical attitude wasn't helping.

"I can tell you the truth," I said, locking eyes with him. This time, there was genuine curiosity in his gaze.

"Try me."

"The truth is, if you despise the current system, you'll let this deity in," I said, hoping to pique his interest. "Nothing will be disrupted; it's actually for my protection. As you may know, I have a difficult relationship with the boss." I spoke cautiously, closely watching for any changes in Astaroth's posture or expression.

"My personal feelings aside, if you get caught, you're also putting me in a risky position. I can't allow that to happen." My stomach sank when I heard his words. While his reasoning made sense, I couldn't allow the conversation to end here. I had to bring Loki in no matter what.

"What if we... introduced the deity as a new demon?" I suddenly shot out a question which made Astaroth slightly widen his eyes in surprise. "He's got shapeshifting abilities. So it won't be like we're hiding him." I quickly added. A swarm of possible ideas barraged my mind as I was trying to piece the puzzle together. I was very much aware that this idea was very risky but it was true if you wanted to hide something, you'd hide it in plain sight.

"Only if you're planning to introduce him as a demon that was under your care. I don't want to get involved." Astaroth said. "New" demons were usually introduced by their patron demons, or rather those whose command they were under. That would mean that Loki would be introduced as a minor demon of lust.

"I'm not planning to involve you either. I just need a favor from you to let him in."

Astaroth narrowed his eyes as he was musing on the notion. No matter what path I took, bringing in a deity in Hell would be risky. I needed to always be a few steps ahead from the Devil who had eyes everywhere.

"Can I trust you not to snitch on me?"

"I'm also trying to see whether I should snitch on you or not."

"That's oddly honest." I said through a nervous chuckle but Astaroth's expression didn't lighten up. He continued to gaze at me, appearing to attempt to read my true intentions and my reliability.

"While you're more likable than most here, I will give you the benefit of the doubt this time. However..." He began with a low but harsh voice, "if you screw up anywhere along the way, I'm no longer on your side. I don't want any problems from you or anyone. None of you are worth it. So, be very careful what you do." There was no hint of kindness in his words nor tone. He really was warning me and threatening me all at once.

"Understood." I nodded, not wanting to ruffle his feathers further. Even this response was hard to come by. Astaroth squinted his eyes a little bit and reached out his hand towards me.

"Deal then."

"Deal." I smiled lightly and grabbed his hand for a handshake. His trust in me must've been greater than he let on if he was willing to just let me be with a handshake. Or maybe it gave him a freedom to snitch on me whenever he deemed necessary. The sole thought of it made my mouth dry. There was a possibility I was digging myself a hole. The only problem was, apart from me being aware of it, I didn't know when I was going to fall into it.

With a quick nod as a goodbye, I turned away and started making my way back to the palace. I had to find Mammon immediately. I didn't know how much I should disclose to him regarding my deal with Astaroth. There was a risk of even Mammon backing out if he became aware of Astaroth possibly telling on us. And I desperately needed him on my side. I didn't think Beelzebub truly understood the depth of my hatred and rage.

Thankfully, the bubbling emotions within me were muffled thanks to the switch-off. The whole ordeal didn't bother me as much as it should. I gained the so-called tunnel vision where any possible distractions were pushed aside. Only the main goal was important.

I focused my intention on Mammon and sent out a telepathic message to him to meet me in the human world as soon as possible. Soon afterwards, I opened a portal and stepped through it. It was night on Earth which made the surroundings even quieter than usual. There were only small critters scampering through the grass and a few frogs. I breathed in the smell of clean air and instantly felt relaxation come over me. After a little while, the momentary peace was interrupted by Mammon's arrival. It irked me slightly despite me being the one who invited him.

"How far along have you come with enchanting the ring?" I asked.

"Getting straight to the point, I see." He chuckled lightly but I had no time for joking. I continued to stare at him until he finally realized that I didn't want to chit chat. "Uhm, I still haven't found a demon to do it." He confessed almost awkwardly.

"I hope you realize we don't have much time left. We only have 2 days. If you can't make it, give it to me." I said with not much emotion behind my voice. That made Mammon frown a bit.

"Are you okay, Asmodeus?" He asked carefully, narrowing his eyes as he was studying my face.

"Yes. I just had to switch off my emotions. I can't have any distractions." The moment I said that, Mammon stiffened and almost yelped.

"I never expected you to do it." He said after a small pause while he was trying to grasp my words.

"Why not?" I asked flatly.

"You just... always seemed like you were too dependent on your passions."

"Well, I still have a passion for revenge." Despite my attempt to make a joke, Mammon's face darkened lightly. "I don't need you to worry about me. Just get this done."

"I hope you realize that switching off your emotions can cause more harm than good."

"I told you I don't need your worry." I spat and threw a glare at Mammon. He shifted in place. He seemed very uncomfortable by my decision but I couldn't tell him the reason. There was too much at stake. "If you can't do it, give the ring to me."

"No. It's fine. I'll manage it. Just promise me you'll switch them back on when this is over." He locked his eyes with mine and refused to look away. I didn't respond for a few seconds, trying to figure out what to tell him. I couldn't promise him anything.

"I'll try." I said as firmly as I could but there was still doubt on his face as he pursed his lips.

"Fine. Do as you will." Mammon sighed.

"Try getting to Amon." I said before he could try saying anything else. "He might be able to get to the Devil's assistants Belial and Belphegor who might be able to do it. Tell him you're with me."

Mammon grimaced a bit at the mention of Amon but then proceeded, "Alright. It sounds very risky though."

"We've got no other options, do we?" I huffed. "I dealt with the gate by the way. So, it's up to you now."

"I assume that went well?" He raised an eyebrow.

"As much as it could've." I nodded, hoping he wouldn't ask any further questions.

"I'll try to get this over with as soon as possible then." Mammon said and then without any further questions, he stepped out of the portal without even saying goodbye. I knew that he wasn't very happy about my behavior. I was also aware of the possible negative consequences I could be facing. But I also knew if I were to change anything right now, I'd allow myself to spiral into despair. I had to be a few steps ahead of the Devil at all times - no matter the sacrifices.

I sat on the ground next to the stream and leaned back, taking in a deep breath. I could almost feel and smell the upcoming freedom. Although I was aware it was going to be quite bloody gaining it, I knew it was going to be worth it. I caught my lips quivering into a small smile for the first time in a while. I hadn't realized how limitless one could feel without any fear or depression plaguing him. Despite what Mammon might think, getting rid of any delicate emotions allowed me to feel at peace for the first time. Maybe that was how the Devil felt after getting rid of Lucifer. If that was the case, I couldn't really blame him.

At once there was a buzzing noise in my ears before it turned into very low vibrational static. I clutched my head as the noise got more intense until a familiar voice reached my ears: Asmodeus, get back to Hell immediately.

It was the voice of my beloved boss and his demanding tone would've scared me before but now I was merely surprised. Whatever he needed me for, it didn't sound good but at the same time his tone didn't sound threatening. I hoped it wasn't anything too foolish he needed from me.

I rose up to my feet again and teleported myself back to Hell's entrance. I pushed the door open and was once again met with confused glances from fellow demons. As per usual, I didn't pay too much mind as I started making my way to the Devil's office at the top. The usual empty place where Pandora used to be was now occupied by a demon I hadn't seen before. He was short in stature and had scaly skin with an angular face. He had no hair which revealed long elfin ears. Seeing Pandora being replaced like this should've aroused some pain in me. However, now, I just simply locked my expressionless eyes with the new demon's and asked, "is the Devil inside?"

"Yes, king Asmodeus." He instantly responded and stood up from his seat before opening the door for me. He seemed polite enough, so I began to like him. I smiled lightly before I entered the room.

The Devil wasn't in his usual seat, instead he was pacing around the room in a frantic manner. I narrowed my eyes as I started picking up on... panic?

"Good day, sir." I spoke carefully so as not to anger him. He immediately stopped in his tracks upon hearing me. He then looked at me with wide eyes before loosening his tie and leaning against the desk.

"Asmodeus..." He breathed out. "I'm so glad you're here." Well, that was even more confusing. It was important to note that he indeed sounded glad.

"What happened?" I inquired as I focused completely on him and crossed my arms.

"I've...lost something valuable." He replied in a low voice, most likely in case someone was listening in. I raised my eyebrows as I fought the urge to reply in a smug way. It was obvious he needed my help and I didn't want to jeopardize the opportunity to get closer to him.

"Oh?" I frowned lightly. "Wouldn't king Paimon be better for such a job?"

"No. I need someone that demons trust." The Devil replied shakily as he motioned with his hand for me to come closer. I cautiously took a few steps towards him, feeling curiosity in me build up. "They know Paimon works for me and whoever stole it won't be as eager to answer him. I'm trying not to waste time here, I need that object as soon as possible."

"What is it?" My breathing became a bit heavier as I noticed myself getting impatient.

"A painting..." He mumbled and I felt myself pale almost instantly. I swallowed a lump trying to keep my cool.

"A painting?" I furrowed my brows and my hands began to shake so I quickly pushed them into the pockets of my coat. The Devil moved away from the desk and came to the wall where the painting used to be.

"The painting used to be here." He explained as he pressed his palm against the empty spot. "It's very important to me. I need it back. I don't know who... could take it." I breathed in sharply as I realized that not even I had an idea who would have stolen it. My mind went blank as I was trying to wrap my head around the situation.

"When have you noticed it's gone?" I asked.

"I called you the moment I saw it was gone." He quickly responded as he ran his fingers through his hair. That meant it could've happened while I was still at Abaddon's realm. Could it be that... Beelzebub did this? It sounded ridiculous but there was no one who could've done it. Only him and Amon knew about the painting. And I didn't think Amon had it in him to steal it nor did he have any need for it. Beelzebub didn't need it either though.

I rubbed my jaw as I caught myself lost in thought, trying to connect the dots.

"Now that I think about it... I find it odd that Amon called me to come out of the office for something so foolish." I felt my insides quivering upon hearing his words. "Someone must've slipped in." The Devil started stroking his beard, his panic now gone and replaced with a lot more confidence. "Amon must be in on it. That little bastard." He mumbled as his eyes finally fixed on me.

"Do you think it could be him?" I asked as I raised my eyebrow. "He doesn't seem like someone who'd be capable of disobeying authority." I tried to avert the Devil's suspicion away from Amon. It wouldn't be long until he found tracks leading to me and then I'd be truly screwed.

"Here's another lesson to you, Asmodeus." He began as he took one step closer to me. "Trust is overrated. Everyone is capable of betraying you."

It was ironic that he was the one saying it. It was also unnerving realizing that he was the reason why I felt I couldn't trust anyone anymore. However, I simply smiled faintly.

"Well, do you want me to talk to Amon?"

"Yes, that would be good." He said firmly and nodded. "Then, report to me immediately."

I nodded back and quickly turned away and walked out of the office. The emotions within me were bubbling up and fighting to come out. As if they wanted me to turn my emotions back on and allow myself to feel it all. I couldn't let it happen, especially not now. Even thinking that the one link between Lucifer and me was gone, even with the emotions being switched off, was enough to make me feel like I was about to lose my mind. I couldn't allow my emotions to overcome me even more. Who could've done this and why?!

I sent out a telepathic message to Amon to come meet me in the casino office. I didn't have time to go looking for him nor did I want to. When I entered the casino, there were still considerably less demons in here but it was still more than before. It seemed like they were slowly forgetting about what I put them through by accident. I didn't know why the Devil thought demons would trust me more than king Paimon. Unless this was yet another trick to test my loyalty.

I entered my office in the back and it didn't take long before Amon joined me. His blue eyes wide, his blonde hair falling over his eyes, looking like a lost puppy. He really presented himself as innocent and I was starting to believe the Devil's words, sadly. Maybe this little bastard knew more than he was letting on.

"You wanted to see me?" Amon spoke up, with a hint of fear in his eyes. Now I wondered if him appearing fearful was just a ruse too. I clenched my jaw at the thought of him possibly being the perpetrator.

"Yes, true." I finally responded before continuing, "you do remember that portal in the Devil's office, yes? You were the one who came to me to inform me about Pandora's whereabouts."

"Yes." Amon nodded. "Do you need me to do something about it again?"

I frowned at the question. "No. We have a problem actually. The painting seems to have disappeared. Now, apart from me, you are the only one who's seen it, do you have any idea where it could be?" I asked as firmly as I could.

Amon's face flushed and his body almost shrunk in itself. "You don't mean I stole it... right?"

"I never said it's stolen." I said sharply and he darted his gaze away from me. "Did you steal it?" I pressed further.

"N-no..." Amon took a step back which was when I noticed the unshackling of emotions within myself as I could no longer contain them. Due to an immense amount of rage escaping the tight grasp, the black smoke started coming out of my body. Damn it.

"Don't lie to me!" I thundered as I walked towards him and he took another step back away from me. Seeing the obvious fear from him riled me up even more. With quickened steps, I came even closer to him before he could run away. I grabbed him by the collar as I pulled him closer and began using hypnosis on him. "Tell me the truth now. Did you or did you not steal the painting?!" I sneered as his pupils enlarged.

"I didn't steal the painting," came the response. I instantly let go of him with a huff and pushed him back. The rage started subduing but Amon was still staring at me with the most horrified look. I almost started feeling bad so I averted my gaze from him. If he didn't do it, then who?!

I tightened my jaw as I shot a glare at Amon while he was trying his best to keep his composure. "Have you seen anyone go upstairs after me?" I lowered my voice and tried to use a softer tone.

"No, sir." He replied now more confidently. I rubbed the bridge of my nose as I sighed out in annoyance.

"You're free to go then." I said finally and made a shooing motion. Amon hurriedly left the office as if to avoid experiencing more of my anger. When I was finally alone, I went to the chair behind the desk and leaned into it. I let out another long breath, feeling ultimately disappointed in myself. I let the feelings get control of me again. It seemed like the switch-off couldn't be a permanent solution for me.

The ignored emotions started resurfacing as I was fighting the urge not to lose my temper completely. I had an itch to scratch and the itch wasn't even sex - it was murder. The urge started bubbling up and swirling in me more until it became a beast which swallowed me whole. I was utterly and completely consumed by it until there was no help left for me. No vices. It was just me and my thoughts against them all.

However, there wasn't much time for me to wallow in my emotions. Once again, for the millionth time, I nearly suffocated the emotions and got up from my seat. I had to report to the Devil, he'd be suspicious if I took too long.

Just as I took a few steps towards the door, I was interrupted by a swift and high pitched sound. I instantly stopped in my tracks, frowning slightly. The noise itself was very faint despite it being high pitched. I took another step forward and the same sound whistled through the air. This time I was pretty sure it came from inside of the room. I looked towards the alcohol cabinet, the direction the noise seemed to come from. I walked towards it, scanning the surroundings, the sound now repeating every five seconds or so. However, it never grew in its intensity.

"What the..." I mumbled to myself as I was starting to grow impatient. "Am I going insane?" It seemed to be highly plausible. I shook my head and rubbed my temples before hurriedly going towards the door. Again. I stopped once more and turned around.

"Who the fuck is messing with me?!" I yelled in a demanding tone in the middle of the empty room. I could be actually losing my mind. But before I made my peace with it, a big black void-like portal appeared in front of me. Almost, if not exactly the same, like the one in the painting. I staggered back and was about to flee the office, before a cloaked being stepped out of it.

"A-abaddon?!" I yelped and covered my mouth with my hand. "What in the..."

He pulled down his hood, looked me dead in the eye and simply declared, "Come with me. It's time."

My mouth slightly parted as I continued to stare at him in disbelief. "You do realize how cryptic and strange this all is, right?"

"We don't have much time, Asmodeus." He spoke somehow both sharply and softly. "I had to remove the portal from the Devil's office. He's no longer allowed to have access to Lucifer until further notice."

"What am I supposed to do now?! I have to report to him!" I didn't know whether I should be angry or grateful. What Abaddon did was both smart and reckless. It seemed he wasn't joking when he said he didn't care who could get hurt in the process as long as Lucifer lived. How strong was their bond?

"It's simple. Lie. It's not like you've been very honest with him anyway." Abaddon simply shrugged and the rage started burning up in me once again.

"It's simple for you!"

"So give up. But remember our deal."

I clenched my jaw and restrained every part of myself that wanted to punch him in the face. We both knew very well neither of us was giving up. "What do you mean we don't have much time though?"

"I mean Lucifer is dying." The moment I heard it, I felt everything in me shattering. However, I stood still, not moving a muscle.

"Alright, well, I'll be right back. If you can hold on for a bit longer. I told you I need to report to the Devil and after that I will come back." Abaddon didn't say anything to that, just nodded and I quickly made my way out of the room. Luckily, there weren't any demons in the casino so none of them would be able to sense the odd void portal in my office. That was how Abaddon planned it probably - that bastard was way too calculating.

After I made sure there weren't many demons around in the halls, I sprinted towards the highest floor. I hurried towards the door of the boss's office and swung them open. For the first time, the Devil had the drapes in his office parted as he was looking through the windows. He didn't even flinch upon my entrance. It had been a long time since I saw some delicate emotions from him. Maybe Lucifer meant to him more than both Abaddon and I had anticipated.

"Amon isn't the one who stole the painting." I spoke and the Devil slowly turned his head towards me, his eyes solemn. It almost hurt me to see him like this. "I will continue with my search."

"Don't stop until you find the culprit. And then bring them to me." There was a spark of anger in his eyes but it was intertwined with despair. I knew that look too well. However, as much there was part of me that understood him, I still reveled in seeing him like this.

"Yes, sir." I nodded swiftly and turned back around before leaving the office once more. It was time to rescue Lucifer.