Lucifer hauled himself up with the General's help, groaning as he staggered to his feet.
"Ah!" he growled, brushing dirt from his robe. "Damn tree roots."
The General tried—and failed—to hide his grin. "My Lord, perhaps a bath. Or… a full exorcism."
Lucifer narrowed his eyes. "You're enjoying this far too much."
"I nearly died choking on my laugh, so yes." The General sniffed dramatically. "Also, you smell like wet regret."
Lucifer glared. "Let's go."
They began the trek back to the palace, Lucifer limping slightly and visibly annoyed.
"So," the General said, walking beside him with a bounce, "you fell in a pit watching a woman you banished. Again. Just like old times."
"I will silence you with fire."
"Spicy. But I still say—just talk to her. You've declared war on kingdoms with less drama than this."
Lucifer stopped. "She's safer not knowing. I won't risk her life again."
The General raised a brow. "Then why are we going back?"
