The way Stolas is presented in Blitzo’s fever dream is veeeeery interesting.
His imagery is heavenly, a golden staircase leading up to him lounging on a guilded throne. Stolas is, quite literally, above Blitzo. He’s not untouchable, however. He’s not on a pedestal that Blitzo can’t reach.
Blitzo isn’t unhappy to see Stolas. He’s shocked, awed even, but he continues climbing up the stairs, even after manacles form on his wrists.
He also regains his typical appearance as he climbs, no longer clothed as a failed clown, but the successful business man he is.
He still looks awed at Stolas, like he can’t believe he’s here. (Which mirrors his reaction when Stolas makes his grand entrance to rescue Blitzo and crew.)
He doesn’t start looking uncomfortable until the collar and leash materialize and Stolas reels him in with it. Even then, he looks… Sad. He looks at Stolas like he’s something Blitzo wants, but shouldn’t have. He looks at Stolas like he’s waiting for him to realize Blitzo isn’t worth it.
I don’t think their relationship is without it’s issues. There’s a definite power imbalance, due both to class and the fact that Stolas has something Blitzo NEEDS in order to run his business and make a living. I don’t think that it’s a one-sided relationship, though. Blitzo clearly views relationships as something binding, stifling, a ball and chain. He craves intimacy, but he’s afraid of tying himself to anyone due to his own insecurities, his fear of rejection.
Frankly, he was probably more comfortable with the relationship when it was just a business transaction: meaningless sex for the grimoire. I think he started developing feelings and THAT made him uncomfortable. He’s always hated when Stolas was affectionate with him, but I think that’s his knee-jerk “push them away before they can hurt me” reaction.
As it stands, it’s not a healthy relationship. Stolas’ situation doesn’t really allow that. He’s married (unhappily) and he’s a prince who shouldn’t be rubbing elbows with imps, let alone fucking them and letting them use his resources whenever they want. It has potential though, and I’m interested to see where Blitzo and Stolas end up.
Blitzo running away from everyone else but willingly going after Stolas even though the way to him was chaining him down showing he has true feeling towards Stolas but is terrified of the commitment of showing it and being tied to someone
