Father & Daughter 2











 
 




Dedication
       
       
       
       This new volume is dedicated to all of you, who with your words of support helped me conclude the first volume. And furthermore, inspired me to make this a full saga.
       You made this possible.

Epigraph



I knew this was going to happen, and I couldn’t do anything about it.
I knew it was wrong, yet I stayed silent.
But I must take this pain inside and never let it out.
For the sake of my family.
For the sake of my life.
For the sake of those who I love I must learn to survive.
—Anonymous.


Preface
       
       
       
       When you read this, remember. Reality and fiction are two different beasts, but what most people are blind to, is that the worst of these two is the one you can’t avoid by closing the lid, is the one that wakes you up at night with a sheer and malleolus scream.
       Because reality can surpass fiction, but never the other way around. And so, if you are not feeling brave, close this book, sleep and pray.
       It will haunt you in your sleep but be even more careful when you are awake.


Prologue



       Being a part of the most influential demonic families in hell comes with its benefits, it’s riches –but also, it’s problems. To be up to a name such as the Ars Goetia you must be willing to pay any price you must.
       This is known by all family members. But it can happen that some are less prepared than others. It comes to happen that ambition for individuality is stronger than the sense of responsibility that is indoctrinated to all may-be hairs.
       And it can occur that the crudeness of reality is simply too much, and it turns into an eternal pain, worst when you are eternal yourself. Then you start looking for a way to scape of this reality, you look for a way to recover this individuality you lost along the way.
       But in exchange you find yourself alone. An individual being against a millennium of tradition and customs. And a world where only the fittest survive. At the end it will leave you with two choices, to cling yourself to your dreams and fall into the darkest abyss –or take part of the circle of life, taking part in the eternal hierarchy of power and social status that will control you for the rest of your life.
       Is there a right answer for this?


       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
Love story
       
       
       
       —You're the one who doesn't want to face reality, Stolas. —Stella yelled—. I had to do it 20 years ago!
       —Oh, so now you're the victim here. Stolas answered.
       Those words echoed in Stella's head like in an underground cave at the bottom of an abandoned tunnel network as she returned to her vehicle after her confrontation with Stolas and Octavia. These same tunnels representing the thousands of moments accumulated in her consciousness that constantly seemed to be on the verge of collapse, and that collapse with its great crash would cause a chain reaction that would end up breaking her spirit –or setting her free, but it was truly a chance that she wasn't about to tempt. Even when in the eyes of others, she did not seem so; and her words gave no quarter to anyone who tried to argue in her defence, she actually felt each word stab her heart like a poisoned dagger in her chest. But what exactly happened 20 years ago to justify 17 subsequent years of constant abuse? Is there a justification credible and acceptable enough to cause at least an iota of empathy for such a vile being?
       There are reasons to believe that we can all achieve forgiveness, God himself claims to say that whoever truly repents can achieve eternal bliss and reach heaven. These souls are allowed access to the limbo where they atone for their sins in peace and silence while seeking the light of paradise, and the more this sin is atoned for, the easier the end of the road becomes.
       But first you must be sorry, first you must apologize. If not, then you justify your actions, and your soul is forever sealed in the underworld with no chance of true joy.
       But although Dante showed us on his journey to hell that he had the possibility of pardoning the damned; if enough souls ask for just one, will it be able to reach this same blessed destiny?
       And if these souls are also inhabitants of hell, will their voice also have power and vote?
       It is simple to think that the punishments we receive are well deserved for the actions we take in life, it is also common in man to believe that this is a great lie manufactured by the hatred that the human has towards his fellow men in the form and way of justifying their revenge. And since hell represents all that evil; It wouldn't be hard to believe that the same applies. The same demons and condemned souls perceiving the punishment of others as well awarded by simple hatred of thy neighbour and that they also suffer as they do.
       It is a cycle of revenge and contempt that has no end, and that, although it is not morally correct from a divine point of view, it is the truth and the reality with which you have to live. So, on earth as in hell.
       Although we have already established the moral problems that these events imply, there is still one last opinion to take into account at the time of a verdict, and this is only possible with the examination of the evidence and the opinion of the accused. The opinion of the alleged culprit.
       Stella had these things very clear in her mind, and she forgave herself justifying her actions as a divine punishment that she sought for what they did to her. And she believed that; if there was someone or something that offered her forgiveness, they would agree with her.
       However, this attitude had actually taken less time than the twenty years that she acclaimed, the real reason why she chose that date is because it was about 20 years ago that her life took a turn for the worse, all because of those she once loved.
       It was when she began to know betrayal, and later she would know the cruelty of life that the name Ars Goetia brought with it.
       A name that was not for nothing the most powerful in the entire kingdom of darkness. After all, through Paimon, there was no one closer to the true king. Lucifer.
       Just as humans wonder if God knows what happens in his creation. Will Lucifer know what happens in his kingdom?
       ***
       —It's my birthday! It's my birthday! —Stolas yelled as soon as she woke up—. Birthday! Birthday time!
       Stolas was happy that day. His 10th birthday, the day he would learn what his responsibilities would be as part of the Goetia family. Stolas was then a very adorable child, with his big red eyes and gaze pale as the earthly moon, his unruly plumage complicated to groom, and clothing that he could only be described as a miniaturized version of what he would later wear as an adult. With his little black pants and a white shirt with a red jacket and gold buttons.
       After quickly getting ready he would go to his father, Paimon. A demon of the highest rank, dark brown plumage and a face hidden by a columbine mask similar to those used in the human world in the then ancient world, common Venetian masks at costume parties of the time, when great minds like Da Vinci inhabited the world of the living. He was dressed in a black suit and ostentatious burgundy cape trimmed with gold.
       Everything was going according to how Stolas expected it, until after obtaining his Grimoire, Paimon told him that in addition to having a profitable responsibility for the family, he should also fulfil his blood-related responsibilities, such as seeking a provisional heir in case that someone would be killed or become unable to take over as head of the family if something happened to Paimon. This responsibility was shared by all members, and although it was not inherited in a hierarchical order based on birth, this title was distributed to the most powerful, influential and generally better prepared family member. This task would be entrusted to Lucifer himself, as it could be compared to the idea of ​​choosing his right hand.
       —You are now engaged, congratulations. — Paimon shows Stolas a picture of a girl in mid-temper tantrum attacking two apparent pets—.
       Stolas, even as a child, had been trained to understand complicated concepts such as marriage or royalty. He knew exactly what his father meant, and it was that very thing that terrified him. The girl looked cruel and violent. Was it that maybe she was going to be just as mean to him? The fact of imagining these possibilities made him break down in tears.
       Seeing herself far above the frivolity of parenting, Paimon improvised a visit to the circus that he hoped would ease his sorrows.
       That day Stolas met Blitzo for the first time, with whom he later played all afternoon until nightfall. Despite being aware of what life had in store for him, he gave himself what he knew might well be his only chance to be «normal», and he took it, his life in royalty would not allow him to socialize outside his spheres afterwards.
       While both played, however. Paimon's tasks were just beginning.
       —Have they already notified...? —Paimon draws out his question as he looks for the girl's name somewhere in the photograph—. Stella?
       —Her parents will tell her on her tenth birthday, as tradition dictates, sir. — An imp butler replied.
       —Never mind, when the brat is done playing, please send the other one back—. He finally delegated.
       Just as it was customary to give their tasks and responsibilities to family members when they turned 10 years old, it was just as important to dictate marriages; that, even within the same family, it was important to consummate. For the blood must remain pure.
       These marriages were selected in a very precise way, because due to the obligation to live together, there were certain rules to follow to avoid problems once the union was consummated and since all the demonic royalty responded to a single king, there was no need to something as frivolous as a union between families as a form of peace, unlike humans who take pleasure in their power, in hell there was no such conflict. Among these rules to follow is the age of the future husband and wife, it was important that there was not much difference in age to avoid problems due to immaturity of any of the participants or loss of balance in patriarchal power, we could consider it an unwritten rule by Paimon, who took advantage of his authority to unite those he believed, they wouldn't cause him problems in the long run and thus reduce the amount of mediation he had to do in case a problem arose, or avoid problems altogether, especially since being on Lucifer's side, he couldn't afford to appear irresponsible, this is because, unlike the other demon kings; he was the most faithful, and because of this he was the favourite.
       Therefore, in this case Stella was the best candidate, being only a few months younger than Stolas and the granddaughter of Duke Crocell, to whom Paimon owed a Favour and because her grandchildren would be marquesses, a leap in political rank as this, would be payment enough. Stella should also find out at the age of 10 so that she would be mentally prepared for her new life, in addition to giving her time to work on her relationship with the prince for the next 8 years and that way the union would be easier to consummate and be able to go directly to the point in question; the creation of an heir.
       However, Stella was a very troublesome child. Due to the environment in which she was born and her parents' love for her, pampering her was little compared to the level of facilities given to her during her early years. She was a problem child; she didn't want anyone other than her parents and she insulted everyone who tried to interact with her –even worse if you treated her like a little girl. If there was something she hated the most about her, it was being told how young she was, but instead she was fund of phrases like «you're very mature for your age» which filled her with pride.
       Stella was someone who her indoctrination saw as a mission to please her parents, and since they gave her everything she wanted, it was her plan to do her best to be the Goetia princess they wanted her to be and be proud of her. Stella was fortunate to be born among people who loved her, someone who was her confidant for a long time was none other than her brother Andrealphus.
       Andrealphus, being older than her, was almost her second father figure in the girl's eyes, it was arguable if Stella loved her brother more than her father –because when Stella had something to say and feared her parents' reaction, Andrealphus was there for her.
       Stella's parents also, belonging to a second branch of the family, had to work twice as hard to keep up with the main one, so they were constantly subjected to criticism from Paimon, which Stella did not enjoy either, but she understood as part of her responsibilities, and she dreaded the day when it was her turn to render an account to him.
       Her parents knew this about their daughter and admired her desire for independence and her belief that her family was equal to the main one, even if she followed the rules established for each hierarchical level, Stella always sought to follow her own path that dictated the correct and the most virtuous to fulfil her goal towards her parents.
       But something would happen that would dictate the beginning of a series of events that would culminate in a terrible outcome.
       —Our Stella… love, we can't tell her yet. —Her mother implored her husband—.
       —But Paimon orders it, on her tenth birthday she must know about Prince Stolas.
       —Can we wait until she's older? —She's going to hate it! She will grow up hating him and will not be happy.
       —They'll talk about it, and she'll end up finding out from the others, besides, don't you think that when Stolas finds out, he'll talk to her about it? Stella must know today.
       Stella's parents argued in her room first thing in the morning, while a young and childish Stella ran to get dressed for her special occasion.
       —I must look per-fe-ct. —Stella dictated to the imp who fixed her up. Mother said that the tenth birthday is the most important of my life.
       A clear difference between the tenth birthday of a man and that of a woman was that the woman only received news of her future husband, since they did not dedicate themselves to any work that was not political -being the social part of royalty, in addition to homework as a parent. While the man had to carry more responsibilities in all positions.
       Stella's job would be in a more literal way, to be and look pretty for the occasion and attend to her husband.
       For this very reason the parents argued, they had done everything to the T, and at the moment of truth they wanted to simply throw the rules out the window and feign insanity.
       Then a violent opening of the door sounds. It was Stella, a girl with well-groomed white plumage with two huge pigtails on the sides held by pink bows and overwhelming plumage that covered her legs to the ground like a black and white dress.
       —Mother! Father! How do I look? —Stella yelled as she entered the room—.
       Her parents somewhat surprised by this are almost speechless.
       —V-very beautiful Stella, as always. It shows that you are our daughter. —Answers her mother a little nervous while she approaches her to give her a warm hug—.
       —I KNOW! Like a princess. —Her father played along with her—.
       Stella then excited by the approval of her parents ran around the room like a fireball, jumping on the bed and acting as if giving orders to invisible subordinates.
       During this vivid display of euphoria, Stella noticed a piece of paper that her parents were hiding behind her back, so she quickly ran over to them and snatched it up.
       Behind that paper was written the word Stolas, and on the opposite side was a photo of the young prince.
       —Who is this child? He looks cute.
       The parents were still undecided on how to say things to Stella, so they had to improvise an answer that was vague enough so that it wouldn't bring them problems later.
       —I-it's Paimon's new son, Stolas. —The mother spoke fearfully—.
       —He recently turned 10 too and they sent that photo to celebrate. —The father stepped forward—.
       Stella, hearing Paimon's name, immediately got disgusted, throwing the photo on the bed, she hated that name. The memories of Paimon’s voice as he subjected her parents to his command made her feel inferior.
       —Gross, he looks like an idiot. Not like Andrealphus. He is a million times cuter.
       —Stella, language.
       —Sorry mother.
       After a short silence caused by her dear mother's scolding, Stella looked up very sadly, almost with puppy eyes.
       —And what are we going to do today? Yesterday you said that the tenth birthday was the most important in the life of a Goetia.
       Both parents were still struggling to think of a plausible excuse to hide the marriage from her and still make it a special day. But the pressure of the moment gave his father a spontaneous burst of creativity that would help them in this cod.
       —We are going to visit the circles of hell. For you to meet the inhabitants and begin to learn about their eccentric lives, as well as the ways in which punishments are meted out to human souls.
       Stella was ecstatic to hear this, due to her inferior position with respect to the main family, she still did not know much about the outside world as her responsibilities were limited to the territorial bureaucracy, but since she would rise in rank by marrying Stolas, she should know more. 
       That day she had a wonderful time blessed by fate and was able to spend her tenth birthday without knowing what life would hold for her.
       She would see each floor of hell, and as Dante described it in his comedy –she would witness the atrocious punishments that human souls lived through for more than an eternity. She would learn that there are human souls who, once their punishment is over, will continue in hell as citizens of it and would take a form that was suitable for how they were once in life.
       She would hear from various entities stories of powerful demons or rotting human souls that would change the course of the history of hell. Of dealings with humans from the world of the living who in exchange for their souls demanded some benefit that would give them an advantage over others.
       She would meet eminences like Adam and Eve, who, despite having always been faithful to their god, because they were the original sin, would be the first inhabitants of that world alongside the fallen angel.
       They would tell her stories of thousands of human philosophers who, because of the search for virtue, would discard their faith in search of knowledge and when they arrived here, almost as a prize –they would venerate the fate that was imposed on them.
       When they returned home, Stella would not tire of repeating everything she had heard and experienced, they had truly made her tenth birthday the best.
       But the worst part came for the parents who; On a whim towards their daughter, they had hidden the real reason for that photo, because unlike Crocell's wishes, they did not want anything to do with Paimon.
       The following years Stella and Stolas should begin to know each other, and while one had in his mind a cruel and aggressive girl, she had in her mind a daddy’s boy. So, from the beginning the chemistry between the two was deeply rocky.
       Every time they saw each other for some royal event or party, he always tried to be courteous, polite and somehow see a friend in her. But Stella immediately responded in a hostile or indifferent way; something that intimidated Stolas immediately and they ended up separated from each other. So Paimon's palace would be the battlefield between these two.
       And while Paimon educated Stolas about his obligation to manage this relationship properly, Stella's parents tried to convince her that they needed to be friends, because that connection between families needed to exist.
       —Father, I don't understand. I do my best, but Stella doesn't seem to care. —Stolas cried out, pleading for help—.
       You'd think after being a parent a myriad of times, you'd learn a thing or two about parenting, but like a Teflon pan –nothing stuck. And annoyed by the constant unknowns of his son, he had to invent new ways to entertain him with an idea that was different enough from the previous one to justify the attempt and stop bothering him.
       —Do you really think it will work, father?
       —But of course! You will have her at your feet.
       Stolas didn't exactly want to have her «at his feet», but if it would help improve their relationship –it was something he would definitely try.
       —H-hi, Stella.
       —Hello, idiot.
       —Y-you look too pretty to talk like that. I can teach you not to. You know... after all you and I...
       —What do you care of how I talk?
       —I-I'm just saying maybe you should– Ouch!
       Stella hated when Stolas corrected her, even more than when anyone other than Andrealphus or her parents tried to do so. This reflected on her pecking at him until he left. She then ran to her brother for protection. Stolas then followed her trying to apologize, and Andrealphus getting in their way pulled him away from her sister to talk to him in private.
       Andrealphus was one of the few people who interacted with Stolas, and he was the one who, unlike Stella, loved being with Stolas and constantly gave him advice on how to get along with her sister. Unfortunately, these tips were, of course, false and fabricated to maintain the tension between the two and their relationship just means to an end.
       What Andrealphus loved about Stolas was how easily manipulated he was, taking every opportunity to ruin his relationship with his sister.
       And not because he wanted to take care of her or protect her from Stolas like her parents, but because he saw in Stolas something that no one else could see and that would come into play over the years, but he needed to gain his friendship and trust, in addition, he also didn't know about the arranged marriage between the two, so in his view, he believed it was genuine interest.
       On several occasions Stolas questioned Andrealphus' advice for its ineffectiveness, or sometimes even the ridiculousness of it. While Andrealphus only blamed his stupidity and inefficiency to correctly carry out the assignments. And to keep him attached to him, he constantly promised to teach him how to be a demon worthy of Stella's attention. He was a demon one of a kind, and his looks just provided further evidence.
       Andrealphus was white and blue in plumage, seeing him was like seeing snow itself, it was so long and flowing that it seemed as if it was part of his clothing, that also shared the same colours. A slim and formal figure. There are not enough words that could describe it. A young man, 15 years old.
       —Are you sure Andrealphus?
       —Sure Stolas! My sister loves cards. You know how women are when it comes to romanticism.
       —I remember reading about it. But wouldn't it be too early for that? Letters are more for lovers. First, I want her to see me as a friend.
       —With more reason. Stella hates you; you need to do something extreme to get on her good side.
       And Stolas always obeyed Andrealphus' advice, which was customarily ambiguous enough to blame Stolas for his impending failure. It was a bit curious and even adorable to see the little owlet run to his room to write that letter and slip away among all the adults to secretly leave it where Stella could see it. Later he would stay hidden to see her reaction.
       —Uh...? —Stella gasped when she saw the letter and began to read it.
       «Dear Stella, even though our friendship has not blossomed as I wished, I am blessed to have met you. And since we are destined to be united in marriage, I find myself desirous of furthering our social relations. »
       Stella had a look that was the homogeneous mix of anger and embarrassment. She with all her strength tore the letter to pieces and threw the pieces all over the place.
       —Disgusting dictionary with legs! —Stella was heard screaming—. No one wants to marry an idiot like you.
       On the other side of the scene, Andrealphus would always be found laughing and laughing, enjoying creating conflicts between Stolas and his sister. Laughing to the point of uncontrollable tears.
       —Andrealphus! You said it would work. —Stolas demanded—.
       —Diccio-Diccio- —Andreaphus couldn't complete a word out of laughter—. What was it that you wrote? You're silly Stolas, you should have shown it to me first, now a second letter won't do.
       A few more years would pass for our characters to mature a little more. Stolas, upon reaching his adolescence, would dedicate himself to his studies of the Grimoire and the real activities that he had to carry out as Goetia, while his friendship with Andrealphus changed direction, being only between the two of them and Stella would go into the background. Which would allow her parents to keep up the charade for a few more years, since the subject of marriage came up less and less often and Stella seemed completely indifferent to the bureaucracy that referred to taking with him.
       Stella had also matured considerably, at fifteen she was already an expert in Goetia etiquette and carried out her tasks with grace. During this year and the next she would interact more often with the demonic families and find an oasis in a marquis boy at 16, by this time Stella already had a very similar appearance to the one she wears today with the short differences being that her clothing, much like Octavia at her age, had a rebellious style, a superb mix between Victorian fashion and the late 1700's dark Romantic Gothic fashion –she was quite the picture, a beautiful but dangerous young woman.
       —Oh Stella, there is no infernal being that can resist your beauty.
       Stella was currently on a date with this love of hers, the two of them sitting in the courtyard of her parents' palace, having a snack under the spring sun.
       —Andras, please. My parents will hear you.
       Andras is a marquis part of the Goetia family, similar in appearance to Stella and Andrealphus, his plumage is completely white, and following the dress tradition of the Victorian era, his clothes were worthy of royalty, even if his title was less deserved. An incredibly violent and dangerous Demon for any human who dares to summon it. He has a strong trauma with his social position in the Goetia hierarchy and wishes to be able to destroy it one day.
       —But it's true! Whoever owns your beauty owns the greatest treasure in the underworld.
       —Every time you talk about me like that you remind me of that idiot Stolas.
       —Is he still bothering you? I can take care of him if you want.
       —He doesn't bother me anymore like when we were kids, but he visits my brother so much that he practically lives with us.
       —Do you think he's interested in your brother now?
       —Pffff... I doubt it, I don't even know how he noticed me when I was a child. Although Andrealphus is capable of messing with anything that moves. He and Uncle Asmodeus seem inseparable.
       —You have to introduce me to Asmodeus, if only I could get his ring...
       —We talked about it before, Asmodeus would destroy you before you could get close.
       The ring Andras mentioned is a magical stone from Satan's own crown. Given to Asmodeus directly by him.
       This ring gives Asmodeus the power to fulfil any wish without any kind of rule or exception, it is the same magic that Satan used with Jesus to tempt him in the desert and Asmodeus uses it to tempt men to be unfaithful.
       —But with that ring we could destroy this useless hierarchy and we could- —Andras was saying until Stella interrupted him—.
       —We'll have our moment, Andras. I promise you. —Stella reassured him—. We'll be together.
       Stella then comforted him with a kiss. She loved him to death, and he was her first genuine love.
       Andras kissed back passionately, while Stella held Andras lovingly by the head, Andras held her more strongly in the same way. It was clear to see a difference in intentions as Stella treasured him with great affection and Andras took her possessively and with more aggressive intentions. You questioned the mechanics of their relationship or if it was really something that carried that title.
       —Andras, if my parents see us…
       —It's not my fault they won't let you out of the palace.
       —It feels so cold in here without you.
       —Then let me warm you up. —Andras was anticipating another passionate kiss—.
       Elsewhere in the palace Andrealphus and Stolas were studying, or so the plan was.
       Stolas at 16 already had a mature appearance for his age, he was capable of intimidating anyone, and his demeanour was as formal as it was elegant and masculine. Stolas had grown up to be Paimon's favourite, so everyone in the family detested and treated him badly, but he had already gotten so used to this that even though it was true that the segregation this caused hurt him, his stoic gaze and cold expression made him look like an immovable object, it was also because of this that Andrealphus was so close to him. Andrealphus at the age of 21 was already a Marquis and like Andras, was a prisoner of the Goetia hierarchy. That's why he got so close to Stolas and pretended to be the only one with an interest in him, teaching him things like Geometry and other mathematical sciences. Or so it appeared.
       And time had been generous with him, Andrealphus had an enviable body for men and women alike, a slim figure and an unusual balance between femininity and masculinity, he wore clothes that, again, due to their black and white tones, highlighted his elegant plumage and groomed with immeasurable grace.
       —Very good Stolas, always so clever.
       —With your knowledge Andrealphus, you could easily serve the Goetia more than just territorial work.
       —O Stolas, your words flatter me. —Andrealphus replied walking behind Stolas' chair, leaning towards him, leaning on his shoulders and putting his hands crossed on Stolas’ chest—.
       The chemistry between Stolas and Andrealphus was somewhat complicated to describe, Stolas was at the age where he was finally beginning to understand his intimacy, and it was precisely Andrealphus; his future brother-in-law, who knew this best from his time with Asmodeus.
       Stolas justified his constant visits to Andrealphus with his studies and his work to establish a friendship with Stella for the already close marriage, and Andrealphus turned a blind eye accepting to teach him while little by little he seduced him, Stolas tried to be subtle, but Andrealphus was not afraid to make it clear that he knew the truth.
       Amusingly, Stella's relationship with Andras and Stolas' future relationship with Andrealphus carried perfectly in secret synchronicity. While Stella was believed to simply socialize with her class, Stolas was believed to be educated in the sciences. And between the four of them it was also complete secrecy. A perfect charade in all fields.
       Months passed and their 17th birthdays were approaching. The wedding was just around the corner and Paimon had to make sure that everything went as it should, because Crocell began to ask questions, because he was also aware of the terrible relationship between his granddaughter and Stolas. One day around this time Paimon paid them a visit.
       —Your Highness! —Stella's parents said when they saw Paimon appear in their home—.
       —I'll be brief, I just wanted to talk to your daughter about her wedding next year.
       Needless to mention, they never told Stella about their upcoming wedding, and now that time was up it was due, she knew, or else they would all be in deep trouble.
       —Stella is not here, your highness, she went with her brother Andrealphus to mediate some disputes in the circle of wrath. —Replied the father—.
       —I think I can wait for her, Crocell won't forgive me if I don't solve this for him now.
       —W-we don't know how long it will take; besides, I don't see why someone like you should worry about what my father-in-law thinks.
       —I advise you to be more respectful when speaking of a duke, and I remind you that this is a favour to you and a debt I owe him. So, I recommend you better not keep me waiting.
       At that very moment Stella and Andrealphus were entering the palace, the truth is that they had never left, but while the father was talking with Paimon, the mother asked them to continue with the invention that he had given.
       Stella, despite the years, was still as obedient as ever towards her parents, so she did not hesitate to follow their charade. But Andrealphus immediately began to suspect that something was wrong.
       —With the precision of an archer. His Highness, Stella has arrived. —The father cheered with relief—.
       —Excellent. Stella, darling, please have a seat. —Paimon pointed out—.
       Once the entire family gathered around Paimon he began his sermon.
       —As you know, 6 years ago as payment for a favour to Crocell we decided that Stella would marry my son Stolas. In return she would be promoted to princess and my debt would be paid. Sadly, your daughter has gone out of her way to ridicule this deal by refusing to get along with Stolas. And you have bent over backwards by refusing to educate your daughter properly. So, I come a year in advance to make things clear. They will do as they are told and they will do it well, and for the good of the Goetia. Failing this final assignment will result in your banishment from the Goetia surname and thus demerit it, execution. Now if you'll excuse me; I have other more important matters to attend to. —Paimon immediately beams out of the location—.
       While Stella's parents were worried and hugging each other, Stella was completely confused and disoriented by what she had heard.
       6 years ago? Stolas? An arranged marriage? Little by little the pieces of the puzzle were falling into place with her memories of her childhood with her future husband.
       Andrealphus, who was a little more perceptive, understood things more easily, but instead of being happy for his little sister, he could only show immense anger.














History of pain


       
       He was furious, all the while he had been nurturing his relationship with Stolas to keep him and use him to climb the rungs of royalty –now he had to share him with her sister, and worse; he would be doomed to only become a duke, and that with enough luck and the best of timings.
       —What the hell?! —Stella and Andrealphus couldn't help but shout at the same time once Paimon left—.
       Andrealphus knew he would have to be smart if he wanted to get ahead of his sister. But his mind was now focused on all the moments where Stolas mentioned marrying Stella, and he always interpreted it as a strange childish and foolish crush; so much in fact, that Andrealphus always thought that he was only interested in her to deny his interest in men, something that Stolas never left in doubt with his extravagant way of being. He was sure of this completely.
       But now everything made sense, Stolas always knew his responsibility as Goetia. And now with his sister in the way, he had to tread carefully if he wanted to continue manipulating his future brother-in-law and use his future influence to get as high as he could, at the cost of death. He would walk over his sister if necessary.
       However, Andrealphus had a certain affection for his sister –he saw her as inferior to him, and with a certain tenderness he cared for her. But all that affection disappeared the moment he knew the truth, now that she was his rival.
       On the other side of the matter, Stella ran to her room trying to contain her tears while her mother went behind her, calling and crying out her name to give her an opportunity to atone for her sorrows, explaining the motivation behind such a cruel deception. But Stella refused to listen to her, slamming the door of her room in her mother's face and throwing herself on the bed to cry.
       But the truth is only found in the little details, Stella wasn't sad about the lie, she wasn't crying about her recently revealed fate. She cried for Andras and losing him forever.
       She loved Andras almost as much as she loved her parents and her brother, she was capable of whatever it took to make them proud of her; no matter what she had to do –even marry someone who wasn't him. But now that she must lose one or the other, the stake was too great for her, and she wasn't going to play it.
       Stella had grown up almost all her life with one conviction in mind, to wear the Goetia name with pride, but she cared more for her family who had had the misfortune to be born so low in the chain of command. But now these convictions made her feel a million times worse with this pain she now felt -while another part of her mind reminded her of details from her past that now made sense, only making the way she felt an even stronger sorrow.
       Her aristocratic studies, the cultivation of the different customs of each ring of hell, the etiquette of royal behaviour; her speaks and dress. She always thought that they were her parents giving her a special treatment and superior to that of her relatives for mere love and hopes placed on her, but she realized little by little that this was nothing more than part of her preparation for the predestined end.
       She remembered the times that Stolas bothered her or tried to please her at family gatherings and parties. She remembered her brother taking care of her when she was fed up with his presence, she remembered how little she knew and wanted to know about him, and how she would now have the rest of her life to spare, to find out something she didn't even wanted to know.
       She remembered her mother's words one day before that birthday «The tenth birthday is the most important in a Goetia», everything that had happened until now fell into her mind like pieces of a puzzle where the final image was herself. But one piece was missing to complete the picture. That missing piece was her heart.
       Her mind went back to Andras and their times together. What would she tell him? How would she tell him? But the most important thing was, what will he say?
       Andras is a violent demon by nature, and since he already had plans for rebellion –she was afraid that it would provoke in him a blind thirst for revenge that would cause her to lose him forever. Even from that moment she already thought about keeping her relationship with him a secret, even after she was married, but if she was discovered, the shame that would fall on her parents was a price that she was not willing to pay. The rest of the day she would spend considering her options, and Paimon's words. If she thought of disobeying, it would mean her banishment; Or worse yet, the possibility of losing her parents forever.
       Her crying could be heard throughout the palace as night fell.
       The days passed and Stella was avoiding Andras during that time, giving the excuse that her birthday was coming up and she wanted to plan something special with him, but she had to keep it a secret until now. In the meantime, Andrealphus did the same with Stolas, extending the date of his next visit on the grounds that they were making special arrangements for his sister's 17th birthday and therefore there was no time for his «classes».
       Thus, the day arrived and overnight it was Stella's 17th birthday, and everyone would see each other once again for one last big celebration before starting the preparations for the future wedding. At Stella's request, this party would take place in her own home, this as a strategy on her part for what she had planned.
       The entire Goetian monarchy would attend this party, it was surprising to see so many demons in one place, King Asmodeus courting everyone who spoke to him. Employee or royalty. Paimon showing off his most recent order received by Lucifer to the others close to him while they listened with disinterest. And all the aristocratic crap you can imagine was taking place at that moment.
       A beautiful snow-white cake with delicate black and pink decorations adorned the centre of the event room. Musicians delicately played harmonious waltz melodies, and everything went in perfect harmony and order.
       Stella's parents, meanwhile, entertained Crocell and told him how grateful they were for such an opportunity for Stella, praising his support and humility for them. Crocell wouldn't buy a word they said, but he pretended to care to keep them in a false state of security where he could spy on them more adequately without making them defensive.
       Only one person was missing from this party, the star of the night and the reason why all this theatre was up.
       —Stella, my love. I didn't make you out to be the kind of person who sneaks into the shadows of others for a little fun.
       —Andras, I told you not to speak until we reach my room, if they discover us, it's the end.
       Stella and Andras were outside the palace, hiding among the garden plants as they made their way to the birthday girl's bedroom window. Which, she had left open beforehand in anticipation of her crime.
       Both couldn't help but let out a mischievous laugh as they entered the room in the most awkward way imagined by man, because of the ostentatious outfits they wore for the occasion.
       Andras wore military garb from the time a thousand eternities ago, when the first war with God had been waged. A family treasure that he kept from his great-grandfather Bael, who helped in the final mission that would assassinate God himself.
       Stella brought with her a beautiful black dress that in the light of the hellish moon showed a faint shimmering scarlet tint, with a neckline striking even for the purest of minds and for the lack of sleeves, gloves of the same shade that reached her elbows.
       Climbing the window, Stella landed on Andras, and between murmured laughter they got up and ran to her bed.
       —If you only knew how long I've waited for this, my love.
       —All in good time. There is something I must tell you first.
       —I'm sure it can wait. —He answered as he lunged towards Stella, kissing her neck and beak over and over without being reciprocated—.
       —Andras, please. This is something you should know.
       —Tell me while I make you mine, dear Stella. —Andras was still insatiable, forcing Stella down on the bed while she tried to push him to keep her distance—.
       —Understand Andras, I will marry Stolas. —Stella said as fast as she could before he silenced her again with another kiss—.
       While Andras was taken aback by what he heard, Stella continued talking as she finally got rid of him and they sat on the edge of the bed again, to talk about it.
       —Paimon came to the palace a few days ago to ask how my relationship with Stolas was going, because seven years ago my marriage with him had been arranged, but my parents never told me.
       —But this is unheard of! Besides, we already have each other.
       —I know dear, but if I don't do this, it's sure he’ll kill my parents and surely you as well. That's why I wanted tonight to be so special, so I ask and implore you, please, after today, don't see me again. If something were to happen to you, I would never forgive myself. And please abandon those ideas of power, I promise you that as soon as I am a princess, I will have you by my side and then we will see each other again and plan a new life.
       —And be the second option? Of that... good for nothing prince? I will never leave you, Stella, much less my plans to destroy this foolish monarchy. So, stop being a Goetia, we will make a new family.
       —Please love. Do it for me.
       —You ask me for the impossible, I will always be by your side. Until my last breath. You are the infernal flame that burns in my chest on the coldest nights. And my hope in the darkest sorrows.
       —My beloved Andras...
       Stella finally kissed Andras again. It was a kiss of pain and agony mixed with love and care. A kiss so passionate, that words were few to describe the sensations that Stella felt at that moment, knowing that it would probably be the only time that she could be this way with him for the rest of her life. Little by little the kiss became more and more intense like the fire in which a Phoenix burns as they both succumbed to the emotions of the moment and began to undress each other. Their hands touched their naked bodies from top to bottom, feeling each other like a pair of blind people who, lacking their sight, wanted to see by touch everything in front of them. Their hearts beat intensely as they began to coordinate like two drops of water falling from the same faucet. The garments lay spread out like rags and the bedclothes became a mere suggestion due to their wild movements. Moans of pleasure came from Stella each time Andras found a new place on her body that he hadn't kissed yet. And this in the ears of her lover only told him that she wanted more, and that she was only his that night.
       Little by little the flame grew more intense as Andras performed the most exquisite oral sex on her, eating each part until it was dry and moistened in place by his saliva. In exchange, Stella's body asked him for more while she was physically seen throbbing, demanding that he continued, to which Andras, like the perfect soldier, obeyed without question.
       And as usual, on the other side of the palace, Stolas and Andrealphus were discussing recent developments in their lives and their studies. Andrealphus pretended to pay attention while Stolas talked endlessly about one thing or another.
       During the previous days, Andrealphus had planned to use his sister's party to plan his final strategy to keep Stolas from her and take power himself.
       Stolas had already been building emotions for Andrealphus more than for Stella, he just needed a little push to take the next step.
       —And a human game that I discovered that is very curious, is that they take a number at random, and if it is even, they divide it by two and if it is odd, they multiply it by three and subtract one, then they would repeat the process with the result of the operation. A certain Collatz invented it or so I heard them say. The point is to find a number that doesn't give up on reaching 1, but it's impossible! A pity that in a few years they’ll end up in war. Humans are so creative.
       —So, you already master the use of your Grimoire, so young and you already fulfil your tasks of a Goetia. —Andrealphus seduced him with words of encouragement—. A toast to this.
       —And Stella? My father will surely want to see the status of our relationship now that in a year we will be married. —Stolas asked as he drank another cup of wine—.
       —Stella must be around being the centre of attention as usual.
       And well she was the centre of attention, but of a single person.
       —Andras, let me feel you, I want to remember the feeling of your body against mine before I never see you again.
       Both continued their carnal act while the moonlight penetrated through the window and illuminated the dark room where only two shadows could be seen playing at touching and loving each other, two bodies that, as if they were going to disappear tomorrow, took advantage of the moment to please their wishes.
       Hell had never seen such genuine love between two demons, making the union of these two beings sacrosanct in flesh and being. A piece of heaven in a land of the damned.
       Stella continued her moans while Andras continued to take advantage of every part of her body in its entirety, and the music of the party served as a silencer, preventing Stella’s moans from escaping through the main door warning the unwary.
       Even upon penetration, Stella was completely ecstatic as a stubborn tear came out of her being. Enjoying what she knew would be the single best night of her life, and she delivered her first time; to her first love.
       Stella's warm interior was enough to drive Andras crazy who showed his ecstasy with the subtle gestures on his face, while Stella smiled through mischievous tears at her lover, holding his neck even when she was resting on the bed. Crossing his legs against her, like wishing he'd never leave.
       Across the palace, Andrealphus continued to slowly get his brother-in-law drunk, Stolas losing more and more of his logical awareness and giving way to his emotional self.
       —Stolas, my poor Stolas. This family just treats you badly, just because of your clear superiority. Poor fools who refuse before your power.
       Andrealphus dedicated himself to flattering him while little by little he touched him seductively. And Stolas, who was fighting between being nervous or not with Andrealphus' advances, tried to calm down with more alcohol, getting the opposite effect.
       —The noise of all these people and the music have me fed up, aren't you too, Stolas? Let's go to my bedroom, to rest from all this fallacy.
       And they both went to Andrealphus' room, which as if that wasn't enough, was on the way to Stella's. It was the work of a miracle that the intimate scandal of the two went unnoticed as they headed to their destination.
       Entering the room, Andrealphus took Stolas' coat and cloak and hung them on the rack; and as Andrealphus closed the door, Stolas turned immediately and pinned his brother-in-law against it.
       —Oh~ Stolas, you finally show your true colours.
       Without answering a single word, Stolas began to kiss Andrealphus wildly as he spread his legs apart. And with one hand he raised one of them to grab his ass.
       —My Stolas, you have kept these feelings so much that you cannot control them, right? So many studies where you barely opened the books just to get my undivided attention.
       —Andrealphus, I...
       —Silence my beautiful prince, I know what you need.
       Andrealphus then helped Stolas grope him while he also did the same. He caressed the prince from the chest to the waist and slowly lowering to his crotch, while he felt how little by little an erection was presenting. Stolas found it hard to contain himself every time he felt Andrealphus' warm hands touching his penis through his clothing. Pushing his hip towards him every time he did it as if through it, he was trying to fornicate.
       The kisses were more and more lascivious as the seconds passed, the drunken state of both made them move in an uncoordinated way through the room, throwing things to the floor until they finally found the bed.
       Andrealphus fell on Stolas while they continued to eat each other with ephemeral but violent kisses. And they stripped each other naked with the same violence as two animals fighting to skin the other.
       —How long have you been waiting to have me? Tell me how many nights you dreamed of my body, my beloved prince. —Andrealphus whispered in his ear—.
       Already naked, their penises touched and brushed constantly as Andrealphus continued to seduce Stolas, and Stolas continued to cling to him.
       Andrealphus felt no shame while shame ate Stolas' conscience, stroking his penis against his or with one hand, playfully playing with it. Although it seemed that Andrealphus was the one who enjoyed playing with Stolas and his drunken state, it was Stolas who; if it were comparable, actually made the most of the situation, finally unleashing his long-hidden emotions and passions to stay out of what his title allowed. And what his father would accept.
       The fountain of bottled emotions in Stolas was finally open and would give no quarter.
       At the same time, on the other side of the room –Stella was riding Andras moving her buttocks up and down, from one side to the other. Making sure to feel every possible sensation along with him. And as if they were two actors, acting the same scene, back with Stolas and Andrealphus. Stolas was already aggressively penetrating his future brother-in-law.
       One would be able to imagine a thin black line separating both rooms, dividing the scene vertically down the centre while on each side was one of our couples who enjoyed their pleasures in the same ways and the same rhythms, the same positions. The exactness and precision of their identical acts was almost poetic. To the comical point that even, Andras and Stolas finished at the same time, complementing their partners until the last passionate orgasm and exotic delight.
       What both Stella and Stolas thought would be their last chance to look after their own desires and ambitions had finally ended in the way they most desired, with the one they believed their heart truly belonged to. And they would treasure this moment forever until life brought them together again. In a night of sex, modesty and tears.
       As the evening drew to a close, the four returned to the party as if they had never left the place. But there was someone who had noticed it all, and who would make sure to remind them of their place in the Goetia –and that things had to be done his way, or they wouldn't be done.
       This last year would be eternal for both of them. Stolas' visits to Andrealphus would have intensified during the first few months after the affair, but Andrealphus would deny him most of his advances, again increasing the sexual tension Stolas felt, giving him far-fetched excuses that he had no choice but to accept. Andrealphus' strategy was clear, take advantage of Stolas' needs to keep him away from his sister, even if it were only in adultery, something that would also be a delightful fetish for him. During the meetings of both families for the preparations of the wedding would be the only opportunities that Stolas would have to be able to continue exploring his sexuality with his future brother-in-law; and it would not take long to identify that pattern.
       During this time, an alcohol problem that Stolas had been carrying since a few years ago would become more present, pointing out that if the wedding happened –it would be a miracle.
       Andrealphus' plan worked perfectly. And he took advantage of this weakness of young Stolas to increase the already existing tensions between him and Stella. Unfortunately, Stolas would be too drunk or hungover to notice, while Andrealphus continued to give him love and care as a cover for his genuine putrid intentions.
       Andras would continue looking for Stella countless times, and although she turned a blind eye when he tried to have a breakthrough with her, the pain of leaving him was unbearable –so they reached an agreement and schedule where they could see each other; perhaps not intimately as they wanted, but in a way that allowed them to socialize as if it were anything else. This would also serve as a cover for the truth, since they were so close; a sudden separation would have raised suspicions to more than one.
       And on certain occasions, in the embrace of the night they would see each other once again. To remind themselves of their love for each other as their beaks met again in the moonlight.
       As the months passed the wedding approached, in Stella's room laid a beautiful wedding dress, an almost transparent black fabric with handmade embroidery in the form of black rose prints formed the part of the sleeves and with a beautiful metal bow of a dark burnt red, were united in the neck of the mannequin. A wine-red corset with a huge black ribbon in the upper centre of the neckline and granite-coloured embroidery accentuated the upper and lower base of this, from the base, like long folds of fabric came the cup of the dress of the same red that reached the floor and leaving a tail behind, while other black folds came out below and in the middle to the front. On the mannequin's wrists were two small bracelets similar to patterned fabric that completed the set.
       Stella had to devote her time more and more to the wedding and the bureaucracy. Making her miss Andras' company more and more, and this was beginning to show as she suffered from a bad mood that only disappeared when he was near her. This was quickly starting to annoy the wrong people.
       A few days before the wedding, Stella and Andras would see each other one last time in their bedroom, the same one that saw them finally join as one in true love, it would also be the place of their last farewell. But something didn't add up, because he was late for showing up. The night progressed and sleep began to fall on her, but she did not give in, she just kept waiting for her love. Stella numerous times looked out of her window looking for him from one side to the other while she called out his name in secret.
       —Andras, where are you Andras? Where are you that I don't see you?
       Suddenly a dark shape formed behind Stella.
       —This is not your book, Juliet.
       Stella was petrified and opened her eyes completely, her heart stopped beating for an instant and the air left her body in its entirety. That wasn't Andras' voice. And as she slowly turned around to face who spoke, his voice continued.
       —I think I was never clear enough with my instructions.
       —P-P-Paimon... —Stella finally said trying to regain her composure—.
       Paimon was in the shadows of the dark room, his silhouette, a terrifying dark amalgam in which only a pair of grimly lit red eyes could be seen. As he walked towards the moonlight his body was taking the natural shape of his being.
       —Can you remind me of the instruction I gave? Surely you know the consequences of disobeying.
       —I-I don't know what you're talking about. My wedding is on its way. No one has challenged you.
       —And isn't that tone of voice enough of a challenge? Insolent brat.
       Paimon raised a hand towards her, and a dark force began to subdue her, forcing her to kneel before him, bowing her head. Next thing, Stella saw a bloody feather fall slowly in front of her eyes, it was almost destroyed, but you could see its original colour.
       —Andras won't be a problem anymore, and I hope you won't be either.
       The king approached Stella and took her by the chin, raising her gaze as he crouched down to meet her eyes with a penetrating and frightening gaze that would intimidate even the bravest being.
       Stella's gaze was shattered, but not all the terror in the world would let him see it. She wasn't going to give him that satisfaction.
       —He never was; your highness.
       Paimon did not believed a word.
       —You know, he called your name when he died. Poor sucker, he apparently had a whole plan to finish me off. He had this among his things. Make it a reminder of what happens if you try to get out of the line.
       Paimon moved away from Stella and dropped something on her bed. It was a long case, on impact it opened by itself to show that it had a weapon inside. A unique weapon that had the power to kill royalty. As Stella stared at the weapon, Paimon approached her again, forcing her to stand up with his magic.
       —Honestly, as stupid as my son can be, I think he could have had more success killing him. He would have died anyway, but I could stop worrying about you and your stupid family. And especially about him. — Paimon continued his story—. Apparently, his main plan was to steal Asmodeus' ring. I don't know what made him change his mind, to try to kill me; but I thank him, otherwise I could not have punished him myself. Asmodeus is too benevolent compared to me, he would have turned him into an incubus or some other stupid thing. You should have heard him scream as the fire ripped the skin off him, he screamed your name and how much he loved you. Did you know about healing magic? It's a blessing really, it allows the torture to go on forever, to experience new ways of having fun with your prey.
       Paimon began to touch Stella's face as if analysing her, holding her chin tightly while making her look to the sides as part of his inspection. Seduced by her beauty and not hesitating a moment to take advantage of his position of power –he began kissing her neck lasciviously.
       —The correct thing would be to kill you too as an accomplice, but my son needs a wife; And since your only redeeming quality is your beauty... it would be a waste.
       Stella wanted to let go, but Paimon's magic was too strong for her, and it wouldn't allow her to move unless he wanted to.
       Tears began to flow from her eyes as Paimon tested her body with each kiss and touched her completely as she stood petrified in front of him. Stella wanted to scream for help, but the fear that he would hurt her further silenced her completely.
       Paimon also kissed her beak, even when she didn't reciprocate. The kiss mixed with her tears gave Paimon the taste of her pain as he began to undress her. The scene now was completely different from what she had experienced months ago.
       Stella felt more and more desperate as she lost her clothes, her whole body began to shake from the fear that flooded her being. And Paimon enjoyed every moment of her desperation, as if he dealt out a punishment equivalent to that; according to him, she deserved.
       Finding herself naked in front of him, Stella closed her eyes as she tried to pretend that she wasn't there, that she wasn't hopelessly trapped in the force of an evil being who stripped her naked and now took advantage of her vulnerable body. She pretended not to feel his hands touching her on her waist, on her breasts. She pretended not to feel his cold beak against her, and she pretended not to feel them through her skin.
       With her eyes closed, Stella tried to go to some happy place that would give her enough strength, but she could only remember her beautiful love. Her talks and her moments of true love. She remembered the day they met and the days that followed where she would cultivate her love for him. Her first secret dates where in the sight of everyone they appeared to be simply close friends while behind their backs they declared their mutual love for each other. She remembered the feeling of his beak and the warmth of his chest, she made an effort like never before in her life to replace the terrible things she was experiencing, with those of the days when the one she loved the most reminded her that there was something more to life than just titles and politics.
       Paimon would drop his pants and breeches, ready to continue his nasty sex act, raping Stella again and again as the night went on.
       After a couple of hours that seemed like an eternity, Paimon would leave with one last warning.
       —Try not to humiliate yourself further and serve the Goetia as you have been ordered.
       The night passed while Stella was finally able to cry. And she hugged her naked, desecrated body in dead hope that it was just a bad dream, and that when she woke up, Andras would be by her side, watching over her like he always did. As he promised her that he would.
       But no one would come, no one would wake up from that dream. For there was no one to come or a dream to wake up from.
       Stella was finally alone, and she would have to live with a secret that would haunt her for the rest of her life.
       But one thing is for sure, he had learned the truth of being part of the Goetia, and what would happen if she disobeyed Paimon's orders again.
       When the day of the wedding arrived, we would have a completely different Stella at the altar, without emotions, with a stoic and cold look. She accompanied by a Stolas with the same dead expression. Both would consummate their marriage, and the cycle of the Goetia hierarchy would continue on its course as it always has been.
       As is tradition, immediately after the marriage was consolidated, the intimacy with Stolas; though decadent in emotion or intent, it was performed at least once a week, until –in Stella's words «An egg came out of her, and she could stop pretending to want to fuck that scrawny ass».
       Stella always hated Octavia, who would bear that name in honour of her grandmother, Stola's mother. And she would leave the parental duties to her husband, while she would take care of the public relations of the marriage that Stolas deplored so much.
       For a long time, Stella always wanted to carry out her revenge. Keeping Andras' weapon as an eternal memory of what she must do if she were to one day take back what was taken from her that night.
       She would eventually meet a mercenary named Striker on one of her aristocratic journeys through the Circle of Wrath. Her shared hatred of royalty and bureaucrats made them fit in in an instant.
       They would agree that he; as payment for his services at her whim, would keep the weapon and use it to eliminate whoever was necessary. And the first target would be Paimon, who during a meeting in the ring of Treason; the last of all the circles of hell, he would finally see the end of it. Leaving an empty throne and a hole in her heart, because even with him dead, her husband would be a daily reminder of what she could have been.
       In this way, and for the next 17 years, Stella would fulfil the role that was given to her, making her parents proud and leaving her family on top of Goetian chain.
       Everything had turned out as it should and happened as it should. At the solemn price of the life of a love; that, forbidden by fate, would never see its happy ending.
       
       ***
       
       Returning to our current time, Stella had returned to her palace.
       She walked quietly to her room, peeked out the window one last time, and lay down to sleep.
       The darkness of the night gave way to time as the scene darkened, as the moonlight travelled one last time through the room that had witnessed so many misfortunes.
       Finally, Stella lay down to rest, hoping she wouldn't have to wake up tomorrow.
       It is then that I ask you reader, is it justifiable to sin when they sinned against you in the first place? When life keeps slapping you and spitting in your face, isn't it fair to spit back? Pay with the same currency? Eye for an eye?
       What in us humans really dictate the edge of what is the right path and the virtuous path, in contrast to the path of evil and perdition?
       And in a world where sin is law, is everything justified? Is this the absolute truth?
       And how do we separate ourselves from these dark beings when in pursuit of our desires and ambitions we are capable of worse atrocities?
       When the pure heart of a girl becomes tainted because her life dictated it, the only thing left to do is blame the system that forced her to take this path; or her for not being strong enough to fight against it.
       But we lose sight of the fact that there are no guilty parties in this life, we are all victims of the circumstances in which we were born.
       Now time goes on and customs change, what was good before is now bad and vice versa.
       The search for virtue stops at nothing in this world of the living, and we may never reach it. But we will keep trying, the road will continue.
       It only remains to wait to see what new paths remain to be travelled, and to travel them hoping not to lose our identity, our being and our beliefs along the way.
       And review the consequences of our actions.














Secrecy



       Stolas had lived a life that was never his. Since he was a child, he was taught that his existence belonged to the Goetia and for the Goetia, despite this, his books showed him the stories and adventures of people who fought against the establishment, and achieved their independence, lived their own adventures and fulfilled their dreams.
       But Stolas had no dreams of his own, if anything; he dreamed of living the adventures that he read in his books and constantly compared his situation with these heroes. However, Stolas always obeyed the orders he received without question, somehow, he believed that he just had to wait until he was older and could leave that world behind, without the need for the conflict or rebellion that plagued his readings so much.
       With the passing of his early years, Stolas had become a child worthy of the Goetia name, though his innocence never left him, constantly tripping over the line that divided his social status from that of others. He always saw the castle employees as part of his family, and the commoners as people to care for, and love. He was clearly a demon who, although aware of his nature, saw the need to show some teamwork with the other creatures. For him there was no such thing as class or segregation.
       Even though he didn't understand many things his parents told him about royalty and the crowd, he made an effort to share his blessings with whoever deigned to listen.
       Sadly, he was excluded from socialization that wasn't strictly compulsory –and worse yet, outside the family spheres. So, the opportunities; Although there were, they were few. Many times, those who listened to him were the butler in charge of him or his plants that he cared for in his garden.
       But that never stopped him from trying, and looking for someone to talk to. As he would later tell Blitzo during his birthday the day he met him, «Sorry, I never had a friend to share my books with. »
       But like the oil stain that never goes away, or as the phrase goes, bad habits die hard. The customs of Stolas would remain engraved in his being forever.
       And although he did not see Blitzo again for many years, having known him would create in him a small seed of courage that would help him to continue trying to find someone who wanted to be his friend, and having to relate now with the family of his future wife; that seed would bear fruit slowly, but with certainty of success. Or so it seemed to happen.
       Stella was a girl who was very aggressive with others, and you could only get a minute of her time based on flattery and compliments. And even so; just long enough for her to tell you how true of a statement that was. However, this never worked out for Stolas because of a small factor he was unaware of, his father Paimon.
       Paimon being Lucifer's biggest bootlicker; he constantly wanted to keep him happy with his reign. And for him, that meant keeping all the families in the Goetia in order, and making sure they didn't get out of line. For this he had to constantly hide the actions of the other kings and dukes as well, and sometimes this involved dealing with their respective families. One of these being Stella's, since her grandfather was a constant weight on his back, but at the same time a close friend, since, just as Paimon hid the atrocities of Crocell and his direct superiors, he distracted other kings from what he did to satisfy Lucifer's demands, thus arranging the marriage with his granddaughter, in the form of payment for so many Favours. Paimon was highly skilled in the art of the aristocracy, and he knew how to perfectly manage the balance of power between kings, dukes, marquises and so on. If royalty were a chessboard, Paimon knew how to move each piece at the convenience of his lord.
       Stella and Stolas couldn't even begin to get an idea of what this meant, but they understood what it meant to them. And for Stella it represented the constant suffering of her family and an abuse of Paimon's power and influence.
       But there was someone a little older who understood things better, Andrealphus, Stella's older brother. Since he was a child and before she was born, he already saw this constantly happen not only with him, but with the other Marquises, something that made him cultivate a hatred of his impotence and lack of authority in the face of high lineage.
       Andrealphus would be in charge of educating his sister in these details as she grew up, and in this way foment this hatred.
       So, when Stolas started to go after his sister, the flame of hatred would once again fill with strength. But Andrealphus had grown cunning and manipulative, and he knew he would have the best chance of getting what he wanted the most through him.
       Someone who had seen this quality in him was his uncle Asmodeus, who would take him under his tutelage to turn him into a fearsome demon. And that he also had a certain rivalry with Paimon, so he would be his guide to get his own revenge on him.
       With so much mutual hatred between everyone and especially against Stolas' father, one would think that he would have died long ago, but something that is worse than death for a demon is humiliation. And they knew that there was no other demon more terrified of this than Paimon. This in the future would be what would allow Stella to carry out her revenge, since it was a few years after her marriage to Stolas, that Paimon crossed a line that he should not have crossed. That in fact he himself did not want to cross.
       It happens that Lilith, the wife of Lucifer, had a life outside the eyes of her husband. Lilith, known to many as the femme fatale, was known for her rebelliousness. Once Adam's first wife, she rebelled against God and left the garden of Eden. It is said in ancient Hebrew that she was known for constantly getting into love affairs with other men; making her biblically the first free woman. And as usual in this world and this story, Paimon would not be the exception in the exquisite palate of the queen.
       Although Paimon, due to his respect and fear of Lucifer, would do the impossible not to let himself be cultivated by her charms.
       This would upset Lilith so much so, that she would make up her affair with him, and be cunning enough for Lucifer to believe it. Thus, giving the greatest betrayal place, after Judas Iscariot selling God to the romans.
       Paimon, morally defeated by this, would be reckless enough to woo Stella into murdering him with the weapon of her former love, Andras. And so as mentioned for Paimon, death was a better price to pay than that of total humiliation. So, in the last circle of hell, he would give a meeting where he would be publicly seen being assassinated and preventing gossip people from making up stories of a grievous suicide.
       But, returning to the story at hand –Andreaphus also had his goals and plans to achieve power.
       And in this way, Stolas would begin his friendship with Andrealphus, while he pretended to help him befriend his sister.
       But Stolas, being very young and innocent, would not realize in time the intentions of such a sudden growth of interest in him. He would just see how he had finally –single-handedly made a new friend.
       —Why are you trying so hard to make my sister like you?
       —I have to do it, Andrealphus! I will marry her.
       —But she clearly doesn't want to marry you.
       —That's why we must be friends first.
       —Look, just be thankful that we get along, do you know how much shit I have to endure from the other marquises for talking to you?
       —I'm sorry Andrealphus...
       —Ugh, never mind.
       Andrealphus' strategy was to make Stolas understand that no one else wanted him. And it was not very difficult, because he was always aware that his unorthodox way of being was always a conflict in what others said about him.
       An example of this was his mother; Octavia, she would only be with him for a short time, as she would suddenly disappear from his life one day. He never knew what happened to her or why she left him, and a part of him always blamed himself for not being the demon others wanted him to be. And the other demons who were equally unaware of the reasons for this, would not hesitate to assume that it was for something related to him. To make matters worse, asking his father was useless, as he would constantly ignore Stolas asking about her, so, over the years he stopped asking and assumed it was his fault all along. And this would help Andrealphus to manipulate him even more, since he would always be worried about losing others close to him.
       The truth was it was never his fault. Octavia just had the misfortune to marry the wrong man. While Stolas was still an owlet, Paimon would have his own several affairs withing the Goetia family, and she would find out. This was a risk for him, so he had to take matters into his own hands. But this would never be known by anyone.
       That difficult childhood, along with his rocky relationship with his father, his curious friendship with Andrealphus and his impossible union with Stella, would shape his way of being during his adolescence, growing into someone reserved. Although he still retained his qualities of kindness and impartiality, growing older and receiving even more burdens and responsibilities would take away time for the free and uncontrolled thinking that he enjoyed so much, slowly succumbing to what others wanted from him.
       His father's constant pressure to be a top-notch demon, and constant mistreatments, would end up destroying any shred of feelings he had for him, and changing pride and admiration into resentment. He would stop seeing his father for what he was and would see him for someone to fear and obey without question but keeping hate deep within.
       Growing up, his loss of interest in Stella would also become noticeable, and with his current status with his father the friction would only worsen, and he would begin to reject the idea of marriage with her, which would lead to constant fights where Stolas would lock himself in his bedroom to read, tend to his plants, and drink himself unconscious.
       Thanks to the fact that a part of the universe still looked after him, he always ended up under the care of his butler, the same one who took care of him since he was a child. Who over time became his confidant. And a shoulder on which to vent after the constant insults and abuse from his father.
       Stolas had become a blur of his former self and was so monochromatic in his new persona that he seemed to others to be an example of what Paimon wanted from them; constantly calling him Paimon's favourite. And that idea would remain in everyone's mind with the passing of time, and even though this was false; this idea would not change for many years.
       And with Andrealphus, his intimacy would increase exponentially with his age. Being his second point of outlet for emotions, Andrealphus would take the opportunity to implant in Stolas the most basic need and what he needed most. Love.
       As the years went by, Stolas and Andrealphus would foster this friendship more, and Andrealphus would feed that fabricated love, by taking advantage of Stolas' alcoholism and on more than one occasion encourage him to cultivate his lust towards him.
       Culminating at age 17, whereas a desperate measure by Andrealphus, it would give him the perfect conditions to unleash the carnal desires that he had fed him so much, which would see its consequences immediately.
       To Stolas having grown up most of his life without a mother, in addition to blaming himself for her disappearance, and adding Paimon's growing disinterest in deigning to educate him because he saw it as a lost cause; there were many things that he did not experience correctly, and that no book would teach him to identify. And this was true love.
       So, Stolas had unconsciously closed his mind to reality, because he constantly saw himself returning to his happy place when he had a bad time, this being his books and old dreams of adventure that inhabited them, or anything that was emotionally positive for him. So, when he saw that his friendship with Andrealphus had led to sexuality, he immediately assumed that one was the same as the other. So over time he would start wanting more and more intimate experiences with him, in a way to verify that Andrealphus still wanted him; and that he was somehow, someone worth of someone else's love. And to amplify this belief, once married; the insipid sex with his now wife would contrast the difference between what he would understand as genuine and fabricated love, regardless of how twisted this idea was from the start.
       And meanwhile, Andrealphus would abuse this again and again. Playing with the needs of Stolas; and he, defenceless for fear of losing him –would allow these abuses more than once.
       
       ***
       
       —Uh...? I know that look.
       Stolas kissed Andrealphus passionately, pinning him against the wall of the room as he hugged him around the waist and pushed him with his crotch, as if rubbing it against Andrealphus'. His kisses becoming more and more intense and moving from the beak to the neck and back.
       —Fuck, Stolas... What happened now my beautiful prince?
       While Andrealphus tried to interrogate Stolas for his sudden daring, Stolas kept touching and kissing his lover's body in a lascivious and erotic way, as if wanting to merge her body with his.
       —Let me guess, another week of putting up with my sister? She doesn't know how to satisfy you.
       —Andrealphus, please... I... need...
       Stolas was still frantically touching Andrealphus all over his body, lifting one of his legs and arranging it so that it hugged his back with it. Meanwhile Andrealphus fed Stolas' need by continuing to dare him, one kiss after another.
       —Oh, I know what you need... You want to fuck me again, don't you? —Andreaphus freed himself easily from Stolas and continued—. But it won't happen.
       —B-but. I thought...
       —Did you think I wanted to fuck you too? But of course!
       —Then why did you...?
       —Because it's funny, seeing you so repressed. It is adorable.
       
       ***
       
       Even taking things to limits that Stolas never wanted to reach.
       
       ***
       
       —Come on, there's nothing wrong with it; it will be fun.
       —I know Andrealphus, but... I don't feel comfortable with the idea, we're fine... just you and me...
       —And since we are so well the two of us... What's wrong with one more?
       
       ***
       
       Andrealphus would constantly do things to make Stolas uncomfortable over and over again. And every time he felt he was losing interest in him, he would indulge him one night; enough for him to remember that no matter how much he ignored his requests, «he always had time for him, because he loved him. »
       And, with the passing of the years, little by little Stolas would leave Andrealphus behind in his life. Visiting him less and less –and Andrealphus this time couldn't do anything about it, not even with the best sex in hell could he contain him when his daughter came into his life. For Octavia had become his new source of happiness and hope. Dreaming of him being able to give her one day, the life that he could not have, and the adventures of those books that he could never live.
       But flesh is weak, and his wife's constant abuse, and the inevitable fact that his little owlet was now a teenager, would drive him back into someone else's arms. This time his long-lost friend, Blitzo. Who trying to steal the Grimoire would end up sleeping with him. And then, the evening of his marriage would finally begin.
       However, shortly after this happened, the difficulty of the situation Stolas found himself in would increase exponentially. For, shortly after his adventure with this imp, his homosexual passions would be reborn again; and in a moment of weakness, he would return after a long time to the arms of Andrealphus once again.
       Curiously, despite the time they had not seen each other. Andrealphus was curiously happy at the sudden visit of his brother-in-law. Let's remember that Andrealphus only pretended to love Stolas to get the position of his sister and be the prince next to Stolas, simply as a tool to achieve higher royalty.
       That night, Stolas kissed Andrealphus lustfully as they entered the bedroom together. Their bodies pressed against each other as their tongues danced seductively within their mouths just like that first time. When his beak parted, Stolas circled Andrealphus' body and began playfully caressing his butt. Andrealphus gasped softly, surprised at how good he felt. His penis instantly stiffened under the contact, pressing firmly against Stolas' crotch as he leaned slightly forward.
       As he continued to kiss him, Stolas moved his hands to the front of his pants, slowly undoing the buttons as he went. Andrealphus moaned silently as he watched, unable to help himself. He licked his beak hungrily, wondering if he would dare reach out and pull Stolas closer to him. Just imagining the taste of his lover's sweet skin made his heart race faster and faster inside his chest.
       However, before he could do anything, Stolas stopped moving his hand and withdrew slightly. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly before turning to look directly into Andrealphus' eyes.
       It was as if Andrealphus' abuse of Stolas at the time was now being turned against him. «What is this I feel? he wondered hesitantly. Is this what I put him through all these years? »
       For a moment Andrealphus panicked. Was Stolas rejecting him after all? Or was it some kind of trick? Couldn't Stolas be lying and planning to take advantage of him sexually after all? Probably not. Stolas looked too innocent to be capable of such a thing. However, he was clearly uncomfortable with the way he was looking at him, so maybe that was the case.
       The tension between the two demons was palpable. Neither of them said a single word for a long time afterwards, not knowing how to react. Finally, Andrealphus decided to speak first.
       —What? Aren't you going to do anything to me after all? —He exclaimed incredulously—.
       —We are barely beginning! Don't jump to such hasty conclusions.
       Andrealphus nodded silently and gently bit his lower beak. He wished he could tell Stolas that he understood, but the truth was, he didn't. He did not understand how anyone could resist such temptation. Even now, his mind was filled with images of what might happen next: Stolas shedding his clothes and tossing them aside, revealing a perfectly sculpted physique beneath him. Then Andrealphus would remove his own clothing from him, watching anxiously as Stolas removed the rest of his clothing piece by piece. Finally, the two demons would lie naked on the bed, eager and ready to go. They would kiss passionately again, their tongues dancing in unison as they explored each other's mouths. The two lovers would then move to the sheets, where the small and delicate hands of Stolas would lovingly caress the soft skin of Andrealphus. Little by little, the two of them would begin to undress each other, beginning with Stolas' tight white shirt, which he would carefully remove from the torso of his lover. Stolas would then work his way down Andrealphus' body, stripping off his pants and underwear, revealing the marquess's hard erection.
       Wrapped in passion at last, Andrealphus would lean forward and gently kiss Stolas, running his tongue over the tip of his erect penis. This time, however, he would not stop there. In his place, he would continue to lick the shaft of Stolas' dick, gently sucking on the head of his member and teasing him with light, playful licks. Andrealphus then wrapped his beak around Stolas' cock and sucked gently, causing the young man to moan loudly as pleasure coursed through his body.
       Finally, Andrealphus slid his mouth completely over Stolas' penis, wrapping his arms around the prince's waist as he sucked on it. Soon the two lovers would reach their climax, moaning loudly as Stolas came from the pleasure. Then Andrealphus released Stolas' penis from his mouth and gasped, his face flushed red. Next, he would kiss his lover deeply again, their tongues intertwined as they shared the most intense orgasm of their lives.
       Still aroused, Andrealphus would prostrate himself on the bed, raising his tail and buttocks to Stolas' view, inviting him to continue his violent passion with his body. Stolas didn't hesitate for a second, approaching him, admiring the view he offered while Andrealphus masturbated himself waiting for Stolas.
       And accepting the invitation, he began to penetrate his cloaca, starting slowly as Andrealphus began to move his hips to the rhythm of Stolas' thrusts. Andrealphus moaned delicately with each movement while he at times turned to look at him; and he looked at a prince with a stoic look that little by little broke with the pleasure he felt inside his lover, blushing more and more while the subdued Andrealphus stretched out his hands trying to hold on to the bed; pulling the sheets with his claws.
       But Stolas was still not entirely pleased, at times pulling his penis out of Andrealphus and tempting it into his cloaca.
       Andrealphus however invited this action, thrusting against his penis whenever he felt it close. But Stolas didn't, as if knowing it was what he wanted; he denied it to him, just as he once denied him. And he returned to penetrate his cloaca, again and again. At times and to spice up the sexual act –Stolas would put one or two claws in Andrealphus' cloaca while he penetrated it. This caused the Marquis an indescribable pleasure that made him beg for more between moans and screams.
       At one point, Stolas ordered him to turn around, and Andrealphus obeyed, facing each other, then raising his feet and holding them on his shoulders; Stolas continued the penetration while Andrealphus tried to hold back his already incessant moaning, which was so constant that it took his breath away over and over again. But Stolas was so pent up it was just too much for him, and it was impossible for him to control the desire he felt to make this night eternal.
       That night they would take various positions at the request of Stolas and to the creativity of Andrealphus, while more than once, one or the other would come to a pleasurable orgasm.
       There were times when Andrealphus wanted to take on the role of Stolas and now be the one who would give him pleasure; but Stolas would make it clear over and over again with his violent dealings that it would be the Goetian Prince who would be having fun tonight.
       This, though against Andrealphus' intentions at the time, did not bother him. And even in a certain way seeing someone who at one time was seen as gentle, sweet and kind, turned into an insatiable beast that never tired of making his body a toy for his pleasure.
       Andrealphus was in heaven. He would discover that his favourite position and the only one where Stolas would give him an air of power was when he was on top. Being able to see the prince down as he rode his member wildly filled Andrealphus with the power he most desired.
       This would continue until they were both exhausted, covered in the evidence of a forbidden affair. Just the sin of lust and the need for two beings to become one.
       The next morning, Andrealphus stroked Stolas' feathers tenderly, feeling warm and fuzzy inside as he gazed at his lover. Andrealphus' pale skin shimmered in the soft light of the room, making his appearance almost luminous. Stolas was overwhelmed to think that he was sharing a bed with such a beautiful creature. He couldn't believe that he had ever doubted Andrealphus' feelings for him; surely, he must have loved him as much as he did. The thought made Stolas' mouth twitch, and he kissed Andrealphus again.
       However, the kiss ended soon, when Stolas realized that he was no longer wearing clothes, and that they were still covered in dried semen. He flushed, embarrassed by the sight. A sudden jolt of awareness came back to him and filled his mind with doubt and bewilderment.
       —Oh, come on. What's wrong Stolas?
       —This... it was a mistake. I shouldn't have come here.
       —Hahaha, do you mean to tell me that now, after so many years of cheating on my sister with me, you have regrets? … Or is it… That imp?
       —How...?!
       —My sister told me all about it after the party fiasco.
       Stolas was beginning to feel guilty.
       —Is that all I am? Someone destined to serve only for the pleasure of others?
       —Well, I guess it wasn't just me who felt pleasure last night, right? Besides, your thing with that imp was just the passion of the moment. —Something inside Andrealphus woke up and wanted Stolas all to himself again—. Imps are violent creatures, surely, he is just using you for your power, not for pleasure. So, you still have me. Forget that useless imp, Stolas, they are nothing but scum.
       —Don't talk about him like that! —Stolas bolted from Andrealphus' bed in a rage—. Sorry, this was a bad idea. My apologies for leaving so suddenly Andrealphus, I hope we can see each other under other circumstances.
       Stolas had spent his entire life confused about what he wanted, and in that moment of weakness, even though it was he himself who looked to his old lover for answers, the insults directed at his friend were enough to make him not want to see him again ever. Always questioning how he could be interested in such an arrogant being.
       And now the confused one was Andrealphus, who for some inexplicable reason felt heartbroken to see Stolas go forever.
       For his part, Stolas would return to his palace, hoping to see his old friend again, who was finally making his appearance after so many years, of course this would not happen, and Stolas would only return home to deal with a now furious wife and a conflict that it would take all his energy, the divorce. In addition, Stolas knew that Blitzo DID used him, he was not ignorant of the fact that he only wanted his book and had obtained it, but in this, Stolas would see an opportunity to recreate the moments he lived by his side during his childhood. Playing like pirates, who took all the nicest things.
       Stolas wanted to see him again, he would give everything to see him again, and make up for the time he lost without him by his side. Life was now meaningless if he wasn't with him. Or so he felt. He saw Blitzo as his new way of finding the happiness that he missed so much, and he believed that by his side he would learn to love and what love really is.
       But Stolas still hadn't learned that the love he was after was one that would hurt him to death. He, well, he kept seeing things on the dark side of the moon. And this prevented him from seeing the world that hid behind.
       As the days passed, he discovered that Blitzo was using the book for a business he had opened. So, he got in touch with him to restart their relationship, which he was building from scratch, or so he tried; as his sinful side continued to get in his way –this giving Blitzo the idea that it was now his turn to deal with the reclusive prince, and Stolas would make it clear from the start that the way they would find peace of mind would be through sex. and passion, even if this was never Stolas' intention from the beginning, but the consequences of having lived through a series of unfortunate events; all around sexuality.
       Hoping that way he wouldn't lose him again, Stolas would nurture this idea for months to come, hoping that with his newfound interest he would finally forget his past. During this time, they would live adventures of excitement, passion and fun that would fill their hearts with new hopes.
       Their journey to Loo Loo Land, the conflict with the D.H.O.R.K.S., the harvest moon festival, and many other adventures they had would be the ladder they would both have to climb to connect properly.
       But Stolas was not the only one with problems in his life, Blitzo had his own skeletons in the closet. And his own problems to deal with, and like Stolas, he kept them secret thinking he's better off dealing with his nightmares on his own; and as with Stolas, things would turn out every way except the way they wanted.
       However, both would try to lead their lives in any way they could, and even in a relationship as unstable as theirs –a light of hope would shine at the end of the tunnel. In some incongruous way, the conflicts that life had for them would lead them to take the path that would change their lives forever, just not in the way they expected.
       And Stolas was the first to notice, now that he was soon to marry his daughter.














Ridi Pagliaccio
       
       
       
       «Pagliacci is an opera where, at the end of the first act, the clown Canio is shown to have discovered his wife's infidelity, but must prepare to act, for the show must go on. «Ridi, Pagliaccio, e ognun applaudirà! » -Laugh, clown, and everyone will applaud you-»
       Blitzo stood in his office, looking wistfully at various objects he pulled out of drawers and collected from around his office, scattering them all around his desk and reminiscing about his past glories, and his life in general. 
       He was somewhat shocked by what had happened on television the day before and Stolas declaring that he would marry Octavia. Among these items was the day's newspaper, which told the same story. 
       «Father & Daughter: A new royal drama» was the title of the story. «If our readers recall, yesterday we published a news article that had come to us at the last-minute, showing Prince Stolas of Ars Goetia having a romantic tryst with his daughter, Princess Octavia. As well as accusing the princess of manipulation on the supposed evidence of an aphrodisiacal balm found in her room». This was followed by the same images from the previous day's news article, published by Stella. «Later, Prince Stolas himself would interrupt the News666 news set to confirm his relationship and deny his daughter's possession of drugs and claim not to have been manipulated. Finally, he confirmed that he will marry his daughter as soon as she turns 18. » Following this were pictures of Stolas having the conversation with the presenters. The newspaper also took the liberty of publishing the comments of several of those present on set on the day of the events along with photos of the interviewees. Many questioned the need to wait until that age, others the need to formalize it and others just didn't care. But Blitzo went round and round, unable to swallow the truth. 
       So, he continued to look at the things he had placed, as nostalgia began to invade his mind. 
       As a child, Blitzo had a difficult life too, but life would smile on him, leaving him with people who would take care of him as he grew up. 
       Working in the circus as a child alongside Fizzarolli, Blitzo always wanted to make it in the entertaining industry -as he was constantly being overshadowed by his partner and friend who, with his charisma, constantly had to rescue the show from the bad jokes or poor performance that Blitzo delivered. His wish was to be able to help his mother and the poor situation she lived in with his sister Barbie, and to one day be as good as Fizz, his obsession with helping his mother had reached the point where he was able to; through his father's manipulations; trick an unwary child who; having no one to play with -would raid the treasury of his palace so that he could deliver it to his father who was waiting outside, sadly only to realize afterwards the greed of his father and the misery resulting from his father's selfishness, for none of this had come into the hands of anyone other than his father.
       Despite all this, Blitzo was able to adapt to his reality and make the most of it, continuing his show career alongside Fizzarolli, until Fizzarolli's ambition overcame his morals and Blitzo went his own way. Sadly, unable to do much for his mother and sister, he would eventually defect from there too, to live independently. 
       The shame he felt about it was always such on his conscience that he would constantly erase himself from photos with a black marker, refusing to be part of those he promised to help and failed. Never reaching the point of being able to forgive himself for his failure. 
       This would also trigger in him an immense difficulty in expressing his emotions properly, always hiding what he felt behind jokes and bad gags that only he could find funny; while others found them for what they were, excuses to avoid the subject. He would also eventually use his insipid humour to insult; rather than to make people laugh. 
       His constant inability to control his money would also shape a large part of his life, to the point of ruining his romantic relationships; as with Verosika, spending his money on riding lessons. 
       And he would end up forming the company; I.M.P. to continue financing his hobbies.
       This would lead him to meet Stolas again, for having a book that allowed him to go to the human world was the perfect tool to start the business.
       One thing he didn't count on was that this would start a new wave of adventures in his life. And one in particular he would hate to love. 
       His memories would soon be interrupted by the sound of his office door opening.
       — Sir? You've been inside all day, are you okay? 
       —What do you want Moxxie? 
       —Nothing, it's just that since yesterday you’ve been a bit distant after what happened on TV.
       —I'm fine Moxxie, close the door. 
       Behind Moxxie, but covered by the door, was Millie, who encouraged him to enter the room. But as Moxxie opened the door wider to enter, Blitzo threw one of the objects he was observing at him, to which, startled, he slammed the door shut, signalling to Millie and Loona that it was better to leave him alone.
       Blitzo remembered in detail everything he had experienced since he started «dating» Stolas. And he remembered it with a certain nostalgia that stirred his heart in a way that bothered him; but filled him with a warm feeling of love that he could not shake off. 
       He recalled with some annoyance the words he said that night after the fiasco at Ozzie's, where Stolas, trying to improve the situation, invited him in, and Blitzo, annoyed by the humiliation, reminded him that they were no more than two people who would fuck for the sake of a book.
       He remembered yesterday when Stolas mentioned it to him during the discussion about the newspaper. 
       However, he couldn't help but feel bad about losing him. 
       And indirectly motivated by his jealousy, he began to think of the times he had seen Stolas with Octavia, and to analyse whether at any time there was anything that might have announced even if subtly such an unprecedented union. This being a few weeks after Ozzie's, the day when Octavia had stolen the Grimoire and they had to search for her in Los Angeles, California; in the world of the living. So, he started recalling the events.
       
       *** 
       
       After a violent talk with Loona, without realizing it in time; Octavia was transported to the human world, and there was no one to ask for help but Stolas, with panic in his voice and in his eyes, Blitzo would make the call and confront a furious Stolas who would destroy the front door demanding for answers. 
       When they were already in the world of the living, the search plan was organized, where they would first get the disguises, because Stolas; unable to remember at that moment the correct spell, would not be able to give Blitzo, Moxxie and Millie a human appearance. Leaving the alley where they had appeared, Stolas would take the opportunity to steal some glasses that he thought «went with his eyes. »
       But like many of Blitzo's plans, this would unfortunately not work out as he had hoped, as almost immediately Millie and Moxxie would be left behind by a street musician offering his latest album to distracted passers-by, completely distracting Moxxie who now couldn't leave without paying for the probably disappointing album.
       Blitzo would know about this later; for once back in hell everyone would tell their own version of events.
       If his memory served him properly, as Millie related it; she and Moxxie sang, as a way of generating money to be able to buy the record; something completely unnecessary in Blitzo's eyes, but which somehow made sense to the two of them, while Blitzo thought Millie needed to stop fulfilling her husband's whims.
       «Millie! These artists put their heart and soul into their work. I can't just give it back like it's worthless! » was the excuse Moxxie gave at that time. 
       Loona would also take her own course as she was not really interested in rescuing Octavia or the book, due to her recent fight with Blitzo. Of course, that was not the version she told when she returned, saying that she «thought she recognized Octavia's scent. »
       In the meantime, Stolas and Blitzo would get the disguise and follow the original plan. Which, due to Blitzo's creativity, consisted of walking around aimlessly waiting for Octavia to magically appear.
       —I still can't believe you can't learn your spells after all these years of reading that thing. —Blitzo exclaimed, annoyed by the itchy wig—.
       —Shut up Blitz, I don't exactly see why we should have a sense of humour while my daughter is in danger in this world. Especially when it's your fault that MY book was stolen. 
       —I get it, I get it. Besides, leaving aside that I still don't know how you found us that time the humans caught us, why didn't you do the same trick to transport us directly to Octavia? 
       —Yhea... —Stolas nervously began to adjust the collar of his shirt—. I just knew where you were. 
       —Ok... And why would your daughter run in the first place? 
       — I don't know, I was so busy arguing with Stella... 
       —Even after the divorce? 
       — Yes, she still hasn't taken her stuff out and I'm sick of it. -Stolas, noticing that his mind was once again focused on his fights with Stella, couldn't help but stop and think about what he was doing—. I'm a terrible father... 
       Blitzo still felt somewhat indifferent towards Stolas at the moment, but because of the recent discussion with Loona, he couldn't help but let empathy take over the course of the conversation. 
       — Do you have this kind of problem with Loona, Blitz? —Stolas asked him, looking thoughtful—. 
       —Uh...? —Blitzo was completely immersed in thoughts of Loona—. Well... 
       In that moment, and now that he remembered it in such detail, Blitzo thought of the time he met and adopted Loona, remembered how he saw in her eyes the same loneliness he saw in himself, the way she violently raged at the other hellhounds in the kennel when she felt attacked -it made him think of all the times he had to somehow defend himself against all those who mocked his mediocrity. 
       One way or another he couldn't stop thinking about how much he identified with her and the desire he felt to give her a life he couldn't have. But the inexperience of fatherhood and his own traumas did not allow him to truly be the father he wanted to be. 
       
       *** 
       
       Stealthy tears began to trickle from Blitzo's eyes as he remembered this, both that day and now as he relived the memories while holding the adoption plaque in his hands; letting those tears fall and slide along the glass. 
       
       *** 
       
       After wiping away his tears, he finally articulated a response to Stolas. 
       —Loona... she's a special girl, I adopted her just before she turned 18. I'm not sure I am the best parent for her either. And mine was a greedy jerk, so you can see I learned from the best, huh?
       —Mine wasn't the best either. But that's what it's all about, isn't it? Being better parents than our parents. Besides, I'm sure that, just as you love Loona, she loves you, you just need to talk to her. 
       —See who’s talking. Remember why we're here? 
       — I am learning! Forgive me for wanting to help you. And we are here because of your incompetence. 
       After a few seconds Blitzo finally responded. 
       —Thank you, Stolas. 
       —You're welcome, Blitzy. Now, let's look for my daughter. 
       After hours of walking in silence, Blitzo reopened the conversation.
       —And as for Ozzie's... 
       —There's nothing to talk about it, Blitz, you made things very clear that night. 
       —I know, but I think that- 
       Blitzo was interrupted by a pamphlet that flew into his face, when he saw it, he saw that it spoke of a concert during a star shower that was to take place that night. Furious he balled it up, but before he could throw it Stolas stopped him and picked up the paper. 
       —Azathot's tears! 
       —Whose what now? —Blitzo asked in confusion—. 
       —They are tonight, I had promised Octavia that we would see them, that's why she ran away! I'm sure of it!
       Stolas continued reading the pamphlet which, to give a better description, was blue with white, and with shooting stars formed into the shape of an owl. 
Star shower night
 Live
Griffith Park
At 9:00pm
Music, booze and party.
       The rest of the flyer was littered with advertisements for unknown musicians who would be playing that night as well as the companies sponsoring the event promising incredible promotions on alcohol. 
       This immediately revived Stolas' hopes to the point that he clutched the pamphlet tightly to his chest while Blitzo just stared at him in confusion. 
       
       *** 
       
       For our present Blitzo this was beginning to confuse him even more; for he found himself unable to discern whether the happiness was in finding his daughter as a father, or as a lover. Nevertheless, he continued to review the facts. 
       
       *** 
       
       While this was going on, according to Loona's account, she also found this pamphlet interesting, mainly because it was plastered on every wall in every street, giving an almost comical contrast to the fact that neither Stolas nor Blitzo had noticed it before.  
       She, being ignorant of Stolas' promise, paid no attention to it, but would attend from mere curiosity and amusement. Though the decorations certainly raised slight feelings of regret. While Blitzo and Stolas were surely looking rampant; she was strolling and drinking coffee. 
       From what Millie and Moxxie said, by this time they were being kidnapped by a talent scout associated with this very event, who, upon the sudden news that one of the singers would not be performing due to a terrible accident. According to what they heard the human babbling, someone or something had fallen on him, leaving him in the hospital. 
       So as if fate would have it, they would all end up seeing each other there.
       But it was still many hours before nightfall. He knew that such an event would be full of humans, and he did not know if his daughter knew the spell to change her appearance. The thought of what might happen to her was enough to cause him an anxiety attack.
       —Stolas, calm down. Now we know where Octavia will be, we just have to figure out how to get in and find her. The pamphlet says there is no entry fee so there will be too many people, but at the same time it improves the chances of finding her. 
       —Don't ask me to calm down, what if she's not there? And we waste the whole day for nothing. What if she gets caught and gets hurt? What if she doesn't go because she doesn't know about the concert or gets scared of the crowd? 
       Blitzo could see Stolas physically tormented, with shaky legs and arms that looked like jelly. 
       —Stolas! Calm down for a fucking second! 
       Stolas reacted to his insults in the worst way, grabbing him with both arms and lifting him into the air like a child. Shaking him as he spoke. 
       —What did I just say to you?! —Stolas tried to keep back tears of concern—.
       This scandal would not go unnoticed, as people would start filming these two fighting on their phones. One even went so far as to tell Stolas to leave the little man alone, which infuriated Blitzo, making him forget that he was in the air because of Stolas and directly start insulting him for calling him a little man, kicking and screaming. 
       —What did you just say to me, you piece of shit? I'll show you what a little man does, you son of a bitch! —Blitzo threatened as he drew his gun and shot the human—. 
       As everyone began to act and run, Stolas, stunned by what had happened, grabbed Blitzo like a football and began to run away from the scene while shouting at him. 
       —Blitzo for the love of Lucifer, what were you thinking?!
       —He was insulting me! 
       An enraged Stolas just turns to look at him with his eyes and glasses glowing like two gems, almost perfectly simulating his real appearance, where his four eyes would flash fleetingly like two torches. This silenced Blitzo for the rest of the escape. 
       After much running, Stolas exhaustedly laid Blitzo on the ground while he caught his breath. 
       —Give me your weapon. 
       —Okay, okay, I understand that you're angry. But- 
       —Do you have any idea what might have happened? What if we got into trouble ourselves? How could we look for Octavia like that? Well, I suppose I could make another portal, but-
       At this rate, Blitzo wanted to change the subject, so he did his best to return to the topic at hand.
       — O-ok Stolas, I'm sorry, how about we focus on your daughter? I thought about it and the best option would be to go on stage. We could see the masses from there. 
       Stolas was ready to hit Blitzo, but the idea, as far-fetched as it sounded, didn't seem to bother him. And he decided to indulge it. 
       —And how do you plan to get to the stage? You're not really a very subtle person. 
       —Ha! And how do you think I kill the humans they hire me for? 
       —Probably the same way you killed that other human.
       Blitzo fell into an annoyed silence before replying. 
       —Okay, shows are my thing. You should always test the equipment before you start, and they do it with the audience to get them excited. If we can pass for staff; they'll give us unlimited access and we can work on something that gives us a perfect vantage point. They'll probably have spotlights; we could use them to shine them on people until we find them. —Blitzo added—. 
       Stolas thought the plan was too improbable and definitely believed it would fail. But desperation was enough to make him agree. 
       —Very well, we will follow your plan. But if it fails and we don't find Octavia by today, say goodbye to the book, and say goodbye to me. 
       —No pressure then. 
       —And first we must find the park that the advertisement talks about. 
       
       *** 
       
       Blitzo was still confused in his memories, on the one hand, he understood that Stolas had no intention of pursuing the subject of Ozzie's and that made him think that he no longer wanted anything to do with him; he had clearly dumped him by refusing the invitation. On the other hand, he understood his concern for finding his daughter, for that is what a father would do, but the intensity he showed was such that he could not discern it from a paternal love and a romantic one. Could it be that after rejecting him, he found shelter in his daughter and that is why he avoided the subject? 
       
       *** 
       
       —Okay, it took us ALL FUCKING DAY. But here it is. 
       —Griffith Park, I suppose it's a charming lot, although I have certain recommendations for the flowers... —Stolas replied as they walked along and he checked the planters, curious as to where the show was to be held. 
       It was a gigantic green area, with a large lake. When they reached the stage platforms, they were both looking for a way up to the stage, Blitzo who was more experienced knew that he would find the access stairs at the back, so he went ahead. 
       In their search, some humans noticed their presence and came running towards them. 
       —Hey, you two! 
       «Oh no... » they both said to each other when they heard the humans speak. 
       —You must be Steve and Bryan, Richard told me you were coming to help. By the way, have you heard from him? He's not answering his phone. 
       Blitzo quickly improvised to avoid detection. 
       —He... yes... he's... he's... Feeling sick! 
       —Oh... yes... he took something on the way here and had to go to the hospital. —Stolas continued with the lie. 
       —Yeah, yeah, I don't care. Steve you're going to work on the projectors and you Bryan will be on the smoke. Make sure things work during the show, we start in an hour. 
       They didn't know it at the time, but they were all in the same place, at the same time, but exactly where they couldn't see each other. According to what they all talked about on their way back, Moxxie and Millie were being encouraged to practice their singing inside a van parked near the stage, while Blitzo was trying to recognize the equipment he had to check, and Stolas was awkwardly stumbling over wires and connections in the lighting area. Octavia was trying to find a place where she could see the night sky with less pollution obstructing her view, and Loona was curiously checking out the people she encountered, to see if by any chance she could find Octavia. Although this she described as «frantically searching. » 
       When the show started, Blitzo managed to find the smoke machine, which for a long time obstructed the view of Stolas who was moving the projectors trying to illuminate the crowd. 
       As the two looked for ways to get a better view of the people there, Loona moved closer to the front rows and Octavia tried the opposite, trying to escape the sea of people that had formed around her in such a short time. 
       After an opening song by a somewhat untalented singer, Moxxie and Millie appeared on stage. The first to see them was Blitzo who was still trying to stop the smoke that was blocking his view, and after shooting the machine to turn it off and noticing his employees singing, he was completely stunned. 
       Stolas realized this when he heard the gunshot, thinking that Blitzo had killed someone again. And similarly, when he saw Millie and Moxxie, he was stunned by the scene. However, in his desperation he could only shout at Blitzo to keep looking for Octavia. 
       But this was just the beginning of the catastrophe, as Blitzo's shot would cause a short circuit in the machine and it would start to burn everything around it, which as Stolas moved the projectors towards where he felt Octavia was, he would end up falling off the platform and jumping onto one of the ropes; He would let himself slip onto the stage, falling to the side of the two singing imps, and Blitzo, noticing both the fire and Stolas, would run towards them, interrupting Moxxie and Millie who would stop singing to wonder what was going on. And Loona would add herself to the party by climbing onto the stage as she saw the four of them making a mess of the show. 
       — What the hell? Blitz?! —Moxxie said in surprise—. 
       —Hey Moxxie, would you mind telling me.... WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING HERE?! 
       —I-it's a long story, sir, you see- 
       Meanwhile, Stolas looked up recovering from his fall and saw that one of the projectors flickering from the accident was pointed at a girl trying to push her way out, which was indeed Octavia. 
       —VIA! —shouted Stolas, leaving the three imps silent—. There Blitzy, it's via! 
       All five turned to the same spot and confirmed that it was indeed her. So, they ran off the stage. 
       Coming down the stairs was the same guy who had confused them an hour ago. 
       —Hey, what the fuck did you do?! I'll tell Richard. 
       Nobody bothered to answer him, on the contrary; he was pushed out of the way and one of the projectors, due to the fire, fell on top of him seconds later. 
       With a mess behind them and Octavia finally realizing who was behind her, Stolas couldn't help but run to embrace her immediately, removing his human disguise as he did so. 
       —My little starfire, Via. I was so worried. 
       —What are you doing here, Dad? —Octavia said as she brushed him off, avoiding eye contact—. 
       —Oh, Via I'm so sorry, I promised you we would see Azathot's tears, and I completely forgot. 
       —Yes, because it was more important to fight with mum. 
       —No way, because I'm a lousy father, I love you more than anything in the world. Oh, you had me so worried, I thought something terrible had happened to you and that you were at risk. If something had happened to you, I wouldn't have been able to- 
       —I'm sorry, Dad. —Octavia finally interrupted—. 
       —No via, I am sorry. 
       The two embraced each other again with all their might. 
       —Loony! You found Octavia, well do- 
       Loona greeted Blitzo with a kick to the testicles. 
       Meanwhile Moxxie wept as he watched the stage fall to ashes and the people run in terror. 
       —Oh Moxx' don't worry, you sang beautifully. —Millie was trying to encourage him—. 
       —Thank you, Millie... —Moxxie responded warmly, leaning his face against hers—. But I wanted to become a star. —He continued in a childish, almost sobbing voice—. 
       Stolas then approached the others, taking his daughter by the hand. 
       —Well, Blitz, you did it; your plan was a success. Now, shall we get the hell out of here? 
       —Yes please, this place smells like shit. —Loona replied—. 
       And so, Stolas conjured a portal back to the I.M.P. offices. 
       And although this is not known to Blitzo, Loona and Octavia would talk privately about Stolas after they returned, for she still seemed a little hurt that she had missed the event she had so longed to see. 
       —Hey... 
       —Hey... Thanks for finding me. 
       —It's nothing. —Loona replied as she sat down next to her on one of the benches outside the building—. 
       —Are you allright? 
       —I can't believe I was so stupid. I spent all day looking for a place to see the stars and, in the end, I couldn't see anything.... 
       —Yeah, the show could have been better.... —Loona replied as she tried to light a cigarette, which Octavia helped her light by summoning a small flame from her hand—. Your dad was very worried about you. 
       —Of course, that's why he forgot his promise and chose to argue with my mother. Why does he hate her more than he loves me? 
       Loona, seeing Octavia's pain, couldn't help but feel in a similar role; Blitzo, though not her biological father, was trying to be a good father to her as well. But Loona refused to let him be her father, or rather, she assumed he wasn't quite her father and along with the rest of the world; she held a certain unfounded contempt for him that she only kept out of fear. 
       —Sometimes... sometimes it's not that simple. Things get difficult and we all have our own problems. Especially dads... And sometimes they screw up... well, all the time... But it doesn't mean they don't care. 
       —I guess he got in trouble for looking for me... setting everything on fire...
       —Come on, try to understand your dad. He may not always do the right thing, but... he tries, and that's more important than you think... Ready to go back? 
       —Ready... 
       
       *** 
       
       Blitzo could no longer discern whether or not he could see it coming, as tears again welled up in his eyes at the thought of losing Stolas forever. 
       Moxxie, Millie and Loona, who were trying to hear something through Blitzo's door, could only hear an imp trying not to cry. 
       —Dad? —Loona asked slowly as she opened Blitzo's office. 
       —Oh, hey Loony. Did you call me dad? You guys... D-didn't I f-didn't I give you a f-fucking order Moxxie?! 
       —It's ok boss, Moxx’ is not to blame. —Millie defended—. We y’all worried about you’.
       Everyone finally went into the office to comfort Blitzo. 
       —We know how much you love your friend Stolas; you should be happy that he found someone who loves him back. —Moxxie continued—. 
       Blitzo did not want to admit that despite his problems with Stolas and his own emotional problems, it was impossible to deny that he had intimate feelings for him. And that again, because of his inability to take control of the situation, he was losing another person he loved. 
       —Y-yes of course I am! These are tears of happiness you idiot. 
       —What do you say we give em’ something extra special at the wedding? —Millie thought—. 
       —Octavia's birthday is in a few months. So, it's only a matter of time before they organize the wedding. —Loona added—. 
       Although in hell there is no date as in the human world, there is a concept of time such as days, weeks, months and years, and although they pass in different spans to the human world, they are governed by similar rules. Making Octavia's birthday something like the 16th of August. 
       —Come on, boss, cheer up. —Millie ended the conversation—. 
       Blitzo, though still heartbroken to see another love disappear from his life, could not help but be touched by the words of his friends, who now surrounded him, and in a way told him; that he was not alone. So, regaining his composure he stood up straight and turning to Loona asked. 
       —And you, who seems to know so much about everything. Loony, can you tell me what else you haven't told me that I should know? 
       —None of your fucking business, you idiot. —She replied, crossing her arms—. 
       —Not even for a treat? —Blitzo pulled a biscuit out of his bag in the shape of a little bone—. 
       —You're an idiot. —Loona replied in annoyance—. 
       Blitzo then threw the biscuit in the air and caught it like a frog catches a mosquito. 
       —GROSS! 
       And as if life were a lousy TV comedy. Imagine now that everyone was laughing together as the camera pans back and everything fades to black. 
       But the truth is that the things that are seen are almost always only what we wish others to perceive, while inside us our real feelings arise and run through our veins. 
       And Blitzo is no exception to this rule. With so much to express and no words to express it, he could only let himself corrode in his feelings and traumas while pretending otherwise for the sake of those he loves for fear of losing them, panicking at the thought of being alone again and having those he loves to see him for the monster he thought himself to be. 
       But, like Stolas, Blitzo would finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. And he would understand that his path is still being written that what he lives is not the end but only the journey to it. That, just as Stolas had found his new destiny, he would find his own, or rather, he had to find it to honour those who had supported him so much. 
       It was his turn to bring the show back from a lousy performance and reopen the curtain on a new act. One that would truly tell the story of the great Blitzo. In a big circus with a big office, and all those he loves in the stands clamouring his name. 
       But for what he is now, Blitzo, the sad clown who never made it in the circus or in the show, would take his second wind, for the show is not over until the ugly fat lady sings, and if necessary, he will cut that fat lady's throat, for it is not over until he says so. 
       And with this high note Blitzo left his office, leaving behind his various objects scattered on the table. A horse made of sticks, a feather from Stolas, Loona's adoption sheet, a glass from Loo Loo Land, various photos taken over the years and a dream. To start a new life, without him.














Another chance


       
       ***
       
       Several days had passed and soon the news of Stolas and Octavia's marriage had faded like cigarette smoke rising into the sky. Both, meanwhile, were working on their relationship; it was still impossible not to describe it as awkward, even though Octavia's plan had worked -perhaps better than she had anticipated. Her intention was to use her body to make her father see her as a necessity; but she had never expected him to go to the extreme of committing himself to her, and every thought of it made her heart race like hell, her face flush, and an indescribable emotion well up in her -but all those emotions quickly turned to fear, for she had never thought about a boyfriend, much less a husband.
       During those days, she looked in the mirror as she tried on every dress in her wardrobe; imagining what she would look like in a wedding dress. She thought about whether she wanted it white, or black; maybe a mix of the two - or red. A myriad of options crossed her mind day by day.
       But her favourite part of all was that she slept with her father now, every night. Even if they didn't have sex; she could remember those nights in her childhood when Stolas would come into her bedroom, for some nightmare that kept Octavia from sleeping; and like the good father he tried to be, he would spend the night by her side -and she would hug him with all her might as the blankets covered them and sleep conquered them; frankly, the best experience she could have.
       And though the sex had already taken a back seat; because she had used the rest of the balm the other day, she was slowly making her own subtle advances towards Stolas. Slowly but surely, they were slowly working -for Stolas was also gaining enough mental strength not to give Octavia the wrong idea that he rejected her; but neither the belief that all he wanted from her was her body. In a way the drug had worked; Stolas was slowly convincing himself of his feelings for his daughter. Even if they had been fabricated.
       Even at this moment, she was lying with Stolas, who lovingly stroked her plumage on her head, giving her sweet and loving caresses as she leaned tightly against him, happily, enjoying every moment.
       Stolas, for his part, though he treated the situation with the seriousness it deserved; he did not want to alert or worry Octavia at any time, so day after day he sought to remind her of how much he cared for her, whether by gesture, or physical contact. But on the inside, he was more nervous than ever, though he had stopped questioning how he had come to feel so passionately about his little girl; he still questioned whether Octavia really consented to these things -and if so, why?
       It was the only piece of the puzzle he couldn't find; how did he convince his daughter that this was normal? Was it possible that even at 17, she still thought incest was just another form of love between demons?
       From an objective point of view this would make sense; they are demons, and trivial things like morals are just a mere suggestion -but Stolas, who was always different from the other demons, could do nothing but feel out of place; an exception to this rule. Maybe it was just that his daughter was more normal than he was. And as a good father he would support her.
       Suddenly, Octavia began to rearrange herself on the bed; slowly and awkwardly, until she was on the same level as Stolas -taking him by the chin so that he was facing her, stealing an infinitely affectionate kiss.
       —Good morning, Dad.
       —Good morning, Via. Sorry if I woke you up.
       —It's okay, dad, I was already awake. —Octavia replied as she buried her face in her father's neck, nuzzling her face against him—. I love you dad.
       Stolas felt a satisfying shiver as he felt his daughter on his neck, as she also took little bites; playing at wooing him, and he couldn't help his reaction.
       —And I love you, my little starfire.
       Little by little Stolas tended to his daughter's affections; starting by keeping her close to him, and gradually encouraging her to climb onto his body -something she gladly did as she savoured her father's body; that no matter how many times she did it, she always enjoyed it as much as the first time.
       And so; allowing his daughter to touch his body without reproach, Stolas let his mind wander, in a way to relax his mind and body. Being completely at peace and in harmony, opening his heart to his new role as Octavia's future husband; he travelled in the ideas of how he could make this a new beginning, a second wind of opportunity and finally defeat his greatest fear -the one he had carried since his affair with Andrealphus; to be nothing more than a tool of pleasure for others. His heart rejoiced at the thought that he would finally truly learn about love.
       However, not really knowing how to achieve that goal, he decided to do what he had always been afraid to do as a child -to use his books as a guide, what could go wrong?
       —Via.
       —Yes, dad? —Octavia asked, now resting on Stolas, using him as a pillow—.
       —Would you like to go out? We have not gone outside for days; and now there is nothing to hide from.
       —But wasn't it your idea to stay? —Octavia replied doubtfully—.
       —Well... yes, I said that. But I already feel locked up in this house. —Stolas replied in a dramatic tone of voice to ignore the fact that he was contradicting himself—. Besides, it's been awfully hot.
       —Just the two of us? —Octavia concluded with a small laugh—.
       —Just the two of us.
       —I'd love to, Dad. And where are we going?
       —In this weather, what do you think of the beach? —Stolas asked, with an idea finally forming in his mind—. Let's go after breakfast to find a good spot.
       —Of course! —Octavia replied excitedly—.
       Octavia excitedly got out of bed and headed back to her room, while Stolas began to think about what they would do while they were there, to make this the best date of their lives.
       Although they had previously had one; that day they were discovered -this was different. The first date was to understand their feelings; this one was to consolidate and nurture them, it was time to go on the offensive.
       Thus, he spent the morning making notes and drafts of what they could do; using his phone as a backup to research and schedule whatever activities were available and give Octavia a dream date that would not only prove that he loved her; but also prove to himself that he could make things work for the first time in his love life. He was determined to learn from his mistakes with Andrealphus, Stella and Blitzo.
       Approaching afternoon; Octavia was going through her wardrobe from top to bottom, looking for the best swimming suit she could possibly wear -even searching online for one that could replace what she had. And despite having more than one option; the truth was that all her outfits were relatively simple -since the conflicts between Stolas and Stella began, few occasions were the ones she had to go to the beach or a water park. So, using all her creativity she found the perfect outfit; a summery dress consisting of a two-piece chiffon fabric -both robin's-breast red; semi-sheer, with slack on one side leaving the other exposed. Underneath it all, a bikini of a similar red; with small black laces that helped to highlight her waist, although this swimming costume was somewhat small for her current figure; it ended up helping to accentuate her endowments, and the ornaments that at the time gave her an adorable vibe; now served to sexualize her qualities. To finish off, black sandals with gold laces, an impeccable look. It was clearly from a few years ago, but as she tried them on and noticed these lovely details; she thought little of it. She even took a couple photographs that she would post on her Sinstagram later on, just to show off.
       Meanwhile, Stolas was just beginning to dress up. And as is iconic for men; he wouldn't give it too much thought, as even though it was a special occasion, he had to accept the fact that he couldn't wear anything ostentatious to a beach; much less formal as usual -and with the time he had spent on his plan of action there wasn't enough time left to rack his brains over his appearance. Finally, he would opt for a blue navy boxer type swimsuit, and a white short sleeved shirt he had bought in Loo Loo Land previously, giving him a fresh, but not necessarily sloppy style, along with white flip flops with blue decoration, that looked like a strange variation of crocs -you could see Stolas' almost playful and childlike personality through this outfit and this somehow gave Stolas a boost of self-esteem and confidence.
       And to make doubly sure that everything would go smoothly, Stolas made sure to take some special luggage with him. An umbrella he found lying around; multiple dull white bath towels; a fanny pack with essentials like sunscreen, lotion, and other junk he thought he'd get to use.
       Finally, as they were about to leave their rooms for their adventures, Stolas received an unexpected call; it was Blitzo.
       —Good afternoon, Blitzy. —Stolas answered the phone—.
       «Hey, Stolas. I was wondering if we could get together, I need to talk with-»
       —Sorry Blitzy, I'm going to the beach with Octavia. —Stolas interrupted—. Can it be another day?
       «Ah... Yeah... sure, no problem. » —Blitzo could be heard saying in a somewhat disappointed tone of voice—.
       —I'm sorry Blitzy, right now I have to focus on Octavia, I can't let my little owlet down, I'm sure you understand that. You should also work on your relationship with Loona, from what happened last time it is clear that you need to talk things over seriously and calmly. Another day we'll arrange a visit, what do you think? —Stolas replied with a concerned but cheerful voice—.
       «Oh, no, don't worry about me Stolas; me and Loona are getting along just fine.... And I... I'm already on dating apps, there are some very interesting people here. » —Blitzo struggled to generate a believable story as he tried to get more information out of Stolas about what he would be doing that day—. «Which beach are you going to? »
       —In gluttony, there are many activities according to what I saw on the internet. —Stolas replied nonchalantly—.
       «Great, well then I'll see you later Stolas. »
       —Wait, later? Blitz? —The call was over—.
       And on that note, Stolas and Octavia finally made their way to the beach.
       In the circle of gluttony, Dante tells us that there are endless rivers, where souls eat and eat of it without being able to get enough, while their bodies deteriorate as if they were suffering from starvation. These rivers come from an immense sea in the same circle.
       «Loo Loo Beach» said a sign at the entrance to the premise. A long time ago, Lucifer took ownership of a large piece of land surrounding gluttony’s ocean and set up all sorts of things around it. There were people on giant inflatable bananas, others were surfing on a jetskii and more people were surfing on normal boards as they surfed the violent waves coming out of the infinite body of water. Another group of creatures could be seen playing volleyball in the distance and a myriad of other activities; plus, restaurants and eateries everywhere; many sponsored by mammon or other greedy demons who would submit to Lucifer for a slice of the pie.
       There was a bunch of different creatures that day; many of them scattered everywhere and in every activity. It was the equivalent of seeing a beach in the world of the living at spring break, the amount of life that emanated here was definitely a surreal contrast to the day-to-day life in hell.
       Upon arrival, Stolas took a deep breath; struggling to keep his emotions in check but finding it hard to hide the boyish grin on his face in excitement that everything would go as planned. He would make sure it did at all costs, checking his itinerary over and over again as Octavia was distracted by all there was to enjoy.
       Speaking of Octavia; she was beaming with happiness, it had been a long time since she had been to the beach and coming back brought back very happy memories of her playing with Stolas building castles in the sand; or burying Stella in the sand, as she would just lie on her towel and ignore any invitation to have fun. Stella didn't enjoy it at all; but Octavia found her mother's reaction satisfying -for it meant having to do more than just lie in the sun. And with all the activities now at her disposal, the possibilities were endless.
       As they walked along the beach looking for a place to settle, Stolas momentarily glanced at Octavia at short intervals, looking at her with a certain nervousness that he could not explain, for; again, although it was their second date -it was the first time he truly saw her as a partner. It was like watching a child who, although already had his first kiss, did not dare to repeat it; hiding behind excuses to avoid the situation. Stolas wanted to hold Octavia's hand, constantly watching his and then hers as if bargaining with both of them to take each other, and though Octavia was concentrating on observing her surroundings, somehow, she could feel Stolas’ gaze; and so, as fate would have it, she led him to take her hand; filling Stolas with a sweet sense of self-improvement -taking her hand tightly and pulling her hand towards him, causing Octavia to smile.
       What they both didn't know, was that Blitzo and his gang were also arriving at the beach; apparently, Blitzo couldn't contain his jealousy at losing Stolas' attention; and completely ignoring what happened in his office, and Stolas' words of encouragement moments before -he set out to find out all about their new relationship. For a change, Moxxie and Loona agreed to be the voice of reason; constantly trying to keep Blitzo at bay while he got over the situation, but as permissive as Millie is, all efforts were in vain.
       However, they did not meet immediately, as Blitzo's plan was to be subtle and stealthy, while the others simply took the opportunity to take their own holidays. So thus began a series of unfortunate events, or perhaps events that had the good fortune to begin.
       Meanwhile, our love birds finally found a place to rest; an unoccupied area facing the sea, curiously aligned with the path of the setting sun. Stolas then proceeded to set up the umbrella, spread out the towels and arrange his pile of utensils. Octavia couldn't help laughing at the sight of all that Stolas was carrying as she removed her gauze and dropped it, at last exposing her body to full view.
       —Well, dad, do you like it? —Octavia asked aloud to get Stolas' attention—.
       When Stolas turned to look at her, he stood in total silence with his eyes wide open. A strong blush of the cheeks was immediately present forcing him to swallow saliva as he admired Octavia's figure, little by little he stopped seeing her as his little girl; and began to see her as the little woman she was. Ironically this caused an embarrassing effect on Octavia, who immediately blushed back and tried to cover herself with her arms, completely avoiding eye contact with Stolas.
       —I-if you see me like that.... It means it looks nice, right?
       —You look beautiful, a real Goetian princess. —Stolas replied, standing firmly on his feet and making a full bow—.
       Octavia could only respond with more embarrassment on her face as she turned her torso from side to side and continued avoiding her father's gaze.
       But their pleasure was short-lived, for they quickly began to hear other creatures shrieking and shouting at Octavia; so, Stolas immediately became aggressive, giving a petrifying glare to anyone who he caught staring at his daughter. From Stolas' mouth came only an annoyed sound of anger and jealousy.
       When the situation calmed down, Stolas came back to himself, and taking a deep breath reminded himself of his goal for the day, to connect more with his daughter and the feelings they shared.
       Stolas thus invited Octavia to sit on her respective towel and taking the bottle of sunscreen; he sat behind her and began to smear it all over his daughter's body, who naughtily took his arms to guide it in an almost erotic way all over her being -seductively running it over her waist, her neck and hips.
       When he finished, the role was reversed; Stolas removed his shirt and the situation was repeated in almost the same way -although Stolas did not grab his daughter nor guide her hands, on the contrary, Octavia knew exactly how to and where to go placing the sunscreen on her father. And although the situation was becoming more and more erotic, little by little Stolas was planning his way of deferring from the idea to something more romantic as he had planned.
       I heard that waterskii is very popular, now that we are ready, what do you say we give it a try?
       —You? Waterskii? Who are you and what did you do with dad? —Octavia couldn't help but laugh—. Sure, Dad. Come on. Hahaha.
       They both left their things, took off their shoes and trotted to the stall, which had a wooden sign nailed to the ground with the word waterskii written on it in big white letters. It was manned by a kind of humanoid shark that looked like it had belonged to a pirate ship. Behind him was a small boat; if anything for 2 or 3 people, and next to it; also nailed to the ground, the skii which one could assume were the ones used for the activity. Along with all this a tabloid with important instructions such as not being responsible for injuries, deaths, being eaten by marine animals, among other things. And of course, prohibited to sue.
       —Good afternoon, I wish to rent your service. —Stolas approached the merchant, perhaps a little too formal when speaking to him—.
       The shark just stared at him and then cast an eye at Octavia, which Stolas made it clear he didn't like, repeating himself in a louder tone of voice.
       —We want to try water-skiing. —He repeated, almost shouting—.
       —Only one person at a time sir, who is going to try first?
       Octavia embraced Stolas and responded immediately.
       —Him!
       Stolas was surprised and somewhat nervous, but agreed anyway, while the stall keeper sighed deeply; assuming at once that things would go wrong and turn into a nuisance.
       —All right, listen up because I'm not going to repeat shit. —The shark replied in an annoyed tone of voice—.
       The explanation was long and boring to say the least, for a moment both Stolas and Octavia had lost track of the instructions and were lost in thought. Was he a pirate? Why does he look like one?
       —Did you understand?
       Stolas and Octavia were on cloud nine.
       —Uh... —The annoyed shark sighed again, facepalming—.
       At that moment Stolas received the skiis, and the fun began. At first everything went well, but because of his inattentiveness, the problems were just beginning.
       —Come on dad! you're doing well! —Octavia shouted to Stolas in a supportive voice while trying not to laugh—.
       Stolas on the other hand struggled to stand upright and on more than one occasion looked like he might fall over. Until finally he did, hitting the water head on as the jetskii kept moving at full speed, ending up upside down, submerged in the water and with its legs sticking up to the surface. By this time Octavia couldn't stop laughing, but the bitter driver didn't share her sense of humour; slowly slowing towards the shore, as Stolas was trying to regain his breath and composure once they returned.
       —Well, you almost made it, Dad. —Octavia kept laughing as she helped him up—.
       Stolas however did not share the humour, but tried to hide it, though he failed in the process. This made Octavia feel a bit bad, she also wanted to have a good time with Stolas, in a way; she understood what he was trying to do and loved it -but also didn't know how to let him know.
       —Come on dad, next time you'll do better. —Octavia threw a blow at the water, splashing Stolas with it—.
       Stolas just looked at her smiling, as if despite the accident; the attempt had been worth it.
       —I think it will be better if we go to something more chill, don't you think Via?
       —What? The inflatable banana?
       —You read my mind.
       Thus, Stolas and Octavia, with laughter and a hug, headed for their new destination. Some inflatable bananas simulating a banana Split on which you could ride and float in the water. A very popular attraction for families or large groups, as each one could hold up to 6 people.
       In the distance, little Blitzo could be seen spying on the two with binoculars. Even he couldn't hold back his laughter when saw Stolas' accident, but because he was far away, no one was able to hear him.
       —I hope you don't find this too boring, Via.
       —After what just happened? Nothing will ever top that, Dad.
       —Oh... Hehe... Well, I guess I was a bit clumsy. —Stolas said in a rather sad tone of voice.
       —It's OK, Dad. You can't fall in this one.
       Again, the stall was similar to the previous one, another semi anthropomorphic sea creature manned while a series of inflatable bananas rested behind them, a series of rules and signs virtually identical. In the same way as the previous one; it was explained to them how to use the items and what not to do.
       This attraction was rather calm, it had no real way to truly go wrong. So, they both had the opportunity to simply enjoy each other's company, as Octavia was in front and Stolas behind, embracing her affectionately as they floated almost adrift, it was a moment of calm and necessary exhilaration, where their hearts were united in harmony and love.
       After an hour, it was time to return to the mainland, which they both took advantage of for refreshments.
       Near where they were, was a series of small restaurant-style food stalls; small, one-storey constructions, with a bar inside and in front of it, a couple of tables. Picking one at random, Stolas and Octavia opted for some seafood to appease their hunger. What they didn't expect was that near their table were two very familiar little imps.
       —Stolas, mister, what a surprise! —A female voice was heard—.
       Both Stolas and Octavia turned to where the voice came from, it was Moxxie and Millie, who were eating a few tables away. Neither Stolas nor Octavia hesitated to change to their table to engage them in conversation.
       —What are you doing here, mister? —Millie asked—.
       —Spending quality time with my daughter, that's all. —Stolas replied—.
       —Millie, let's just not pretend, ok? —Moxxie said annoyed—.
       —What do you mean? —Stolas asked—.
       —Our boss brought us here with the excuse of resting, to spy on you, sir. —Moxxie confessed—.
       After a long explanation, Stolas and Octavia were aware from Moxxie that Blitzo had been following them from the beginning. For Stolas it was silly and somewhat immature, but for Octavia it was somewhat annoying, as she felt a rivalry conflict with Blitzo. He also told them that Loona was accompanying them, but unlike Moxxie, his rivalry with her only allowed him to say that she was around, so her whereabouts remained a mystery.
       But things were just getting started; for as they ate, a third group was about to make an appearance.
       —Stolas?! —A loud female voice was heard—.
       —For the love of Lucifer... STELLA?!
       —Oh, Stolas... —Said masculine voice—.
       —And Andrealphus, of course. —Stolas replied in annoyance—.
       Octavia by this point was trying to hide herself with her hands; derived from the discomfort of the situation.
       —Don't worry, miss, I'll take care of it, —Said Moxxie to Octavia as he stood up, walking calmly towards Stella. —Ma'am, if I could please ask you not to cause a scene.
       Stella was so upset to meet Stolas that for a second, she couldn’t hear Moxxie talking to her.
       —Can't I take a break from you? —Stella said, after which she noticed the little imp—. Uh?
       Stella finally saw Moxxie standing in front of her, due to Stella's large size; and Moxxie's diminutive size, it was a curious scene, almost like David versus Goliath.
       —As I was saying, if you could please avoid a scene... —Insisted Moxxie—.
       Stella, somewhat shocked by the little imp's bravery, could not help but be awed by his courage. So much so that she simply kept silent and motioned Andrealphus to leave.
       Stolas and Octavia could barely understand the scene unfolding in front of them. First meeting with Millie and Moxxie, learning that it was all a plan by Stolas to follow them; and now Stella appeared. It was impossible not to think that someone was conspiring against them that day.
       So, with the willpower of a mountain, Stolas approached Octavia and comforted her in the only way he knew how, gave her a big hug; reminded her that everything would be all right and offered to continue having fun the rest of the day. To which Octavia agreed, somewhat hurt by the situation but moved by her father.
       —Everything will be fine Via. It was just a terrible coincidence.
       —Thanks dad, are you sure we can go on? I don't want mum to ruin our day.
       —Nothing to worry about my little owlet.
       The two embraced, which Moxxie and Millie couldn't help but find adorable as they said goodbye to go their separate ways.
       —Have fun, sweetheart! —Millie shouted as they walked away from the place—.
       Once this calamity was over, Stolas and Octavia came across a curious little stall. It was a strange imp who was engaged in sketching the people he saw passing by. Octavia could not help but be interested in these doodles, which led them both to take a look.
       Go ahead, go ahead, a caricature for the lovely couple. Haven't I seen you before?
       — I doubt that very much. —Stolas confirmed—.
       —Can we get one, Dad?
       Stolas could only let out a tiny laugh at the tenderness of Octavia's request.
       —Sure, Via. Could you draw us, imp?
       —For a fee; of course. A family portrait coming right up.
       And so, Stolas paid for the caricature, and at the imp's indication, took a seat with Octavia on some small benches provided by the artist, who immediately set to work.
       
       ***
       
       After a few long minutes, the drawing was done; and delivered to Octavia.
       It was a somewhat humorous representation of the two, with heads too big and bodies obscenely small. But Octavia loved it.
       Again, she was in a positive and cheerful mood; but Stolas, still troubled by recent events, kept questioning whether he could still salvage their rendezvous. Octavia noticed this with her father's glib answers along with his now slow gait. Stolas kept wondering if it was even possible to fix the situation; when in Octavia's view, there was nothing to fix on his part, she was the one who felt she had failed him, worrying him too much.
       With this in mind, Octavia decided to take Stolas to something she had seen as they walked along the beach that she was sure would interest him. There was a vendor offering a somewhat unique service; a marine exploration of the depths of the sea of gluttony, and a clear view of the fearsome beasts that tortured the poor humans that fell there.
       When Octavia offered the idea; Stolas felt a sudden change in his mood; seeing his daughter in such high spirits and interest in the date gave him hope that maybe they were having a good time. Even with all the setbacks and problems, Stolas finally saw the date as a success.
       And just like the other occasions, after submitting to a quick guide on how to participate in the event; both were ready to dive into the deep end. But unlike lightning that doesn't strike twice in the same place; fortune was about to throw them an even tougher storm.
       As they watched the creatures, and Stolas; like a little boy, was thrilled by the monsters larger and more fearsome than anything he saw before, Blitzo made his appearance again as part of the expedition group they had joined. But because of Blitzo's distractions in spying on them, he ignored the safety rules and ended up being attacked by one of these monsters.
       All the other scouts swam in panic while the organiser tried to put everyone in order. Finally, as Stolas realised what had happened, he did not hesitate to rescue Blitzo, so, with a great show of magic, he attacked the creature that was trying to eat the imp, finally ruining the expedition and forcing everyone to return to the mainland.
       —What was I not clear about, Blitz? —Stolas commented, annoyed by the situation—. I'm trying to have quality time with my daughter after all the problems we've had because of her mother; I can't have you getting involved in this too.
       —Stolas, I...
       —Silence, Blitz. I don't want to hear from you until you sort yourself out. You are still special to me Blitzy, but if you continue like this, I will have no choice but to end our friendship. —Stolas was annoyed—. You can ruin my day all you want, but not my daughter’s.
       Blitzo finally just kept quiet and left. While all the other scouts were checking themselves hoping that they had not been hurt. And in the same way, Stolas immediately finished his talk and went to Octavia, who was now the one who was saddened by the failure of her plan to set things right.
       To tell the truth, even Stolas didn't know what to do at that moment, but he didn't want to abandon his daughter in her pain, so he sat down next to her, and gave her a big hug, to remind her how much he loved her.
       In the end, in a positive way of ending things, the organiser decided to take responsibility for what had happened, so, as a way of thanking Stolas for intervening and as an apology to Blitzo for putting him at risk, the organiser offered them a free dinner at the restaurant owned by his family. After much deliberation, Stolas finally accepted the idea, and to give him one last chance; he offered Blitzo the idea of dining together.
       
       ***
       
       And so, evening was coming to an end, and the whole I.M.P.  personnel, together with Stolas and Octavia, enjoyed a well-deserved dinner.
       Despite the inconveniences at the end of the day, and the problems that arose in the unfolding events, everyone was finally able to find a humorous resolution to it all, telling each other what everyone had done that day. Stolas recounting his failures in the waterskii and Octavia recounting how she couldn't find anything to wear. In a miraculous way, everyone had been able to make peace with what had happened, and the happy ending that Stolas had hoped for was finally present.
       Again, Moxxie and Millie showed their support for the future couple, and with words of encouragement promised to take care of Blitzo now more than ever. Even if he disagreed.
       At the end of the evening Stolas and Octavia returned to where they had left their things, which miraculously had not been stolen all day.
       Both of them sat on their own towel, and thanks to the strategic position that Stolas got at the beginning of the day; they were able to watch in peace; the most beautiful sunset in the whole underworld. And thus concluded a date that, however strange it might have been, went more or less as they had hoped. A clear lesson for the future that awaited them as husband and wife; nothing was set in stone yet, and they had to learn from these adventures if they wanted things to work out. Only then would they learn what it was really like to love.














Intermission #1
 The date
       
       
       
       [We see Stella tidying her clothes, Andrealphus is next to her, helping. They are wearing their pyjamas as it was still early.]
       [Suddenly, Andrealphus pulls out a pink bathrobe with fluffy white trim at the end of the sleeves; the collar, and all around the bottom edge. He inspects the robe thoroughly.]
       —Ulala. —Andrealphus says, feigning a French accent—.
       —Uhg, throw that away. I haven't used it since the time I caught Stolas using it, because his robe was "on the washing machine". —She replies in annoyance—.
       —Did Stolas wear this? —Andrealphus makes a gesture of sudden interest in the garment—.
       —Yes, I had to use a towel after bathing that morning, and it was fucking freezing. —Stella clearly resented the event—.
       —And you wonder why he cheated on you with an imp? —Andrealphus replies with a chuckle—.
       —Yes?
       [Andrealphus raises his eyebrow as he lets out an almost mute laugh.]
       —Sister, I think you have only yourself to blame here.
       [Stella approaches Andrealphus in annoyance and takes the bathrobe by force, throwing it to the floor; away from the two of them.]
       —I think you think too much, especially since you slept with him too, and he didn't choose you either. —She replies, annoyed—.
       [Andrealphus looks at himself with a disbelieving look.]
       —Well, clearly, he's the one with the problem!
       [laughs]
       [Stella's phone rings]
       [Stella checks it and opens her eyes in surprise, she starts typing frantically on it; clearly following a conversation that was important to her.]
       Well, did anyone take any notice of your advert in the newspaper apart from your ex-husband? —Andrealphus is surprised by his sister's reaction to completely ignore the previous insult so comes up with that—.
       —It’s Theodore, the man I told you about yesterday.
       [Andrealphus has no idea what Stella is talking about as he ignored her all day yesterday.]
       [The scene changes and they are both in the kitchen of their house, it is indeed, yesterday.]
       [Andrealphus and Stella are having breakfast, on the TV is an action movie, apparently. Where half-naked, sweating, obscenely muscled men are on screen.]
       [Stella is on her mobile phone and Andrealphus is concentrating on the movie.]
       —Well, I have been using this app... Lustinder... that was recommended to me, and I made a match with a man called Theodore.
       —Aha... —Andrealphus stammers, completely ignoring Stella, his eyes focused on the men on screen as he eats breakfast—.
       [Stella brings her phone to him to look at the photos.]
       —What do you think Andre? —Stella tries to hide the fact that she's a bit nervous, it's the first time she's had to do something like this—.
       [Andrealphus is still drooling over the men on screen. Stella doesn't notice because she’s staring at the phone.]
       —Mhmm, mmmhmm, mhmm.
       [Andrealphus kept making approving sounds as Stella showed him the pictures, but in truth he was making them as if savouring the men on the screen].
       —So? —Stella finally asks—.
       [On the screen one of the actors can be heard saying "Do you like it?" while showing off his muscles.]
       —Oh... I love it. —Andrealphus responds to the film—.
       [The scene returns to the current time, where they are in Stella's bedroom.]
       —Theodore, Ted. —Stella says, waving her arms in circles as if to encourage her brother's memory—.
       [laughs]
       —Anyway, today we're going to meet at the beach in gluttony; and you must help me choose what to wear. —Stella sees useless to keep encouraging her brother's memory and goes back to her clothes—.
       —Sister, it's the beach. Wear the most revealing bikini you have, and you'll be fine.
       —Ugh, Andrealphus is serious! I don't want to come in and look like a desperate woman!
       [Andrealphus walks towards Stella and takes her by the shoulders.]
       —Stella, your husband cheated on you with two men and your daughter; now you use a dating app. YOU ARE DESPERATE.
       [laughs]
       —You're literally screaming that your love life is a failure and you've sunk to the bottom.
       —You'd better shut up and help me. —Stella responds, fed up with her brother's comments—.
       [The two continue to look through Stella's wardrobe for a while].
       [The scene changes to the two of them on the beach, Stella looks nervous while Andrealphus looks like he clearly didn't want to be there.]
       [Stella is wearing a white and sky-blue bikini-style swimming suit, with a sky-blue gauze covering the bottom piece like a mini-skirt. She is also wearing a considerably large straw hat, with a white bow and a fake deep-blue rose attached.]
       [lustful cheering]
       [Andrealphus is still wearing his pyjamas]
       [laughs]
       —Remind me why I came? to your date? —Andrealphus is annoyed, and it is visible in his gesture—.
       —Because I've never gone on a date, I want you to help me make a good impression. —She said trying to maintain a serious and stoic composure, but she kept adjusting her top, adjusting her breasts repeatedly—.
       —Sister, we are marquises; it is part of our job to socialise. What the fuck are you talking about?
       —Shut up and help me. —She points at Andrealphus with her index finger, almost touching him between the eyes—.
       —I'd say you need a boyfriend, but that's what we're here for.
       —OK, you are going to be close to me; but close enough so that it doesn't look like we're coming together. Got it?
       [Stella walks offstage towards the beach while Andrealphus just grimaces in disbelief at his undesirable fate.]
       [The scene changes to Stella, who walks among the people with some disgust, making sure she is not touching anyone or anything. She is also on her mobile, checking it for moments and looking around, like looking for something.]
       [Stella finally seems to have found what she was looking for and walks quickly to this location.]
       —Theodore?! —Stella tries to keep her composure by keeping her back straight, showing him her phone, where Theodore's profile was on screen—. A... pleasure...
       [Stella must look down to see her date.]
       [The camera points to a condemned man; a human who has already been transformed into a demonic being and lives in hell as another inhabitant. From the torso up retaining his appearance almost identical to the one he had when he was alive, an attractive man with a firm and masculine look; neither too muscular nor too thin, he looked like something out of a romantic movie from the 80's; the lower part looked like two goat legs, with big hooves and high heels. He was wearing a white and blue swimming suit and a blue Hawaiian shirt with short sleeves, with his violet skin; he made a strange contrast, as if retaining his human habits even in hell.]
       [The audience applauds his attractiveness.]
       [The camera pans back to show that they are both standing, and Theodore is 1.78m tall; compared to Stella's approximate height of 2.20m, the difference was clear.]
       [laughs]
       —Please, Stella; call me Ted. —He takes Stella's free hand and kisses it in cordial greeting—. Ted Bundy at your service.
       [Stella puts her mobile phone in a small handbag she was carrying and adjusts her feathers nervously and regretfully.]
       —Ted, the pleasure is mine. —You can see Stella's nervousness to get out of the situation—. I must go to the changing room, could you give me a minute?
       —Of course. —Ted has a slightly unsettling look on his face as if he reads Stella's emotions but is confident enough in himself to prove his worth—.
       [Stella walks quickly towards the public changing rooms that were relatively close by, signalling to Andrealphus who, as she had indicated, was following her somewhat distantly. Andrealphus heads towards the bathroom with his sister.]
       —What's the problem? —Andrealphus asks sarcastically—.
       —-He's a dwarf... —You can feel it in Stella's eyes as if she was sweating, as she rests her hands on the sink and stares at herself in the mirror—.
       —Let's see, sweetheart. It's not so bad. And height is the least of it. Besides, is taller than my last date. —Andrealphus tries to calm her down by petting her back—.
       —Adolf? The guy you said sucked in bed.
       —He didn't move at all! No wonder his country lost the war, that man does not work! Not to mention his fantasy about the Jews, he did more than just burn them.
       [laughs]
       —Look, give him a chance, he might be good in bed. —Andrealphus continued—.
       —I'M NOT GOING TO FUCK HIM ON THE FIRST DATE!
       —And how do you expect to know if it will be worth it?
       [Stella just stands silently contemplating her options.]
       —Look, talk to him, find out his hobbies or whatever.
       [Stella looks at Andrealphus a little annoyed by her brother's simplistic idea but decides to listen to him as she lacks better ones.]
       —From now on, check your phone, I don't think I'll be able to use this excuse many times. —Stella concludes—.
       [The scene changes to Stella approaching back to Ted, turning to look sideways at Andrealphus, who with his hands was making signs like the ones one makes when chasing away a dog.]
       [The camera switches to a close-up of Andrealphus who is seen switching off his mobile phone. Then the camera goes back to Stella.]
       —Stella, what do you say we go to one of those stands with a cocktail bar? —Ted holds out his hand—.
       [Stella stares at his hand, wondering whether she should grab it or not, so she gives her purse to him instead.]
       —OK... —Ted takes the bag and with his other hand gives the signal to walk towards the stands—.
       [The scene is now the two of them sitting on stools in front of the bar, one on each side and the bag in the middle. Stella is still somewhat nervously looking intently at the drink's menu.]
       —A green fairy, please.... —Stella looks back at Ted—. And what did you used to do, Ted? When you were alive.
       —I studied psychology and law. But they're not the reason I'm here; if that's your real question. —Ted answered seriously—.
       [Stella was impressed, he was right].
       —I ended up in hell for murdering over 30 women. All for a love that never worked out. —Ted brings his hand to Stella's, putting it over hers—.
       [Stella immediately panicked.]
       —W.... well, don't try it with me. —Stella laughs nervously—.
       [Stella takes out her mobile again and starts texting Andrealphus, who simply doesn't respond. She starts looking around to find him, but he's nowhere to be seen either.]
       [Scene changes to Andrealphus who is canoodling with someone.]
       [The camera turns back to Stella who takes a sip of her drink as she accepts her fate. Ted takes Stella's hand and kisses it.]
       [There is a sweeping transition with laughter in the background, the new scene is Stella and Andrealphus talking as they walk through the restaurant pavilion.]
       —You left me stranded! —Stella shouts in annoyance—.
       —My phone ran out of battery, what can I tell you. —Andrealphus seems to feel no guilt—.
       —Oh, how fucking convenient. —Stella grimaces with whimsy—.
       —Besides, you're the one who burned him alive. That's not how you're going to get a coping boyfriend. —Andrealphus puts his hand in front of her, dropping his palm in mockery—.
       —And what is that supposed to mean?
       —You know, the boyfriend you have after a break-up to pretend you don't care that you've wasted years of your life with someone else. With whom you are not in love, but you say yes so as not to hurt his feelings while you find a replacement. To COPE.
       —We'd better go and eat.
       [They approach the first restaurant they come across and enter.]
       [The camera zooms in on some people in the establishment, they are Stolas, Octavia, Millie and Moxxie.]
       [Audience cheers.]
       —Stolas?! —Stella shouts—.
       —For the love of Lucifer... STELLA?! —Stolas can't believe his luck—.
       —Oh, Stolas... —Andrealphus waves, wiggling the claws of his hand as he raises it to his chest—.
       —And Andrealphus, of course. —Stolas replied in annoyance—.
       Octavia by this point was trying to hide herself with her hands; derived from the discomfort of the situation—.
       —Don't worry, miss, I'll take care of it. —Said Moxxie to Octavia as he stood up, walking calmly towards Stella. —Ma'am, if I could please ask you not to cause a scene—.
       [Stella was so annoyed to meet Stolas that for a second, she forgot that Moxxie was talking. Completely ignoring the tiny being standing in front of her.]
       —Can't I take a break from you?  You f-- —Stella is finally interrupted by the realisation that someone was talking to her—. Uh?
       [Stella finally saw Moxxie standing in front of her, due to Stella's tallness; and Moxxie's shortness, it was a curious scene, almost like David versus Goliath.]
       —As I was saying, if you could please avoid making a scene? —Moxxie insisted—.
       —And you said that your date was short. —Andrealphus whispers to Stella—.
       [Stella stares at Moxxie, the little imp with an adorably serious face. Like a child trying to look tough].
       [D'awwww]
       [Stella is blushing slightly, as if her heart had skipped a beat. In her point of view, she saw Moxxie with a certain adorable and affectionate air.]
       —L.... let's go Andrealphus. Let's not join the rabble. —Stella pushes Andrealphus to leave—.
       —But I'm hungry! —Andrealphus complained—.
       —-we’ll eat somewhere else.
       —And since when do you obey the orders of an imp?
       —Shut the fuck up and walk. —Stella's face was completely flushed and embarrassed—. I said we're leaving.
       [A last transition leaves them back at home, Stella is depressed in the living room.]
       —Well, at least you kept your word. You didn't sleep with him. —Andrealphus says as he leaves the scene—.
       [laughs]
       [The scene gradually fades to black]














Things I hate about you
       
       
       
       The sun was resting at its highest point towards the I.M.P. offices, the unbearable heat overwhelmed the establishment that had been lying empty for a while, the rays of light could be seen illuminating a calendar on the wall with the picture of an imp whose face was covered by a pen drawing of Blitzo taped with adhesive. The dates were all scratched off and it was impossible to read what once functioned as a schedule. It looked as if someone had cancelled all his plans as the rage of the lines went more beyond the days already passed. All the scratches ended before a date, however, which was marked with a big circle.
       Suddenly a mysterious breeze began to blow; shaking the pages of this improvised calendar, at the same time as a portal was formed in the middle of the room; which when completed was crossed by the 4 main protagonists of this chapter.
       —Well, one more mission successfully completed. —Blitzo cheered as he crossed the portal with an almost cartoonish walk, stretching his legs to the limit with each step—.
       —No thanks to you sir, I didn’t see you during the whole operation because you chose to be distracted by the target’s horses. —Moxxie stressed in annoyance as he helped his wife jump across—.
       —Come on Moxx, it’s not Blitz’s fault the old man had a farm. —Millie reassured him—.
       —E-I-E-I-O! Millie. You know, Moxxie, you should learn something from your wife. —Blitzo shielded himself with Millie’s support, with his typical mocking face—.
       —You could have helped more, but you’re too fat to run. —Loona added salt to the wound—.
       The portal closed once everyone had passed through, stopping the wind that had been blowing since its appearance and returning everything to calm.
       —Am I the only voice of reason in this office? —Moxxie defended himself as he walked to the water dispenser, already sweating from the heat of the office—. And what the fuck is this heat?!
       —It’s the fat... —Loona replied as she returned to her desk—.
       Blitzo approached Moxxie and leaned his arm on his shoulder in a buddy hug, stealing Moxxie’s glass of water in the process and drinking from it. Moxxie turned to look at him offended by the audacity of his rude act.
       —Yeah, don’t worry Moxxie, when your opinion counts for something, I’ll agree with you.
       Blitzo left the office without further ado, leaving everyone a bit puzzled, but due to Blitzo’s emotional instability since the news -and his clear relapse by going to the beach to spy on Stolas, everyone had opted to give him his space.
       —I hope the boss is well. —Millie exclaimed—.
       —He’ll be fine. —Moxxie comforted her—.
       Blitzo, on the other hand, was on his way to a bar near the building; with the intent of drowning his sorrows with booze.
       The bar looked sleazy from the outside, a drunken man lying on the floor at the side of the entrance, and neon colours that would disturb anyone’s eyes with their bright garish colours. A dog pissing in the corner of the building and occasionally sickly drunk people coming out of the doors with such a disorientated walk that their only viable destination was the floor.
       But inside was a more pleasant scene, a long bar filled with all kinds of liquors, from beers to rum, whisky and absinthe. On the tables there were glasses and mugs being poured. And because there were not many people, the atmosphere was bohemian; subdued and peaceful. On a screen hanging on the wall, to which the bartender’s back was turned, television commercials for various products and services were playing, while at the bottom of the screen was an announcement of that day’s planned programming. The atmosphere was dark, the lighting almost funereal, as the dense accumulated cigarette smoke was almost completely obscuring the lights on the ceiling.
       The bartender was a fat, good-natured imp, who could be seen chuspily attending to the customers, who between laughter, jokes and verses deliberated their sorrows and their joys in an incessant competition to see who had suffered the most, who had lived the most, and who had loved the most.
       As Blitzo passed through the front door, everyone raised their glasses and their mugs, their beers and their cigars, saluting the newcomer. Blitzo just raised his hand in return and sat down at the bar, waving to the bartender.
       —The usual, Blitz? —The bartender approached him—.
       Up close you could see that he wasn’t just chubby, he had a warm, friendly face; like the fun grandfather you always want to visit because he gives you grandma’s biscuits behind your parents’ back. A red-skinned saint, with a tenor voice that could take you back in time to the old eras of the operas and games. He finished his bearing with his black apron full of stains and dampness; while eternally wiping a crystal glass with a rag over and over again, making it look like he would never stop. Before Blitzo sat down, he had already pulled out a cup holder which he made slip to where the next bench was; inviting him to take that specific place. 
       —The same as always please but make it a double.
       —Again?
       The good-natured man’s face changed faintly to concern, as if Blitzo was family; seeing him in the state he was in, brought him pain. But business is business, as they talked, he had to work. He immediately grabbed a bottle of vodka and a bottle of rum, mixing a nondescript concoction that gave off a woody charcoal aroma. 
       —It’s almost that time. —Blitzo replied—.
       —Still going at it? —asked a hellhound sitting next to him—.
       A Danish dog, with a tired look, ash-coloured skin and eyes drooping, but strong arms and a broad body; he drank tequila as if it were water while staring blankly at the television. His hoarse, alcohol-burnt voice gave the appearance of a serious, life-weary veteran.
       —I suppose I am. —Blitzo replied—.
       —There’s a long way from words to actions. —The drinking companion replied—.
       —Thank you for the wisdom, Confucius.
       —Anytime.
       —So, what happens now? —The bartender asked again—.
       Blitzo stared at the drink he had ordered, embracing it with his full palm as he swirled the liquid in the glass.
       —If you go on like that it’s going to get hot. —grumbled the bartender—.
       —He went on a date with her. And I decided to spy on them to see how their relationship was going. But they ended up discovering me and I’m sure that he hates me now.
       —And don’t you think that’s enough of a sign that you should let him live his life and you should live yours? —asked a third character—.
       It was a female voice that Blitzo recognised perhaps all too well.
       —Verosika?! Y.... you, what the fuck are you doing here?
       Verosika Mayday, her ex-girlfriend. A succubus from the lust floor, she could usually be found in the bar of Ozzie’s or giving some musical show. Sometimes also in the human world by stealing energy from unwary lustful humans.
       Long-legged in tight black stockings, a white and black shirt, and a coat made from Mink fur. Verosika was someone hard not to notice when she was in the room; but Blitzo had become so used to her that to him she was just someone else.
       —What? Can’t a woman go to a bar? I was already jaded by Asmodeus. Besides, your talk won’t let me watch TV.
       At that moment Blitzo turned to look at the screen, a human film was playing, "10 things I hate about you". A typical American student love movie.
       It used to be our movie; I remember when you sang the song for me. —Verosika said wistfully looking at the screen—.
       —How many drinks have you had to remember our relationship like that?
       —Enough. And who is this love that hurts you like you hurt me? Is that Stolas, who you were with that night at Ozzie’s?
       —One. Not your business. Two. Blackmail doesn’t work with me babe.
       —It’s not blackmailed, I want to see if I can exploit your grief to make it even worse.
       —Come on, come on, gentlemen, miss. —We come here to drown our sorrows in alcohol, not each other, don’t we? Tell us Blitz, what happened on the beach?
       —He seems to have completely forgotten about me, he hardly speaks to me anymore and only spends time with his daughter.
       —Oh, I remember reading something like that in the newspaper. Said the Danish— So it’s true?
       —Yeah, they’re getting married. Apparently, he wants quality time with his daughter and shit. —Blitzo grumbled—.
       —But if you were dating him. How did all that happen?
       —We weren’t dating. We had a deal where I kept him "company" in return for something else.
       —Blitzo the succubus? That’s a surprise to me. —Verosika scoffed—.
       —So, it’s more like you fell in love. He was just taking advantage of you. Don’t you think that puts you in a better position now that you don’t have keep that deal?
       —I came here to drink, not to get therapy. —Blitzo was annoyed—.
       —And yet you haven’t had a single drink. —Said the bartender in a more serene tone—.
       And as if insulted by the bartender’s words, he took his drink and downed it in one gulp. Afterwards, he made grimaces and gestured for him to pour him another.
       —That’s your problem Blitzo, no one can meddle in your life. And when you bring someone into yours, you go out of your way to make their stay undesirable. —Verosika sounds annoyed and melancholic—.
       Verosika knew it wasn’t always like that, she knew there was a time when their relationship worked, and they were a good couple; but it was true that Blitzo’s personality would sooner or later be the catharsis of the problems in that relationship. Stealing Verosika’s card and car to go and have horse-riding lessons. In old photos you could find the two of them really happy in each other’s company, at a party or having some alone time, which was in itself surprising given Verosika’s nature, being a succubus, she spent quality time with more than one man, and yet they could trust each other. Needless to say, despite their natures; the union of the two was indeed promising, but in the end Blitzo’s had more weight, and ended up tipping the balance.
       Blitzo’s selfishness and his need to see only for himself was the thorn in the side of his life; overcoming even his good side, the one that truly loved others, the one that truly cares for his friends, the good Blitzo that many came to see and truly miss, but is lost and engulfed in the darkness of the Blitz that now supplanted him.
       And that was Blitzo, the part of himself that he wanted to destroy, his past. And that was Blitz; his present and his future -what he wanted to become and what he wanted to achieve by suppressing his old persona. Thinking that with anger and with contempt he could suppress everything he once was and what he once did, with a new personality that would protect him from anyone who would try to take advantage of him again.
       Until Stolas came back into his life, he, the only one who genuinely wanted to be his friend, who wanted to learn from him and know what friendship was. The remorse of what he had done to him as a child was the trigger that made him return to his old self when he returned by Stolas’ side, but he was now losing him, he had to face the reality that he had not yet fulfilled his goal; he was once again fragile. The one who would become the love of his life had left him vulnerable again and he could not bear it.
       And that was actually the hatred he felt in his heart; it was not towards Stolas or Octavia, nor Verosika or anyone else. It was against himself, he could not accept that there was still a part of him that longed for what used to be, that longed to see the light of day again. His hope.
       Blitzo took his second drink in one gulp and asked for more.
       —I’m not taking sides, but.... The lady and the gentleman are right. Perhaps the problem needs to be re-evaluated from "another perspective". —Said the bartender.
       —I won’t have a choice. The girl turns 18 in a week.
       —And for the wedding? —added the Dane—.
       —I have no idea.
       Blitzo took the last drink just like the first two and got up. Paying his bill on the spot.
       —Just don’t run away from your problems as usual Blitzo. Though I doubt you have the courage to face them. —Verosika added—.
       —You know, Verosika, don’t make me list 10 things I hate about you.
       Blitzo left the bar and returned to the office. Everyone was still there; Moxxie and Millie checking their guns and Loona taking down client information on the computer.
       Blitzo went straight to the calendar, removing it from the wall with force and throwing it into the trash.
       —Sir, are you all-right? —Millie asked—.
       —Never better Mills.
       —Sir, are you getting drunk again? —Moxxie asked in annoyance, fanning his nose with his hand due to Blitzo’s alcoholic breath—. We still have a job to do and I’m not going to do all the work again.
       Blitzo had been annoyed by a lecture in the bar and now was receiving another one at work.
       —Stop meddling in everything, that’s why no one pays attention to you.
       Moxxie was about to explode in anger at Blitzo at that moment.
       —If you would have listened to me, what happened on the beach would not have happened and we would still have a functional calendar!
       That struck Blitzo to the core of his being, remembering the shame he went through.
       "What was I not clear about Blitz? -Stolas commented, annoyed by the situation. I’m trying to have quality time with my daughter after all the problems we’ve had because of her mother; I can’t have you getting involved in this too.
       —Stolas, I...
       —Stolas nothing, Blitz. I don’t want to hear from you until you fix your emotions. You are still special to me Blitzy, but if you continue like this, I will have no choice but to end our friendship. -Stolas was constantly annoyed. You can ruin my day all you want, but not my daughter’s. "
       Memories of what he caused that day came to his mind like arrows, piercing the depths of his consciousness.
       —You know Moxx... 
       —And while we’re at it. —interrupted Moxxie—. Wasn’t it just a few days ago that we talked about all this, that we would support Stolas?
       Blitzo remembered at that moment what they had talked about in his office, and what he himself had set out to do with his own life. That he would continue to move forward and find his true path, his true happiness. This was beginning to break Blitzo, who was now stunned by Moxxie’s assertiveness.
       Blitzo was trying to contain his emotions.
       —Well, Moxxie... 
       —Moxx, honey. That’s not like you, are you all-right? —interrupted Millie, who feared for the worst—.
       —IT’S ALL RIGHT, MILLIE. —Finally, Blitzo burst out—. Moxxie is right here.
       Everyone was taken aback by Blitzo’s reaction, which seemed to have completely changed the character of his voice.
       —Moxxie, what do you say we settle this outside? —Blitzo offered in a cold, serious tone of voice—.
       Moxxie could already sense from that moment that it was an invitation to fight. This brought him back to his senses from his tantrum.
       —S.... sir, I don’t think that’s necessary. —Moxxie was starting to distance himself from Blitzo, but he was stopped—.
       —Come on, Moxx. If you think you can be a man, let’s settle this like men.
       —Sir, I don’t think that’s necessary.
       —Oh, I think it’s very fucking necessary, Moxxie. —Blitzo interrupted—.
       At that moment Blitzo unleashed the first blow, hitting him in the face and knocking Moxxie to the ground. Millie could be heard gasping in surprise as she ran to her husband, helping him up.
       —Blitz, sir. Don’t do this, both of you. Stop it. —Millie insisted—.
       —Move Millie. Moxxie can defend himself, but he is too much of a coward to do so.
       Moxxie did not see an alternative and pushed Millie away as he stood up and took a defensive position. Loona grabbed Millie and pulled her away, and with the grimoire still in her hand opened a portal to the parking lot, which Blitzo stepped through and Moxxie followed -and when the portal closed, Millie could only run to the window to watch them from afar.
       —Let them settle this themselves. —Loona said to Millie—.
       
       ***
       
       —Come on, take the next hit Moxxie. Or are you a pussy?
       —I’m not going to fight you, sir.
       —I didn’t know Millie had married a lesbian.
       Blitzo threw another punch at Moxxie, who this time was prepared, blocking it by crossing his arms in front of his face. Blitzo however did not stop there, for the moment his fist impacted against Moxxie’s block; he threw it again and again -and his friend simply continued to block.
       The sun, which only a moment ago was burning hellishly hot, was now hijacked by gigantic black clouds that obscured the whole place.
       Blitzo’s insistent blows were slowly breaking Moxxie’s poise; he was beginning to lose his balance in the face of the shrapnel of punches, until finally, when he received the last blow, he used his whole body; and with his arms still crossed he charged towards Blitzo, who at the moment of the collision could not avoid falling backwards.
       At that moment, as if divinely coordinated; the clouds that were covering the entire sky thundered violently; announcing a heavy rain that was slowly beginning to fall.
       —Stop acting like a child, sir.
       Blitzo ignored Moxxie’s words as he rushed to take another swing at him, which Moxxie avoided by sliding to the side at the last moment, Blitzo almost stumbling from that failed punch. But that didn’t stop him, again aiming another punch at Moxxie, which he again avoided.
       From Moxxie’s point of view, Blitzo was enraged, but the truth was –it was Blitzo’s pride and ego who were in charge. But as of now, Blitzo was no longer "there" -fighting with him. Blitzo, although aware of his surroundings, was emotionally in the dark, and the one he was fighting was not Moxxie; but himself.
       Blitzo could see a dark representation of himself; like a living, macabre shadow that radiated the gloom of his soul. And Blitzo fought against it tirelessly, every time he tried to hit it an invisible force repelled his blows and mocked him. "I finally got rid of another person who cared about me." "How annoying are the people who judge me and try to give their stupid advice, as if I asked for it." "Who does Moxxie think he is to lecture me, who has always had everything easy because of his pampering wife?" Blitzo listened to the shadow say as he tried to silence it, wanting to shout at it just how wrong it was, but unable to get a single word out.
       "I’m the great Blitzo, I don’t need anyone to worry about me, you should mind your own business." Continued the shadow chattering as Blitzo could be seen straining to land at least one hit, while his face was covered by a sinister masquerade like that of a mask.
       Back in hell, Blitzo and Moxxie continued to fight in the pouring rain. Moxxie kept dodging Blitzo’s blows and Blitzo wasn’t giving up, the raindrops made it impossible to distinguish between Blitzo’s crying and the humidity on their faces.
       Back in Blitzo’s mind, a similar pattern was beginning to emerge in the shadow’s movements; with Moxxie’s movements. What was going on in Blitzo’s mind was that Moxxie, being the voice of reason that he has never wanted to listen to, in a way represented both Blitzo’s internal struggle to accept reality and his true self. And although Moxxie kept asking Blitzo to come to his senses, Blitzo only listened to the surplus reminding him of all his sins, his truth.
       "Who do they think they are lecturing me? They think they know what I’m going through, but they don’t." "I don’t need anyone’s help." "How dare they!" The shadow was beginning to deform into an amorphous monster that attacked Blitzo at last.
       —ENOUGH! —shouted Moxxie, who was getting more and more tired of the long fight and losing his temper—.
       And in the same synchronicity, the shadow and Moxxie, as one superimposed on the other, hit Blitzo in the face again, again, and again –until he fell to the ground. As the blows connected, the mask worn by the imaginary version of Blitzo shattered into pieces, exposing his face.
       Blitzo lay on the ground in a puddle of stagnant water, Moxxie who sat on top of him kept punching him on the face, relentlessly.
       Little by little Blitzo came to his senses and woke up to the beating he was receiving, when he finally reacted, he was desperately trying to cover his face. When Moxxie realised that little by little he stopped hitting, finally trying to catch his breath.
       —You’re right Moxxie, I don’t like to listen and doing things my way is my style.
       —It’s a lousy style, sir....
       Moxxie slowly got up, and now on his feet he extended his hand to Blitzo to help him get up as well.
       —A style that hurts those who love you. —Moxxie continued—.
       —You too? —Blitzo replied, wanting to laugh—.
       —Sir?
       —It’s something I hate about all of you.
       Blitzo and Moxxie finally gave each other a hug, and Millie who was still watching from the window finally breathed a sigh of relief. Loona opened a portal again for the two of them, who returned to the office leaning on each other, sore from the fight.
       —I’ll return you to your wife Moxxie, there’s something I have to do. —Without giving Moxxie a chance to do anything else, he went back through the portal, back to the parking lot of the building. Even in the rain he took out his mobile phone and dialled Stolas.
       —Hello? Stolas. Don’t say anything, just listen.
       «I hate the way you talk to me and the way you are. I hate your plumage, it’s annoying and it kept getting in my mouth all the time, I hate how I came to feel about you. I hate your awful sexual innuendos and that you know me too well. I hate you so much I puke, you disgust me. I hate that you think of me and that you make me laugh. I hate that you make me suffer and I hate that you make me cry. I hate so much that I’m alone and you haven’t called yet, but I hate even more that I can’t hate you, even though you’re so crazy, not even a little bit I have to try. »
       Finally, Stolas’ voice was heard on the other side of the line.
       —I saw that film too, Blitzy. —Stolas’ voice was heard—.
       Blitzo hung up the phone. «And I haven’t finished the movie references yet. » he said to himself as he walked back to the bar.
       And as he re-entered, as if dictated by destiny, in the film, and in this instant; Blitzo began to sing.
"I love you, baby
And if it’s quite alright
I need you, baby
To warm the lonely night
I love you, baby
Trust in me when I say
Oh, pretty baby
Don’t bring me down, I pray
Oh, pretty baby
Now that I’ve found you, stay
And let me love you, baby
Let me love you".
       And Verosika gave it continuity.
"You’re just too good to be true
Can’t take my eyes off of you
You’d be like Heaven to touch
I wanna hold you so much
At long last, love has arrived
And I thank God I’m alive
You’re just too good to be true
Can’t take my eyes off you"
       And finally, both at the same time.
"I love you, baby
And if it’s quite alright
I need you, baby
To warm the lonely night
I love you, baby
Trust in me when I say
Oh, pretty baby
Don’t bring me down, I pray
Oh, pretty baby
Now that I’ve found you, stay
Oh, pretty baby
Trust in me when I say..."
       Ending the song in a kiss from both of them.
       —Do I take this as you wanting a second chance? —Verosika asked in an almost sensual tone—.
       —We can make it work.
       —Fine, but you’ll have to pay me back for what you spent and for that night in the hotel. —With one hand he caressed Blitzo’s face playfully—.
       —Don’t push it, woman.
       This was perhaps the second chance Blitzo had wanted to give himself all along, to pursue love again. But Rome was not built in a day and Blitzo would not change his ways overnight. But he was on the right track, finally coming to terms with who he was and what he is, slowly understanding and acknowledging that they were both him.
       But you don’t ask a child learning to walk not to fall, or to learn to run. The challenge now was to see if they were both willing to face that reality, to stumble again, to keep falling and getting back up again. Only time would tell if Blitzo was truly committed to change and improve; and if Verosika was willing to forgive, to sweat it out again in order to return to the happiness that had brought her down in the first place.
       But while we were wrapped up in the sweet scene that had just happened, it was true that the spectators didn’t know half the truth. They just stood there watching two crazy people singing and kissing in the middle of the bar.
       —If you want, I’ll call you a taxi to the nearest hotel or... —The bartender offered—.
       Blitzo and Verosika laughed. And taking the offer, they retired for the rest of the day.
       
       ***
       
       At the I.M.P. offices, Millie looked after Moxxie and helped him dry off -later Loona would take them home in Blitzo’s van.
       
       ***
       
       At Goetia Manor, Stolas laughed at Blitzo’s call; somehow, he understood that his message was one of affection and not so much contempt. They had been through so much together that to blame him for feeling the way he did was foolish and immature in this demon’s eyes.
       A part of Stolas, however, still felt some remorse for what he felt he had put him through. He had gradually discovered that Blitzo did love him, but their constant clashes and misunderstandings had hindered the relationship to a point that for Stolas, was irreparable -and now with his daughter becoming his future wife there was no way back.
       
       ***
       
       On the way home Millie and Moxxie, along with Loona, talked about Blitzo too, how much they had been through because of him. Loona talked about how they met and the day of the adoption, how hard Blitzo tried to do right by her and how it surprised her to see him like that. Moxxie and Millie could only listen to the story in silence as Loona’s nostalgia guided the mood of the conversation.
       
       ***
       
       Meanwhile Blitzo and Verosika settled their differences in their room, listening to Blitzo talk endlessly about horses, and how much he loved his own. He would tell her of the horses his recent victim had, and even of Striker’s horse that he was lucky enough to meet at the harvest of the blood moon. Verosika would hate to admit that she missed that, and that it was in some ways what she enjoyed most about when they went out the first time.
       
       ***
       
       Sometimes we don’t realise how we impact the lives of others and how our actions, no matter how much we justify them, affect everyone around us. We don’t realise that in our quest to hide who we are; as we are ashamed of our past, we end up hiding what makes us special. And deep down in hell there was one more person who was about to realise this, who for years hid her image and her passion, all to fulfil a greater mission, which despite being forcibly imposed, she carried out. Despite what it meant, despite what she lived through because of it, and despite what she lived through; she went on to the end.
       She hid her old self for the sake of her family, adapted a new personality for the sake of revenge, and all to perfection until the charade was over and she could return to her normal life. But now her conflict was just beginning, and she had to remember what her old self was like.
       Luckily, Lucifer put the right person in her path; it was only a matter of time before the road of redemption would finally begin and give way to a new tomorrow. And just as her old life ended, so would her new life begin.
       But what would depend on her was her willingness to make this change, this new beginning and this new adventure. She would have to swallow her pride and find her place again, only in this way could she achieve the forgiveness she so richly deserved. Her own.
       But, as easy as it sounds, it is just as difficult; her change would also take time, and she had to be consistent and dedicated if she was to achieve the success she seeks. She will also learn that it is a path she should not take alone; for that is exactly what got her to where she was in the first place.
       Stella still had a lot to learn, but for the moment she had to wait. Her time to shine, was near.














The moment of truth



       Time flew, Stolas and Octavia continued to build their loving bond day by day. Little by little Stolas was surer to interact with a more affectionate intimacy with his daughter, while Octavia was more and more pleased with her father's attentions. And today was a special day for both of them, for -finally -it was Octavia's 18th birthday and time to fulfil a promise.
       The day had begun beautifully -but little by little the storm could be seen looming in the infernal sky, stormy clouds could be seen hovering in the distance as they slowly felt themselves approaching. It seemed a bad omen for Stolas' plan, but what could one do for him? What can this demon do when love comes upon him as suddenly and completely as this sudden passion does to poor Stolas at this moment? What would you have done? You could imagine yourself living then in the same situation as Stolas. Or, even more interestingly, what would you do if you were a spectator present at what is happening? I mean being there, at Stolas' side as his friend or advisor, having the opportunity to give words of encouragement to the doomed prince. Well, suppose you were offered the chance to live this moment (however briefly), what would you do, what would you say to him? How many times have we heard our friends talk about the "would have" of their own hardships and what they would have done if they had been prepared?
       In this case, Stolas had arranged everything in advance the night before. Everything was planned to happen the way he wanted it to, something that had lived in his subconscious ever since he announced his wedding plans; he had not asked Octavia if she wanted to do it. And even if we go to far-fetched explanations of how this did not come back into conversation between the two, understand that neither of them had been prepared for what happened to them. Especially Octavia who was the one who orchestrated the whole thing; and ended up in this situation. It would not be a lie to say that they were both learning about their new lives and building something between the two of them that was fairly easy for their fresh minds to understand. As we had already told; they began by sharing a bedroom; from there they began to date and work on their displays of affection -all culminating in what was about to happen.
       For now, let's review the plan Stolas had, as the hour is approaching, and we are running out of time:
       First of all, there would be music -an orchestra made up of instruments of all kinds, the musicians were the best trained and had the best composition of "Happy Birthday" in existence. The voices would sing in the most harmonic and almost angelic way.
       This would please both Stolas’ pride and Octavia's vanity. Besides, this song is known to be impossible to get wrong; so, he was sure that everything would go well. Consequently, every note during the performance would be carefully measured and precisely timed giving the impression of perfection while producing nothing more than a sweetly harmonious sound. When the song was over, the musicians would take a bow and leave to prepare for the next piece.
       Then there would be cake. A long white cake made of fine flour and sugar, which would be decorated with edible decorations in the form of flowers resting on green leaves. It looked like any other cake, but instead of having several candles running through it, it had a single golden candle set in the centre of the upmost point. In addition, utensils would be handed out from the finest and most beautiful of the crockery available. And finally, wine would be enjoyed and served in special glasses, with a design that would make them look like flaming eyes. These glasses would glow brightly enough to illuminate the surrounding area.
       But now came the part Stolas was most interested in, to impress his daughter: what she would wear that day. So, Stolas himself picked out two dresses for her to choose to wear -a pink dress with silver sparkles or a blue one that radiated all gold. Both with low slits around the neck to show off Octavia's cleavage, as well as her long legs. Both showing plenty of skin below the knees, but with the ability to turn into a long-skirted dress. As soon as Octavia put on one of these two, her beauty would become apparent to all who saw her. She would look stunning.
       This was what Stolas wanted for his daughter on this day. He wanted to see his daughter dressed in clothes that revealed every curve of her body and even so she could hide just enough to leave something to the imagination. Such clothing pleased Stolas greatly because he loved his daughter too much to embarrass her by forcing her to show or expose more than necessary, but without denying himself the sweet pleasure of lust. To do otherwise would spoil the mood and Octavia would probably resent him for it. So, he chose wisely.
       The guests at the party would be Blitzo, Loona, Moxxie and Millie. They would wait for Octavia's appearance in the throne room. Where Stolas would ask the final question. True, he thought about inviting others; but with such a delicate situation; he trusted no one but his closest friends. Everything had to work out perfectly.
       Back to reality, Stolas was methodical to perfection that day. He rose very early to ensure he did not wake up at the same time as Octavia; remember they now happily shared a bedchamber -and in front of the bed he placed the two dresses for her to choose from. He left the room and made sure that everything was ready and in place for her awakening.
       He had sent the invitations in good time to the four little imps, so all that remained was to wait for Octavia to wake up, get dressed in one of the two dresses, and for the guests to arrive and start the party.
       After a few hours, it was all said and done; Octavia woke up.
       The first thing she saw were the dresses, and she immediately inspected them and tried them on at sight; over her pyjamas, unable to choose one at the moment. Clearly, she was also surprised not to see Stolas in bed, so after giving herself a few more minutes to admire the dresses, she left the room to look for her beloved father.
       The two met as usual in the kitchen, where; to keep the surprise, it had been thoroughly cleaned the night before, and the cake had already been hidden in the main hall.
       Stolas was already dressed up in a black suit, the same one he wore as a teenager; but clearly tailored to fit his current figure. Even when this attire gave him a serious and formal look, his sweet face of happiness at the sight of his daughter completely broke the idea.
        —Good morning, Dad! —Octavia called out when she saw her father—.
       —Good morning, birthday girl! —Stolas said to her with great excitement—.
       Stolas’ excitement was a thousand times more visible than Octavia's, it almost seemed as if he was the birthday boy. He greeted her with a gigantic hug that almost lifted her off the ground, and they gave each other the most romantic kiss that could be described in hell without being slanderous. They breakfasted together and chatted in spurts while it was time for Stolas to reveal the surprise.
       —Have you chosen a dress already? —Stolas asked, a little excited to know which one Octavia liked best—.
       —They're both beautiful, I'm not sure yet. —She replied—. They are both really beautiful.
        Well, they are both yours; but it would make me very happy to see you in one of them after breakfast. —Stolas continued the conversation—.
       —I can't make up my mind, dad. —Octavia replied—.
       —Then let us finish our meals and try one of the dresses at once. —Stolas proposed, knowing full well that his daughter would never refuse such an offer—.
       And in fact, she didn't. After breakfast, they went back to the bedroom and changed into one of the dresses and then the other. The dress of choice turned out to be the blue one that radiated all gold. —That was the one Octavia preferred—.
       It was a perfect match, really. It exactly matched the colour of her plumage and Octavia's eyes. Her sorrowful face complemented the dress quite well. And there was no doubt about it: she looked absolutely beautiful.
       Stolas was delighted with the result, and even though he knew the effect he wanted to create, he still felt a deep emotion when he finally saw his beloved daughter looking like a princess. Finally, Octavia would be dressed up in a pair of high heels and would arrange the feathers on her head so that she would have a beautiful ponytail sticking out at the back.
       With that settled, and enough hours had passed, he directed her to the throne room, where all the aforementioned arrangements awaited her arrival and that of the guests. Octavia was struck by the arrangement of things, Stolas’ influence was seen in everything and in every detail, Octavia had never been so excited to start her party for years -for when they were still a complete family, Stella always got in the way of Stolas’ ideas. Octavia felt again the happiness a child feels, and Stolas loved watching his precious daughter inspect every detail, admiring it tenderly.
       While they waited, Stolas thought about how to announce the marriage proposal without causing any suspicion or offence. Finally, he decided on a plan:
       He would wait until the music stopped, and all the guests gathered around Octavia to walk slowly towards her and say, «Now that your eighteenth birthday has arrived. » Stolas would begin, «and though it may seem strange for me to ask, I think today might be the happiest moment of my life. » Then he would present the ring and finally ask, «Will you marry me? »
       This was going to be difficult to achieve, because Blitzo was also coming. If something went wrong, he could cause a scene. But Stolas was confident enough to believe that everything would be alright. Despite the disasters that had happened previously; his affection for him still existed. But the truth was that it was not the kind of sentimental affection you have for a friend or a loved one. Little by little Stolas saw him as just another imp. The disconnection of the two and above all the separation of their lives since the initial event with Octavia showed Stolas what he had always wanted to see: that Blitzo was nothing more than a plaything with whom he had a good time, but nothing more. The bitterness of the trouble he caused him time and again fed the idea.
       However, he also saw him as his friend, he always remembered with tenderness that time they played together; and so, he continued to frequent him -but nothing more. 
       
       ***
       
       A few moments later, Millie walked in, followed closely by Moxxie, then Blitzo and Loona. Millie noticed that Octavia was wearing something new, and immediately began complimenting her dress, as if it was the best she had ever seen. Loona couldn't help but do the same, the two chatted about it all evening while Loona was taking lots of pictures for Sinstagram.
       Meanwhile, Moxxie kept silent and did nothing more than nod occasionally and greet Stolas cordially, apparently content to leave his wife in charge of socialising. Blitzo looked somewhat embarrassed to attend, unable to look Stolas in the face, but Stolas' politeness gave the demon prince enough of a cue to greet him anyway and offer him refreshments.
       Stolas was glad to see everyone getting along so well.
       As soon as everyone gathered in front of the throne, Stolas stood up and announced loudly:
       —Let the festivities begin!
       Immediately the orchestra began to play. The guests sat around the table, and Stolas walked to the main chair, next to Octavia. Next to them were Loona and Blitzo, then Millie and Moxxie.
       The food was delicious, but the wine was excellent. There was much chatter and laughter from our guests, telling Stolas about the latest events in their lives and work, Stolas wanted to ask about Blitzo's phone call that day, but opted to let it pass. Everyone had a great time.
       When dessert was served, Stolas presented the cake to Octavia, who cut a huge slice in half and passed the pieces around. Everyone was amazed by both the look and the taste of the cake. They ate their fill, and each left with two or more slices of the masterpiece.
       When all the cake had gone, Stolas led the group in singing «Happy Birthday» a second time to his beloved daughter, this time no longer accompanied by the orchestra, but by the 4 guests.
       After the meal, the dancing began. Octavia danced beautifully. Her steps seemed to come naturally to her. No matter what rhythm the dance required, she always managed to find the beat. In fact, she moved better than the others.
       But most importantly, he loved doing it.
       There was no doubt about it!
       After everyone had danced for a while, the orchestra left and Octavia took control of the music, taking pleasure in playing all her favourite songs, and while that made the innocent air dissipate and become more party-like and youthful, it was time for Stolas to ask Octavia the so burning question.
       Stolas approached Octavia and said:
       —My dear child, I want to tell you that tonight marks the beginning of our lives together. —Then he took out a box; and showed it to Octavia, then he opened it—.
       In the box laid a magnificent diamond ring, large and brilliant, with eight small diamonds surrounding it.
       Stolas continued:
       —Now that your eighteenth birthday has arrived. —Stolas began—. And though it may seem strange for me to ask, I think today may be the happiest moment of my life. Will you marry me?
       To which Octavia replied:
       —Oh, dad, yes, oh, please let me!
       And with that, Stolas placed the ring on his daughter's finger and kissed her passionately.
       —She was happy -very, very happy indeed!
       But at the same time Octavia was afraid. Since the day of the TV announcement, she felt that everything had gotten out of hand, at first all she wanted was for her father to never leave her side, but when Stella discovered her dirty tricks, she acted out of fear; and, therefore, her father was left alone to handle the situation. Even so, she loved him, loved her father with all her heart. Everything had gone more or less as she had planned, but by the same token she feared that at any moment she might lose him still.
       For the rest of the night, Octavia made sure not to get too drunk. Instead, she tried to have as much fun as possible. She smiled often and laughed harder every time someone told a joke or a funny story. 
       The evening was coming and now it was time for Stolas' speech. It was not long before he rose from his seat.
       —I want to thank all of you here tonight. —Stolas began—. Thank you for making my daughter's eighteenth birthday such a memorable occasion. We have been blessed with excellent company and, above all, wonderful food. Now we must drink to the health of the bride-to-be!
       With that, Stolas poured more wine into the glasses.
       —We will drink to the happiness of the future Queen of Hell.
       They all drank.
       Now Stolas could finally be with the certainty that he would fulfil his task of doing things right, and as they were meant to be done. His greatest fear had been conquered, if she said yes; like she did, he would finally let himself fall into happiness. And had she refused, without a doubt, nothing would have saved him from despair. It was all or nothing that night. The heart knows best, and sometimes makes strange demands on its master. This was certainly the case with Stolas. His heart demanded that he seek Octavia at once and propose to her, from that day. There seemed to be no other way open to him. For, though he loved her dearly, it had always been evident that she cared much too, though never openly until recently. Now it was all settled.
       On Octavia's part. If ever there was a time when a young woman knew exactly how she felt about a suitor, this must surely have been it. With every fibre of her being, Octavia longed for the man beside her. Her eyes sparkled with joy at the sight of him. In her breast beat the flutter of wings made by love -no wonder she could barely speak!
       And now poor Stolas was speechless too -could there be something wrong with him? Surely, he seemed quite normal to you. But he could not find words to utter a single syllable. He just stared dumbly at her beautiful face, while she looked at him in ecstasy. All he wanted to do was to kiss her again, again and again.
       Indeed, the whole world around them seemed suddenly illuminated by beauty. A rainbow rose above them both. Flowers burst out of nowhere, spilling petals everywhere. Trees waved their branches in welcome to two newly united lovers. Even the clouds themselves became luminous, as if each cloud had within it a little sun shining through its substance.
       Oh, dear me! I am getting carried away. Let me stop talking nonsense and get to the point. You may not believe everything I have said about these things. However, think how wonderful they sound. They should stir your imagination. Why else would I write them?
       As I was saying, poor Stolas finally managed to stammer something.
       —My love! —he cried—. I am yours forever.
       He kissed her tenderly. Then he took off his crown and placed it on her head. She wore it with pride and love.
       Now it was time for the guests to have their own speeches.
       Loona spoke first, saying:
       —I couldn't believe it at first, when you came to me to talk about what was going on. —Loona began—. I just hope you two know what you're doing.
       Then came Blitzo, who gave a brief but moving eulogy:
       —You know, I've known Stolas practically forever. —Blitzo began—. Since he was a child. He was always so silly and strange. So, I'm glad he found a nice girl like you to take care of him, Satan knows I couldn't do it myself. Just ask him to wash his ass if he ever wants to sit on your face.
       Octavia was taken aback by the comment, Moxxie; who was sitting next to him, gave him a slap on the back of the head.
       Finally, Millie approached and said:
       —As you can all see, Octavia is quite beautiful. Her face glows with youth and life. But it also glows with love and kindness. For these qualities she will make an excellent bride and wife.
       It was the turn of Moxxie, who was already a little drunk from drinking.
       He stood up and raised his voice so that all present could hear, even though his voice was already loud enough.
       —May Lucifer bless the union between my boss's ex-boyfriend and his daughter, and may they live happily together until death do them part! Although we are immortal, kind of.
       Immediately, everyone cheered loudly with laughter. The noise grew louder and louder, until finally the two lovers embraced and kissed. They embraced and cried tears of joy, and then went to bed, leaving behind a happy crowd of friends.
       Back in the throne room, everyone was looking after Blitzo, for after what had happened, they couldn't stop thinking about how this affected his heart, but he was actually fine, as if he had finally let go of his love for Stolas. In fact, he seemed quite pleased. Since the last time he spoke to him capriciously; the day he fought with Moxxie and went back to Verosika, he had kept his word, and was gradually getting better at handling his emotions.
       After the festivities died down, everyone went home.
       
       ***
       
       Weeks passed after the party, until one day; Blitzo, Loona, Moxxie and Millie all received a letter. It was an invitation to Stolas and Octavia's wedding. Explaining not only that they were invited, but also that they were asked to work as security for the event. They had been hired at a high salary, because there would be many demons attending from all over hell, many from the Ars Goetia.
       The next morning came quickly, with the four of them getting ready in their best attire. Each wore dark suits and matching black bowties. As soon as they arrived at the park where the ceremony was to take place, they set to work. Their jobs were as follows: Loona had the task of being the one to walk Octavia down the aisle, Blitzo would take the place of Stolas' father, escorting him to his side, Millie and Moxxie would guard the entrance.
       Like all weddings, first there was a Ceremony starter, who; to everyone's surprise, was handled by none other than Asmodeus. After this, the guests began to arrive. Among these demons were Satan himself, Lucifer, Beelzebub, Baphomet, Belphegor, Baal, and so on ... All the demons seemed to be able to tear any mortal man apart without breaking a sweat! And every time someone new came through the door, more and more powerful demons seemed to appear. Soon, there were over two hundred demons present, most of whom were strong. All the quiet time between the birthday party and the wedding now made sense, needless to say, Stella had not been invited; however, her brother Andrealphus was -but at his sister's request he did not attend.
       Let us also remember a human custom, that at royal weddings; everyone is invited. That included the people, who in this case were every other inhabitant of hell. However, to keep order they would wait outside. Moxxie and Millie would see to that.
       Asmodeus began his opening by telling a couple of inappropriate jokes and getting everyone ready for the wedding.
       As soon as it was over, the procession could begin. Everyone took their positions, except Loona, whose job it was to escort Octavia to the altar.
       Stolas is standing in the chapel, looking stunning in his wedding suit. He then sees Blitzo standing next to him.
       —Blitzy? What do you think? —He asks nervously—.
       —It looks good. —Blitzo says—.
       —And now, let's have the bride walk down the aisle! —Asmodeus shouts—.
       Slowly, Octavia makes her way to the front of the church, smiling as the people applaud. She climbs the steps to the chapel. Once she reaches the top step, she stops. When she approaches Stolas, he smiles at her, trying to calm her nerves.
       Octavia was wearing a beautiful dress. It was white and silver. The feathers on her head were made into a bun. On one side of her head were placed three golden combs, each with jewels. On top of her forehead was a crown made of gold and gems. Beneath her dress, she wore a long red sash tied at the waist. In both hands she carried bouquets of roses and lilies. Once in front of Stolas, she gave them to Loona, who then stood to the side holding the flowers.
       Stolas looked at his daughter full of joy and love. It was his second wedding, but the first one he was really happy and excited to participate in.
       It was then that the officiant, Asmodeus, spoke to the audience and said a few words before the actual vows.
       —Ladies and gentlemen, I am very happy to welcome you here today to witness the marriage of my beloved dark lord, Stolas, and his beautiful daughter, Octavia! We hope you enjoy your stay and if anything happens during the event, please notify me immediately. Especially if it's fun.
       After the speech, the officiating demon turned to Stolas, giving him a stern look.
       —Now, can we begin?
       Stolas nodded.
       And so, the votes began.
       —I, Stolas, promise to give myself completely to Octavia and make her feel loved. If anything should happen to cause our relationship to break down, I promise to always remain true to her memory. Furthermore, I vow not to betray her or harm her, no matter what the cost. So, help me Lucifer, Amen.
       Once finished, the officiant had a wicked grin on his face.
       —I, Octavia, promise to follow my father's example, to obey his orders, to respect and cherish him above all else. If anything happens to destroy our family, I vow never to forget it. So, help me Lucifer, Amen.
       Immediately, the officiant began to speak again.
       —By the power vested in me by the Dark Lord himself, I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride. —Then he laughed, for he knew there was still much further to go—.
       Asmodeus pulled out a small box from under the altar. Inside was a ring made of solid diamond. The diamonds were cut perfectly so that each one sparkled beautifully.
       He opened the box, revealing the ring inside. He held the box in front of Octavia, making sure everyone could see it clearly. Then, he picked up the ring and handed it to Stolas.
       Stolas put the ring on Octavia's finger.
       The wedding continued, Asmodeus returned to his seat and a priest continued with the ceremony, recounting a biblical equivalent of what a Catholic or Christian mass would say, speaking of how malevolent and destructive he hoped the union would be. Emphasising the union of Lucifer and Lilith, ode to Satan and his worthiness to challenge God even after being banished, he continued the blasphemy until the moment of truth, when he asked Octavia:
       —Do you take this man in death for the rest of your unnatural life?
       —Yes, I do. —Octavia said without hesitation—.
       Then the priest approached Stolas and asked him the same question.
       —And you, Stolas, do you accept her in death for the rest of your unnatural life?
       —Of course! —Stolas replied, placing his hand on Octavia's—.
       —Then I pronounce you husband and wife. —declared the priest—. You may kiss the bride.
       Stolas and Octavia kissed passionately and lovingly.
       The guests applauded loudly after seeing such a wonderful scene between two people deeply in love. After the applause died down, the officiant spoke once more.
       —Let us pray...
       —Dear Lord Satan. —The officiant began—. We thank you for granting us another day, allowing all our lives to continue. May the blessing of your name be upon this couple and their children forever.
       And so, the wedding was happily over, and it was time for the real party to begin.
       The evening was just as, if not more, wonderful than the birthday party. There was a table full of gifts for the newlyweds, food everywhere, alcohol, music, everything you could imagine.
       
       ***
       
       In the current scene we could see Millie and Moxxie still standing at the entrance. Although no one would be so stupid as to interrupt a party of such powerful demons, Stolas had told them privately the task they would actually carry out: Keep Stella from showing up. The rest of their work was practically nothing compared to the importance of that order.
       Stolas had nothing against his brother-in-law, he thought he was arrogant and a jerk; but not enough to segregate him. He thought the same of 99% of the demons who attended the wedding anyways, but not being invited to an event that could be considered public was a dagger he intended to use to damage his ex-wife's ego.
       And as much as I bother to explain this, it is clear what happened during the night, and who appeared in front of the main door. Immediately stopped by Moxxie: Stella, accompanied by her brother.
       —I'm sorry, she can't come in. —Moxxie stopped them—.
       —I told you there was no point in coming, Stella. —Andrealphus said in a tired tone, sounding as if he had had a long conversation about it with his sister already—.
       —I’m not coming to the party. I'm looking for you.
       —Me? —Moxxie was surprised—.
       —What do you want with my Moxx? —Millie was offended—.
       —Yes, what do you want with him? —Andrealphus added—.
       Stella made a gesture of annoyance, she didn't intend to explain herself to anyone, but it was clear that she had to answer the question. Stella had gone to the party to see Moxxie, ever since the situation on the beach, she had felt interested in the little imp. She couldn't understand why she was doing it; but she couldn't stop thinking about him. She was going through a phase where nothing that happened around her made sense until after it happened. And then you wonder, how come I didn't see it coming?
       She stared at Moxxie in the doorway. He looked so cute; so handsome. His face as radiant as ever. Stella approached him still without saying a word. Then, he turned to stare into her eyes, big, bright and innocently serious. The moment felt strangely right.
       —You look good. —Stella said—.
       Moxxie was completely off his game, he didn't understand what was going on or what Stella wanted, he just stared at her for what seemed like an eternity. Suddenly, Stella was beginning to regret it.














The swan dances
       
       
       
       “What am I doing here, this isn’t me! I’m not someone who should be doing these things, what if someone sees us and gets the wrong idea? Why does my heart get warm when he’s around? This is a phase, isn’t it? Has to be." Stella thought at the time. Slowly realising that she was making a mistake. But no matter how hard she tried to walk away she couldn’t help but stare deeply into Moxxie’s eyes. His gaze made her feel vulnerable and unconcerned.
       Suddenly, Moxxie grabbed Stella by the hand and pulled her towards him. Stella was shocked by the sudden movement. Her head spun and her feet turned to jelly.
       A part of Stella knew she couldn’t allow herself to be seen on this way. But more important to her was to understand how real these feelings were. So, instead of letting go, she held his hand tightly as he escorted her down the street.
       They walked in silence for a few seconds. No words were exchanged for a while, for Stella needed to understand what she was feeling now and only by spending time with him could she understand. Finally, after a few steps Moxxie broke the silence.
       —I don’t understand what you’re trying to do, ma’am, but you’re not going to get into the party. —Moxxie spoke as he signalled for a taxi—.
       Moxxie then saw a taxi respond to the signal and immediately made his way back to the entrance with Millie and Andrealphus who were waiting somewhat stunned by the scene.
       Stella stood watching in equal shock as Moxxie walked away completely stoic about the situation. Unable to comprehend what was going on as the taxi driver honked his horn over and over again, and when ignored, got annoyed and drove off.
       Stella ran to catch up with Moxxie and grabbed his shoulder, turning him to face her once more. Millie, however, who had been watching silently from the start, began to get annoyed.
       —Mam’, if you want something with my husband, just say so. —Millie confronted her—.
       Stella, hearing those words, felt as if something inside her was shattering. But out of that destruction was born a living flame of competition, she could not help but feel that she had won an opponent she must defeat; but she did not yet accept why this was the case.
       So, Stella was silent, trying to hide her emotions –she ignored Millie and turned to look at her brother.
       —Let’s go. —She said coldly—.
       Andrealphus, still puzzled, simply complied with his sister’s whim and they turned away.
       The rest of the evening passed without much omen for the newlyweds and their guests. When the hour was up, they all went home, and like the spell of a fairy godmother, the next morning everything went back to the way it used to be.
       But the new chapter of Stella’s life was just beginning, and it was that stumbling but small step that set the tone for what was to follow.
       
       ***
       
       That morning Stella had woken up with a plan, she had previously sent Blitzo to be investigated; back when the affair with Stolas had just begun -and she knew about I.M.P. and their work. Eventually she came to learn that it was they who ruined her plans to use Striker to kill Stolas and much else. It was time to use that information to her advantage.
       She then picked up the phone and stared at it for several minutes, rehearsing what she would say, or how she would say it. She put the phone away and took it out again. This was repeated about twice until she mustered her remaining strength and dialled.
       —I.M.P., Loona speaking. —Loona’s voice was heard—.
       Stella was silent for a moment, took a deep breath and spoke.
       —Good morning, I heard that it was you who were part of the security for Stolas’ wedding. And I require a similar service. —Stella replied—.
       —One moment please. —Loona replied—.
       In the background, Loona could be heard shouting at Blitzo to pick up the phone, explaining what kind of call it was. Blitzo was beginning to resent the idea of being private security, they were an assassination agency. He was just doing Stolas a favour for obvious reasons; they were not private security. Nevertheless, he took the call and in an offended tone answered.
       —Yes, uh, miss. We kill people, we don’t look after them. —Blitzo said almost shouting—.
       —I’ll pay triple what you charge. I only need one of you; the little one with the bow tie will do. —Stella rebutted, sounding almost pleading or begging—.
       —Moxxie? —Blitzo asked in surprise—.
       —Yes, him. I’ll pay whatever it takes. —Stella’s tone of voice changed to one of jubilation—.
       Blitzo succumbed to his greatest weakness after horses. Money.
       —All right, where do you want him?
       Stella then gave the address of a coffee shop near her mansion. She thought that if she gave the direct address, they would know who she was and the plan would fail; but the truth is that Blitzo didn’t care, what was on his mind at the moment was the money.
       —And get there as soon as possible. —Stella concluded before hanging up—.
       The call had ended, But now what? Stella was suddenly starting to panic, staring at her phone as if for some reason it was going to ring. It was a minute before she reacted to what she did and immediately went back to her room, she dressed casually for the occasion, in shorts and a loose blouse, her idea was to look not too provocative but sensual enough. Once she had chosen her outfit, she checked herself two or three more times in front of the mirror and headed without pause to the cafeteria where she had summoned the little imp. And like a romance novel, they both arrived at the same time, which caused Moxxie to stop on his tracks when he saw who the client was, first at the beach and then at the party, now here.
       —You? —Moxxie asked—.
       —Don’t... don’t go. —Stella replied, and as soon as she saw him, she became romantic again, her tone of voice changing to a sweeter one than usual—. I can explain.
       —Look, I don’t care what problems you have with Mr. Stolas, but I’m not going to help you hurt him if that’s what you want. —Moxxie was getting defensive—. Besides, what you did by slandering your own daughter in the paper, deplorable, you should be ashamed of yourself.
       Stella tried not to take offence or explode at Moxxie’s words, she felt judged and insulted, but she still had the strength to hold back. He was definitely a special case for her to be on the ropes like this.
       —L... look, have a seat. I’ll explain everything, I promise. —Stella walked quickly to a small table in the area outside the cafeteria, pulling up a chair to invite Moxxie to sit down—.
       And as curiosity killed the cat, it bewitched the possum. Moxxie sat down somewhat innocently, and Stella followed suit, sitting on the other side. Stella was glad to see Moxxie finally agreeing to talk; completely forgetting that in a way he had no choice because it was work -she was completely focused on the little guy who was adorably wearing his little red bow tie suit.
       —Don’t you want something? It’s on me. —Stella continued the conversation, signalling to a waiter before Moxxie could say no—. I’ll have a frappuchino.
       With every word she said, she became more nervous, and little by little Moxxie became aware of this pattern, which piqued his interest and made him complicit in whatever Stella had planned, if she had a plan at all.
       —Make it two. —Moxxie continued—. Mine without whipped cream.
       «Right away» replied the waiter and left.
       —So, what do you want with me? Why me? —He began to question her—.
       Stella was completely silent. She didn’t know how to answer these questions, she was simply following a hunch and it was telling her that they should be together. She stared at him like a child who knows she did something wrong and hopes that with an adorable and tender look she won’t be punished.
       —Could you at least explain your hatred of Stolas? I understand that he cheated on you with my boss, but it doesn’t explain why so much hatred. Am I missing something? —Moxxie continued, trying to get the truth out of her—.
       When Stella had finally found the words to speak, the waiter came back with the drinks, only there was a problem. Moxxie’s had whipped cream in it.
       —Are you deaf?! —Stella shouted—. He said without the cream!
       Stella looked like she was ready to rip the poor waiter’s head off.
       —All right, all right. —Moxxie interjected, somewhat aghast—. I’ll just remove it myself.
       Stella was somewhat surprised by Moxxie, who seemed unbothered by the mistake, while she seemed to be uncontrollably frustrated.
       —But Moxxie... —Stella sounded like a chastened puppy again, lowering her voice—.
       Moxxie simply scooped up the whipped cream with the spoon provided and placed it on a napkin.
       —See? There. —Moxxie calmed her down—.
       Stella wanted to understand Moxxie’s purity, and she wanted to understand what drove her to act this way only with him. At the same time, Moxxie couldn’t help but be curious about all of this, about what he understood about the situation -which wasn’t much to begin with. So, who is this woman? She looked like she was going to run in terror at any moment. He then decided to take a different route to the confrontation he had been dealing with so far.
       You could say that Moxxie felt pity at that moment, that he understood that maybe there was something more to it all; and you can’t blame him -after all he was forced to live through with Blitzo and his emotional instability just recently. Moxxie had become something of a guru in the art of listening.
       —Do you frequent this café a lot? —Moxxie asked—.
       Stella was surprised by Moxxie’s change of attitude and welcomed it.
       —Yes! It’s my favourite; and the nearest to my house. —Stella replied cheerfully—.
       Actually, the cafeteria was nothing special, it was just like any other. Tables outside, tables inside. Baristas behind a bar full of different products for sale waiting like the walking dead for eight hours a day. The coffee was barely above mediocre, as was the service. And the décor left a lot to be desired, drab white everywhere.
       But it was true that it was the closest, from Moxxie’s point of view, you could see the mansion behind her no more than a block away.
       —Don’t you like it? —Stella asked next—.
       —It doesn’t taste the same or better than what I’ve tasted, but...
       —Unforgivable! —Stella flared up violently again, interrupting Moxxie—.
       —It’s not bad! —Moxxie quickly continued loudly to calm her down—. You need to control your emotions more.
       Stella immediately felt sorry for her attitude as her heart was racing for no reason she understood. Besides, she knew the quality of that coffee, what was she mad about?
       —I’m sorry. —Stella said—. It’s just that... I haven’t been myself lately.
       She looked down avoiding looking at Moxxie. It made her heart ache with sadness. But then he smiled at her again, and the hurt was gone. And again, there was comfort between the two, allowing them to continue in the cafeteria for a few more minutes.
       Moxxie had no idea what Stella meant by "herself". For him who knew her so little, he had no reference image to know what the real Stella was like, beyond anything Stolas said about her anyways. So, he didn’t know how bad Stella felt or why she was acting the way she was acting at the moment. All he knew was that she was sad, and that she needed someone by her side to make her happy -and a part of him wanted to be that someone.
       But Stella feels guilty. Because, although she wants to spend time with Moxxie, she doesn’t know how. Her mind goes blank as soon as she tries to make some kind of conversation. Sometimes laughing so hard that she looks like she’s going to cry. Other times she would get angry without knowing why. These are good feelings. Better than having none at all, as she usually appears to have none. But she wished at that moment she knew how to be normal; like everyone else.
       It was not long before lunchtime, and now they were walking through the busy streets of the Pride ring. Creatures of all kinds with their hands full of shopping bags, some carrying babies or pets. Stella was leading Moxxie to a specific place, a park where they could sit under a tree and relax.
       —Look. —Stella said, pointing to the sky—.
       A group of birds circled above them. Moxxie followed their flight with his eyes. He saw them go first one way and then another, they flew clockwise, then they flew in the opposite direction. For a moment he thought he understood them, but then he realised that he did not. Still, it was beautiful, he thought, don’t you think? Maybe Stella did like it.
       —What is it? —Stella asked, turning to look at him once more—.
       —Nothing. —Moxxie replied, shaking his head—.
       He was still trying to understand Stella’s personality. Again, one minute she could look happy and then suddenly she looked so sad you thought she was about to cry, and he wanted to cry with her. Then she would laugh as hard as her lungs would let her, it was clear that she couldn’t help it herself. So, he decided to just stay close to her, patiently waiting for her to find levelled ground.
       —Very beautiful, don’t you think? —Stella finally spoke—. So free.
       Moxxie nodded his head, but once he turned back to the sky, the birds were gone.
       When they arrived at the park, Stella and Moxxie found the perfect spot under a large tree. The leaves rustled softly above them, and the wind was soft and gentle. Birds were singing from nearby trees. It was very quiet there. They both seemed ecstatic to have escaped the noise of the crowd.
       They both sat with their backs against the tree trunk, and Stella took Moxxie’s hand. He felt warm and comforted. Instead of letting go of Stella’s hand, he held it tightly and laced his claws with hers, closing his eyes. The soft breeze blew through the branches and smelled fresh and sweet.
       —I used to come here all the time when I was younger, with my dad. I never knew why, I guess it was something I enjoyed doing. Even as I got older, I would still come here even if I was alone. I think it helped me get away from things.
       Moxxie just listened to her in silence as she continued her monologue.
       —If you want to. —You can stay here with me. We can lie down and rest for a while. Don’t worry. No one will disturb us. This Park is always empty at this time of day. You could go to sleep and dream whatever you want and however you want.
       Moxxie looked up into Stella’s shining Eyes. She smiled at him, but it was a sad smile. As if she wished she could do the same but couldn’t no matter how hard she tried. As if something or someone was blocking her from dreaming of all those things she really wanted.
       —Please. Don’t make me ask you twice. It is frowned upon to refuse a lady’s request.
       So Moxxie relaxed on the grassy ground and closed his eyes. He could feel Stella lying next to him, and when he opened his eyes, he could see her smiling at him. How wonderful! Moxxie thought to himself. He couldn’t describe his happiness, but he wanted to feel it every day.
       But then Stella started to cry. Moxxie pulled her close to himself. He put his hands around her, Stella smelled like flowers, he couldn’t help but stroke her chin wiping away her tears as she pushed her face against his hand.
       —How I miss him.
       Moxxie tried to comfort her. An impulse made him kiss her on the forehead while stroking her plumage. After a while she stopped crying and leaned towards him.
       —I’m sorry. —Stella said—. I was thinking of someone… I couldn’t help it… knowing I’d never see him again. I’m sorry... —She continued looking at Moxxie in the eyes—. Do you think he loved me?
       Stella was referring to Andras and how she used to do the same with him when they were on a date. She finally understood, she felt the same way she did when she was with him, but now with Moxxie.
       Moxxie had no idea what Stella was talking about, did she mean Stolas?
       —Yes. —Said Moxxie— I’m sure he did.
       —I wish I had spent more time with him, get to know each other better. Before he died. Why did that happen? If I had known, maybe... he wouldn’t have...
       Moxxie shook his head, she wasn’t referring to Stolas, but clearly, she was referring to someone important to her. Moxxie didn’t know what was going on with Stella at that moment, who was she talking about so suddenly about? Was she referring to her father? She said this was her favourite place. She couldn’t think of anyone else who could cause her so much pain and the information were limited.
       —Maybe he wasn’t meant to look after me forever. Maybe he just had to do it long enough.
       A shiver ran through Moxxie’s body, was she talking about her father? Moxxie touched her shoulder and said:
       —What do you mean?
       —It’s stupid. You wouldn’t understand.
       Moxxie didn’t say anything else, because he knew Stella was hurting inside. He understood what she was saying, but not what she meant.
       —I wish I had the power to bring him back to life. I wish I could travel back in time and make the right decisions.
       Moxxie sat up and looked Stella in the eye. She was so beautiful, she suddenly felt like kissing her, but he couldn’t bring himself to do it. Besides, she was hurt. Who did he think he was to take advantage like that?
       —Could you hold me while I sleep? —Stella asked—.
       —Of course. —Moxxie continued—. Whatever you need.
       So Moxxie took her hand and lay down next to her on the grass. He reached out to embrace her warm body and held her tightly against him. Sinking his head into the plumage of Stella’s head, smelling her scent deeply. She smelled like flowers.
       Moxxie stroked her cheek.
       —You don’t have to cry any more. —He whispered to her—.
       —I miss him. And I haven’t known how to get past this point.
       Moxxie could feel Stella pressing against him. Then he realised what she wanted, so he rearranged himself and let her lie on his legs, using them as a pillow.
       —Are you sure about this?
       —Yes, I am. —Stella said—. The truth is that I’ve been hoping to do this since I met you, I don’t know why.
       Stella looked up, looking at Moxxie’s face, he could feel her hand touching his cheek, and he stared into Stella’s eyes. Her beak so close but so far away. An instinct inside of him wanted to kiss her, but he knew he shouldn’t.
       Then he realised that she was seeing something other than him. When he looked up, he saw a butterfly fluttering above them. Stella’s eyes followed the butterfly until it flew away.
       Stella smiled.
       The two continued talking until the sun went down, but eventually Moxxie had to leave, so he gave her his phone number. Stella promised to call him tomorrow.
       But he knew she was still very sad.
       Moxxie left without another word.
       That night Stella lay awake for hours, thinking about how the "date" had gone. She had never felt that way for years. So vulnerable. It reminded her of her days with Andras.
       «How long will I feel like this. » She wondered to herself. «Will I ever feel better? Will I ever be able to forget him? »
       She decided not to call Moxxie, she didn’t want to make things worse, she must have scared him terribly with her emotional crisis, besides, he was a married man, who did she think she was? She wasn’t a homewrecker. Besides, she was afraid to talk about what happened, she was sure Moxxie wouldn’t understand.
       She stayed like that for so long that by the time she fell asleep the sun had risen.
       The day after that, she woke up early because she had things to do. But she was still anxious to hear from Moxxie. What if he called? Would she answer the phone? She wondered these things until she remembered that she had never given her his number.
       She began to worry, she should have given it to him, but at the same time, she thought it was impossible for Moxxie to call.
       «Maybe now he’ll forget about me. » She thought to herself. «Maybe he’ll go on with his life as if nothing happened. »
       She felt so depressed, she almost didn’t notice that her phone was ringing. Her heart skipped a beat with excitement when she realised who it was.
       —Hello? —Stella replied.
       —Hello, Stella? —She heard the voice say—. I’m Moxxie.
       —Hello Moxxie... —Stella replied, trying not to sound excited—. How did you get my number?
       —The company phone registers the numbers that call, plus you gave it to Loona to hire me. I saw your name on the list and wanted to call you.
       —Oh. Well, um, thanks for calling.
       —No problem. —Moxxie continued—. Sorry if things were awkward the other day.
       —I’m... I’m sorry too, besides I was the awkward one. But I really enjoyed talking to you.
       —Yeah, me too. I thought we could do it again.
       —Sure! —Said Stella, trying her best to contain her excitement—. I guess we can meet somewhere.
       —Do you have a place in mind?
       Stella laughed.
       —The coffee from last time is fine.
       —Great! —Moxxie replied—. See you at two o’clock?
       —Of course! —Stella was so nervous that she just hung up the call—.
       «I wonder if this is real. » She thought to herself.
       It was an hour before two o’clock and Stella was pacing up and down the mansion nervously. She was wearing a red dress that showed off her figure in a sensual but conservative way. She really looked beautiful.
       «What if he doesn’t show up?» she wondered. «Or if he shows up but decides to leave.» She covered her own mouth as she thought these things.
       —Why can’t I relax?! —Stella shouted—.
       —Because you’re in love. —Andrealphus said mockingly—.
       —Am I? —Stella wondered—. Wait. What the fuck?
       Stella didn’t expect to run into her brother, neither that he knew what was going on.
       —Oh, sister, you are so obvious! I know how you looked at him on the night of the wedding. I learned a few things from spending so much time with Asmodeus, you know?
       —You know nothing! —Stella was incredibly annoyed at her brother for prying—.
       —And now you’re going to go and see him, aren’t you?
       —No. —Stella shouted—. I mean, yes, but not for that reason, we’re just friends.
       —You, friends with an imp.
       —I’m not having this conversation. —Said Stella—.
       That said, she left the mansion.
       As she sat in the cafeteria waiting for Moxxie, she began to remember the first time she heard about Andras. How she fell in love with him, how they talked for hours every day. She remembered how he kissed her for the first time. She couldn’t help but feel nostalgia and pain.
       When Moxxie arrived they both had coffee.
       —So, what brings you here? —Stella asked, trying to make conversation—.
       —I was thinking about what happened the other day.
       —Oh, I see. —Stella replied a little nervously—.
       —Can I tell you something?
       —Of course. —Stella nodded her head—.
       Moxxie took a big breath and began:
       —What happened to you? Stolas kept badmouthing you, I thought you were some kinds of villain or something.
       —I am. —Stella replied—.
       —What I’m trying to say is, I understand why. But I also think you have a good heart.
       —Do you think so? —Stella replied intrigued—. What gave you that idea?
       —How you acted that day. You’ve had problems too, haven’t you?
       —More than you think. —Stella admitted—.
       —Do you want to talk about them?
       —I don’t know if I should.
       —Do you trust me?
       —Yes, I think so.
       —Then tell me everything. —He took Stella’s hands with his—.
       After some silence they both finished their drinks and walked down the street holding hands.
       —His name was Andras. —Stella said—. The man I cried for.
       —Andras? —Moxxie asked—. Was he your father?
       —My boyfriend. He died years ago.
       —Oh, I’m sorry. —Moxxie continued—.
       —Me too. —Stella replied—.
       —It must have been difficult.
       —More than you think.
       —What happened?
       —He was killed by Paimon, Stolas’ father. —She said in a cold and cruel tone, you could feel his anger and pain in every word—.
       —Oh, crumbs—.
       —Stella didn’t understand Moxxie’s idiom, but she understood his intention—. Andras was planning to steal something from Asmodeus, Paimon, who was already suspicious of him, caught him and killed him. He also knew about us, so after killing him he visited me in the night with a feather dipped in Andras’ blood. And since he couldn’t kill me, he had his way with me.
       Moxxie was stunned into silence, stupefied by what he was hearing.
       —Oh crumbs... —His voice trembled—.
       After a long silence he continued.
       —Wait... He couldn’t kill you?
       —They had arranged my marriage to Stolas.
       —I think I understand. They had arranged for you to marry someone you don’t love. And kill the one who you did love.
       —Exactly.
       —Does Stolas know about this? —Moxxie asked—.
       —About what happened to me? He doesn’t know.
       —Maybe it’s a good idea for him to know. —Moxxie continued—.
       —For what? A fake excuse of an apology?
       —So that he may know the truth.
       —The truth? —Stella felt a lump in her throat—. He can’t handle the truth.
       —Just tell him your side of the story, let him know what you went through and why it hurts so much. It will give him a chance to understand you better. —Moxxie was trying too hard to convince her—. I’ll go with you if you need me to.
       —Thank you, but no.
       —You might as well apologise for the lies you published in the paper too. You know, wipe the slate clean.
       —That was no lie.
       —I don’t believe it.
       —Octavia drugged Stolas. I managed to buy the same balm she used. Weren’t you surprised it was all so sudden? I can show you.
       Moxxie could not believe her words.
       —What? How? Why? —Moxxie couldn’t swallow what he was hearing, was it really the truth? —.
       —I have no idea. I hate Stolas, yes. But I also know what it’s like to be forced to love someone you don’t love. Not like that. You could say I felt bad for him for the first time.
       —Now more than ever then we must talk to him! —Moxxie had panicked—.
       —No, I decided to leave all that in the past. They can learn their lesson on their own.
       —But... Stolas must know.
       —And what do you think will happen then? Think about it for a second.
       Moxxie was thinking about it for what it felt like hours, he had realised that he must now keep the secret. Telling Stolas all the truth might be too dangerous now, despite the best of intentions, it was clearly a terrible idea. But Moxxie also believed that the truth was a necessary evil. What should Moxxie do? Besides, because of his curiosity he was now too involved in all this.  Who knows what Stella would do with him if he ratted out Octavia? Normally his morale would win this fight; but the feeling he had for Stella wouldn’t let him see beyond that. Now more than ever he felt cornered. Speak up and lose Stella or keep quiet and let it all run its course. His feelings for Stella were growing by the minute for no apparent reason, was it pity? Or something else, fear?
       Stella was somewhat sad and upset at how the conversation had gone. She wanted to spend some quality time with Moxxie, but she was once again uncovering herself like a sieve, letting out every detail of her life. As if desperately looking for someone to talk to about what she had always held back, looking for someone willing to listen to her. She was sure she wanted to make it up to Moxxie.
       —Forgive me Moxxie, I didn’t mean to drag you into all this. I don’t know why, but with you I feel different, like I can say everything I can’t say to anyone.
       Stella kept talking and talking. Moxxie listened patiently, there was something between the two of them that all the words in the world couldn’t describe at the moment.
       —It’s all right, Stella, you played your cards as best you could. I promise to be there when you need someone to talk to.
       —Will you go out with me? —Stella asked excitedly—.
       —I didn’t mean .... I guess as friends?
       —Of course, as friends, that’s fine.
       —With pleasure.
       Second chances are rare in life, but they always come, maybe this was Stella’s chance. Could she let bygones be bygones and concentrate on the future? She hoped with all her might that she could.
       Moxxie on the other hand wondered what he was doing and why he was making such promises.
       But from that moment on it was decided. They would see each other again.
       Stella then turned to look Moxxie in the eyes and squatted down so she could face him. Moxxie felt as if at any moment Stella would try to kiss him, his heart racing all over. But Stella, even if she wanted to, knew she couldn’t; she couldn’t barge into their marriage the way Stolas had done with Blitzo. Her face simply flushed completely red as she remained static in that position.
       —Everything ok? —Moxxie asked—.
       Stella swallowed hard.
       —Why are you so nice to me?
       —I don’t know, I guess there’s also something about you that makes me let my guard down. Besides, I like to think the best of people before jumping to conclusions.
       —Has it ever worked for you?
       —Sometimes.
       —Was it worth it with me?
       —Yes.
       Stella stared into his big, yellow eyes. His little mouth. She was charmed by such an adorable creature and admired his courage. She really saw something special in him.
Finally, after a hard internal debate, he took Moxxie by the shoulders and kissed him.














The Calm


       
       ***
       
       At the same time as Stella's new story was taking its course, Octavia's story was beginning a new chapter. After a great wedding, and an even better wedding feast -Stolas and Octavia finally saw themselves as husband and wife.
       By now they were back at the palace. While the staff was putting the wedding gifts and everything else in place, Stolas and Octavia were going to their room holding hands. At Octavia's request, many of her things had been moved to Stella and Stolas' former room, closing that chapter of the palace completely -and starting a new one between a father & daughter. Her clothes had now been hung in what used to be her mother's wardrobe, her shoes and other accessories adorned and filled the drawers of the room -it was now a homogeneous mixture of both, giving new harmony to the room. Octavia's room was now transformed into more of a studio, where Octavia could work on any project she wanted. Decorative details such as her calendar, posters, rugs and other similar details remained in place -thus shouting out her youthful individuality, things like her telescope and other recreational objects were still here as well.
       But let's look at what is happening right now as I foolishly ramble on describing the new scene to you.
       —I finally feel like it's really going to be all right. —Octavia said as she hugged her father—.
       —Till death do us part. —Stolas comforted her—.
       Both entered the bedroom with an exhausted walk. But neither of them was yet ready to sleep.
       As Stolas closed the door, he helped Octavia out of her dress, unbuttoning the corset and removing the remaining pieces one by one -an easy task compared to what was removed after the wedding and even easier compared to the work it took to put it all on. Each item he removed was tossed into a basket.
       Before long Octavia was in just her underwear, which she took off herself in an effort to let her body breathe a little. The surprising thing about this however was Stolas, who still at this point found some modesty in seeing his daughter naked. It is no lie to say that Stolas; despite having finally confronted his fears, still saw his daughter as just that, his daughter. Perhaps a guilt that would never go away, but was completely silenced by his love for her and his desire to make her happy. It was a funny feeling; seeing his daughter as his wife, but he was proud, it was for the best.
       Tentatively he took his daughter by the waist, and she responded by pressing her body against his, holding him in an inverted embrace that, to anyone observing, would look awkward to say the least.
       Stolas bent down to kiss her, to which Octavia responded lovingly. Someone who for many years dreamed that she would lose her father, to the point of having nightmares about it since she was a child, finally felt free when all this began; the nightmares disappeared and she only saw in her dreams her happy destiny at her father's side. Originally, she was afraid of this destiny; true, but it was for the simple fact that it was something new for her -it was relatively possible to believe that she was regretting it, but little by little she got used to the idea. And now her dream was coming true. Who knows what she would dream of now. She turned to face Stolas and helped him undress.
       They had been through so much and finally the sorrows would end. They could devote themselves to love, to pleasure.
       Stolas helped himself to his clothes as Octavia plunged her face into her father's body, preening her feathers, preening his with her beak.
       When the two were finally naked they looked at each other and smiled. They touched each other tenderly with their hands, running their bodies gently as they felt each other; as if they were discovering their bodies for the first time, just like that time. From this new scene one could write the most beautiful and melodious songs in the world.
       They would try to capture this for even a second. But their story is impossible to summarize in so few words, in just a few verses.
       It had been a long time since they had seen each other like this, desired each other like this. Since the last time they had sex, when Octavia used what was left of her balm; of her cursed drug that started it all, in a way this was the first time they had genuinely and truly desired each other. Perhaps this was the sweetest love scene ever described, or the most repulsive and sickening, worthy of existing in hell -the truth mattered little.
       —You know? —Octavia finally spoke—. This is more comfortable if we are in bed.
       Octavia stared into her father's eyes, four eyes that looked back at her with a loving gaze. She took the first step and moved him towards the bed, weakly pushing him to lie down. When Stolas did so she lay down on top of him, but neither she nor Stolas were yet sufficiently aroused to go straight into the act, both were intent on playing a little longer before releasing themselves into the carnal act.
       Octavia kissed him first; embracing his face with her hands, and Stolas reciprocated with an affection that would melt anyone as he embraced her waist, the kisses were brief and substantial -as if they were afraid to touch, but could not help but reach at each other again. Gradually the kisses sped up, so much so that it became one kiss, long and lingering. It was a magical moment when the two of them met.
       When the kiss was finally over, they both looked into each other's eyes, their faces completely flushed, with a smile from tip to tip and a half-open mouth from which a heavy breath was coming out.
       But the candle of passion was just beginning to burn, as it could; Stolas urged her with his hands to lie down on top of him again, so that she could kiss his neck; on one side and on the other, Octavia had no chance of anything but kissing him in the same way, preening each other like two frolicking birds. Octavia; excited by passion, was gradually climbing upwards; now placing her hands on the head of the bed, so that Stolas could only kiss what was in front of him, and that was now his daughter's breast.
        He began with affectionate bites on her nipples, with each one Octavia made a similar gesture to that of biting her lower beak. It was impossible for her to avoid a momentary moan with each peck, and each time her nipples became harder and more sensitive -causing the subsequent bites and kisses to be even more intense and -therefore -more pleasurable.
       Stolas finally felt confident enough to let go of Octavia's waist and grab her breasts, one with each hand. He squeezed them hard, and if not with his beak, then with his claws, with which he pinched again and again. It was an erotic mixture of passionate and sentimental sex.
       With every moan the passion settled more and more in both of them. It was only a short time before Octavia let out a slightly wilder side. She wouldn't let Stolas move if she didn't want him to.
       With a mischievous grin Octavia settled herself with her legs at Stolas' sides, forcing him to let go -which caught him by surprise, but there was no objection. Her aim was clear, to sit on his face so that his mouth was within reach of performing oral on her. Stolas was at first shocked by his daughter's scent, but in a way that motivated him to begin, her wetness was immediately apparent in a slight sheen to her feathers, which seemed like grass glistening as it became wet with the morning dew.
       He began to pass his beak around the outside, as if gently scraping the surface, which Octavia was immediately fascinated by, pushing down to force the beak in, and not wanting to hurt her -Stolas was trying to arrange his mouth so that he could replace his beak with his tongue. Feeling this sudden change from a stiff sensation to something softer; and just like her, moist, could only provoke an amount of pleasure that even I would not dare to describe -with a moan that surely reached to the heavens, it was more than enough to understand how she felt. Octavia finally released the headboard and grabbed Stolas again, but this time by the head in a way that forced him to close his upper eyes and just look through the main ones. She continued to take control of the situation by moving her hips back and forth; and sometimes, left and right -forcing Stolas to taste her completely -just like the first time, and Stolas could do nothing but enjoy her taste.
       Minutes passed, and as Octavia's moans grew louder and louder, and at the same time muted -she was approaching her first orgasm of the night. As she felt it come, she dug her claws into Stolas' head, which caused him to react by opening his mouth wide for air to scream out his pleasure, but was immediately silenced by Octavia's orgasm, which came at the same time. A scream from Octavia accompanied the situation, crying out for her father.
       It took them some time to catch their breath, and Octavia's legs were shaking like never before, reflecting the intensity of the feeling. Stolas was a little dazed by what had just happened, losing all lucidity and mentally struggling to regain it.
       —I love you, dad. —Octavia said in a tired tone—.
       —And I love you, Via. —Stolas replied with what air he had left in his lungs—.
       But this was still just beginning, it was only fair that her father should also be able to reach an orgasm of his own.
       Octavia then slowly crawled down, kissing her father as she faced him again, preening Stolas' feathers with her beak again, which caused him a beautiful tickling sensation; to which he merely moved his hands, which seemed to be in little spasms, trying hard to cover his face, but his hands would not allow it, the sensation was stronger.
       Eventually Octavia reached her father's cloaca, where his penis was already fully exposed. She began by smelling it; recognizing the scent of those times. She immediately moved on to licking it, the sensation immediately passing through Stolas from his coccyx to his head.
       It was relatively new for Octavia to see her father in this curious and almost adorable way, it was easy to deduce that the main difference was the fact that Stolas had not been drugged. Having access to all of his emotions gave a different Stolas, one who once again found the fun in making love in the same way he had discovered with Blitzo, not even the times he had been with Andrealphus could compare. It was the clear difference between sex and lovemaking. Stolas felt it too, that sense of freedom, his lucidity returning.
       She licked Stolas' penis from one side and the other; from above and from the base, once fully explored she took him into her mouth completely.
       —Oh... Oh, shit! —Stolas said excitedly—.
       Octavia couldn't help a little giggle as she pulled Stolas' penis out of her mouth.
       —Language. —Octavia replied somewhat mockingly—.
       It was a bit curious that a scene that was once so dark and forbidden now had such a natural and even humorous connotation for both of them.
       —Oh? Is that a scolding? —Stolas challenged—.
       Octavia just stared at him with a disbelieving look as she took his penis back into her mouth all at once, and as she gave him oral, she scratched it with her beak, something akin to using one’s teeth, without necessarily biting. This startled Stolas who immediately gave a groan into the wind and forcefully clutched at the sheets. But as soon as he regained control of his body it was his turn for revenge -taking Octavia by the head as she did, and in a similarly aggressive manner; he helped Octavia do it the way he wanted -thrusting in and out of her mouth over and over again as Octavia squinted at her father's violence, impossible to deny that she simply enjoyed it too, and supported by Stolas' hip movement, the thrusts were continuous and precise.
       This went on for several minutes, setting the scene with Stolas' moans and the saliva swirling in Octavia's throat; until Stolas felt close to ejaculation.
       —V....Via... wait, I'm going to-! —Stolas tried to articulate—.
       Octavia gave a wicked smile and stopped immediately, clutching at her father so that he could not save himself, which caused Stolas' body to spasm slightly, contracting and stretching the claws of his feet as he lifted his chest. Stolas was surprised by Octavia's voracity, and Octavia; although she was no expert, she was simply following her instinct -and it was paying dividends, for she was having fun too.
       Stolas could no longer do anything to prevent it, ejaculating into Octavia's mouth all that had accumulated during the time of deprivation of the sexual act to which he had forced himself. She had no choice, she swallowed every drop -and although she was still not used to the taste, nor the texture, eroticism and lust did the job of helping her savor it anyway. To the point of cleaning it up when he had finally finished.
       Octavia returned to her father's arms, lewdly kissed him, mingling in both their mouths the fluids they had so far expelled. Sighing, she said:
       —I love you. I don't know how many times I've told you today, I love you.
       He leaned his head against his chest.
       —Now I will show you how a demon makes love. —He whispered to her—.
       Octavia opened her eyes wide, almost in shock. Stolas quickly flipped the positions, turning themselves arround, now with him on top and her on the bottom. He forcefully took Octavia's hands and kissed her again, this time in a completely lewd and sexual way, forcing his body onto hers; forcing her to moan for air and move her body in hope of some mobility. Fifteen minutes the kisses lasted, for half an hour he also kissed her body, bit her, groomed her and caressed her -her feathers lost all sense of order and direction at that moment. Octavia was now “hanging”; clasped hand and foot in Stolas, much like how a sloth hangs on a tree branch. She could hardly believe how long they had gone so long without doing these things, much less could she believe she was doing it again.
       The moment had come, she felt the tip of Stolas' penis touch her shyly. But when he found his entrance, this shyness disappeared as he entered all at once.
       She couldn't help but scream at the top of her lungs. Maybe it was the time that had passed since the last time, maybe it was something Stolas did on the sly, but the feeling was different, it was big, strong and definitely thick. But that didn't stop Stolas who was now ramming her again and again.
       Octavia was enjoying this more than she had when she drugged Stolas, she was willing now to let him violate her, he could desecrate her, penetrate her, complicate her, as he broke apart her insides, she sold her soul to her father; it was the only thing that would work for her.
       She wanted more than ever to have sex like animals, to feel him inside her all the time, to do it like animals as she moved closer to paradise. She would give him her isolation, what it entailed, her absence of faith -she would give herself to him completely. She begged for him to tear down her reason. Her existence was flawed without him.
       Now the one who seemed to be losing her mind was Octavia, who was enjoying the pleasure from coast to coast. Before she knew it Stolas was ejaculating once more, the warm sensation of his semen inside her was what made her finally realize what was happening, what inspired her to kiss him one last time.
       Both fell exhausted, finally allowing themselves to fall asleep; lovingly embraced, ready to begin their lives in marriage.
       The next morning, they woke up full of energy, as if they had been reborn that night. Neither wanted to get out of bed and instead they snuggled close to each other, kissing tenderly amidst giggles and short “I love you” were said to each other. It wasn't until they indulged in a morning action of passion that they accepted the reality that it was another day, and there was still much to do.
       They began by going through the gifts they had received at the wedding; neatly arranged in piles in the palace living room.
       Beleth gave them a great variety of acetate records and a turntable to play them on. Among the records was music from all eras, even from the current era of humanity, where for us this technology is already obsolete.
       Purson presented them with various divinatory objects commonly used in esotericism. Able to collect the past, and teach the future to the right sorcerer.
       Asmodeus, not surprisingly, gave them all kinds of sexual objects for all kinds of fantasies and paraphilias. And of course, VIP access for Ozzie's, which would give them not only preferential service, but unique access to the “best tables” (whatever that meant). As well as other objects to promote his business.
       Vine gave them a curious magnifying glass, which instead of zooming in on objects as a magnifying glass would do, this one -according to the instructions he wrote himself -was used to find lost objects. The idea was to think of the object to be found and you would see a “mark” which, if you followed it, would lead you to its location; whether it was an object or a living being, it was enough as long as it was lost.
       Belial, and signed by Lucifer, gave them a letter -that if they so wished they could inherit the position of Paimon, who since his murder had left his place available, and that to date no suitable heir had been found (this, unlike humans, does not fall to the first-born, but to the best demon).
       In the same way I could go on with every king, prince, duke, marquis, etc. But the list would be too long to continue. Not to mention the gifts given by the common people -but more importantly, the gifts from that group of assassins, so friendly to Prince Stolas.
       I.M.P.'s gift were the most striking, not because of the ostentatious or apparently expensive wrapping. It was in fact the individuality of it, being poorly wrapped, and with bits and pieces of different papers; but above all the details, a hand-drawn picture by Blitzo of the two of them at an apparent wedding altar.
       There was a genuine intention of affection and that is why it was opened last.
       There was an interesting variety of things inside the gift box. Riding books clearly from Blitzo, and two figurines of horses pretending to be Stolas and Octavia; which you could only interpret by the clothes they were wearing. A top hat and a pink blouse respectively.
       In addition, there were several items of gothic fashion, and a rabbit with two large fangs embalmed in a glass container; clearly from a certain shop that Loona and Octavia frequent so often.
       A guitar and various sheet music ranging from beginner to more complex and melodious pieces -plus a small book with the lyrics of different songs and romantic poetry.
       Millie, like Loona, chose her gifts more towards Octavia. It was a selection of somewhat sweet and even innocent items -cookery books, romance novels, plus various feminine clothing accessories such as brooches and necklaces. It was something like the gifts a mother would give her daughter; and that, in Stella's absence, Millie proudly took that maternal place.
       They both treasured each item with all their love and gratitude, even uploading several photos of it to Sinstagram, where they showed off each gift; but it was clear that these seemingly random items were the ones they treasured the most.
       Octavia; who was still following Stella on Sinstagram, didn't notice that while she was checking her social media -she passed by several photos of her mother with someone else. You couldn't see who, but their skin was red.
       
       ***
       
       Two days later -back to the current date, by this time, Stella and Moxxie's second date would be already over.
       Octavia and Stolas were engaged in another act of sexual fun. This time Octavia was using a strap-on, penetrating Stolas. Apparently, they were experimenting and Stolas -who also missed playing his submissive role -asked Octavia to take him.
       A few hours of pleasure later and a supper; exhausted, they fell asleep. Octavia had not dreamed anything for days -this did not bring her any discomfort until now; for she would have a nightmare once again.
       
       ***
       
       In the dream she was sitting in a sofa very similar to the one in the I.M.P. offices, in front of her were Stella and Moxxie; who were shouting at her, but she could not hear anything of what they were saying, only an annoying buzzing sound could be perceived and in a very pronounced way the sound of the environment, the cars that crossed nearby and the movement of clothes; both hers and those of the others.
       Behind Moxxie and Stella was Blitzo comforting Stolas, who was leaning with one hand against the window, looking defeated and you could feel him crying.
       Gradually the buzzing began to subside, and as if your ears were popping as you came out of the bottom of the pool; you could finally hear what was going on.
       —I told you I'd expose you, you fucking bitch. —Stella shouted—.
       Octavia was crying her eyes out, her legs propped up on the sofa, sitting in a fetal position, hiding her gaze between them. She only peeked out occasionally to see Stolas, who was still in his own bitterness.
       —Stella, calm down. You're better than this. —Moxxie tried to calm her down—.
       Stella ignored Moxxie's pleas to remain calm as she continued her assault:
       —Everyone in the Goetia disgusts me, passing over those they can to get what they want.
       —I'm sorry Octavia, you gave me no choice, what you did... it's not right. —Moxxie continued—.
       —Dad... you... You can't believe them. —Octavia pleaded—.
       Suddenly Loona, unable to look Octavia in the face, stands in a corner surrounded by a black void.
       Octavia's gaze therefore became more and more enveloped in terror, her pupils completely constricted and her heart completely shattered. She had been abandoned.
       Suddenly, Octavia was standing in the dark void and Stolas; who was in his demonic form, was standing in front of her, his back to her.
       Octavia, still weeping, ran to embrace him, but Stolas' face, turning 180 degrees to look at her, threw her such an accurate and penetrating glance that she stopped in terror at seeing him like that.
       Suddenly everything went black again and all was silence, but this time there was no humming, no cars, nothing to make a sound. Not even his own body produced any noise.
       Slowly she collapses to her knees on the floor and sees that there is a floor, realizes that she sees a reflection, or perhaps it is semi-transparent -but sees that it is her sitting in what was now her studio, strangely refitted as her room again, but there was something strange; something unsettling.
       Everything looked disorganized and she looked neglected, as if she hadn't left the place for days.
       Suddenly she found herself turning the chair she was sitting in, leaning one hand on the desk as if she felt physically unwell. As she collapsed, the real Octavia felt a huge pain in her stomach area -which woke her up immediately.
       
       ***
       
       When she woke up, the pain gradually disappeared and she was completely sweaty. What was it that she had dreamt? What did this new nightmare mean?
       —Are you all right, Via? —Stolas asked, half asleep, half awake, barely opening his beak—.
       Octavia inspected her body in an attempt to find the pain that woke her up, but there was nothing left. So, she simply lay down again.
       In the morning Octavia awoke still in shock, but not wanting to worry Stolas, she tried hard to hide it -but the truth was that this new nightmare would be responsible for keeping her awake.
       
       ***
       
       Meanwhile Stella woke up in her mansion. She saw her bedside as empty as ever as she thought about what had happened after that kiss.
       
       ***
       
       —S... Stella! —Moxxie was surprised and incredibly embarrassed—.
       Stella couldn't help but be startled by Moxxie's reaction, immediately regretting what she had done, and hugging herself she could only turn her back.
       —It's... a thank you, for your time. I understand that imps are creatures more of pleasures and favors.
       Stella was now trying to hide her embarrassment with her well-known aristocratic personality. Or, rather, classism. But she could be seen looking at Moxxie out of the corner of her eye, barely moving her head as she blushed.
       —I'll ignore the insult to tell you it's not so. W... we're not so different, and I can reason enough to know that's not the reason you kissed me.
       Moxxie continued a monologue:
       —I'm married, and I love Millie. I don't know why you took such an interest in me, but we don’t really know each other and you clearly have your own problems to be looking for more. If this is your intention, I think we'd better leave the friendship there.
       Moxxie started to walk away from the scene, Stella struggled to stop him.
       —Wait! —Stella shouted—.
       Moxxie stopped and sighed. After a few seconds he turned back to Stella, this filled her with joy, which would soon be over.
       The little imp stretched out his hands to take Stella's, who, like last time, squatted so that they could face each other again.
       Moxxie stared at her for a brief moment, as he gave another innocent smile to a Stella who tried to return it, but the pain of losing him weighed more heavily on her. She felt her happiness being snatched away from her once again.
       Moxxie then was the one who approached the kiss, kissing her cheek tenderly as he released her again and walked away. Was this a maybe? Stella sat kneeling on the ground for a minute that seemed like an eternity as Moxxie left.
       Both, it was clear, presented themselves as incapable of harming the other.
       
       ***
       
       Stella kept looking at the empty side of her bed as she remembered this, over and over again, like a broken record that repeats the same tune when it reaches the end, and every time she did -she could feel Moxxie's kiss once more. Was she allowed to fall love?
       Besides, Moxxie now knew the truth about her past and what had happened with Octavia and Stolas. Had the information been too much? Had she been so overcome with fear that she could not conceive of meddling in such matters?
       She picked up her phone and saw her reflection on the screen, waiting for another call. She wondered: What is he doing right now?














Before the Storm


       
       ***
       
       A few days had passed. Stella still hadn't heard from Moxxie, but she didn't dare to call him either, to a certain extent she resented the rejection and forced herself between tears to hate him, without being able to achieve it.
       Was it all her fault that she had unleashed her feelings for him? Or was it specifically everything she said? Her life before Stolas, Paimon's crime, and now Octavia's?
       Everyone who knew her could tell you that she was cold and cruel, at least that is what she always appeared to be; so, she agreed with that description. When she asked herself if she was doing all this for the sake of the Goetia name; for her parents or for herself the answer was always no. She would still answer the same as she did before. Even at this point the answer would still be the same. Nothing could move her heart. Few people could bring out the real Stella, Moxxie is one of these people. Stella felt herself coming back to life as she began to relate to Moxxie. This was proof that Stella could be someone happy. Moxxie could save her. "I wish I could talk to him again, talk to him in the warmth of the breeze one more time," she thought constantly. How is she supposed to live without him now?
       During this time Andrealphus did not miss the opportunity to tease her, but the truth was that he cared for his sister. He hadn't seen her that way since Andras' death; and though he didn't learn of their affair until after the fact, he could understand exactly how she felt. Andras, unlike Stella, couldn't get his head around the idea of a serious relationship, for him everyone was an object of pleasure or someone to be taken advantage of; and it was precisely because of how Stella was that he did this, he couldn't see himself going through the same pains for unrequited love.
       Moxxie tried to make himself understand how he felt about Stella, he didn't love her; or so he thought, but he couldn't stop thinking about her and her well-being, as if he was the only one who could protect her from the dragon in the castle -Moxxie saw himself as the only one capable of understanding and supporting her. He thought constantly of that kiss, how sweet it was and how painful it was for him to break it in the name of what was right. He was married, and infidelity was something that didn't look so good with him. He thought of Millie and how she would react if she saw him in that situation and it made him very helpless. Millie of course; she questioned him over the next few days, but not about infidelity or anything like that -she believed in Moxxie too much to think about that, but since they had long been taught by Stolas that Stella was a dangerous woman, it was logical that she would worry about her husband.
       During the time Stella and Moxxie didn't see each other, they slowly rebuilt their relationship through text messages. Very vague and soulless conversations that ran through the same script over and over again -a greeting, asking each other how they were that day and breaking off the conversation after that. From time-to-time Stella would offer to go out for a drink or a bite, but Moxxie would decline again and again using his job as an excuse, but asking her to please not hire him again. That their time would come later.
       It was there that the guilt weighed most heavily on Moxxie.
       Looking to distract himself, Moxxie set to work on finding out more of what he learned from Stella, but since all he knew was what both Octavia and Stolas let on at the time, there was only one person to ask for more details; Loona. Loona had mentioned knowing about the two of them the day Stolas had spoken on television. It was very likely that Octavia wouldn't tell her anything about it so as not to have any loose ends; but being such close friends, it was even more believable that she was the only one to know the truth; it was his only chance to learn more about it.
       As soon as he returned to the office the next day, he waited for some discretion and went straight to question her, Blitzo had left with Verosika; their relationship slowly growing from the ashes of what it had become, Blitzo could see himself genuinely happy and even excited by his sporadic outings with her -even if they had not yet formalised their relationship again. Blitzo was striving for the first time to make sure that things went well regardless of his insecurities, and to do his best to make sure that this second chance would not go to waste.
       Millie had gone ahead to the house to prepare the food, she had spent days watching Moxxie act strange and a little melancholic since he stopped seeing Stella, maybe he knew something that she didn't; and this was true, but she didn't know it and therefore it caused her anguish. She hoped that by preparing his favourite food and fulfilling a few whims, the Moxxie she knew would return to her immediately.
       Loona however still had work to do and that was when Moxxie saw his chance to reveal himself to her.
       —Loona, can we talk? —Moxxie began—.
       —What do you want, fatty? I'm busy. —Loona asked back—.
       She was looking at her mobile phone without paying absolute attention to Moxxie, as usual; she was leaning back in her chair with her feet up on the desk and a magazine on the side in case she got bored of one thing or the other, postponing her work even more; an excuse not to have to go home yet.
       —You knew Octavia and Stolas were dating. -Correct? You said so the day they went on the news.
       Loona raised her eyebrow and finally turned her attention to Moxxie, starting to get defensive.
       —What do you care if I knew?
       —Is it true that Octavia drugged Stolas? Did you know that too? I've been talking t-
       —I have no idea what you're talking about. —Loona interrupted in an aggressive tone—.
       Loona would gradually become more and more uncomfortable with the conversation that was just beginning. She couldn't explain why Moxxie was so interested in it -until she remembered who had hired him the other time. It was Stella.
       She had asked for her details herself and sent Moxxie to do the job after Blitzo had accepted the assignment, whatever it might have been. Did she hire him to tell him the truth and spread the secret? What little they knew about Stella was what Stolas told Blitzo, and there was never a topic that didn't speak negatively about her. So, from her perspective; it was most likely.
       Moxxie didn't know if Loona was lying or not, but his desire to believe Stella forced him to keep pushing. Part of him wished it was a lie and that maybe all this time it was Stella trying to manipulate him, but his other half wanted it to be true -not because it would ruin their marriage, but because he couldn't deal with the idea that the Stella he knew, was a lie. He couldn't believe that kiss wasn't sincere.
       —Come on Loona, Octavia is your friend, and I don't doubt that you are her only friend. Did Octavia drug Stolas?
       —I told you I don't know anything about it, Octavia is not capable of that shit. Are you really going to doubt things at this point and believe that crazy woman?
       As they spoke Loona was messaging Octavia. Giving her a short summary that Moxxie was becoming suspicious of them. Explaining that Stella had hired him and that he had probably told her the whole truth, Octavia reacted as expected, imploring Loona not to say anything; and that, if she knew more about Stella and her plans, she should let her know.
       Moxxie noticed that Loona was typing on her phone with suspicious speed, every detail he saw in Loona gave him the certainty that he had hit the nail on the head.
       —So, who are you writing to with such concern? —Moxxie continued his siege—.
       —To your hoe of a mother.
       —Wow, how creative.
       Loona; unlike Octavia, was harder to break her spirit. But she knew that, if Moxxie got any kind of clue as to what had really happened, Octavia would be in danger, but what she believed would not cause Moxxie to be suspicious; was exactly what would give her away in the end.
       Moxxie however could not get what he really wanted, a confession. He knew that "confirming" his suspicions would mean nothing if he couldn't prove it somehow.
       In Moxxie's point of view, if he said anything they would believe that he was tricked by Stella, and if he kept quiet as he promised then nothing would change and his conscience would not leave him alone, but having someone like Loona; who knew the situation beforehand, he could take this to its ultimate consequences.
       In the end he was unable to get any more information out of Loona, sensing that the discussion was going nowhere he withdrew in annoyance.
       He supposed the next thing he could do was to investigate directly the drug Stella was talking about in the article she had published in the newspaper. If it was a drug that somehow worked on people's feelings, he could only think of the Lust ring.
       Leaving the office, Moxxie took a taxi to lust. What he didn't know was that Loona would be on his trail from then on.
       It took him several hours and several humiliations; demons mocking him, succubus offering their services instead of answering his questions, but somehow, he managed to find the shop that sold the balm. Despite being a powerful product, it was not uncommon for it to be sold; of course, if you were a succubus or an incubus; and certainly, interesting if you were royalty or someone of social standing. But an ordinary imp? Certainly, Moxxie's lack of discretion was beginning to show, the seller of course; she didn't know that all this was swirling around Octavia, but she cared simply for the sake of protecting her business. Her suspicious gaze followed him the whole time he was there, Moxxie of course felt watched and was on the verge of not buying anything, even paying in cash so as not to feel tracked. When he left the shop, he put it away and fled back to pride -the next step was to test it, but with whom?
       Loona followed him back to pride with growing concern, constantly messaging Octavia with the progress Moxxie was making. Octavia was beginning to worry more and more. Her nightmare was becoming less and less of a bad dream and more and more of a future reality.
       For the rest of the day Moxxie did nothing else and Loona stopped following him when she saw him enter his flat.
       The answer to Moxxie’s question was easy, and with what the saleswoman told him at checkout; which was the same thing she told Stella and Octavia when they both bought her product, there was no doubt. He would try it on Millie.
       Of course, Moxxie's conscience would not allow him to do it on the sly.
       —A... love, I'd like to try something if that's okay with you. —Moxxie asked her nervously—.
       —What’ya mean Moxx'?
       —It's... something I bought in lust.
       —Ooohhh… kinky.
       Millie was surprised by Moxxie's assertiveness at that moment, but after days of thinking something was wrong with him, a little fun made her think everything was okay again; and it was his way of redeeming himself with her.
       To say it was a night of passion would be an understatement, after an awkward description of what he bought, and trying to explain why he bought it (even though Millie didn't care) was what won him over. The difference between a pair who already loved each other wholeheartedly and a pair like Octavia and her father were was clearer than night and day -even Millie was surprised at how turned on she was that night. The sex was so good that even Moxxie was slow to process what they had done. "I'll tell Millie the truth when this is over," he said to himself the next day, despite everything he still felt he used her.
       Later that day; Moxxie returned to Loona, this time with the balm.
       —This is what she used; I've already checked that it works. —Moxxie confronted her—.
       He put the salve on the table and made a victory pose. As if he had solved the case and it was only a matter of time before Loona spoke.
       —And you want a medal? Detective Chubby. —Loona insulted Moxxie again—.
       Moxxie immediately lost his victorious pose and changed it to annoyance; not only did Loona not care, she mocked him!
       —I want the truth, Loona. Did you know about this?
       —Look asshole, I don't know what the fuck you're planning. But accusing someone because your new girlfriend told you so isn't going to look very good, and when you see that she played you well, I'll be the first one to make fun of you.
       Fear not, Loona doesn't know about Stella and Moxxie yet, it was just another attempt to annoy him; but the fact that, in a way, it was the truth -it was simple poetic justice.
       Moxxie, unlike Loona, was a dumbass when it came to hiding things, which is why all this is happening now. Obviously, this made him talk too much.
       —Stella.... is not my girlfriend. We're just friends; besides, she's not as bad as you think. —Moxxie defended Stella—.
       Loona made a gesture of intriguing doubt. She understood Moxxie's suddenly defensive reaction, especially after being on the offensive for two days, but Loona really didn't care about his relationship with Stella, she was focused on taking care of Octavia—.
       —If you don't speak, I'll speak directly to Octavia. —Moxxie continued—.
       —Dude, do whatever you want. —Loona replied in annoyance—.
       Again, as soon as Moxxie left the office, Loona followed. Always keeping Octavia informed, " he will try to talk to you," she let her know.
       
       ***
       
       In an almost religious way, Octavia watched her phone for each new message from Loona. The pressure of the nightmare, and her fear that Moxxie would tell on her, was such that even Stolas was beginning to notice Octavia's strange ways. Days of feeling sick and hiding it from Stolas would bring unexpected consequences.
       It was a week since they had been married, and although the first week had gone well, the new one was starting off a little rocky. Octavia looked tired, with some discomfort, some aches and pains. And the stress Moxxie caused her had intensified everything.
       When Stolas asked her about it, she would say that she just couldn't sleep well, or that her stomach hurt. And Stolas tried hard to believe her, but it also worried him. Was he being a good husband? Or a good father, giving her her space? Maybe he was never ready for marriage.
       Was it that the nightmares were such that they were making Octavia sick, or was there something else lurking behind all this fog of new problems?
       Moxxie arrived at the palace, brought with him the balm he had bought, and knocked on the door more than three times. When finally, a clerk answered him; an impish butler, Moxxie demanded to speak to Octavia -and though the clerk refused to comply with his wish immediately, with the excuse that they must first ask her if she wished to see him; Moxxie did the only thing he believed would secure an audience with her. He handed him the balm and asked him to give it to the princess.
       The employee obeyed and before long Octavia was at the door, looking furious and throwing the drug on the floor near him. Then with her fire magic she burned the balm, almost burning Moxxie in the process. Loona meanwhile watched from a distance, worried and doubting whether she should intervene to save Moxxie. Doing so would end up giving them both away, but she feared Octavia was capable of harming him.
       —Then it's true! —Moxxie shouted back—.
       Octavia prepared another fire spell.
       —Leave us alone, I don't know what my mother told you, but you are forbidden to set foot in this place again. —Octavia began to delegate—.
       Octavia learned from Loona that Moxxie had been dating Stella.
       —He's your father. How could you?
       Moxxie didn't even worry about it, whether she knew or didn't know wasn't important, Octavia's violent response was enough to prove his suspicions.
       Octavia looked increasingly furious, but the flame in her hand was beginning to wane, Moxxie didn't know what this meant, much less bothered to interpret it, simply continuing her siege of Octavia's guilt, questioning her with things like Why? And What for?
       Before long Octavia had run out of air, a stabbing pain in her stomach made her collapse. It wasn't long before she collapsed in front of him and immediately Moxxie changed her appearance to one of complete terror, Loona was also shocked from her hiding place, one of the security hellhounds on guard duty immediately went for Stolas. In less than a minute, Moxxie, Loona and Stolas surrounded Octavia who lay on the ground in a fetal position.
       They did not even question each other as to what they were doing in the palace at that moment, nor did they have time to notice the burnt patch of grass Octavia had left behind after her attack. Everyone's only concern at that moment was Octavia's well-being.
       Luckily Octavia had not lost consciousness, she had only been overcome by pain. So, when they arrived at the hospital it was only a matter of getting Octavia checked out and finding out what had caused the sudden pain.
       The wait was eternal for these beings, it was a relief for all to see the doctor, a hellhound whose age was taking its toll, emerge from the room where Octavia was -with a friendly smile inviting them in. Stolas was the first to stand, hugging his top hat as an anti-stress toy, eager to see Octavia and make sure for himself that she was well. However, he thought it wiser to wait for the doctor to speak first, to receive the news, whatever it might be.
       —There is nothing to worry about your highness, your wife is in perfect health. She just had a lot of accumulated stress and along with... well... something else. It was logical that the aches and pains would come together.
       The doctor seemed to say things with excellent humour, the others did not know whether this was a sign that nothing really bad had happened or that the doctor was simply insensitive to the concern of the others.
       —Something else? —Stolas asked—.
       Stolas could feel as if something wanted to tear him apart inside, the doctor's good mood did not help him at all even though he clearly did not bring bad news.
       —Congratulations. —The doctor continued, handing Stolas a document—.
       Stolas was stunned by the revelation, he knew very well what the congratulations were about. The doctor gave a small laugh and continued:
       —I just ask you not to put her through any more stress, prepare for what is to come and please no strong emotions for a while.
       A tear of happiness came out of Stolas' eyes.
       —Dad? —Octavia said, being pulled towards him in a wheelchair—.
       The document said:
       
       
Patient: Octavia of Ars Goetia
Gender: Female; Age: 18 years old; Species: Demon
“Pregnancy test: Positive”


Epilogue
      
      
      
       Thus, Octavia prolonged her destiny once again. No one knows what will happen now, whether the dream will remain the same or change according to circumstances. Or whether that dream was entirely a glimpse into the future or simply her guilt catching up with her at last.
       Moxxie must decide whether to follow through on his accusation or obey Stella's request, keeping silent as promised. More than that, he must decide whether to pursue his strange feelings for her or hide them forever for fear of the truth.
       Millie has yet to discover what Stella wants from her husband -if she finds out. Though really, what could she learn? With nothing formalised between the two of them; that there is therefore no infidelity, is there anything to discover?
       Blitzo and Verozika finally work through their problems. Still a long way from being a relationship again, but very close to being friends again. They were both giving their best this time; and it was beautiful.
       And hell, in the end, is still the same place as always, full of chaos, disorder and sin. But a little light always shines, for where there is evil, there is also good. There is no light without darkness to highlight it.
       There is still so much to tell and things to resolve, but I trust my characters to find the right path to their own account. I trust that I didn't put them through so much and learn so many things only to see them fall into the mire one last time.
       I admit that I will not be as perfect as my father and that my creations may never reach his level of virtue, but I did my best.
       So, in this story and in all the stories told from this place, there is no black and white, no right and wrong. It is simply the collection of choices we make based on our morals and what we believe is best. We trade evils for evils, sins for punishments and consequences for penance. We believe we choose "the better of two evils" and trust that what we do is right.
       But sin is sin, there is neither a very light one nor a very heavy one, there is only sin. God does not care about these differences that humans use to justify their actions; divine punishment will befall you regardless.
       Seen in this light, why not sin to your heart’s content? If the punishment comes anyway, it is better to free your soul from its desires? and if you fall, at least do it with style.
       No one knows this absolute truth better than me.
       —Satan.


Author's Notes
      
      
      
       Blitzo and Verosika found a way to mix their jobs as succubus and contract killer. The kills became more creative and extravagant. In a way they competed to see who was more original when it came to killing.
       
       Stolas and Octavia had a relatively normal marriage, Moxxie opted for silence until she found a better opportunity to talk. Will she be able to find one?
       
       Stella remained in love with Moxxie, and even had the idea of sharing him with Millie; but really, who has the courage to suggest something like that to the wife of the love of your life?
       
       And many other things left unfinished, unanswered or not clear enough will be resolved in the next volume of Father and Daughter. It will not be the 3rd Volume as logic would dictate - but a single volume telling all the stories in one convenient volume, Father and Daughter: The Book; packed with details that even someone unfamiliar with the series can read it. I thank you all for your support - here's to a great 2023!