Lucifer feels no pain where his vessel's skin touches Aziraphale's, but from the way the angel screams, it must be agonizing for him. The Morningstar nearly drops him, his grip faltering just a little in surprise; no other angel has ever had this strong a reaction to his touch. He has never burned one of his brethren simply from putting his hand on them.

There would be time to think about the implications of this new fact later; right now, he has an unexpected and convenient advantage, and he will use it. His grip tightens on Aziraphale's throat and he reaches up with his other hand, cupping his cheek almost tenderly despite the screaming.

"Did you think defiance doesn't have its price, Aziraphale?"