With Yeosang gone, Jongho felt a strange sense of peace. As bad as it may sound, he was sort of glad the angel was gone and replaced by a much calmer one who didn't try to kill him the second they made eye contact. Since the only thing on his phone were notifications and lude texts about that horrendous video, the young demon took to conversing with Beomgyu on the back porch of the house.

It was early morning, perhaps around seven-thirty. Neither of them were really keeping track.

Dressed in a hoodie far too large and a simple pair of jeans with white socks, he was a very inviting character, despite the tone of his voice. Jongho sat next to him, overlooking his soft and angelic features. Bright silver eyes matching his hair and a perfect set of pearly whites he only showed off when he chuckled, seldom in sight. He was rather beautiful.

"So, did you know Yeosang very well?" Beomgyu nodded at this question, fiddling with the sleeves of his hoodie to keep himself busy.

"I did. In fact, we're from the same court. Both of us were brought up by the watchful eye of Archangel Taemin." Jongho shivered at the thought of him. He couldn't quite figure out what it was but was just off that man.

"Seriously? Then why are you so...not normal?" The way the angel tilted his head made Jongho reconsider his word choice. "Um, I don't know? You're more stoic, kind of like a robot."

"Trust me, compared to most other angels, those of Taemin's court are much less tame," For a brief moment, Beomgyu glanced around, as if he were scared someone was listening. Yet his face lifted into a bright smile soon after. "It's frowned upon to show large amounts of emotion in Heaven. Weird, right? I really don't get it. Especially since demons are allowed to do as they please, while we must practice our poker faces. It's so stupid."

His sudden burst of energy made Jongho giggle. "You kind of remind me of someone."

"I hope they're a good person."

"He is...or...was. Probably one of the best people I knew..." His hand clenched the edge of the porch. Perhaps he shouldn't have reminded himself of Taehyun, as grief quickly took over. He didn't even get to have a funeral because he had no immediate family willing to help. At least his killer was getting what he deserved.

"Tell me, Beomgyu, is he being punished?" The drop in his tone told Beomgyu he was getting upset, and when the wood beneath his hand splintered, it was clear he was angry. He couldn't help it. Yeosang had taken away one of the people he cared about most. There was no way in Hell he'd ever let that slide. "I'm happy knowing karma has finally hit that sick bastard."

"I'm sorry, you must be mistaken."

Jongho scoffed. "What do you mean mistaken? He killed Taehyun, a human. It's against the rules. He's getting what he deserves."

When Beomgyu simply shook his head, it only made the other teen confused. "Though that would be the most logical approach. It's not the reason Yeosang was forced to return to heaven."

"Then...what else could it be?"

"It stems from a rule as old as we as a species have existed. An angel and a demon may not admit their love for one another. A rule, if broken, is worthy of exile on the grounds of treason. If he was put on trial for the death of Taehyun, it would've been the moment he ended his life."

Jongho couldn't believe what he was hearing. "What?"

"The rule regarding humans only applies to demons. Why else do you think he was only convicted a week later?"

Silence was the most appropriate response Jongho could give to such an absurd statement. Disbelief was the only expression on his face and Beomgyu completely understood why he would react in such a way. "But...That's...really dumb." Were the only words the brunette managed the mutter.

"Indeed. However, this is the mandate of our god."

Finally, Jongho stood to his feet with the roll of his eyes. "Well, your gods really stupid." Such a murmur made Beomgyu stand as well. Though all light-heartedness had faded. His face fell into a glare as he glowered down at the demon. Unfortunately, he was slightly taller than Jongho, the fact that he had to look up at him adding to his intimidation.

"Under no circumstances will you speak ill of my lord," He commanded. "To refer to him in such a way is blasphemy, and I will not stand for it!"

"Fighting words got it." Jongho wasn't in the mood for an argument, or worse, any sort of physical conformation. The way Beomgyu's eyes darkened to an aggressive shade of grey was enough to warn him not to push it. He wondered if Yunho would get this upset when questioning his leader.

Speaking of which, both teens could hear the front door swing open. They glanced at each other and rushed in with Jongho pushing in first so he could tell Mingi what had happened. Yet when he laid eyes on the older brunette, he looked absolutely devastated.

Jongho didn't waste a second in wrapping his arms around his torso in an embrace. Greatly, Mingi accepted the hug, head falling onto the teen's shoulder. "Hyung, what happened?"

"It's Yunho," He sniffed. "H-He's been called back to Heaven? I just don't get what happened..." Jongho rubbed his back, standing on his toes to do so effectively. Though Mingi's eyes began to water, he did his best to keep himself composed for the sake of the younger, as he didn't wish to worry him.

Yet the quiet around them made him wonder something. "Where's Yeosang?" And at that, Jongho moved away.

"Yeah...about that..."

"Oh shit!" Exclaimed the older, moving Jongho behind him when he saw that a stranger was sitting on his couch. With his hands patiently placed on his lap, Beomgyu looked over to Mingi and waved, smiling politely at him. Though the human remained protectively and kept Jongho far from the angel.

"Relax, Mingi. I've got a new angel watching over me."

"But, what about Yeosang?"

"Allow me to explain," This angel didn't seem very threatening. So, with great caution, Mingi sat down next to him, allowing Jongho to rest on the armchair so he'd at least be a decent distance. Beomgyu then cleared his throat. "My name is Choi Beomgyu, an angel of water. I was sent here to watch over Jongho hereafter Yeosang was forced back to Heaven. Seeing as he is defective, he will no longer be of service."

"What do you mean by defective?" Asked Mingi with narrowed eyes.

"Exactly what it sounds like. He was slightly unstable by Heaven's standards and often acted as he pleased. Though it wasn't much of an issue until he arrived on Earth. He's considered defective for his aggressive nature. Taemin had informed us of the way he attempted to kill Jongho without negotiations, which is breaking protocol. It would be worse if his goal was simply to watch him. Thankfully, all he had to do was send him back to Hell. Along with this, his obsession with Jongho is also a point of controversy."

Jongho grew uncomfortable at the mention of this. Was it his fault that Yeosang became this way? Maybe he shouldn't have cursed him the way he did. Or perhaps he should have just given in to his advances sooner.

Mingi noticed the way he lowered his head and took his hand. The slight grin of reassurance made Jongho feel at least a little better and the fact that Mingi didn't let him go throughout the conversation kept him at ease.

"As I explained to Jongho, he was prosecuted only for his feelings rather than any abhorrent actions. And as unfortunate as it may be, won't face any major consequences for whatever else he's done." That was the part that made Jongho furious. The fact that Yeosang wasn't being punished probably riled his blood.

"I can't let that happen," He muttered, earning the attention of the other two. "He shouldn't get let off the hook for something like this!"

"But what can we do?" Asked Mingi. "There's no way we'll be able to go to Heaven!"

"Actually, I have the ability to open a portal." The way Beomgyu said this was so nonchalant, as if it wasn't exactly what Jongho needed.

So without skipping a beat, he exclaimed. "Take me to Heaven!"

"Jongho, hold on, you can't-"

"Sure," Mingi's mouth fell open. Yet Beomgyu seemed completely serious. "Honestly, I'm already kind of tired of Earth and if I get the chance to go home I'm taking it." Jongho did a little fist pump and jumped up. Despite both the teens ready to leave at that very moment, Mingi remained seated.

As he chewed his lower lip, he contemplated the absurdity of this proposition. Yet he couldn't help but be a little intrigued. There was no way he would let Jongho go on his own but he also wondered if maybe he would be able to see Yunho at least one final time. "Hold on. I'm coming with you."

Beomgyu pursed his lips. After a brief scan of Mingi's body he ultimately just shrugged. With a quick crack of his knuckles, he began tracing a pattern into the air. Each of the light blue lines he created eventually fell into an odd shape, twisting and spinning until the atmosphere was split. "Are you sure you want to do this?"

There was no hesitation in Jongho's voice. "Not a doubt in my mind." He nodded and the angel and was the first one to step in. Mingi, letting out a shaky breath, followed right after. When Beomgyu entered the portal, he made sure to zip it closed behind him.

Heaven was indescribably stunning. Pillars larger than the tallest trees, floors of pure granite and gold surrounding them. Clouds ambled through the vast halls of the building they had entered and when Mingi glanced out the large window in front of them, he was amazed by the crowds of angels going about their day in an almost dreamlike land.

Beomgyu had shifted to his angel form, featuring tiny, silver crystals running down his cheeks and large wings a nice shade of light blue. Strangely enough, Jongho felt something weigh down on his head, reaching up to feel a pair of dark yellow horns on his head. Not only that, but a tail laid lazily behind him, seemingly having a mind of its own as it swayed out of his control.

Yet his feelings of curiosity were soon overtaken by that of exhaustion. Jongho held himself against the wall, a sudden headache intruding on his body as his limbs began to feel slightly heavier than normal.

The angel noticed his struggles and hastily held him up, taking his arm over his shoulder to keep him standing. "Right, we need to be quick about this. Demons obviously don't do well in Heaven as we don't in Hell. It's only a matter of time before they find you two and there are plenty of angels here that are more than willing to steal your soul." He told them, not so subtly looking towards Mingi, who held his hand over his chest.

"You couldn't have told us that earlier?" Jongho growled, his only response being a mere shrug from the angel.

"Must've slipped my mind. We're in the grand hall. Just further down is where Yeosang is being kept. He'll be going on trial soon."

"Wait," Mingi said, almost timidly. "I'm looking for someone. Jeong Yunho. Where can I find him?"

"Bold of you to assume I know every angel in Heaven." The brunette glanced down, realising it was somewhat of a dumb question. "My best guess is that he's training. You said he was called back, right? They're probably making sure he's 'up to code'." Beomgyu then pointed to a sign on the wall, it was inscribed in a language only he could read but didn't bother translating. Likely because he didn't realise he was the only one who could understand it.

Nevertheless, he told Mingi to follow where it pointed, and eventually, he would find his way to the training arena. A look of determination spread across the human's face, fist clenching with ambition and the hope he may be able to find Yunho. "Be safe," He told Jongho as he gave him one last hug.

"You too," He whispered back.

Before he set off, Beomgyu called him. "Mingi, you must be careful. Heaven isn't as nice as the stories say." His courage wavered at that, switching to a brief look of unease. However, he managed to swallow his fear and with a firm nod he finally sprinted off.

Leaving the angel and demon alone.

Jongho pushed himself away from the other teen's grip, weakly proclaiming that he would be fine on his own. Only a few feet later, he was in Beomgyu's arms yet again. "Are you alright?" He asked softly. Jongho didn't mind the way he pushed his hair out of his face, or how kept his arm placed firmly on his waist but that didn't stop him from rolling his eyes.

"Why does it matter to you?"

"Well, I would like to make it my job to not just watch you, but to protect you as well."

That was something Jongho scoffed at. "Yeah sure, give me one reason why you'd want to do that. Shouldn't you be trying to kill me?"

Beomgyu shook his head and gently took Jongho's hands. "Because I've seen the things you've had to go through. I assure you, I will not pressure you in any way. My only goal is to watch you and protect you. No more, no less. You're a good person, Jongho. You deserve at least that much."

There was nothing but sincerity in the angel's eyes, a striking comparison to the strict look that consistently rested on Yeosang's face. Jongho couldn't help himself from thinking of him. Even if he hurt him in more ways than one, he still remained invested in him. "Thank you, Beomgyu."

"Of course. What do you plan to do now?"

"I'm going to find Yeosang..." Turning down the hall, his gaze narrowed at its long, winding path. It was twisted, terrifying in the wake of its uncertainty. There was no telling what laid ahead but that was the least of Jongho's concerns. "And I'm going to break every fucking bone in his body."

------------------------------

Violent clashes of swords filled the empty arena. Each strike echoed through the vast space and the sound of a harsh groan soon followed. "Two to five, I win." Yunho was left on the ground, pulling himself up with a sigh. "You're slacking, hyung. And I am disappointed."

"Could you not have phrased that at least a little better, Hyunjin?" Tilting his head, the younger angel stared at his peer curiously. As he fluttered his light pink wings and played around with his sword, Yunho was left to roll his eyes at the way he was so rudely ignored.

"Perhaps you should have stayed on Earth. Your performance is lacklustre at best and right embarrassing at worst. A bit more practice would not have killed you." If there was one thing Yunho did not miss, it was the deadpan delivery of the other angels. He supposed it was something he had just never noticed before. However, now it quickly got on his nerves.

"Such kind words, thank you Hyunjin."

"Any time, hyung." The pinkette twirled his weapon, head remaining slanted. It was clear he was expecting another round. However, Yunho was not in the mood to entertain the other angel with his failures any longer.

After proclaiming that he was done for the day, Yunho placed his weapon back in its holdings and began cleaning his injuries. Wrapping a few bandages around his scars did little to speed up the healing process, however, it would make him less of an eyesore.

Hyunjin certainly didn't go easy on him, nor did he ever, but the older's mind had been so preoccupied with other thoughts that he was left open to just about every attack. "Your performance has been sloppy," The other angel continued, carefully placing his weapon on its hooks as well. "It is unusual. Is there something on your mind perhaps?"

"I'm not sure you would understand..." Hyunjin pursed his lips, crossing his arms as he gave Yunho a look that said 'Try me'. It was something the blonde rolled his eyes at. No matter how much he thought he knew, Yunho highly doubted he could even begin to understand the concept of love. Or even a decent array of emotions for that matter. Regardless, at least he could finally get this off his chest. "I wanted to do something before my mission ended. Give someone a gift I thought they'd never forget. But...I was too late."

Hyunjin frowned. "And you're upset by that?"

"No shit Sherlock, of course I am." Yunho covered his mouth, grimacing at his use of such crude language. Though that wasn't the part that bothered the younger angel.

"Sherlock? But my name isn't Sherlock, It's Hyunjin. You know this?"

Tired was the best way to describe Yunho's mood. I'm not going to survive the rest of eternity here. He thought, running his hand through his blonde locks. "Forget it. It doesn't matter anyway."

"Hyuuuuung! Tell me!"

"I was in love!" He finally snapped. "I didn't get to kiss the man I loved. I was torn away from him. He had to watch me fade away from before his very eyes..." His heart hurt as he remembered the pained expression on Mingi's face - confused and scared. Horror struck, he could do nothing but watch him, his gaze growing ever more terrified.

Shirt balling under his clenched fist, Yunho could feel nothing but regret for not acting quick enough. Mingi didn't deserve that...

"You were in love?" Yunho had somewhat forgotten that the younger angel was even there, he was so wrapped up in his feelings. Hyunjin just seemed to be processing what he had just heard, as he leaned his head into his hand with a thoughtful expression. "Perhaps you need more training than I thought..."

"Wait! Hyunjin, please don't tell anyone! You know how painful the nulling process is," They both shivered at the thought of their days in containment and the ways you were punished if you didn't follow their strict rules. "Please, I don't want to go back to that."

Yet again, Hyunjin pursed his lips. "Alright then. It is not as if I have much to gain from it anyways. I shall leave it up to you to do a better job of hiding your emotions. From what I can tell, you need practice." Yunho beamed brightly and nodded at him. "Less of that please."

"Right, of course. I'll be off then. I think it'd be best if I collect my thoughts in peace." With the flutter of his large wings, Yunho was able to pick himself off the ground. Hyunjin sent him off with a blank stare, one the older made sure to send back.

Just as he was about to fly out of the arena, a loud shout caught his attention. "Yunho!" The voice yelled, and when Yunho looked back, he could have sworn his heart stopped.

"Mingi!"

The brunette nearly teared up at the sight of him and the universe seemed to stop just so they could be in each other's arms. Yunho's arms engulfed as much of his body as possible while he held him for dear life. Mingi reciprocated by burying his face in the angel's shoulder and clinging to him.

However, their moment of peace and joy was interrupted when Yunho shoved the younger male to the group. A powerful blast from just ahead struck the ground with a fierce zap, the ground below brewing with smoke seconds after.

"A human has gotten past the gates, check the lock. I'll dispose of the soul."

When Yunho heard this, he immediately turned in Hyunjin's direction, seeing that the other angel's eyes were alight from telepathy. He could see the way he licked his lips and realised exactly what he meant by 'dispose of the soul'.

"Not a chance," He growled. The sword materialised from the hooks and into his hand, holding it in front of Mingi protectively.

"Who would have thought a human would be the thing you would fall for?" Jeered the pinkette. His delivery, although stoic, offered another layer of chilliness and ridicule to his comment. Yunho wouldn't stand for it.

"First: he's a person. Not an object. Second: it took you this long to realise? One would think that'd be obvious," Perhaps he had picked up a few quips or so from Yeosang. It was time they came in handy. "Slow in more ways than one, aren't you, Hyunjin?"

Tense silence entered the arena. Mingi scrambled to his feet and was quick to hide behind the other male. "Run," Whispered Yunho.

"What? Yunho, I can't! You'll-"

"Forget about me!" He shouted. By now, Hyunjin's eyes began to flicker with a violent pink, strings of electricity zipping across his body. "I'll find you, just make sure you're safe."

"And if you don't find me? Then what!"

Yunho's fist clenched around his weapon. It buzzed with a jolting amount of light, nearly blinding the poor human next to it. His iris' faded entirely, vanishing into a daunting white. "Then please remember one thing: I love you more than anything this universe has to offer. My heart is yours, Mingi, and you will be the only person from now, until the end of time to have it. 

Now please, run!"

˚˙༓࿇༓˙˚˙༓࿇༓˙˚˙༓࿇༓˙˚

I don't want these next few chapters to get confusing. So it's the Heaven saga first, then we'll travel to the depths of Hell.