Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

He thought he’d finally escaped the Goetia family for good…

But it seems that’s not the case at all.

"Well, well, well. Look who we found."

"Oh…fuck.

"Blitzo, no see long time." The gray hellhound (Darron) says.

"Dumbo and Torso. Don't you two have better things to do with your time?" Blitzø asks. "Like chasing your tails until you're sick?"

Darren gasps. "That's a harmful stereotype!" 

"Yeah! And those aren't our names anymore, you know we changed them years ago!" Turbo says, rolling their eyes and grabbing Blitzø’s arm. "You're coming with us, his majesty has been trying to catch you for some time now."

"Oh come on! Ow!- Okay. Do you mind removing the death grip? Christ on a stick, there's no way Paimon can still be this upset, it's been twenty years!"

"You think that's what this is about? You think we don't know about you stealing the grimoire from Master Stolas?" Turbo asks.

"...shit."

When will he finally be freed from them? 

“Sir, we found the imp.” Turbo announced to Stolas, in the middle of some sort of party they were throwing.

Anniversary no doubt… Blitzø could never forget that fucking date as long as he lived! 

His guards barely got Stolas’s attention. “Who-“

Stolas stops to look at this imp. His face glows for a moment, then grows angry at the sight of his old…friend. “Blitzo.” He greets.

“Stolas…” Blitzø mumbles, not wanting to look him. "How's it going?"

“Thank you, but you can leave him to me, I will handle him.” Stolas says.

They agree and set Blitzø down.

"Follow me…Imp." Stolas says.

Blitzø barely manages to breathe…

He couldn't go through all of this…

Not again…

{25 years ago:}

Blitzo and Fizzarolli were happily playing with their horse balloons in the tent; They were in-between shows and they needed time to just have fun and be kids, they didn't have a lot of time to play, too busy entertaining everyone else. 

The three kids- Fizzarolli especially was constantly working, they took on a lot despite them being so young, but Blitzo never understood that, none of them did. They just knew it was their job to help their parents get money so they can afford the basic necessities.

Cash grabbed Blitzo and pulled him away from his friend. "Hey-"

“Boy, I've got a job for you! You are gonna spend the day with one of the Goetia princes.” Buckzo says to him.

“Ew. Why?” Blitzo asks. Why would he want to hang out with those weird bird things? 

Cash rolls his eyes. “Because money! Now, listen carefully. You are being bought out to be his playmate, but I want you to steal as much from those rich fuckers as you possibly can.”

Blitzo pulls away from him. “Steal? But… What if I get caught?” He retorts.

Cash’s eyes widen and he pouts. “Don't you want your family to be able to buy a bigger tent? better food? don't you want to be able to help me and your mama out?” He asks.

“Of course I wanna help mama!” Blitzo says, he'd do anything for her! She's the only one who understood him...the only one who loved him. 

“Then, you gotta do this. Everything those rich fucks have will be worth a fortune!” Cash explains.

Blitzo rubs his arm anxiously, he’s sick of seeing his mom and sister suffer like they have… of course he wants to help them, he’d do anything for them, really! It's such a risk though. “But, if I'm caught - I'm scared, dad.” He admits, hoping his father would understand or offer him some advice, or comfort.

Cash gets closer to Blitzo, eyes darken as he grips his shoulder tightly. He pulls Blitzo closer to the boys dismay. “There are scarier things, aren't there, son?” He asks.

Blitzo can smell the alcohol from his father’s breath, he couldn’t even move away from it for his own protection... “But -“

Blitzo looks up as his father, eyes promising a fate worse than death if he didn’t comply.

“Yes, papa.” Blitzo finally complied.

“That’s a good boy.” His father says.

{Later:}

Blitzo surprisingly had a good time playing with Prince Stolas… at least- it wasn’t as bad as he thought it would be. His father even got to take a ton of treasures home. Barbie and Mama would be taken care of…that's all that mattered.

He felt accomplished, like he actually did something- he wasn’t a failure for once!

Blitzo and Stolas were playing by a tree, needing some fresh air. Stolas sat by the tree while Blitzo climbed it, the bird was holding a strange book in his hands that intrigued Blitzo. “What Is that? Your diary?” He asks.

Stolas shakes his head. “No, this is my new grimoire! It's a spell book! I have to learn it so I can access the living world!” He explains.

“The living world? Like the world with humans and stuff? Where the sinners come from?” Blitzo asks.

Stolas nods. “Mmhmm.”

Blitzo is in awe. “That's cool!”

Stolas nods. “Yes! I'm supposed to use it to study the sky!”

Blitzo tilts his head. “Why?”

“My dad says I can find prophecies, but I don't really know. But, I'm supposed to, that's what my job will be when I grow up. To join the rest of the Goetia family.” Stolas explains.

“Sounds boring.” Blitzo says.

“Not really…though I also have to get married…" Stolas explains.

"Ew, married?!" Blitzø asks.

Stolas nods. "It's my responsibility as a Goetia."

“Not me, I’m never getting married.” Blitzo declares.

“Never?” Stolas asks.

Blitzo scoffs. “Well, maybe someday. But not till like I’m like- thirty or something.” Blitzo explains.

Stolas hums. "Good plan. Must be nice to be able to do whatever you want."

Oh yeah! You wanna know what I'm gonna do when I grow up?” Blitzø asks.

“What’s that?” Stolas asks.

Blitzo jumps up on the tree. “I'm gonna run my own circus and I'm gonna be the most famous imp ever and I'll be able to do what I want to do, all day! I'm gonna make so much money and buy myself a big building, with a big office!”

“A big office? For a circus?” Stolas asks, confused.

Blitzo nods. “Yeah! A big office! Circus business with clowns and horses! and the horses will all have good names like Stapler and Biscuit Queen!”

Stolas giggles. “I'm sure you will. That sounds like a good business.”

“Yeah! And, if you want to apply, I'll hire you. Maybe.” Blitzo says.

Stolas chuckles. “You'll hire me?” He asks.

“Yeah, if I feel like it.” Blitzo shrugged.

Stolas giggles. “Well, I hope I qualify! You'd be a good boss, Blitzo.”

Blitzo puts his hands on his hips. “You say that with sarcasm, but I totes would! You’ll see.”

Stolas laughs happily, and Blitzo does too.

Suddenly a hellhound came by and snatched up the tiny demon. “Hey, let me go!” Blitzo screamed. “Help!”

“What is the meaning of this?” Stolas asks, infuriated by how his fathers guards were treating his new friend. "Release my friend at once!"

“Apologies, Prince Stolas. Your fathers orders.” The wolf says.

Stolas is terrified, not unlike Blitzo, he decides to follow them to see where they might take the Imp.

They had the young imp sent to a cell to be chained up.

Paimon called the circus to pass on a little message to Cash:
“You thought you could steal from the Goisha family and get away with it? Well, I think not! You have until sundown to return my treasures, or else I will be keeping your son in my dungeon until his dying days!”

Blitzo gasps.

That’s it then, he failed. His father will have to give the owl man his stuff…he could’ve helped out his family if he had just been more careful. Now they’re back to square one.

His dad was probably on his way back now. He’ll have to come up with a good excuse for when he shows up.

But then the sun eventually started to set.

His father wouldn’t abandon him…

Right?

Barbie and Fizzarolli:

“Dad? Where’s Blitzo?” Barbie asks her father while they packed everything up to move the circus to their next big location.

“He….Uhh was kidnapped.” Cash said.

“What?!” Fizzarolli shouts, Barbie gasps.

“By pirates.” Cash says.

“No! Not Pirates!” Fizzarolli gasps.

“What’ll we do?!” Barbie asks.

Tilla, Blitzo and Barbie’s mother takes her husband’s arm and pulls him away. “Cash, where’s Blitzo?” She asks, arms crossed. 

Cash sighs. “Listen, the plan didn’t work the way I had hoped. The Goetia prince has him now.”

“What? Go get him!” Tilla demanded. “Now!”

“Don’t you think if I could I would?!
If we go over there they’ll have our heads, using Blitzo as an example!” Cash shouts.

Tears fill Tilla’s eyes. “We have to try! Maybe he'll be reasonable if we bring it all back!" 

"If we bring it all back, he'll definitely kill both me and Boitzo!" Cash says. 

Tilla starts to cry. "My poor baby!" 

Cash hugs her. “We will try to get him back. We just need a plan."

Stolas and Blitzo:

Blitzo has been trying his best to escape for the past two weeks but nothing has worked. No matter how many times he’s been caught, no matter how many times they beat him, he wasn’t going to give up. Mama needed him! Barbie needed him. He had to get out of here!

The king's guards grew tired of dragging the Imp into the castle, so they chained his arms and legs up so he couldn't leave the dungeon, they threatened to tie him to a table if he tried anything else.

Blitzo sat on the floor and cried despite himself, he hated being so weak, but he was defeated. He was stuck, and he may never see his family again…he may never see anything again actually.

“Blitzo?” A voice called, the small owl prince opened the door to his cell and walked in.

“What do you want?” The Imp asks him.

“I- I just wanted to make sure you are okay.” Stolas says.

“Well, obviously I’m not okay!” Blitzo shouts. “I’m all alone, I’m cold, my arms hurt and I’m slowly loosing my hecking sanity over being trapped in a cage!”

“Maybe if you stopped trying to escape, father would go a lot easier on you?” Stolas suggests.

“Why should I? There’s no risk, I don’t want to be here, I just want to get out! I’m all alone here, no one cares about me! If I die no one will even notice. So why don’t you just leave me alone?” He asks.

Stolas walks over to him. “I’m here for you, Blitzo.”

“What?” Blitzø asks.

“I care about you, I would be very sad if you died. I’ll help you.”

"How?" Blitzo asks. 

"Ill talk to my father, maybe he'll let you go if I ask him to." 

“Buy why Would you help me? I tricked you, I used you for your money.” Blitzo says.

“Only because your father made you.” Stolas defends. “I understand having to do something you didn’t want to do because of obligation.” He explains.

“I don’t even know what that means.” Blitzo mumbles.

Stolas sits on the floor with Blitzo, making eye contact. “What I mean is, I want to help; If I can’t convince my father to let you go, I can take care of you. Get you food, water, we can talk about stuff... Whatever you need.” Stolas explains.

Bltzo sniffs and wipes his tears away. “Why would you do something like that?”

“Because that’s what friends do, right?” Stolas asks.

Blitzo nods. “I guess so.”

“Great! I shall go fetch you something warm, oh, and better food. I’ll be back soon, Friend!” Stolas promises, leaving the dungeon.

Blitzo didn’t really expect Stolas to come back, but he did just as he promised with food and a warm blanket for him. “Wow, thanks.”

“Of course! I know this is scary now…but over time maybe you’ll grow to like it here?” Stolas suggests.

Blitzo shrugs. “Maybe.”

Once Stolas left, Blitzo looked out the barred window. He knows his family would be busting him out of here soon..he just has to play the victim, and play nice for Stolas until he can break out.

They are coming…right?

{25 years later:}

Stolas looked down at Blitzø, eyes glowing bright red in anger, but Blitzø can sense a little pain behind those eyes. “Follow me, IMP.”

Blitzø sighs and does. He crosses his arms and reluctantly keeps up with Stolas. He hates the way Stolas called him Imp like they didn't fucking know each other.

They walked down the long hallways. Blitzø looked around at the different portraits. There were hideous pictures of Stolas and his good for nothing shrew Stella, but then he saw a picture of Stolas where he looked…not miserable, holding a small owl demon- did Stolas have a kid?

Stolas led Blitzø to his bedroom and locked the door behind them. He slowly walks over to the smaller demon. It was eerily quiet. The only sound was coming from Stolas’s boots stepping forward.

Blitzø sighs, he can’t stand quiet; he needed to get out of this, and fast. He had people waiting for him! He backed away slowly from the prince, maybe he can talk his way out. “Stolas, listen, I-“

“Give me the book. Now” Stolas orders harshly.

Blitzø reluctantly takes Stolas’s book out of his jacket and hands it back to the owl.

Stolas let him go and he opens the book to be sure this wasn’t a fake or something. “What exactly were you planning on doing with this?” Stolas asks.

"Why should I tell you that?" Blitzø asks.

"Would you like to be arrested?" Stolas asked.

"Testy, who pissed in your Cheerios?” Blitzø asks.

"Wh- you did! Pardon me if I'm not thrilled to see my former best friend who abandoned me in my time of need, and is now stealing from me!"

"Believe me, I don't want to be here either." Blitzø says. "In case you forgot, I was held here prisoner, I escaped. I didn't abandon you!"

"Same difference." Stolas says. "I needed you, but you weren't there, that's abandonment." 

"By that logic, you're the one who abandoned me, and speaking of which, happy fucking anniversary!" He says. "How's your wife?" 

"Oh, fuck you! I had no choice but to marry Stella! I could have lost my rank, my family! I would have lost my home!” Stolas says.

“Really? Wow, Stolas. I'm so sorry. I wouldn’t know what that’s like at all." Blitzø says loudly and sarcastically.

“Fucking hell! Will you never let that go?! Don’t you fucking care about anyone but yourself?” Stolas asks.

Blitzø scoffs. “Right. I'm the selfish one. Poor Stolas forced to marry a princess to stay in the lap of luxury." 

"You’re the one who left, what was I supposed to do?” Stolas asks.

"I dont know, Stolas…maybe not marry Stella?" Blitzø suggests. "Ever think of that?" 

“I had no choice! We had an obligation to our families!” Stolas shouts.

“No, you're just a coward who couldn't just say no to daddy." Blitzø says. "You never could stand up for yourself, I always had to do that for you."

“Shut up!” Stolas shouts. “Shut the fuck up!”

Blitzø does, still heaving angrily.

“I will not ask again, what were you going to do with my book?” Stolas asks.

“Fuck off.” Blitzø says.

"Why won't you just tell me?" Stolas asks.

"Many reasons, mostly because I think you're an entitled privileged asshole." He says.

Stolas sighs. "You don't know me, Blitzo. You don't know what I've had to go through."

"And you were so sympathetic to me growing up? I'm out of here, sorry to disturb your special event. Either arrest me or let me go, I have somewhere important to be." Blitzø says.

Stolas sighs. "Blitzo-"

"Blitzø, the O is silent now.” Blitzø explains.

Stolas tilts his head. “You changed one-fifth of your name?” He asks.

“Yeah. What of it?” Blitzø asks.

“It’s…nice. But, why?” He asks.

"I don't need to explain myself to you." Blitzø says.

Stolas sighs again. "Fine, Blitzø. I just- I'm trying to understand is all. I never meant to hurt you, I just…didn't know what to do." Stolas says.

Blitzø sighs, hating this conversation. Stolas was nothing but a coward, he shouldn't feel sympathy for him!

"We were best friends." Stolas says. "I know you wouldn't be here if there wasn't a legitimate reason, just please talk to me? I promise I won't lock you up like he did."

"I'm- look- it's just... complicated." Blitzø says.

"Complicated how?" Stolas asks.

Blitzø sighs. “I needed your book to access the human world.” Blitzø says.

“Why would an Imp need access to the human world?” Stolas asks, intrigued.

“I’m an assassin. My team and I are running out of clients here, most of them seek revenge on the living world…so we’ve been using it to get new clients. We’ve been very successful in it so far.” Blitzø explains.

Stolas hums. “That's..actually not the worst idea."

"Business has been great, but I need your book to do my job." Blitzø says.

Stolas frowns. "Well, I'm sorry I can't help you, Blitzø. My book is too important to lend out, if you want to access the human word, I'd try Asmodeus."

Oh yeah, because an Imp like Blitzø can just talk to a sin like Asmodeus.

Blitzø shrugs. "Fine."

"Blitzø-"

"I should go; My daughter will wonder where I am." Blitzø says, not wanting to linger too much.

Stolas's eyes widened. "Daughter? You have a daughter?" Stolas asks.

"Yeah, I adopted a teenager a few years ago… She's my whole world." Blitzø says.

"I know what you mean." Stolas says. "My life began when I had Octavia."

Blitzø couldn't help but hurt a little at that comment, but he knew what Stolas meant, it wasn’t a jab at him.

"I'll tell you what…you can use my book. But, there will be some conditions." Stolas says.

Blitzø looked at him suspiciously.

"You have to return the book to me once a month on the full moon." Stolas says.

"...okay."

"No one can know about this deal, this stays between us." Stolas says. Blitzø is totally telling everyone, but Stolas thought he'd try.

"Okay. Fine-"

"And…be careful. Do not use any spells you don't recognize. I can teach you how to use other spells if you need, but don't do anything stupid, I beg you." Stolas says.

"I won't do anything stupid, I'm not a child, Stolas." Blitzø says. "Besides, I know more spells than you do." 

"You certainly do not!" Stolas argues. 

Blitzø chuckles internally, he loves getting under the owl's skin. "And what exactly do you want in return?" Blitzø asks him. 

Stolas thinks about it. "You don't owe me anything…you worked for my family longer than you ever should have. I just want to make amends." Stolas says.

"That will be hard." Blitzø says.

"I know. And I do understand." Stolas says. "I just hope it's not...impossible." Stolas takes the book and hands it to Blitzø.

Blitzø takes the book. "Thanks, Stolas." 

"My guards won't bother you anymore." Stolas promised. "I'm sorry they grabbed you like that." He says.

"It's fine, I'm pretty used to it by now." Blitzø says. "I have to go, I have somewhere important to be." He says.

"Blitzø-"

Blitzø climbed up to the window, then looked at Stolas.

"I am sorry." Stolas says. "If I could change what happened, I-"

"You can’t...but, I appreciate the apology. I'll see you later.." He says before climbing out the window.

Stolas sighs, trying not to feel so awful over this.

He hears Stella laughing and making fun of him…

Tears start to fall down his face…

What an awful life this turned out to be…

It seems Blitzø will always need Stolas....

Despite how much he hates that thought. 

Chapter Text

{IMP, present: }

Blitzø got back to IMP after what felt like forever! Fuckin shit does Stolas love to draw things out.

“Where the hell have you been?” Blitzø heard immediately as he sat down. "We're supposed to be visiting mom in an hour, I almost left without you."

“Relax, Barb. I didn't forget.” Blitzø sighs, can’t just get a second of quiet for fucks sake. “I just had some business to tend to.” 

“Business? What kind of business?” She asks suspiciously. "What did you do?" 

Blitzø sighs. “Look, it's not a big deal…I was taken by Stolas’s guards and I had to smooth things over with him. Okay? It's not that big of a deal."

“Fucking damn it, Blitzø!” Barb says. “Again? You’re an assassin for Satan's sake! You’re supposed to be invisible!”

“Christ on a stick! I am NOT a fucking ninja!” Blitzø argues.

“Uhm. Who’s Stolas?” Loona asks, appearing in the room with Millie.

“Ooo! Is he your boooooyfriend?” Millie teases.

“He’s…no one. Okay?" Blitzø says. “Why don’t you three mind your own business for once? I don’t pry into your stupid personal lives!”

They all speak at the same time: 

Barbie rolls her eyes. "You do that all the time!"

“You totally do that!” Loona says.

"Come on, you kinda do that." Millie says.

Barbie grabs Blitzø's arms and grips them tightly to look at her. “Blitzø, you cannot get involved with that spoiled prince again! You know how you get around him!” She says.

"No, Barb. How do I get?" Blitzø asks. 

“Prince?” Millie asks. “You dated a prince?!" Millie asks. 

"How is that even possible?" Loona asks.

"And why is that so shocking?" Blitzø asks.

"He's a prince…" Loona says. 

"It's you." Millie says. 

"How the hell did you manage to date a fucking prince? Who is this guy?" Loona asks.

"It doesn't matter because we're not together anymore, okay?" Blitzø asks. "I wouldn't exactly call what we did dating." Blitzø mumbles.

"Just-“ Barb pulled Blitzø to look at her again. “Please tell me you didn't fuck him." 

“Ooooooo~” Millie teases again.

“Gross!” Loona complained. “I don’t want to hear about your sex life!”

"Then don’t ask me about it.” Blitzø says.

“Blitzø!” Barb shouts. 

"I didn't fuck him!" Blitzø says."We only talked. He agreed to let us use the book for work. Isn’t that great?” He asks, forcing some enthusiasm, knowing his sister well, and knowing she’s not gonna like what she’s hearing.

"And why the fuck would he do that?" Barbie asks.

"I don't know…maybe he felt bad for how things ended between us?" Blitzø suggested. 

"It's Stolas." Barbie says. "He doesn't care about anyone except himself." She says.

"He's not a monster, Barb. Just a stupid prince with his head screwed on wrong." Blitzø explains.

"Give the book back, I don't want you associating with him!" Barb says.

"I'm not going to do that, Barb. Because A, you’re not my mother, and B-" Blitzø moves Barb further away to whisper. “We’re kinda desperate in case you forgot.”

Barb crossed her arms.

“I know this sucks, but it’s nothing. I’m over him.” Blitzø says. "I promise."

His sister sighs heavily. “Okay, but- it’s…it's Stolas.” Barb says.

“I know…” Blitzø says. "But, imagine what good it could do." He says. "We can help mom, we can build this place from the bottom right to the top. We have people to take care of, we need this." 

“You’ll catch feelings and get yourself hurt. Just like you always do! I don’t want to see you…like that again.” She argues.

“I’ll be careful! I know it's hard but…it’s Stolas. He’s never been that serious about me….I know that now.” Blitzø says. 

Barb pinches the center of her nose. “Okay…I’ll trust you against my better judgment. But only because we don’t have a lot of options.” She says, taking the book from him.

Blitzø nods, he knows better… Stolas only ever saw him as a servant to do whatever he wants to…

They were never really friends…

He only wished he had realized that sooner…

{Past: Blitzo}

Stolas made good on his promise, he made a deal with Paimon. Instead of letting Blitzo rot in prison, he agreed to let the Imp work off his debt. 

But, knowing everything he took, Blitzo knew to pay even a fraction of what he stole would take a million years! Imps don't get paid enough to actually pay them back. 

He supposed it was better than prison though, because he at least had a friend. 

But, he still had hope that his family would save him! They just didn't want to make the deal, but surely they didn't forget about Blitzo.

But, then the weeks passed. 

Then months. 

Blitzo learned the trade from the other servants, he was now to be Stolas’s personal slave.

Making his breakfast, cleaning his room, dusting his books, helping him get dressed. 

It wasn't the worst life…but it was less than ideal. 

How was he supposed to be a good performer if he can never practice? He's way too busy helping Stolas. 

"Blitzo!"

"Ahh!" Blitzo dropped the tray he was holding, breaking the plates and cup that was on the tray. This is surprisingly not uncommon in the Goicia household, at parties they'd throw their glasses around like they were disposable. Blitzo had one plate at home. If he broke it…he'd just have two very small yet sharp ones. They couldn't afford to replace crockery like that. 

"Oh, sorry." Stolas says, helping him pick up the broken plate and cup pieces. 

Blitzø sighs. "It's fine, I got it." He says. They could get in trouble if Stolas was caught helping "What do you need?" Blitzo asks. 

"I was hoping you would help me practice magic, it’s so much more fun with you there.” Stolas says.

Blitzo liked practicing with Stolas, but he had so much to do, he'd rather get it done so he didn't have to stay up so late… but he literally can't say no to Stolas, they'd probably whip him or something. “Yeah, okay.” Blitzo says. "I'll meet you out there after I get this cleaned up." 

Stolas smiles. "Alright, can I help?" 

"Better not, your dad or someone could see. No offense, but most of your staff are huge narks." 

Stolas nods. "Oh right. I'll be outside then!" Stolas skips away. 

Blitzo finished cleaning up the tray and then met Stolas outside to help him. 

{Later:}

It was hours later when Stolas was satisfied with his progress, he usually spends an hour or two every day, today it was four hours of non-stop memorizing and casting spells. 

Once Stolas felt like he had enough, him and Blitzo just laid down on the grass to look at the sky. 

Technically Blitzo should have just went back to work, but he probably wouldn't be in trouble since Stolas asked him to stay for a bit. 

"You sure take this magic thingy seriously." Blitzo says to him. 

"Well, father says it's very important, I want to make him proud." He explains. 

"Your dad doesn't seem to be around much, is that like, normal for you?" Blitzo asks

Stolas shrugs. "Well…he is very busy." He says. "Is your father around a lot."

"Kinda, he likes Fizz more though." Blitzo says. "He thinks Fizz is so much better, but I'm gonna show him someday how great a clown I really am!"

"Is Fizzarolli your brother?" Stolas asks.

"No, we're friends. I don't have any brothers, just a sister." He says.

"Well, I think you're a great clown, Blitzo." Stolas says. "You made me laugh way more than Fizzarolli did."

Blitzo smiles. "Really?" 

"Absolutely." Stolas says. "Surley the rest of your family knows that. What about your mum?" He asks. 

"Mom says I need to practice. But she also said Fizz, me, and Barbie are all different and we should all focus on running our own race,  whatever that means."

Stolas was going to say something, but noticed Blitzo holding his arms in his hands. "What's wrong, Blitzo?" 

"I miss her." He says. "I miss all of them."

"I know." Stolas says. "I'm sorry I got you into this."

"It wasn't your fault." Blitzo says. "I just wasn't sneaky enough…I need to work on that."

Stolas chuckles softly. "It will be okay, Blitzo. I'm sure they'll be back with the treasures, they probably just traded some of it and they're trying to get it back." He says. 

"Yeah…maybe." Blitzo says. "I should probably get back, or Mr. Butler will get upset."

Stolas nods. "Alright, thanks for the help, Blitzo."

Blitzo nods, once he was away from Stolas he wiped away a quick tear and got back to work. 

{Present: Blitzø}

Barb and Blitzø headed to the sloth ring, St. An's Assistant living facility. 

It's the best place they could send her to where she'll actually be taken care of, but bills have been piling up like crazy. 

It'll be worth it once they're able to offer her a good therapist to work with.

She has nurses and friends here, which is great, but they want her to actually heal from this, and these people can only do so much.

"Hey, mom. How's it going?" Barbie asks, greeting their mother. 

Tilla looks up at Barbie and smiles,  she gets up from where she was sitting and hugs her daughter tightly. "Barbie, hi sweetheart. What took you so long? I've been waiting ages."

"I know, we're a little late." Barbie says. "How are you doing? You feeling alright?"

"Never better, dear. Nurse Karen's still a bit of a sour puss, but I won't let her slow me down.' She says. 

"Hey, that's great, Mom." Barbie says. "Hey, look who's here." She says.

Blitzø swallowed hard. "Hey, Mom." He says, waving a hand at her slowly.

Tilla looks him over, confused. "Cash?"

"No, ma. It's Blitzo. You remember him, right?" Barbie asked. 

Blitzø stepped closer despite the intense anxiety he was feeling, he held his arms tightly. He doesn’t know of he can do this.

Tilla starts breathing heavily, something horrible snapped within her. "Blitzo? Where is he?" Tilla asks. "Where is he?" She asks.

"I'm here, mom. I'm right here." Blitzø says. "See? Everything's gonna be okay."

Tilla didn't acknowledge what he said, instead she started panicking, looking around the hospital calling out for her lost son: "Blitzo! Nonono, I have to find him!" She says as nurses gently restrain her.

The nurses try to calm her down, but Tilla is still shouting: "Where's Blitzo? Where is he? I have to find him! I have to-"

"I'm sorry, I'm so sorry." Blitzø says.

"It's alright, but I need you both to leave." Nurse Charlotte says.

Blitzø walks backwards until he is brave enough to turn away and leave.

"Blitzø!" Barbie called out. 

"Ma'am, you need to leave now." Nurse Karen says. She turns back to Tilla. "It's alright, Tilla. He's okay."

Barbie looks at her mom, seeing her cry and shout like that…it was unreal. No matter how much they try, it never gets any better.

Things look so blurry as she turns to leave, her head feels so cold, so dark. It wasn't real…

She found Blitzø right outside the building. "Blitzø? You okay?" Barbie asks. 

"It never gets any easier." He says, drying his tears quickly. 

"I know." Barbie says. "But, we gotta keep trying."

Blitzø shakes his head."No, I can't keep doing this, I only upset her." Blitzø says. 

"Blitzø-" 

"I can't keep seeing her like that, I can't!" Blitzø shouts.

"I know it's hard, but you're not alone."She says.

"We have work to do tomorrow." Blitzø says. "We should go home."

Barbie sighs, but agrees with him.

She still had hope that Tilla would be okay. ..

She has to be…

Chapter Text

{Present: Stolas}

Stolas walked downstairs for breakfast. The servants were still cleaning from Stella's not divorced party.

He sighs, what an awful fucking party. The only good thing that came from it was seeing Blitzo again…

Blitzø now…

Why did he change his name anyway?

He walked into the kitchen. "Octavia, good morning, dear." Stolas says.

"Hi dad." Via says.

"Octavia, don't slouch!" Stella scolds.

Octavia sits straight. “Right. Sorry.” She says.

Stolas frowns, he hates how Stella talks to her, but if he says something, they'll fight about it, and that would cause more distress for Via than really necessary.

So instead he glances Octavia's way and smiles at her, hoping it'll do…something. "So, Via. How have you been?" Stolas asks.

Octavia shrugs. "I don't know."

"Octavia, don't shrug." Stella says. "It's unbecoming of a princess."

"Sorry, mum." Via says.

'Don't bow to that one, he bows to us, idiot.'

'Oh right, sorry father.'

Stolas glares at Stella, but she pays no mind.

"The party was so fucking loud." Octavia says. "I could hardly concentrate on anything."

"I know what you mean." Stolas says softly, "what are you working on? Perhaps I can help you with it?" Stolas suggests.

"I don't need help." She sighs. "I just need quiet."

"Right… Well, the party is over now, so it should be quieter." He says.

Via doesn't respond, just scoffs quietly and puts on her headphones to continue eating.

Stolas returns to his meal as well; he has completed trying to relate to his teenager for the day he supposes.

"Octavia! Take those fucking headphones out! It's impolite."

"Must you criticize everything she does? Isn't criticizing me enough?!" Stolas shouts.

Suddenly the room goes quiet.

"How dare you!" Stella says. "She's my daughter!-"

"She's our daughter, Stella!" Stolas shouts back. "And I don't appreciate you talking to her like that."

"I will talk to her however I please!" Stella shouts.

Octavia got up and ran to her room.

"See what you've done?" Stella asks.

Stolas sighs, "Octavi-"

The door slams.

Stella glares daggers at Stolas, she has nothing but hate in her heart for him…and as it seems, anyone.

"What the hell is wrong with you, Stolas? I do everything around here. I take care of the castle, I make sure our daughter is presentable while you encourage her to dress like a-

Stolas shouts. "Don’t you dare say it, I'm the one who actually took care of her. When she had nightmares, I took care of it, when she was molting, I helped her-

Stella laughs. "Oh right, like I do nothing around here?! I take care of the house, hire servants, organize every meeting, every party, threw our anniversary party-"

"Shame it couldn't have been a divorce party." Stolas interrupted.

"Excuse me?" Stella asks. "You're a pathetic excuse for a man, you're lucky I haven't left your scrawny ass yet! Why must you ruin everything? Do you think it's easy for me? Easy to admit that I'm married to a soulless prick year after year?" She asks.

Stolas gets up and leaves, not wanting to respond to Stella's insults.

{Past: Stolas, age 16:}

Stolas slammed the door to his bedroom.

He throws his grimoire across the room and pathetically throws himself on the bed.

"You- uh…good?" Blitzo asks him. The imp was tidying up the place, and Stolas knew that he was busy and had work to do- but, he needed a friend right now…

Was he really selfish for that?

"He's really going to force me to marry stella." Stolas says, sitting up.

"Yeah, you know that already." Blitzo says. “So?”

"I can't marry her, Blitzo. I can't!" Stolas says.

"So…don't. No one can force you to marry anyone. And they certainly can't force you to have a baby with them either. It's your life, tell them to call it off or you’ll leave.” Blitzo suggested.

"I wish it were that easy." Stolas says. “They’ll take everything from me.”

"Well, no one said freedom was free." Blitzo says.

"When did you become so smart?" Stolas asks.

"I've always been smart, you've just been too…" he lingers on the word, realizing what he was about to say.

"Yes?" Stolas asks in amusement, he crosses his arms, awaiting what the imp was about to say.

"Engrossed in your own…miscellaneous activities." Blitzo says, smiling with the fakest of innocence.

"Nice save." Stolas says.

"Mhm." Blitzo returns to dusting the bookshelf.

"And how do you suppose I could escape?" Stolas asks. “If I wanted to.”

"You can literally disguise yourself as an Imp, or a person, a sinner. Take the book and leave."

"And those who are more powerful, if they find me trying to escape my duties?" He asks.

"So, they take what? Take your powers away? Big deal, you're like everyone else." Blitzo shrugs.

"They might kill me." Stolas says.

"So…your choices would be dead…or you fuck Stella." Blitzo says.

Stolas hums. "Good point."

"You still have free will, a brain, a heart. They can try, but they can't take that." Blitzo says. "You still have control over your life, just don't surrender to them.”

Stolas blushed without meaning to. "I- um, I'm going for a walk." He says, heading to the door.

Blitzo didn't respond, just got back to work.

"Blitzo?"

"Yes?"

"Thank you." Stolas says, closing the door behind him.

~~~~~present:~~~~

He had no choice! Blitzo was wrong!

Stolas sighs. Blitzo was never wrong…

He looks through his desk’s secret compartment, full of things Blitzo had given him, things he left behind…

A letter caught his attention, scented with hellrose.

Perhaps it’s not too late to have some control over his life…

Perhaps there’s still a chance at happiness.

A chance Blitzø does still care…

He just needs to take it slow, be understanding…

He should call him!

{I.M.P:}

Millie and Barbie were practicing to shoot with their new crossbow.

"So, who exactly is this Stolas guy?" Loona asks Barbie while she holds up a picture to be the target. "He seemed to strike a nerve with you and dad."

"What has he told you about it?" Barbie asks.

"Nothing! I tried asking him about it last night, but he just avoided the question. It's weird. He's usually so…eager to talk to me." Loona says, sitting up.

"Strange, it's almost like he loves you or something." Barbie remarks.

"You know what I mean! Don't change the subject." Loona says.

“Stay still, please?” Millie asks.

Barbie exhales sharply. "He's just some privileged asshole bird who broke your father's heart. That's all."

Millie shoots, but misses because Loona moved again. “Loona-“

"He did? Is that even possible?" Loona asks.

"You'd be surprised." Barbie answers.

"But, how did they meet?" Loona asks. “How long were they together?”

"Look, don't get me wrong. I love exposing your father's stupid embarrassing secrets. But I will not be in a conversation involving that father pecking cloaca having buffleheaded pompous prick."

Millie and Loona look at her.

"You were waiting for an opportunity to call him that, weren't you?" Millie asks.

"Doesn't matter!" Barbie says. "Shoot the fucking target."

Millie shrugs and does, this time nailing it.

"He must have really done a number on him, huh?" Loona asks.

Barbie was about to answer-

"Guys, I'd like you to meet our newest client!" Blitzø says.

"Nice to meet you, I'm Millie!" Millie says, shaking her hand.

"Just kill the bitch." Mrs Mayberry scowled, ignoring Millie completely.

"Don't worry, Ma'am. Here at I.M.P. there's nothing we do better than killing bitches." Blitzø said.

"That better be true." She says, stomping away.

"Can't believe someone cheated on her." Barbie says.

Blitzø couldn't tell if that was sarcastic. But, he chooses to ignore it. "Alright. Are you two ready?"

"Born ready!" Millie says.

"Yeah, sure. Let's kill a bitch." Barbie shrugs.

Blitzø takes the book and opens the portal. "Okay, we're gonna do this quickly and discreetly. Loona, I'll call you when I need the portal-"

"I know the drill, Blitzø." Loona rolls her eyes.

"Alright! Let's go lick some ass!" He says.

"The expression is kick some ass, Blitzø."

"Mines better." Blitzø says.

They go through the portal, leaving the book with Loona.

Blitzø, Barbie, and Millie sneak up to the house.

"This one should be easy enough." Blitzø says, aiming and shooting the target instantly.

"Great, done, let's get out of he-"

A gunshot. "Ah! A new hole, scatter!" He shouts.

"Shit!" Barbie curses.

All three imps split up, each of the family members following with their own weapons.

~~~Loona:~~~

After they left, the phone rang. "Hello? Imp."

"Oh, hello. Is Blitzø there?"

"Who is this?" She asks.

"This is…uhm. Stolas Goetia."

Loona smiles. Oh…this was too perfect.

"Stolas, interesting name. What the fuck do you want?" She asks.

"I want to speak to Blitzø, please?" Stolas asks.

"You have to answer a few security questions first…"

"Security questions?" He asks.

"Yes, first question: are you old enough to hire an assassin?"

"I'm not interested in-"

"Answer the question." Loona says. "Or I'm hanging up."

"Yes."

"How old are you?"

"Thirty-six." Stolas says.

"Wow. Old. And what species are you?" She asks.

"Why does that matter?!" Stolas asks.

"Sir, if you're not going to cooperate, I can't help you." Loona says.

"I'm an avian." Stolas says.

"More specific." Loona says.

"Owl."

"How do you know Blitzø?" She asks.

"We were friends." Stolas says

"Why past tense?" Loona asks.

"It's…complicated." Stolas says.

"Great, what's your favorite color?"

"You've got to be kidding me." Stolas sighs.

~~~Blitzø, Millie, Barbie:~~~~

The husband of the bitch followed Blitzø to the woods.

It was hard to keep quiet with the hole in his shoulder, but he's been through worse.

"Where are you mother fucker! You think you can just kill my wife and get away with it? I don’t think so." He says angrily.

Blitzø slowly reaches for his gun, but the guy snuck up and shot his arm again. "Shit!"

"She was my everything! And now yer gonna pay!" He says, aiming for his middle.

Blitzø then quickly shot him in the head. "Should have shot me somewhere more dangerous, asshole." He says.

What a nice couple.

He's sure the two of them will settle nicely in hell.

Now he's gotta find the girls and head back. Knowing them, they should have the kids handled by-

A loud explosion is heard.

Ah. There they are.

~~~Loona:~~~

"Seasons of love by jonathan Larson! Okay? I have answered all your ridiculous questions, now will you please-"

"Sorry, Blitzø isn't here. Call again later." She says before hanging up.

Loona chuckles. That was kinda fun.

~~~Blitzø, Millie, Barbie:~~~

"Damn kids." Barbie says, climbing out the window. "Millie, when we get back, tie my tubes.”

"I can try." Millie says, throwing the grenade in the house.

"Blitzø! There he is!" Millie says, running over to help him.

"Glad to see you both made it in one piece." Blitzø says.

"Damn, you look like hell." Barbie says.

"Gee, sis. I wonder why, maybe it’s cuz’ I got shot twice in the fucking arm?! Thanks so much for the concern.” Blitzø says.

“Next time, don’t get shot.” Barbie orders.

“Just call Loona." He says.

“Okay, okay. Geez.” Barbie texts her, and a couple moments later, the portal opens.

"Mission accomplished!" Millie shouts.

"Any chance she'll pay us more for killing the woman's husband and kids?" Barbie asks Blitzø.

"I think she was counting on them being miserable." Blitzø says.

"Damn it."

They go through the portal, and Blitzø falls on his face.

“The hell happened?” Loona asks.

Millie helps him up. “Few bullet wounds, no big deal.” Blitzø shrugs. “Where’s that first aid kit?”

“Still in your office from last time.” Barbie answers.

“Right. Thanks.” Blitzø walks to his office to find it.

Loona follows.

She grabs the kit and hands it to him.

“Thanks, Loonie.” Blitzø says, first cleaning the wounds with disinfectant.

“Need help?” Loona asks.

“No, I got it. I’m used to taking care of my wounds myself.” Blitzø says.

"So, your owl friend called." Loona says.

Blitzø paused. “What?”

“Stolas. He called.” Loona says again.

Blitzø hums, "what did he want?" He continued on like he just didn’t care.

"Don't know, I hung up before he could tell me." Loona explains.

Blitzø looks at her and smiles.

"What?" Loona asks.

"I've never been prouder of you, Loonie."

"Whatever." Loona grumbled, “I’m going back to my desk.” She leaves, slamming the door.

Blitzø finished the bandages, then texted Stolas.

Blitzø: you called?

Stolas: I just wanted to talk…our last conversation didn't end well.

Blitzø sighs.

Blitzø: We have nothing else to talk about. You're doing me a favor, I'm grateful. I don't think there's anything else we need to establish.

Stolas: I'm sorry.

Blitzø: Don't worry about it.

Blitzø threw his phone harshly across the room.

He doesn't have time for this shit! He has to focus on helping his mom!

But, Blitzø couldn't stop thinking about Stolas… no matter what he did!

It hurt- it fucking hurt!

How can that stupid bird possibly think Blitzø would want to talk to him after everything he did?!

{PAST: Blitzo, age 11}

Blitzo's schedule as Stolas's personal servant was relatively simple:

He gets up first thing in the morning to deliver Stolas's breakfast, then once Stolas is done, he takes a shower while Blitzo clears the dishes and gets his clothes ready, after that he helps Stolas get preened and dressed.

While Stolas did school work Blitzo cleaned Stolas's room then prepared his lunch.

After clearing those dishes, he helped Stolas practice magic and study spells, he basically had to do it on his own since Paimon wasn't going to help him.

After dinner, Blitzø cleaned up after him, stripped and made the bed, and got Stolas through his nightly routine.

He accompanied Stolas throughout the rest of the day until the owl went to sleep…that's when the real work began.

See, there was one member of staff that Blitzo hated more than anyone, and that was paimon's butler Lays. Blitzo was assigned to him, so that meant that Lays had to be a huge pain in the ass 24/7.

After Stolas went to sleep, Blitzo had his own schooling to finish, Lays insisted on teaching him and assigning something every morning which he was to finish every night before he could sleep.

"Why do I have to do homework? Can't I just be a slave?" Blitzo asks. "Isn't torture overkill?" He asks.

Lays rolls his eyes. "Master Paimon has entrusted me with your care. And while I'm in charge of you, you're going to get a proper education."

"But why?" Blitzo asks.

"Throughout your life, you will meet people who will take advantage of you, and underestimate you. You don't want to give them a reason to." Lays says.

"What's underestimate mean?" Blitzo asks.

"It means to think of you less than you already are." Lays explains. "Imps have two options in life. We surpass expectations and make something of ourselves, or we comply and be what they want us to be."

"Who's they?" Blitzo asks.

"You'll understand when you're a little older." Lays says. "In the meantime, I want your six paragraphs explaining hell's hierarchy done by tonight."

"Tonight?!" Blitzo asks.

"And don't rush it. Every mistake made will be corrected six times each. And you will be rewriting the paper until you get it right." Lays says before exiting.

Blitzo sighs. "Great."

And sure enough, every day after Stolas went to sleep, Blitzo had to fix over 20 mistakes and had to rewrite the paper two more times before it was good enough for Lays.

He stayed up so late that every night Blitzo would be found passed out by his work. When Lays found him like this, he'd cover him with a blanket and leave him alone for the rest of the night.

~~~Present:~~~~

Blitzo hated Lays for a while…but now, he kinda owes everything to him.

He didn't know at the time, but Lays was trying to explain how he was already being taken advantage of more than he knew.

It's only fair that he now takes advantage of his knowledge of Stolas's book.

He's willing to be as nice to Stolas as possible to get what he needs from him.

He doesn't care anymore, he doesn't care how much harder he has to work, or how much he has to push.

He will take care of the family he was forced to abandon for the sake of Stolas.

He will take care of them.

Chapter Text

{Present, Stolas:}

“Octavia! Did you sleep well, my owlet?” Stolas asks, walking into the kitchen on a fine Thursday morning.

“You and mom were shouting a lot last night, is everything alright?” Octavia asks, completely ignoring her father’s question.

“Everything is fine, my owlet.” Stolas says, grabbing a steak from the fridge to feed to his beloved plant reggie. “Your mother and I were just discussing… a mutual friend.” He says, voice overenthusiastic and perky as normal.

“Dad, I'm seventeen now. You don't have to keep-”

“Via, we're fine. I promise. Say, why don't we go out today? We could spend some time together, just the two of us?” He says.

Via sighs. “Um, okay. But-”

“You know what we haven't done in a long looong time? I haven't taken you to Loo Loo land!”

“Dad-”

“You always loved when I took you to Loo Loo land! Why don't we make it a day, just the two of us?” He suggests.

“Dad, I'm not five anymore.” Via mumbles.

“I will call for some security.” Stolas says, grabbing the phone.

“Security for a theme park?” Via asks.

“We're rich and we're hot.” He says, walking over to the phone. “People want our money and our bodies.”

“Our money maybe.” Via mumbles.

“Speak for yourself, princess.” He says, making the call.

{Blitzø:}

“Alright, I'm off to get that stuff for mom. Sure you don't want to come with?” Barbie asks her brother.

“I'm good.” Blitzø says. “Someone has to stick around in case we get a client.”

“It's been kinda a slow day.” Barbie says. “I doubt we'll miss anything. Come on.”

“Business is still new and the day is young.” Blitzø says.

“If you say so.” Barbie shrugs before leaving.

Blitzø sighs. The truth is, he'd rather do anything but think about his mother. It seems him being around just made everything worse.

Blitzø's cell phone goes off a few minutes later.

Shit… it's Stolas.

He answers: “What do you want, Stolas?”

“Blitzo- I mean Blitzø. How…are you doing?” Stolas asks.

“What do you want, Stolas?” Blitzø repeats.

“I'm taking my daughter to Loo loo land today, and I was hoping you would accompany us for some extra protection for my daughter.”

“You and Stella’s daughter? How adorable.” Blitzø rolls his eyes. “Sounds like it's a little too late for protection if you ask me.”

"I did you a favor, Blitzø, and I'd appreciate it if you could do something for me." Stolas says, rolling his eyes. “You know how most royal security is, we'd like to have some actual fun.” He says.

“Yeah, they are a buzzkill. But why the hell would I help you?” Blitzø asks.

“Because I'm your friend?” Stolas asks.

“Seriously?” Blitzø asks. “Try again.”

“Because I let you use my book?” Stolas suggests.

Blitzø shrugs. “Well, you're currently taking time away from my job, so…”

“Fine, I'll pay you for your time.” Stolas says. “Will that help?”

"That’s better.” He says. “Fine, I'll do it.”

“Do what?” Loona asks, suddenly appearing next to him.

Blitzø holds up a finger to Loona, telling her to wait.

“Excellent! Thank you, Blitzø. I appreciate it.” Stolas says.

“Yeah, we'll meet you at the palace.” He hangs up. “Royal bitchiness.” He mumbles now that Stolas can't hear him.

“What was that about?” Loona asks.

“Stolas wants us to play bodyguards at Loo Loo land for his daughter.”

“Loo Loo land? I love that place!” Millie says.

Loona crosses her arms. “Stolas you say? I'll come with you.” She says.

“I mean, sure. If you want.” Blitzø says, not sure why Loona would be interested in an amusement park, but if that's how she wanted to spend the day it was fine with him.

What's the harm anyway?

{At Loo Loo Land:}

“Why don't you two go enjoy yourselves, I can handle Stolas and Via for a bit.” Blitzø says once they exit the van.

Loo Loo land, he and Stolas practically grew up here, and it hasn't changed a bit.

“You sure?” Millie asks.

“Yeah, I was his body guard for years, I know the drill.” he says.

“Bodyguard? I thought you said you two dated?” Loona says.

“It's a long fucking story, okay? Trust me you don't want to hear it. Just stick with Millie, alright?” He asks.

Loona doesn't say anything, so Blitzø just follows Stolas.

“We gotta go on my favorite ride!” Millie says to Loona. “I haven't been here since I was a kid! This is gonna be so fun!”

“You know what, you go ahead, I kinda want to see this.” Loona says.

“Suit yourself.” Millie shrugs. “But you're missing out.”

“I really don't think I am.” Loona says, leaving to catch up with Blitzø who doesn't seem to mind her disregarding what he just told her.

“This place hasn't changed a bit.” Stolas says. “Remember when we used to come here, Blitzø?”

Blitzø rolls his eyes. “How could I possibly forget?” He asks.

{Past: age 14:}

Stolas was less than thrilled about marrying Stella…

In fact, he was downright depressed about it.

So whenever his father would remind him of the awful situation he was in…he would be sulking about it for days.

And well…it was Blitzo's job to keep Stolas happy…according to Lays at least.

So, he did what he could to bring a smile to the bird's face.

“Stolas?” Blitzo asks, entering his room.

“My life is a series of dark prophecies and unhappy endings.” He says, laying on his bed pathetically.

Blitzo rolls his eyes. “Okay drama queen.” Blitzo scoffs. “Come on, let's do something fun.”

“Like what?” Stolas asks.

“We could go to Loo loo land.” Blitzo suggests. “Get your mind off stuff.”

Stolas smiles. “But what if Lays finds out?”

“I'm willing to make that sacrifice.” Blitzo says.

“What if my father sees we're gone?” Stolas asks.

The two young men start laughing hysterically.

“Good one.” Blitzo says. “I'll make sure Lays isn't expecting me for anything, you get in disguise.”

Stolas smiles. “Okay! Thanks, Blitzo!” He says excitedly.

{Present:}

…what a garbage place it was.

“Oh, Via! I remember how you used to cry tears of joy at this show.”

“Oh no…” Blitzø heard Via mumble.

“I hate that fucking clown.” Both Via and Blitzø say.

Via and Stolas take their seats near the front while Blitzø and Loona watch a few rows behind them.

“Why won't you tell me what happened between you and birdbrain?” Loona asks.

“Not now, Loona.” Blitzø says.

“If not now, when?” She asks harshly.

“Hey, I don't ask about your sob stories, I don't owe you mine.” Blitzø says.

“Why not? It affects me too.” Loona says.

“No, it really doesn't.” Blitzø says.

“It does! I'm the one who has to live with you.” Loona says.

“You can't keep using that excuse, young lady.” Blitzø scolds.

“Young lady? I'm 21!”

“Then act like it! I've taken care of you for three years and asked for nothing. I've never asked for your respect, any reciprocation, when will my integrity stop being questioned?” He asks.

“I don't know, maybe when you start being honest with me?” Loona suggests, standing up and stomping out of there.

Blitzø sighs, “Loona-!”

“Octavia!” Stolas stood up too as Via ran out of the tent.

Blitzø and Stolas both ran out of the tent after their daughters.

“Via!” Stolas called.

“Loona?” Blitzø calls at the same time. He rolls his eyes. “That's just great. What happened?” Blitzø asks Stolas.

“I don't know, she said she couldn't take this anymore and stormed off. Blitzø, what if something happens to her?” Stolas asks.

“Relax, Via is seventeen, she'll be fine.” Blitzø says. “It's not like she's never been by herself.”

“She's never been by herself.” Stolas says.

“She's NEVER BEEN BY HERSELF?!” Blitzø asks. “She's seventeen!”

“Now is not the time to comment on my parenting, Blitzø.” Stolas says. “What if she gets hurt!?” He panics.

“Relax, Stolas. We'll find her. Let's just split up, we'll cover more ground that way.” Blitzø says.

“Fine.” Stolas says, walking one way so Blitzø can walk the opposite way.

{Octavia and Blitzø:}

“Loony? Via?” Blitzø calls. “Via!”

Blitzø thought about where Via might go…

He doesn't really know Via…but she's dumb teen girl so…

Where would Stolas go?

He looks behind the old abandoned funhouse they never cleaned up and immediately spots her.

Predictable.

“There you are, Princess.” Blitzø says.

Via groans. “Don't call me that! Just leave me alone.” Via tells him.

Blitzø rolls his eyes. “Look, your dad hired me to keep an eye on you and that's what I'm going to do. So why don't you just make this easy for me and we can go find him together?”

“Why don't you just fuck off? I didn't even want to come here in the first place! At least let me have some fun!” She says, throwing a rock through one of the old windows.

“Christ on a stick you are just like your father.” Blitzø sighs. “Look, if you're going to be rebellious and cause trouble. At least do it properly.” He says.

A strange demon jumps out of nowhere to grab Via but Blitzø instantly shoots and kills him.

“Woah.” Via says, taking a step back. “Nice shot.”

“Thanks.” Blitzø says. “Are you convinced yet? Can we go?” He asks.

Octavia smirks. “Would you teach me how to shoot that?”

“Would your dad be okay with it?” Blitzø asks, Arms crossed.

“Probably not.” Via deflates.

Blitzø thinks about it…

He knows technically he's under Stolas's thumb again, that he has to do what Stolas asks of him if he wants to continue his business and make enough money to help his mom…

But…you know.

What Stolas doesn't know won't kill him.

“Alright sure.” Blitzø says.

“Really?” Via asks, surprised.

“Sure, but afterwards we're finding your dad, deal?” He asks her.

“Deal.” She agrees.

{Stolas and Loona:}

Stolas anxiously makes his way through the park. “Via! Octavia!” Stolas calls.

He doesn't find her… but he does see Loona, sitting on a bench by the gate to the park.

“Loona! Your father is looking everywhere for you!” Stolas says.

“Great, so I can go find him so he can lie to me some more.” Loona sighs, lighting a cigarette.

“Loona-”

“What happened between you and him anyway?” Loona asks.

“It's…complicated.” Stolas says.

“It is not! You two just don't want to acknowledge what you did!”

“I don't even know what I did!” Stolas says loudly. “I know I hurt him…but I had no choice…”

“How did you hurt him?!” Loona asks.

Stolas sighs. “I…I don't know.” He says.

“Bullshit!” Loona says.

“No, really, I- I know he keeps saying that he's upset because I married Stella. But. I had no choice.” He explains. “We were betrothed as children. We couldn't get out of it. Trust me, I pleaded to my father many times over it, trying to get out of it…but it was either marry her…or die.”

Loona frowns. “That's…rough.”

“I didn't mean to hurt him, I swear. I didn't want to…then he just left one day.” Stolas explains. “He didn't even say goodbye.”

Loona looks at him. “That must have been really hard for you.” She says.

Stolas nods. “It was.” He rubbed his eye. “But, it's okay, it was years ago. I'm obviously over him…it! I mean it!”

“Wow.” Loona says. “You really liked him, huh?”

Stolas sighs. Of course he did…it's Blitzo

{Past: Stolas and Blitzo}

They had spent the day in Loo loo land. They went on the simpler rides, ate junk food…and especially watched the fireworks behind the abandoned funhouse.

“I love this place!” Stolas says as the fireworks reflecting beautifully in his eyes.

“Why though? This place is shit.” Blitzo laughs, refusing to act on how he was feeling right now. “Especially here.”

Stolas shrugs. “I don't know. Maybe that's why I like it…it's not fake.” He says, looking at Blitzo now.

He loved being in his imp disguise…it made him feel like…

Like maybe he and Blitzo could…

He turns away.

No…It can't happen…

But he's only happy when he imagines it happening…

Maybe for a second, he could imagine it possible.

Blitzo scoffs. “It's all fake.” He says.

“Blitzo?” Stolas asks, changing the tone of the conversation entirely.

“Yeah?”

“Thank you for taking me here.” He says, moving his hand and placing it on top of Blitzo's.

Blitzo smiles, taking his hand. “Yeah. Of course.”

“I…I love you.” He says.

Blitzo blushes, looking ahead of them.

Stolas deflates. “Was that too-”

“I love you too.” Blitzo says, still not looking at him.

Now it was Stolas's turn to blush and turn away.

The feelings were out there, and the atmosphere was uncomfortable in the best possible way possible…

“So…what now?” Stolas asks him.

“We should get you home.” Blitzo says.

And Stolas agrees.

{Loona and Stolas:}

“Well, he was my only friend at the time so…of course I did.”

Loona's ears drop, looking at Stolas's face.

Stolas sighs. “Maybe this was a mistake, I just wanted to give Octavia a nice day.” He says.

“And why exactly did you bring us?” Loona asks.

“Well…it may sound rather silly but…life has been awful since Blitzø left, I just wanted to revisit a time when life wasn't horrible…I wanted to give Via that.”

“Life's been pretty bad for her?” Loona asks.

Stolas shrugs. “It hasn't been easy…I try to protect her, keep her from all the hate…I just want her to be okay.”

“She's old enough to understand these things, lying and hiding stuff from her is only going to build resentment, trust me.” Loona says, looking away.

“I gather you speak from experience?” Stolas asks.

“We're not bonding over this!” Loona shouts.

Stolas smiles. “Okay, alright. I'm sorry.” He says.

They're quiet for a moment.

“We should go find your daughter.” Loona says.

Stolas stands up. “Loona?”

He turns to him. “What?”

“Thank you.”

{Via and Blitzø:}

Via shoots a soda can. “He's always doing this! Ignoring me, trying to distract me from what's happening, why doesn't he just talk to me?” She asks.

“Well, sometimes it's hard to talk about family stuff.” Blitzø says.

“But, I am part of this! It affects my life just as much as his! I would love to talk to him but- I just…I don't know if he'll listen or shut me down!”

Blitø nods. “I’m sure he doesn't know you feel that way, Via.”

“How can he? He never listens.” She says.

Damn, it truly was like talking to a teenage Stolas again.

He rolls his eyes. “Via,” he minds his tone. “Your dad is around, just say what you want to, don't worry about disappointing him so much.” Blitzø says.

“But-”

“He cares about you.” Blitzø says. “Just say it, if he's upset, he'll just have to get over it. And he will.”

“How can you know that for sure?” Octavia asks.

“He's your dad, you're his whole fucking world right now.” He says. “Trust me, I know…I am one. And it looks like you got a pretty great one.”

Via nods. “I do… but. What if he doesn't want anything to do with me? Like my mum? What if I'm not good enough for him?”

Blitzø frowns…remembering his own father and how easily he was given up on…

“Stolas wouldn't do that.” Blitzø says he's pretty sure he's only talking to Via, but…

“And if he hypothetically gave up on you, you'd be better off.” He says. “But you don't have to worry about that, he's in that phase where he just really wants you to think he's cool.”

Via chuckles.

“I'm serious, I know because I'm in the same place with my daughter Loona.” He says.

“Surely she thinks you're cool.” Via says.

“She's my daughter, Via. Let's be honest, she's never going to think that.”

Via chuckles.

Blitzø takes his gun back and places it back in his holster. “Alright, we should go back and find your dad, he's probably definitely worried about you.

Via nods. “Yeah, alright.”

“I'd also appreciate it if you didn't mention me letting you shoot stuff to your dad.” Blitzø says.

“I am not a nark.” Via says.

“Atta girl.” Blitzø winks at her.

~~~Everyone:~~~

“Via, there you are!” Stolas says with relief, hugging his daughter tightly the moment Blitzø and her found them. “What happened? Are you okay?”

“I'm fine, dad. I promise. I was just…” She looks at Blitzø, then back at Stolas. “Dad I know you really liked taking me here when I was younger and I use to love it myself…but I'm just- I'm not-”

Stolas nods. “You're too old for it, I know dear.” He says. “Loona actually helped me realize that. I understand.”

“But dad, I'll never be too old to spend time with you. Maybe we could just find something new?” Via suggests. “Maybe go somewhere to talk?”

“I like that idea very much, Via. I know you're not a little girl anymore, and I don't have to, but I still feel this need to protect you. But I will do better. Just, please be patient with me.” He says.

Via hugs Stolas. “I love you, dad.”

“I love you too. I'm sorry it took Loona telling me off to get me here. I should have been listening sooner.”

“That's okay, dad. Actually, I sorta had the same experience with Blitzø, he's is a pretty good listener.” She says.

Stolas looks at Blitzø who says nothing. “Well, I guess I chose the right escort then.”

“Try not to make it a habit.” Blitzø says, arms crossed.

Stolas smiles. “We'll see.” He hums.

Millie suddenly stumbles over to Blitzø and Loona. “Ohhh dere’ ya aaaarree!” She squeaks. “I'm sooo drunk right naow!” She hiccups and falls into Blitzø's arms. “I looove it heeeerree!!”

Blitzø tries to steady Millie and keep her on her feet. “Yeah, okay. Let's get Millie home, Loonie. Your aunt is probably wondering where we are.” He says.

“Thank you, Blitzø.” Stolas says, before they have the chance to leave.

“Uh yeah. Sure, no-no problem.” He says awkwardly before walking to the van.

Stolas summons a portal to take him and Via home. “Perhaps we shall do something next weekend?” Stolas asks Via.

“Oooh, maybe we could go to stylist occult? They sell weird taxidermy there.” Via suggests.

Stolas tilts his head. “Ummm okay?” He answers with hesitancy.

Via chuckles. “Thanks dad, you're okay sometimes.”

“Thank you, Via. Thank you.”

{Loona and Blitzø:}

Loona adjusts Millie by the window in case she needs to puke. “So, you think Aunt Barb is gonna be upset about where we were today?” She asks.

“First of all, your aunt doesn't scare me, and second she's not gonna know about it because nobody here is going to tell her a goddamn thing!” Blitzø says.

Millie only responds by throwing up out the window.

Loona smiles. “Hey, dad? Can we talk about…something?” She asks.

“Sure, Loonie. What's up?” He asks.

“I, uh. I would like to start coming with you on assignments.”

Blitzø sighs. “Loona-”

“I know! But just hear me out, I think I'm ready, I don't have to go every time. But, maybe once in a while?” She asks. “Please?”

Blitzø looks at her, then back at the road. “Yeah…alright. I guess. If that's what you really want.” He says.

“Thanks….dad.” She says.

He smiles at her, but doesn't say anything else…not wanting to think about the possibility of her being in danger.

He knows she's capable of so much… but he doesn't want her to think he only has her the same reason his father had him.

“Stolas was…pretty nice.” Loona says.

“I wouldn't get too attached, Loony.” He says.

“Why not?” Loona asks him.

"Well, for one thing he's a jerk." Blitzø mumbles. 

“Why do you hate him? Because he was forced to marry Stella? That's not fair!” She says.

Blitzø doesn't answer, just looks forward.

“You abandoned him! For what!? What has he ever done to you?” Loona asks.

“Loona! This is none of your business! And I'm not the one who abandoned him! He abandoned me.” He says.

“What?”

“Drop it!” Blitzø shouts.

“Fine, just lie to me more! That's fine!” Loona huffs.

Blitzø sighs, still not giving a response.

What can he say?

{Blitzo, past:} ⚠️

“You took prince Stolas, where?!” King Paimon asks harshly.

“He took him to an amusement park, Sire.” Stolas's tutor, Augestine explains.

“Sir, I was only-”

“Blitzo.” Lays interrupts, looking at him with stern glare.

“How exactly are you going to handle this, Lays?” Augestine asks. “I want this boy horsewhipped! What if Stolas got hurt?”

“He is only a child.” Lays says to him.

“That's correct, he is.” Paimon says. “So you will teach him what happens when children don't do as they are told, is that clear?”

Lays looks at Blitzø and sighs. “Yes, Sir. I will take care of it.”

“I trust you will.” Paimon says. “Don't make me regret keeping him alive this whole time.”

“Blitzo, come with me.” Lays tells him.

Blitzo sighs, he knew that tone…

He was fucked.

He lead Blitzo downstairs to the servants area.

To his quarters.

Yeah, Blitzo has a room… not that he slept in it that much.

“Remove your trousers, hands on the desk. You know the routine by now.” He says.

Blitzo sighs, doing as asked with no question.

“Blitzo…”

“Yes?” He asks.

“Why are you being disciplined?” Lays asks.

“Because I convinced Prince Stolas to sneak out of the palace.” He answers.

“For your transgression, I will be giving you twenty. Is that understood?”

“Yes sir.” Blitzo says.

“Any resistance or backtalk will earn you five more. Is that understood?” He asks.

“Yes sir.” Blitzo says.

“Good, we will begin.” Lays takes a step back, paddle in hand.

He swings the paddle and hits Blitzo's ass hard.

Blitzo bites back a sound, trying to just take it as best as possible.

He knew this would happen-

Another hit,

And another.

But he wanted to help Stolas.

Four…

Five…

Six…

“Blitzo…”

Seven.

“Y-yes sir?” Blitzo asks, shuddering.

“We talked about this before, haven't we?” Lays asks, delivering number eight. “You can't let yourself get into trouble for Stolas.”

Nine hurts like a bitch! Blitzo bit down on his lip so hard it bled.

“He was upset! What was I supposed to do?” Blitzo asks him.

Ten.

“Ow!”

“How many times do I have to explain this?” He asks him. “They don't see us as equals, no matter what they say…they simply don't care about people like us.”

“I know.” Blitzo says. “But that doesn't mean I can't care about him.” He says.

“I know you think Stolas is your friend, but he's not. He's your master. Any other attitude will only land you in more trouble. Better to learn now than get more hurt later.” He says, giving him his last ten lashes.

….

Chapter Text

“Business is booming!” Blitzø announces as they all walk into the building. “We were left with sixteen voicemails last night, none from Stolas! I told you guys, sinners live off vengeance!”

“Fuck yes!” Millie shouts. “I'm so ready to kill some mother fuckers!”

“That's the spirit Millie! We should all celebrate, drinks tonight after work? Who's with me?” Blitzø asks. 

“Sorry, I got a blind date tonight.” Millie says.

“Well…now you've lost the spirit, Mills.” Blitzø jokes. 

“I'm not having drinks with you.” Loona says.

“I got a date too.” Barbie says. 

“Ugh, are you still with that guy?” Loona asks. 

“Yeah, what of it?” Barbie asks her.

Loona just rolls her eyes. “He's such a prick.”

“Jesse is not a prick, he's…”

“He's an asshole and you could do so much better.” Loona says. 

“So, Millie, who's this blind date of yours?” Barbie asks, glaring a loona, making sure she's aware that she's ignoring her. 

“I don't know some guy named Bradly. I Really hope this one's different.” Millie says.

“His name is Bradly? Those are not good odds.” Blitzø says. 

“I know, but the people I've been dating are either guys who are too good for me, guys who aren't good enough but think they are, or guys who are nice but…we just don't click. Dating fucking sucks!” She complains. 

Blitzø nods. “That it does. Why do you think I haven't dated since-”

“Blitzø Buckzo?” Someone says behind them. “Is that you?”

They just made it to I.M.P when they heard it…

Blitzø smirks, recognizing the voice.

“Verosika mayday. How the hell have you been?” Blitzø asks, turning around to face her with a smile. 

“I've been great!” She says. “I'm doing a bit of freelance for one of the companies in the building. And they wanted to have me come in this week to lead their team during spring break.” 

“Wow, lucky them.” Blitzø says. “We should have you work for us sometime.”

“Oh, sweetie. You couldn't afford me.” She laughs.

Blitzø does too. “I know you're joking…but we seriously couldn't.” 

“So, who's your team?” She asks, noticing the looks she's getting from Loona and Millie. 

“This is my daughter, Loona, my friend Millie, and you remember my sister, Barb.” 

She smiles. “Of course! Hello, Barbie. And did I hear you say daughter? You've been busy.” She jokes with a wink.

“I'm adopted!” Loona says quickly. “We're not- I'm not- he's…”

“I figured.” Verosika laughs. “It hasn't been that long. You're adorable.” She says.

Loona blinks. “...thanks?” 

“Come, meet everyone.” The succubus says, taking Blitzø's hand and pulling him forward.

“This is Apple, Josh, Kiki, Ace, Kat, Milky, and Coco.” She says. “This is Blitzø, my friend. Barbie wire, his sister, Loona, his daughter, and… I'm sorry, what was your name again?” She asks Millie. 

“Millie!” She says. “It's really nice to meet you, I've never met a popstar before.” She says. “How do you know my boss anyway?” 

“Oh.” Verosika crosses her arms and looks over at Blitzø before turning back to Millie. “We met at a party, had a blast, met at a few other parties, got…acquainted.” She smirks. 

Blitzø rolls his eyes. 

“And then he disappeared off the face of the hell.” She says. 

“That's a bit of an exaggeration!” Blitzø says. 

“True, you left a note.” She says, arms still crossed. “Great penmanship.”. 

“Figures.” Loona rolls her eyes. 

“You know, I'd really prefer if we let the past be the past. It was really nice to meet you all.” Blitzø says, shaking all their hands. “But we should probably head to work.” 

“Blitzø?” Verosika asks. 

Blitzø stops. “Yes?” 

“Maybe we could catch up? Talk?” Verosika says. “Maybe get a coffee or dinner later?” 

“Yeah, totally.” Blitzø says, not seriously meaning it. 

Don't get him wrong, Verosika is an amazing woman, but he knows what will happen if he gets too close to her. 

“You know what? My date just canceled, and I had this amazing reservation at Ozzie's.” Millie says.

Blitzø glares. “Millie-”

“You two should totally take it.” Millie interrupts. “It would be a great way for you two to catch up! You know Blitzø hasn't had a date in-”

“Millie!” Blitzø interrupts.

“Come on! It'll be fun!” Millie says. 

“I'm sure Verosika has better things to do then to go to a weird club with-”

Verosika looks at him, then takes his hand. “I'd be…up for that….actually.”

Blitzø looks up at her. “You…yeah?” 

“Yeah, it could be fun.” She says. “You've always been fun.” 

“Great, you two figure out the details, we'll get started on actually working.” Barbie takes the book from Blitzø and leaves with the other two.

“Tonight, after work. You in?” Verosika asks.

“Uhh well…”

{PAST:}

Blitzo was preparing Stolas's breakfast in the kitchen. 

“What was all that commotion downtown anyway?” One of the servants asks the other.

“Some imp circus is in town, they're so immature and stupid I don't understand why some demons enjoy that filth. Nothing good ever comes from the circus.”

“Uhm…Blitzo was from a circus.” The Imp says, looking over at Blitzo who wasn't looking at them, just getting the tray in front of him ready, acting like he's not listening. 

“That explains it.” She scoffs. 

Lays walks over to Blitzo. “Blitzo, is Stolas's breakfast ready?” 

Blitzo looks around and the two imps that were talking are gone. “Uh yeah sorry. I got it. Say, did she say something about an Imp circus?" Blitzo asks. “What's that about?

"Need I remind you, Blitzo, the consequences of sneaking out?" Lays asks. “Didn't you learn enough from yesterday's incident?” 

"I wasn't going to sneak out! Okay? I was just asking!" Blitzo defends. 

Lays gave him a warning look, then walked away. 

Blitzo picks up the tray and walks to Stolas's room smiling to himself. 

He has the perfect way of sneaking out, and it looks like the perfect time to make use of it.

They won't see it coming! 

“Good morning, Stolas!” Blitzø announces himself as he walks into the prince's room.

“Blitzo…good morning. How- um. How are you?”

‘Fucking sore and wishing I were anywhere else right now…’ he thought. 

“I'm great!” Blitzo lies. “I got your breakfast here…so.” 

Stolas nods. “Thank you, Blitzo. I know I can count on you…for everything.” He smiles. 

“Yeah, well I have to.” Blitzo says.

“Blitzo? What's wrong?” Stolas asks him, noticing the face he was making and the snark is his voice.

“Nothing. I'm fine.” He says. “Why?” He asks, panicked. 

“Did I make you uncomfortable yesterday?” Stolas asks. 

“What?” 

“I didn't see you at all last night, did I make you uncomfortable with my words at the park?” He asks. “I didn't mean to be too forward, I just…” Stolas looks away, the eyes in his head looking sad. 

Blitzo sighs. “No, you didn't I-” 

“What?” 

Blitzo pauses and licks his lips, trying to find the words. “I just don't know how to take or process it. It's hard, because you're a prince, a prince who happens to be engaged and-” 

“Ugh don't remind me!” Stolas whines, laying dramatically on the bed. 

“I'm sorry, it's just kind of impossible. You know?” Blitzo asks him. 

Stolas nods, getting up. “Yes, you're right. It's impossible to have the future I'd imagine together…but, it's not impossible to love each other anyway. To find our own way.” 

Blitzo raises an eyebrow. “What?” 

“What I mean is, even though we can't be together now, I love you just the same. You can choose to love me back, or not. But it doesn't change how I feel.” Stolas takes his hand. “They can't change how I feel.”

“Wow. Look at you thinking for yourself.” Blitzo jokes. 

“I learned from the best.” He says. “Besides, who knows what can change in a few years, right?” 

Blitzø smiles. “Yeah. Exactly.” 

Stolas finished eating, and Blitzø helped him get dressed. 

All seemed to just return back to normal…

But it was also completely different somehow. 

Stolas loved him?

Really?

How was that even possible? 

{Present:}

“Blitzø?” Verosika asks. “You in or what?” 

Blitzø smiles. “Yeah…sounds fun.” 

“Great, I'll see you then.” She says, walking away but not without sending him a quick wink first. 

{Later}

“The fuck am I doing? I can't date! I especially can't date Verosika I mean, why would she even want to go out after I turned her down the first time?” Blitzø asks, changing his jacket to his leather one. 

“Because she likes you?” Barbie suggests. “Stop overthinking it. Dating is normal. Try it.” 

“I've dated!” Blitzø says.

“One night stands and serving an owl do not constitute dating!” Barbie says. 

“I’m an imp, she’s a fucking popstar.” Blitzø says. “How can she possibly be into me?” 

“You had a prince simp for you, for Christ sake!” Barbie says. 

“Yeah but no one was left. It was me or Stella and trust me…I was the lesser of two uglies. Stolas only liked me because I was there. It was convenient for him because I was stuck there.” He explains. 

“What a prick.” Barbie mumbles. 

“Maybe that’s the problem, maybe Verosika’s standards are too low? She's probably got a weird addiction and usually dates shifty guys, that's always how this works.”

The office door opens. “Hey Blitzø. Your daughter said I could just walk in, I hope that's alright.” She says. 

He turns. “Verosika, Hi.” Blitzø greets. “It's fine we were just talking about…nothing. How was work?” 

Barbie rolls her eyes. “Smooth.”

“My hellhound Vortex broke his leg fighting a giant monster, but overall it was fine.” She says. 

“Is he okay?” Loona asks, sounding worried as she practically runs to the office.

“He's fine.” She says. “A little sore and needs some rest, but he should be back on his paws in no time.”

“Good. I'm glad he's hot- I mean I'm glad he's fine!” Loona says, cheeks burning red as she sees Blitzø and Verosika's shocked reactions. 

Blitzø quickly changes the subject. “So…anyway. We caught some of your show when we passed by the beach, pretty amazing stuff.” 

“Thanks.” She says. “The crowd seemed to like it anyway.” 

Barbie has her arms crossed as she walks over to the pop-star. “So, Verosika is it?” She asks, getting up on her tip-toes to look intimidating. 

“Uh yes?” Verosika answers, obviously uncomfortable with how close she was. 

“What are your intentions with my brother?” She asks. 

“To…go out to dinner and have a nice time.” Verosika says. “Nothing beyond that. Though it's cute that you're so protective of him.” 

“His heart is glass, but mine is stone, you break his heart, I find out where you live and rip your limbs off one-by-one! Got it?”

Blitzø glares at Barbie and takes Verosika’s hand. “Hah. You're so funny, Barb. You should tell that to your own date…oh wait, you can't because you don't fucking have one.”

“Fuck you!” She says. “Jesse's just running late, he'll be here!”

“Whatever you have to tell yourself.” He says before guiding Verosika out the door.

“I'm sorry about her.” Blitzø says once out of earshot of Barbie 

“No, don't be. I think it's kinda adorable how protective she is.” She says.

{Past:}

Stolas was studying with his tutor Augestine. 

Blitzo wasn't to leave Stolas's side unless he was asked to or if he had a good reason… so he started to question the possibility of escaping. 

“Blitzo?” Stolas asks. “Have you seen my ruby cufflinks?” He asks. 

Blitzo seized the opportunity and backed up a little, knowing exactly where they were located. “You know I think I saw them downstairs.” He says. Carefully taking the small red cufflinks that were on Stolas's nightstand and putting them in his pocket.

“Huh. That's strange. Why would I take them off down there?” Stolas asks. 

Blitzo blinks. “With all due respect, your highness. You have been overwhelmed. Perhaps you left it without realizing. I'll go and fetch them for you if you'd like.” He says. 

Stolas looks at him suspiciously. “Alright.” 

Blitzo bows and exits the prince's room. 

Fucking finally! 

Blitzo snuck downstairs to one of the spare rooms they had- a room which no one typically minded. He couldn't be spotted or else Lays will have a fucking cow. 

He climbed out the window slowly, getting used to the routine because he often snuck out to look at the stables.

Sigh. So many beautiful horses, so many stupid names. 

Basic birds. 

He snuck around the stables and he was out of there. 

He had to get back and give Stolas back his cufflinks, he had less than an hour but it would be worth it if it was in fact his family's circus. 

He could see Barb and Fizz again…he could see his mom! 

But- there was a painful feeling in his chest…

What if they had moved on without him? 

It's been four years after all…

Almost five now.

{Present, OZZIE'S}

Verosika and Blitzø make it to the club. 

“So, this is the place, huh?” Blitzø asks.

“Yeah.” She says. “I actually perform here sometimes.” She says. “Asmodeus and everyone here is so nice. Way better than most fucked up places around here.” He says. 

Blitzø nods. “Yeah, that makes sense.” 

The guard lets them in, and they're escorted to their seats. 

They sit in silence until the waitress shows up. 

“Can I start you two off with a drink?” She asks.

“Uhm red whine for me.” Verosika says. 

“Same here.” Blitzo says. 

“I'll be right back, sweetie.” She says, more directed to Verosika of course.

She looked amazing. 

“So…” Blitzø taps the table anxiously. 

“So…” She mimics playfully. 

“Been quite a few years. What's changed in your life?” Blitzø asks.

“Well, they threw me into rehab for a bit.” She says. “But they couldn't keep me there, I have too promising a future.”

“Bold to bring that up on a first date.” Blitzø says.

“So this is a date then?” She asks.

Blitzø looks away from her. 

“Blitzø?” Verosika asks. “Whatever you're thinking, just please say it.”

“Why would you agree to come after I rejected you like that?” Blitzø asks her. “It was quite the dick move, I figured you must have hated me.” 

She shrugs. “I don't know, I assume you had a good reason to. I was hoping to ask you about it…so you could explain?” She asks. “I hate getting no closure. And I especially hate when it's someone I really liked who leaves me blindsided.” She explains. 

“You really liked me?” Blitzø asks. 

“Well…yeah.” She says.

“Me?”

She rolls her eyes. “Do I really have to say it again?” 

“It's just- you know you're a fucking goddess, right?” He asks.

Her face drops, looking at him with surprise. “What?”

“What I mean is, you're so beautiful. You're so kind and smart, better than most everyone else in hell, you don't have to wait around for someone like me to break your heart.” He explains. 

“Blitzø? Why did you leave like that?” She asks. “Please tell me you had a good reason to.” 

Blitzø sighs. “I was still trying to get over someone else.” 

“That someone must have been pretty special.” She says. 

“He was…. But I was also laser focused on helping my mom. Everything in my life was so depressing and I realized I was just using you to make me feel better- and that wasn't fair! That's exactly what-” 

Blitzø cut himself off. “Point is, I didn't mean to hurt you, but if I'm sleeping with you for more reasons than necessary, it wasn't a good situation.” 

“Your mom was sick?” She asks him.

“Yeah, she's…not doing so great.” Blitzø says. 

“She's still sick?” Verosika asks.

“Yeah. Been since I was a kid.” Blitzø says.

“Oh wow, Blitzø, I am so sor-”

A sudden voice from the stage stops her from continuing her sentence: “Hey, folks!” begging your pardon! Excuse me? Is this thing on?”

Blitzø's face turned shocked by who he saw up on stage. 

“Blitzø…?” Verosika asks. “Are you okay?”

“Oh no…” Blitzø says softly, his gaze still fixated on the stage. “Not him.”

“What? What is it?” Verosika asks, turning to the stage. 

“I'm your host Fizzarolli! We have a great set up for you tonight! So many amazing acts that are sure to get you freaks freaking out!”

{Past:}

It wasn't hard to find the circus, there were a million flyers downtown advertising it.

It took him fifteen minutes to get there, it'll take him the same to get back. So he could only stay for thirty minutes at most. 

He makes it to the tent and sneaks around to find a way in.

He's learned to be really good at sneaking around, not only just with him but with Stolas. So he'd have to be really good. 

He pulled the hood of his jacket up and snuck in by blending in with a large family. 

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to our family circus. We've got some amazing acts for you all tonight.” A familiar squeaky voice speaks. His damn father, the one who let him be captured, the one who fucking sold hid own son, that mother fucking asshole! 

He needed to focus, at least he knows it's the right circus. 

He makes his way to the back where the performers were. He looked around until he finally saw them. “Psst! Fizz, Barb!” He whispers, just loud enough for them to hear. 

They both walk over to him. “Listen, creep. Whatever it is you're looking for, you're not going to find it by-”

Barbie is interrupted by Blitzo looking at her, removing his hood. 

Fizzarolli looks at him, his jaw dropped and eyes wide.

“Blitzo?” Barbie asks him.

“Glad you can still recognize me, sis.” He says, rubbing his arm anxiously. 

Barbie hugs him close. “Oh my fuck!” She lets go and hits his arm harshly. “Where in hell have you been?!” 

“Shh, I don't want Cash to know I'm here.” He says.

“What? Why?” Fizz asks. 

“Come with me.” Blitzo takes Barbie's hand and Fizz follows them outside.

“What gives?” Barbie asks. 

“Where have you been this whole time, dude?” Fizz asks him.

“Why don't you want to see dad? I know he's an asshole but-”

“Cash seriously didn't tell you?” Blitzo asks them.

“Tell us what?” Barbie asks.

“The Goetias? The treasure?” 

Both shook their heads. 

“Wow.” Blitzo rolls his eyes. “I do not have time for this so I'll make it brief, Dad sold me to that weird Goetia Paimon to entertain his son Stolas for the day so I could steal treasure from them. I was caught and dad escaped so now I am forced to work for them to pay off that debt.” Blitzo explains.

“What? For how long?” Barbie asks.

“Forever probably.” Blitzo shrugs. “There was a lot of gold.”

“Dude!” Fizz says. “I'm so sorry that happened. I had no idea!” 

“It's fine, I'm fine! I'm just happy to see you guys again.” He says. “I have so many questions.”

“Better stick with one, we gotta be on stage soon.” Fizz says. 

“Okay, where's mom? I'd like to see her before I go.” He asks.

Fizz and Barbie look at each other, then back at him.

“What?” Blitzo asks them. 

“Moms been in the hospital.” Barbie says. 

“But why? For how long?” Blitzo asks. “Is she going to be okay?”

“After you…disappeared, something in her just snapped.” Barbie explains. “She kept screaming and asking for you randomly. We had no choice but to institutionalize her.” 

Blitzo wasn't sure what to say about that. “Fuck.”

“Blitzo this isn't your fault.” Barbie says. 

“Yeah, it's his fault.” Fizz says, gesturing to the tent. “I'm sure all Tilla needs is to see you! She'll have to get better! And now that you're back-”

“I have to head back to the palace before they realized I snuckout.” Blitzo interrupts. 

“You what?” Barbie asks. 

“I have to, I'm sorry. But I'll be back. How long will you guys be here?” Blitzo asks. 

“A while.” Barbie says. “Cash can't afford to move too much right now.” 

“Great. I'll come back.” Blitzo promises. “Maybe tonight, but I'm not sure. It really depends on if I was caught.” 

Blitzo was about to walk away but Fizz grabbed his hand and pulled him back towards him for a hug. “I'm going to help you get out of there, Blitzo. No matter what I have to do. I promise.” 

Blitzo hugs him back, a tear falling down his face. “Thanks Fizz.” 

{Present:} 

“I'm sorry, I can't do this.” Blitzø says; He gets up from the table and runs out of the club.

“Blitzø?” Verosika asks. “Wait!”

Blitzø ran outside, the rain pouring meant nothing to him at this point. He hasn't seen Fizz in years…why was he here!?

Verosika ran after him. “Blitzø! Wait please?” She asks. 

Blitzø considers ignoring her and continuing but..

He stops. 

She catches up to him. “What the hell was that? What happened?!” 

“I'm sorry, I- I really am. I just- I…” Blitzø sighs. “The clown in there, I… I used to know him. And I didn't really expect to see him there.” He admits.

Verosika's eyes widen. “Oh. Do you want to talk about it?” Verosika asks. “I'm a good listener.” 

“No really.” Blitzø says, sitting on a bench. “I appreciate the offer though.” 

“You wanna fuck?” She asks, sitting next to him, sharing her umbrella with him.  

“I want to spend one fucking day without feeling horrible.” He says. 

“I can help with that.” She says. 

“How so?” He asks.

“You're not that dense. Come with me to my apartment, I have wine and other substances.” Verosika tempts. “Let's have some fun!” 

“I don't know.” He says. He's not a stranger to weird substances, in fact he knew them quite well. But he knows how easily he can fall for someone, how easily he obsesses-

“What do you have to lose?” She asks. “We're friends right?” 

Blitzø nods. “Of course we are.” 

“Then you should be able to trust me.” She says. “We don't have to do anything you don't want to. Let's just see where the night takes us, get your mind off thinhs. How about that?” 

Blitzø smiles at her. “Sounds good.”

She smiles and they both stand up. 

Blitzø smirks. “Of course…”

Verosika looks at him. 

“I'm sure we can think of a more exciting place to spend the night.” He says. 

“Got any suggestions?” She asks. 

He smiles. “Plenty. Ever been Salsa dancing?”

She chuckles. “Can't say I have.” 

“Would you like to?” Blitzø asks. “It's way more fun than it sounds. There's this club in pride. It's especially if you wait long enough and everyone is the right shade of drunk. Besides, they have these amazing cocktails.”

She bites her lip, it sounded very tempting. “I'd go anywhere at this point. My standards are so low due to my addiction and the assholes I’ve been dating anyways.” She jokes with him. 

“Oh, you heard me, that's- I'm sorry.” He says. 

She laughs. “I'll let it go this time, you've had a rough night.” She says. “Let's see if you can make it all up to me with some amazing cocktails.” ~

Blitzø blushes, but she didn't seem to notice while they took the train back to pride.

They honestly had a great time…

Drank so much they ended up on a ranch,

Then a fucking escape room, got out really easily. 

And then they were back at Verosika's place. 

Blitzø woke up that morning… seeing her right next to him.

He smiles and gently strokes her hair. 

A part of him really wanted to leave, get to work, pretend this night never happened but- 

A much stronger part of him longed to stay with her…

Maybe Blitzø can move on after all? 

Chapter Text

{Blitzø:}

Blitzø, Barbie, Loona, and Millie were fucking exhausted!

Blitzø blames those fucking cherubs. Who did they think they were anyway?

“I'm so fucking tired, I'm gonna need a gazillion days off.” Barbie says.

“I second that.” Loona agrees.

“At least we made enough to pay for mom's medication.” Barbie says.

“Yeah…great” Blitzø agrees, half heartedly…it didn't seem like enough.

“Come on guys, ya'll could use a break!” Millie says. “Oh! My sister has been practically begging me to visit her in wrath…this weekend is the harvest moon festival!”

“Wait- it is?” Blitzø asks, suddenly perking up, face grinning widely.

“Yeah! My folks would be tickled pink to have us there, what do you say?” She asks.

Blitzø had gone to that damn festival for years…and he's never been able to participate because he was ‘working’.

…He was always fucking working.

“I don't know, Millie.” Barbie says. “All the way in wrath? A lot of weirdos there.”

“Fuck that, I'm in!” Blitzø says.

“What?” Barbie asks him.

“Come on, Barb. It's not like we can do shit without the book anyway.” Blitzø says.

“Why do you want to go so badly?” Barbie asks.

“Well, as a kid I went all the time…but I've always had to sit back and watch the games from a distance, this time I can actually play them!”

“You never got to play in the games?” Millie asks, face saddened.

“No. I was too busy being Stolas’ twenty for seven parasol holder.” Blitzø rolls his eyes.

“Para what?” Millie asks.

“It's a fancy sun umbrella for rich pricks who can't wear a hat I guess.” Blitzø explains.

“Ohh right.” Millie says. “Those.”

“Please?” Blitzø asks.

Barbie sighs. “Fine. But I'm only coming along because if you get killed, that will be very entertaining.”

Blitzø gives Barbie a look. “Feeling the love, sis.”

His phone starts to make owl noises. “Hang on a sec.” He says to Barbie and Millie before walking to his office to answer. “Stolas, what's up?”

“Hello, Blitzø!” A cheery voice speaks. “I wanted to ask when you can drop off the book? I have to head to wrath first thing tomorrow so-”

Blitzø interrupts. “Actually, I can bring it tonight or I can meet you in wrath.”

“...you're going to wrath?” He asks, a smile visible by his tone alone.

“Uh yeah, my friend Millie invited us to go with her so…I'll be in wrath too.” He explains.

“Oh Blitzø! That's wonderful. We can meet up in the morning!” He says. “And maybe…after the games we could catch up?” He suggests.

Blitzø bites his lip. “Uh, I don't know…maybe.”

“I'll see you there then.” Stolas says, hanging up.

Blitzø sets the phone down…

Blitzø exhales, trying to calm his nerves.

Eventually talking to Stolas has to get easier.

{Later: Wrath}

“Mamma! Daddy!”

Millie jumped into her father’s arms. The man happily embraced her. He spun her around before placing her back on her feet.

“Yeeee-hawww!” He ruffles Millie’s hair affectionately. “How’s my deadly little pumpkin spice doing?”

“I’m good, Pa!” Millie smiles. “Thanks for lettin’ us stay here for the harvest jamboree!”

“It’s no trouble. We know you aren’t making as much anymore since y’all went ‘freelance.’” She mocks.

“Freelance pays fine, Ma!” Millie exclaims.. “We’re doing fine- It’s fine.”

Millie turns to the rest of the team. "Anyway, this is my boss Blitzø, and his hellhound!"

"I'm not just his hellhound!" Loona growls.

"Yeah, she's my daughter!" Blitzø defends. “And her name is Loona, thank you.”

"I'm only your daughter on paper." Loona rolls her eyes.

“And that's Barbie Wire, Blitzø's sister and the baddest bitch I know!”

Barbie looks up at them and nods, not giving a shit how rude that is.

“Pleasure to meet you.” Joe says to her.

Blitzø walks over to Millie’s parents. “Ignore her, she wasn't raised with manners. It sure is a pleasure to finally meet the sperm and egg factory that popped out this little gem of an assassin! You two raised a sturdy bitch!” He playfully punched Millie in the arm.

Joe chuckled. “That we did! So, Blitzø, is it? That’s a fine name.” He says, shaking Blitzø's hand.

“It reminds me of war,” Lin sighs happily.

Joe agrees. “Nothing like a little war to make a strong man.” He says.

“That's what I always say.” Blitzø lies.

"You know, you should meet our new farm hand, hey striker!" Joe called

Suddenly a sexy Imp on a firey steed comes charging at them. The horse neighs majestically as it makes a dramatic stop in front of them.

"Well, howdy!" The Imp, striker dismounted his horse; he had a light peach complexion, and his tail rattled at every vicious movement. "You must be the famous Mildred, I've heard good things about you, young lady."

Millie can't help but blush a little and shakes Striker's hand.

"What're y'all doin' so far away from Imp City? Heh. The free workin' finally slowin' down?" Striker asks mockingly.

"Oh, no! Freelance isn't free! It's a– you know what, never mind.” She sighs. Suddenly Striker isn't that attractive to her. “We're just visitin' for the festival. The prince is our boss' boyyyyfrieeeend!" She teases.

"Millie, I am not above hitting a female in front of her daddy." Blitzø warns.

"Boss, huh...? Ohhh, so YOU'RE the bold imp to start his own killing biz?" Striker asks.

"Yeah, well if you're good at somethin', you should probably capitalize." Blitzø shrugs.

"Not many Imps start businesses on their own. That's pretty impressive, sir." Striker says, shaking his hand.

"Oh...! Yeah? It is-- I- I- I guess- I guess it is, isn't it?" Blitzø asks, trying to look more confident in front of the sexy cowboy.

"So you even conned that ditzy blueblood into gettin' you to the surface?" He asks.

"Well, it's long and complicated, but the short answer is yes.” He says. “Let's just say he owed me a favor…or six.”

“And who might you be?” Striker asks, taking Barbie's hand and kissing it.

Barbie smiles. “Disinfecting my hand apparently, thanks asshole.” She says sweetly.

"Y'know... you boys should enter the Pain Games!" Joe says.

Blitzø immediately turns his attention to Lin and Joe happily.

Holy shit! He can enter the pain games this year!

Every year he watched them while sitting next to Stolas while they tried to bet on who would win…this year was gonna be completely different!

"With the both of you there, we’ll have some real competition!” Joe says.

"Yeah! Wish I could play!" Millie says.

Lin sighs. "Millie, you know you get too carried away. The last competition ended in fifteen separate funerals!" She scolds.

"I'm aware, but I only caused nine of them!" She says. "How come Sallie May still gets to compete?"

"Your sister doesn't have a neighborhood head count." Lin says.

"She SO does!" Millie argues.

"It doesn't count if they don't find the bodyyyyyy!" Sally-Mae shouts back in a sing-song voice.

Lin places a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "Still, you get to root for her and your brothers, and now you can cheer on your boss!"

"Sir, the fence is mended. I don't expect any hogs getting out again." A smaller Imp, wearing a black eyepatch and a bow tie says.

Joe merely hummed in confirmation before walking away from him.

"He's warming up to me." The smaller imp says to Striker.

Striker scoffs, he rests a hand on the small imp's shoulder. "And this here is my younger brother, and my business partner, Moxxie.”

“Moxxie, nice to meet you. I'm Blitzø, the O is silent-"

"Blitzø Buckzo, from IMP. Right?" Moxxie shakes his hand. "It's nice to meet you, sir."

"Wow, you've heard of me?" Blitzø asks.

"Well, yeah. Lin and Joe mentioned Millie was an assassin and I just had to know more about it." Moxxie says. “Your advertising is…interesting.” He says. “But going to earth to go after the living? Genius. You're sure to get a ton of clientele, if you're not already that is.”

Millie smiles, feeling a sense of pride that someone not only understood how impressive her job was, but even admired it.

"I assume you're Millie?" Moxxie asks her.

"Yeah, nice to meet you, Moxxie." Millie shakes his hand.

"You're lovelier than your pictures." Moxxie says.

Millie does her best not to react, but she did blush slightly. "Uhm, yeah, thank you. So, you two are brothers?" Millie asks him.

Moxxie rolls his eyes. “Yeah…wasn’t my choice.”

“Siblings are such a joy.” Blitzø rolls his eyes. “Can't live without them…wish we could.”

“Oh fuck you.” Barbie says.

Moxxie nods. “Say, is that an 1858 precession tower pistol?" Moxxie asks Blitzø.

"Uh yeah." Blitzø says, pulling his gun out. "It is actually."

"Interesting choice of weapon. I'd assume most assassin's use suppressed semi-automatic bretta 71 pistols; the cartridge for those suppresses better than most and provides rapid follow up shotsors, or maybe a Ruger MK 2."

"I usually use an SVD." Blitzø says, "this is just my handgun in case certain fuckers get in my way."

"That's a great sniper weapon." Moxxie says.

"You know a lot about guns for being a simple farm hand." Mille says.

"Oh, yeah. My father used to sell guns. He forced me to do extensive research on them so I could take over for him someday, unfortunately it mysteriously burned down with him inside." Moxxie explains. "...I just realized that was way more information than you needed to hear. I apologize.”

Millie smiles. “Oh, yeah. But it's fine. I tend to ramble a lot too.” She laughs awkwardly.

"Ever consider being an assassin, Moxxie?" Blitzø asks.

"This guy?" Striker laughs, throwing a dead hog over his shoulder. "He's got a head on him alright, but he's no assassin. Can't even wrestle up one of these puppies without breaking something." He says gesturing towards the hogs in the pen.

"Yeah, I'm not so good in combat, besides I'm really not a violent person. The only killing I believe in is self defense and sustenance." Moxxie agrees.

"Well, if you ever change your mind," Blitzø hands him a card. "We could use a guy like you on the team."

"Wow. Uhm thank you, sir." Moxxie says. “But, with the one eye? How am I even supposed to shoot?” He asks.

“You still got your good eye.” Blitzø says. “It just takes some practice. And it helps having someone there to watch your back.”

Striker smirks at Moxxie before turning to Blitzø "Hey, bossman? You want to help the men skin this thing for dinner?" Striker asks, still carrying the hog on his shoulder.

"I so would! But I got a thing.” Blitzø says.

“What thing?” Barbie asks.

“I have to return the book to Stolas, I told him I'd drop it off before the jamboree thing.” He explains.

“I'll come with you.” Barbie says.

“You're still worried I'm fucking him, aren't you?” Blitzø asks.

Barbie hums. “Yup. Besides, I'd love to shake hands with the man who personally ruined my brother's and my life.” She says. “Sounds like fun.”

“If you want to shake hands with that man, that would be Stolas's father, not Stolas.” Blitzø says.

She rolls her eyes. “Whatever, those rich fuckers are all the same anyway.”

Blitzø hums, not feeling up to arguing with her. He doesn't really have a reason to defend Stolas anyway…

“I'll come too.” Loona says.

“Sure, let's make it a party, why not?” Blitzø says sarcastically as they all get in the van.

"How come you both look nothing alike if you are brothers?” Millie asks Moxxie. “And why does Striker have an accent and you don't?"

Moxxie rubs his neck. "Well, we're step brothers." He says. "My mom married his dad." He explains.

“Oh, I see.” Millie says. “And now you two work together?” She asks.

“Yeah, well, you know how hard it is to be successful around here, or anywhere as an Imp.” Moxxie says.

Millie nods. “That it is.”

“Don't get me wrong, Striker is...okay. I guess. But he can sometimes be…” Moxxie hesitates.

“Showboat-y?” She asks.

“And kinda obnoxious.” Moxxie adds.

“I get it, my sister is the same way. Always tryin’ to best me at everything.” Millie says.

“So you get it. It's been like this since we were kids.” Moxxie says.

Moxxie was about to walk the other way until Millie stood in front of him, very closely. "So, what happened to your eye, if I may ask?"

Moxxie hesitates. "Uh well, that- that's a long story."

"I have time." Millie says.

"Well…okay- it's not a long story but it is a bit…well.”

Millie tilts her head. “What?”

“Embarrassing. Can I trust you?” He asks.

Millie nods.

“I got snake venom…in my eye.” Moxxie says.

“Oh wow.” Millie says. “Lucky it only got in one.”

“Yeah, definitely lucky…just not lucky enough to have no snake venom.” He says.

“Well, at least the eyepatch looks cool.” Millie says.

Moxxie smiles at her. “Well, thanks.”

{Blitzø and Stolas}

“Okay here we are.” Blitzø announces when they get to the festival set up. Stolas was there, looking perfect as always, admiring the decor and speaking to the staff about how it was all about to go…

Fuck. He looked amazing.

“Okay, ground rules. No asking Stolas questions, no insults, if you can't be polite, wait in the car. We can't afford to upset him. Got that?” Blitzø asks.

“Got it.” Loona says.

“Barb?”

Barbie rolls her eyes. “Fine, I'll be nice-ish.”

Blitzø rolls his eyes, that's honestly the best he could ask for right now. “Great.”

They get out of the van and walk over to Stolas.

“Blitzø! There you are. I was starting to worry you’d forgotten.” Stolas says.

“Oh come on, Stolas. When have I ever forgotten to do something I said I'd do?” Blitzø asks.

“Well-”

“Don't answer that.” Blitzø says, taking the grimoire and handing it to him. “Here's your book.”

“Thank you.” Stolas says taking it from the imp. “Loona, it's nice to see you again. How are you doing?”

“Again?” Barbie asks, but she gets no answer.

“I've been good. How's Via?” Loona asks.

“She's…fine.” Stolas hesitates. “She's with her mother at the moment.”

Blitzø rolls his eyes, common for him whenever Stella is mentioned. “Well, we should get going.” Blitzø says.

Barbie pushes past Blitzø though and reaches a hand towards Stolas. “Barbie Wire. Blitzø's sister. So, you're Stolas. I've heard so much about you.”

“Charmed.” Stolas says, shaking her hand. “Blitzø has told me a lot about you as well.”

Barbie hums. “How's the wife?”

“Loud.” Stolas answers. “I have to get to work, but I'd love it if you three accompany me for dinner.”

“Sorry, Stolas. We'd love to, but we have other plans.” Blitzø says.

“If you insist. Perhaps I'll see you tomorrow at the festival?” Stolas asks.

“Absolutely, we'll catch up soon. See you, Stolas.” Blitzø says, pulling Barbie away.

“Bye Blitzø, Loona, Barbie!”

Blitzø waves him one last goodbye before pushing Barbie into the car and driving away.

“You're so dramatic.” Barbie says. “I wasn't going to say anything.”

“I know you, Barb.” Blitzø rolls his eyes. “If you said anything to upset Stolas we could lose our funding.”

“What's the big deal anyway?” Loona asks rudely. “What has Stolas ever done to you?”

“Seriously?” Barbie asks. “You really want to know what that asshole did?”

“Barb, don't-”

“He used Blitzø for his own gain, killed our father, he's the reason Tilla's in the hospital and-”

“Barb, seriously!” Blitzø stops her. “I don't need everyone knowing about it, can we please just move on!?”

Barbie frowns, arms crossed. “Why are you defending him?”

“I'm not! I just-” Blitzø holds on tightly to the steering wheel. “I just don't want to talk about it…alright?”

Barbie sighs. “Fine…sorry. I'll stop.”

“Thank you.”

Loona looked confused…but didn't say anything.

{The next day, the Harvest moon festival:}

Millie sighs, watching the games…She so wishes she could play! She'd absolutely kill all these fuckers!

The crowd cheers, her parents narrating everything for her despite the fact she's literally watching it right in front of her…

She notices one imp sitting by himself…Moxxie.

She stands up and walks over to him. He's just so mysterious, so…different.

“You didn't enter the games either?” Millie asks him.

Moxxie looks up at her and scoffs. “And give Striker an excuse to humiliate me in front of everyone? No thanks. Besides, I don't find violence as entertaining as others do.” He says. “I'm just here in case he gets killed. I wouldn't want to miss it.”

“Can I sit down?” Millie asks.

Moxxie gestures for her to do so, so she does.

“You're so…different.” She says. “Not like most guys here in wrath. You're calm and…you know.” Millie says, honestly he was. He didn't seem to need to prove his masculinity to anyone, and didn't care what people thought. It was…refreshing.

“Well, I was born here but mostly grew up in greed. I missed out on a lot of the culture.” Moxxie says.

Millie nods. “Too bad. We certainly have quite a culture.”

Moxxie chuckles, watching Blitzø and Striker try to dominate each other in the games. “That's for sure. No offense, but I don't envy it.”

Millie fiddles with her fingers anxiously. “I'm sorry for being so…forward. But, are you seeing anyone?”

“I haven't dated since I was a teenager.” Moxxie says. “You?”

“A few guys here and there…nothing too serious.” She explains.

“I see. Honestly, dating is a waste of time. I could never see it as anything else.”

“Maybe someone could change your mind…someday?”

Moxxie smiles at her. “Maybe. You wanna…get out of here? We could

“I'd like to watch till the end of the games but…afterwards, maybe we can revisit all my favorite places in wrath?”

“A walk down nostalgic avenue? Sounds like that could be fun.” He says. “I'm in.”

{Later:}

The games were finished, Blitzø and Striker tying for first place.

“Okay, I've seen enough.” Millie says.

“Shall we then?” Moxxie asks, holding out his arm.

Millie ignores the arm and takes his hand. “Come on!”

She pulls him away from the festival and guides him through wrath.

“Where exactly are we going?” Moxxie asks.

“You'll see.” She says.

“So Millie, what type of music do you like?” Moxxie asks.

“I love music.” She says. “A little heavy Metal, a little country.”

Moxxie hums. “Interesting combination.” Moxxie says.

“What about you?” Millie asks.

“Promise you won't make fun of me?” Moxxie asks.

Millie nods. “Promise.”

“I really like classical music, operatic, musical theater, all that jazz.” He says.

“Wow, that's awfully fancy.” Millie says.

“Not really just…old fashioned.” Moxxie explains.

“That's really cool. Can you play any instruments?”

“I play a little guitar.” Moxxie says.

“That's cool!” She says. “I've dabbled in the drums, guitar, banjo, and I took a year of piano bit didn't really remember much.”

“Jack of all trades, master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.” Moxxie says.

“What?” Millie asks.

“Better to have multiple talents, than one.” Moxxie clarifies.

“Huh. Interesting saying.” She says.

Millie smiles, the two of them just seemed to click…

She enjoyed talking to him more than any other guy she went out with.

She felt…weirdly comfortable.

They continue to walk around, Millie showed him her old school, her favorite hiding places when her siblings and she would play hide and seek. Their favorite park…

“You all must be really close.” Moxxie says

“Yeah. We were.” She says.

“I grew up pretty alone before my dad died. I wish Striker and I could have half as good a relationship as you do with your brothers.” Moxxie says.

“All siblings fight.” Millie says. “I'm closest with my sister who I constantly fight with.” She says.

“Yeah?” Moxxie asks, sounding hopeful.

“Yeah. Sometimes that's the best part.” She explains. “No matter how much ya'll fight, you always make up.”

Moxxie smiles at that.

Millie and Moxxie climb a hill to get a good view of wrath.

“Wow.” Moxxie says.

“I know.” Millie smiles.

“This place really is just a wasteland.” Moxxie says.

Millie hits Moxxie's arm and he chuckles. “I'm sorry. I'm kidding. It's really nice here. Quiet.”

“That's what I like about it.” Millie says.

They both stay quiet for a moment and enjoy the view.

But Millie can't stay quiet for long. “So, why is it that you haven't dated since your teens?” Millie asks him.

“The age old story.” Moxxie explains. “Met a guy who turned out to be an asshole, broke my heart…” He frowns, and looks away from Millie for a second. “It's just not so easy to trust someone after that.”

“Oh. Are you gay?” Millie asks.

“I'm Bisexual.” Moxxie says.

“Oh.” She smiles but then drops the smile when he looks at her.

“Yeah.” Moxxie says, smiling at her. He hates to see her frown for some reason…he wants to see her smile back.

And she does. “Dating is hard.” She says. “I just want to be with someone I can trust, someone I can connect with…I don't even think I'm asking for too much.”

“You're not.” Moxxie says. “Not at all. It's just hard because…you're so unique. You're too much for assholes to handle. You're too good for everyone.”

Millie smiles. “Thanks, Moxxie.”

Moxxie's phone went off and he checked it. “Oh, uh. My brother needs me for something. I should go.”

“I'll go with you.” Millie says. “I should check in on my boss, congratulate him on the games.”

“Oh, sure.” Moxxie says, smiling.

And they walk back together.

{Striker and Blitzø:}

“Excuse me…the fuck!?”

“Blitzø.” Striker says. “I thought you were still at the ceremony.”

“I've seen the moon. I don't really care to see it again.”

“Well now you seem disappointed in me.” Striker says.

“Well, I'm not a fan of someone I offered a job to about to off my easiest lengthy ticket to Earth behind my back.” He says.

After winning the pain games Blitzø gave Striker an I.M.P card too, telling him that they could use someone like him and Moxxie around…apparently that wasn't very tempting.

Striker chuckles. “Blitzo, come on. You know, the two of us are superior than most of our kind. And you were so above suckin' on a disgusting, rich, pompous Goetia, only to sneak topside for scraps and work for bitter sinners, who could care less who you are, when you could be slaying Overlords. Why struggle to run a business that is rigged against you?” Striker asks.

Blitzø glares at Striker as the snake-like imp gets closer. “Not all overlords are like that. Why slay random overlords when you can go after the ones who are actually hurting us?” He asks.

“You're telling me that Stolas isn't one of them?” Striker asks.

“Well…no. He's not.”

“Cuz’ last time I checked, he doesn't exactly have the best record… I couldn't help but notice how he couldn't keep his eyes off you through the whole pain games. You need his book for your little business and he goes with it even though he knows it's illegal. He wants you under his control, under his thumb. He treats you like a plaything…and you know it.” Striker says as Blitzø hits the wall behind him. “Just like when you were kids.”

“What?” Blitzø asks. “How do you-”

“Why work for him when you could partner up with me and kill the unkillable? Starting with the one that treats you like a plaything.”

“How do you know about me and Stolas?” Blitzø asks.

“I make it a point to know everything.” Striker says. “We could work together, take care of your mom. She'll want for nothing. We can be the most dangerous beings in Hell, Blitzo.” Striker says. “You could make a real difference…”

Suddenly Striker is stabbed in the back multiple times by Barbie who managed to sneak up on him.

Striker turns around and strikes Barbie to the ground.

“Barbie!” Blitzø growls at striker and bites his arm, then punches him, making his nose bleed.

Striker then charges after Blitzø, but Barbie climbs on top of him.

Striker grabs her and throws her at Blitzø and they both fall to the ground.

Barbie whistles for Loona as Blitzø tries to get the gun from Striker.

Both equally matched, but Striker has all those gashes in his back…

He'd better make it even.

Striker hits Blitzø with the back of his gun then takes out his knife, with it he strikes Barbie's face, leaving a very gnarly scrape.

Blitzø gets up fast and tries to hit Striker-

“Okay, I'm here.” Loona says.

Striker takes Blitzø and throws him at Loona before getting out his phone.

{Moxxie and Millie:}

Millie walks ahead of Moxxie back to the house, but she's stopped when Moxxie suddenly grabs her shoulder and turns her around to face him…

Then she feels the knife.

Millie screams in pain but Moxxie covers her mouth. “Sorry, Mills.” He says. “It's nothing personal.”

Millie struggles against him and kicks him in the face to run away.

Moxxie grabs some rope and catches up to her and ties her legs, then her arms. “Unless you want me to take the knife out…you'll keep quiet.” He warns silently, hand over her mouth.

‘Since when is he good at combat? Didn't he say he was awful at it?’ Millie thought.

He pulls her forward and walks into the house.

{Everyone:}

Barbie and Blitzø manage to take the gun from Striker when they hear it.

“Drop the weapon!” Someone says behind them.

They look behind them at Moxxie, who is holding a gun in one hand, and he has Millie in the other. “Let's all take a second and calm down. We want our gun back, you want your Millie back. Step away from my boss, drop your weapons and take a step back.”

They do as Moxxie says, dropping the Angelic weapon and taking a step back.

“Your weapons too, drop them and slide them over.” Moxxie orders.

Blitzø and Babie look at each other, then reluctantly do as they're told.

Moxxie pulls Millie towards him, so she can't escape. He looks out the window and sighs. “He's gone.” Moxxie says to Striker.

“Shit.” Striker sighs.

Blitzø growls. “Good, so you're done then?” He asks.

“Drop. Millie. Now.” Barbie tells him at the same time.

“With pleasure.” Moxxie smiles, pulling the knife out of Millie's shoulder, making her scream. He then throws her out the window.

“Millie!” Blitzø and Barbie shout.

“I'd suggest you go help her before she bleeds out too much.” Moxxie says. “You wouldn't want to lose an employee…would you, Blitzø?”

Blitzø glares daggers at Moxxie. “You mother fucker.”

“Well come on, you wouldn't want me to waste a perfectly nice knife, would you?” Moxxie asks.

They all run downstairs to help Millie, so Moxxie and Striker seize the opportunity to escape.

“Come on!” Moxxie says to Striker, tossing him back his gun.

Striker and Moxxie run out of the room and to the hallway window.

Striker whistles to bombproof and the two of them are able to escape.

{Blitzø, Barbie, and Millie:}

“Millie, are you alright?” Barbie asks, untying her while Blitzø ripped off a bit of his shirt to cover her wound.

“I'm fine.” She says weakly. “I was such an idiot.”

“You're not an idiot.” Blitzø says. “Everyone has trusted the wrong person before. Believe me.”

“Let's just focus on getting you patched up, okay?” Barbie says. “It'll be okay.”

Loona doesn't say anything…but she looks more concerned than Millie would think.

{Moxxie and Striker: later}

“Great work, sir. Honestly. Not only were we not paid for the farm work we did, but we also missed the target. What are you going to tell the client?” Moxxie asks.

“You let me worry about that. Besides, if you were where you were supposed to be, we would have been fine!” Striker says.

“Last time I checked, I threw someone out a window to save you! You could at least be appreciative.” Moxxie says.

“Oh please, like I didn't see the way you looked at her.” Striker says. “You enjoyed dragging her around like that.”

Moxxie scoffs “Trust me, Sir. I lost the part of me that feels that sort of thing…so, what's the plan now?”

“Stella will give us instructions on his next big event I'm sure.” Striker says.

Moxxie sighs. “We're charging back at demon royalty…by working for demon royalty. Makes sense.” Moxxie mocks.

“Hey!” Striker takes Moxxie by the throat and pins him against the wall. “After Stolas is gone…she's next….but after we get our money from her.” He says. “Trust me, pet. Everything will work out so long as you do as you're told. I don't want another incident like today. Understand?!”

“Yes sir.” Moxxie says.

Striker grins tightly. “Good boy.”

Chapter Text

The sun peered through Verosika’ s curtains as a wake up call to Blitzø. 

It was morning already? He felt as if he just got to sleep. 

“Good morning.” Verosika purrs, curling up closer to him. 

“Morning.” Blitzø says, sitting up and stretching. “How'd you sleep?” 

She smiles seductively. “Amazing.” She moves to Blitzø's neck to kiss it. “How about you?” 

“Fine.” He says, his hand moving to her head to brush through her hair. “You were amazing last night.” He purrs. 

“So were you ~” She says. “You certainly know how to keep a girl going.” 

Verosika is giving him that look…the look he only recognized from Stolas all those years ago….

‘I love you.’

Blitzø wasn't sure if it was her who said it or Stolas in his mind. “What?” 

“I said I need you, Blitzø.~” She purrs. “Do to me what you did last night, only better!" She demanded playfully.

"I have twenty minutes before I have to be at work.” Blitzø says.

“We'll be fast.” She says. “And it wouldn't kill you to be a little late, right?” 

He smiles and blinks slowly. “I guess not.” He says, grasping her hips. Millie and Barbie can handle things for a bit. 

{Past: Blitzø: age 17}

“I hate Stella so much!” Stolas whines, having drank way too much at the engagement party. 

“Come on, let's get you to bed.” Blitzo says, helping balance the prince so he can reach his room without falling on his face. 

“She's so cruel, and sadistic! My life is a floating river of sorrows.” He says dramatically. 

“Hey, they say sadism is good for the bedroom.” Blitzo jokes as he helps Stolas into bed, pulling the sheets over him.

“You're not helping.” Stolas says. 

Blitzo sits down on the bed, and Stolas sits up to look at him. 

“I'm sorry. It's a shitty situation.” Blitzo says. “I don't know what to say! I-” He sighs. “I don't know how to help you.” 

Stolas gives Blitzo a sympathetic smile. “Somehow you always manage.” 

Blitzo blushes slightly, but hopes Stolas doesn't notice 

“Blitzo…” Stolas takes his hand. 

Blitzo moves it away and stands up. “I should go. Lays always wants me to help out the other servants after parties like this.” He says. 

“If I ask you to stay, will you?” Stolas asks. 

“I don't really have a choice then.” Blitzo says. 

Stolas reaches out and takes his hand again, pulling him closer. 

Blitzø wished he wouldn't. He hoped this crush would have ended when they were fourteen…

Fifteen…

Sixteen…

Why did he still feel this way? Like there was a chance? 

There's no chance for them. 

He was supposed to get over Stolas by the time he and Stella got married. 

But it's only a year away now...

He doesn't want to watch them get married, he'd rather die. 

Stolas pulls him even closer and they lean close until their mouths touch.

They don't kiss…but damn is it tempting. 

“Blitzo….?” Stolas asks.

“Yeah?” Blitzo breathes heavily. 

“I…” A single tear falls down Stolas's face. “I don't want Stella to be my first.”

Blitzo blinks rapidly. “Okay…”

Stolas exhales and kisses Blitzo at last. 

Stolas moans as Blitzø kisses him back passionately. “Blitzo-”

“I know, shh.” Blitzo shushes him as he reaches for Stolas's coat and pulls it off him, then he starts to unbutton his shirt.

He's done it so many times, it was almost second nature but now-

Now it felt so impossible, the buttons weren't cooperating, and his were shaking with anxiety.

“You have no idea how much I've wanted this.” Stolas says. “How long I've wanted you.”

“Stolas don't say something you'll regret, ok?" Blitzo tells him. “You're marrying Stella, not me.”

“I know, but we can have this.” He says. “Tonight it can just be about us.” Stolas says. 

Blitzo stops for a moment. 

Stolas is okay with this being the one and only time. 

He doesn't want to fight it at all…

He can't help but think Stolas a coward. 

“They can take anything from us, but they can't take tonight. We can make it ours.” Stolas says. “If you want that is…”

Blitzo looks up. “Yeah…I want that.” He says. 

He wants forever but…it's not on the table. 

He can have one night or nothing. 

One wonderful night where rules don't exist. 

He'll take what he can.

Stolas kisses Blitzo again while the imp tries to undo his buttons.

He pulls away. “Will you stop for a second so I can get this off you?” Blitzø laughs and cries at the same time. 

“God, we're such a mess.” Stolas laughs while he cries. 

“Let's see how much messier we can get.” Blitzø says, tail swishing. 

Stolas smiles, and Blitzo wipes away one of the birds tears with his thumb. 

"I got you."

{Present:}

“We fit so perfectly. It must be destiny that brought us together.” Verosika smiles. 

Blitzø doesn't respond, his thoughts very much elsewhere though he doesn't want them to be. 

‘Blitzø…?’ She asks. 

Blitzø shakes his head and smiles. “Yeah…must be.” 

{I.M.P}

The had only a couple of clients today. 

One went by fast, some weird lady wanted revenge on a guy who ran over her cat. 

Easily done in two hours. 

The second one was not as easy. 

Not because of a crazy target though…

Nope. 

Because immediately after killing some dead beat father who never paid any child support… They were ambushed. 

The portal was already opened when the humans arrived, it was too late to play dumb. 

Loona was right there in plain view. 

Shit! 

Millie, Blitzø, and Barbie run towards the portal but Barbie is shot in the leg with a tranquilizer. 

“Barbie!” Blitzø stops to help her- but knows he won't make it in time.

“Loona! Close it!” Blitzø shouts to her right as Millie gets in. 

“Wait!” He hears Millie say before it's closed. 

It was him and Barbie against these two, but before he could process much, he got shot in the neck by a tranquilizer and passed out. 

{Blitzø: later}

Blitzø woke up tied to a chair, a bright light blinding him. “Barbie?” He asks. 

“Blitzø?” 

Thank fuck. She's here. 

Not exactly safe, but he knows she's in his general direction. That was enough for now. 

“Any idea where we are?” Blitzø asks. 

“No.” Barbie says. “The humans haven't walked in yet.”

“okay! Strategy: We tell them nothing.” Blitzø says. 

“That's not a strategy. That's not even a plan.” Barbie says. 

“Okay, well what's your plan?” Blitzø asks. 

“I don't know yet, just- give me a second to think.” Barbie says, trying to wiggle out of the restraints.

“Well well well…finally awake I see.” One of the humans says as they both walk in. 

“Too late.” Blitzø says to his sister. 

“It's time to remove your disguise and see who you really are.” The other agent says. "No doubt some demon from hell here to destroy us!" 

"Wow, what a guess." Barbie says sarcastically. "How did you ever reach that conclusion?"

"We've seen your dark magic! Don't even try to trick us!" 

"We also know youre killing humans. We only want to know why...who do you work for?"

"Okay, you got us. We're Demons. Nothing gets passed you. We've been working for Elvis Presley. He summoned us to get rid of Tupac, and it's just been a slippery slope since." Blitzø says, only to poke some fun of this insanity.

"I knew it!" One of the agents says. 

"Now will you let us go?" Barbie asks. "We have nothing to offer you." 

"Not till we see your true form!" 

“Ow! What the fuck!?” Barbie yelled as the human tried to remove her human disguise by…pulling on her hair? 

The other human tugged at Blitzø's skin. “Christ on a stick! It's not coming off that way!” Blitzø says. “You really think we're that stupid?” 

"Remove your disguise, Demon!" The male Human says. 

"So you can get us on camera and make elvis mad? No thanks." Blitzø says. 

“Well, guess we'll have to bring in the big guns.” The male Human says. 

The two of them leave Blitzø and Barbie alone, they're both relieved and…also very anxious by this.

“Okay, game plan. We just keep stalling until Millie shows up. That's probably our best bet right now.” Blitzø says. “If Millie doesn't show up right away, we make them believe we're crazy and even make them disbelieve their own sanity.”

“Oh yeah.” Barbie rolls her eyes. “Great plan.”

“I don't hear you coming up with a better one.” Blitzø says. 

“Why not have your boyfriend come rescue us? Since you love him so much.” She mocks. 

“I don't love Stolas, I hate him and besides, if he saw us here he may not ever give us his book.” Blitzø explains. 

Barbie sighs loudly. "Yeah. Sure."

“You think I want to work with Stolas? I'm trying to be an adult here. Mom needs us, we can't just give up when we're finally doing okay!” Blitzø says. 

“I know, I know... You're right. I'm sorry for giving you a hard time.” Barbie says. “I just- hate him so much! You know?”

“Trust me, I know.” Blitzø says. 

Very suddenly they hear a weird hissing sound in the room. 

“What the fuck?” Barbie asks. “Blitzø? You see that?” 

“The fuck is this?” Blitzø asks as weird gas or...something fills the room. 

“How the fuck am I supposed to know? I'm not as smart as you!” Barbie says. “The fuck?” She whispers. 

“Since when do you compliment me? Or ever admit I'm smart?” Blitzø Blitzø. "You're never one to admit others accomplishments because you don't have any- Fuck, I'm...sorry. I don't know where that came from."

"Same." She says. 

“You don't suppose it's a type of…truth telling gas, do you?” Blitzø akssm.

“Only one way to find out.” She smirks. “What's your favorite TV show?” 

“My little pony- shit!” 

Barbie laughs. “Pathetic, honestly.” She mocks. 

“Oh fuck you!” Blitzø says. “How about this, what's Jesse's nickname for you?” 

“Barbie doll.” She blurts out. "Mother Fucker!" 

“Oh my Satan!” Blitzø laughs. “He can't even try to be the least bit clever?” 

“You know what!? Wait…if this is actually truth serum, that means I can ask you whatever I want without you dodging them.” Barbie smirks. 

“Barb if you ask questions you don't want the answers to, you'll regret it.” Blitzø warns. A cold sweat falls to the back of his neck. 

Suddenly…this wasn't very funny. 

“Oh yeah?” She asks. “Let's test that. How do you really feel about Stolas?”

“I love him. I think I always will. I just don't know if I can trust him after what he did-!” Blitzø blurts out. “….shit.”

He loved him? Seriously?

He so wished Barbie didn't ask him that! Why couldn't she have asked if he hated Stolas- because he does!

“What!? What is wrong with you!?” Barbie asks. 

“How do you feel about Jesse!?” Blitzø asks. 

“He's an asshole and I hate him, but I don't want to be alone so I continue to date him and stress myself out so I don't have to think about mom so much.” 

“Barb, you shouldn't be with someone so they can distract you!” Blitzø says. 

“That's exactly what you're doing!” She argues. “Verosika is only a distraction for you!” 

“That's not true!” Blitzø says. 

“Why are you with her then?” Barbie asks. 

“Because- I don't know! She's great! Okay? Better than I could ever deserve…I know it probably won't last but it's nice to be wanted by someone. You know how long it's been since someone actually wanted to be with me?” 

“No.” She says. 

“Not since Fizz.” He blurts out. 

“Wow…” Barbie says. “Haven't heard that name in a while.” 

“I know."

“Blitzø-”

“Barbie, you need to break up with Jesse, I hate to say it because you're my sister and it's gross to think about, but there are plenty of people out there, more deserving, who would love to go out with you.” 

“Blitzø, this isn't about me!” Barbie says. 

“Well, this isn't about me either!” 

“Things are going so well between you and Verosika! You can't let your feelings ruin such a perfect thing!” Barbie says. 

“I'm not!” Blitzø shouts. “...At least I don't think I am.” His voice quiets. “Stolas doesn't…he-”

“He killed our father, Blitzø! You can't-”

“No, he didn't, I did!” Blitzø shouts. 

The room got very quiet after that…

And yet…

The quiet was somehow very…very loud. 

“Barb?” Blitzø asks.

“What do you mean you killed our father? It wasn't Stolas?” Barbie asks. “You- you lied to me?”

“It was a lie of omission. You assumed Stolas was at fault…so I just let you believe it.” He admits against his will, his breath quickening. 

“Blitzø…” 

He can see it all...again. 

What happened all those years ago...

It haunted him. 

{Past: age 14:}⚠️

Blitzo climbed back in through the window, hoping they didn't notice he was gone. 

He still had the excuse that he was looking for cufflinks, hopefully it was enough for them to not get suspicious. 

Lays probably knew, but if he explains his reasoning he might just leave him unscathed- 

“Blitzo…” 

Lays…

Shit. Okay. This was fine. He just needed to ex-

Blitzo turned around and saw not just Lays…but Augestine was there too and-

…Paimon. 

Shit Shit shit shit! 

“Blitzo…where were you?” Lays asks sternly. 

Blitzo's hands shake and his chest tightens…

Fuck…this was the end wasn't it? He's dead. 

He sees spots blocking his vision. 

“I- I was…-”

He couldn't talk, he was going to die-

He was going to die…

“Well? Speak, boy!” Augestine shouted his teaching rod in his hand that usually made Blitzø wince, but today it seemed much scarier. “Where were you!?” 

“Uhm-” 

He didn't realize he could be so…scared. 

Paimon raises an eyebrow. “You have five seconds…clown boy.” 

“I was at…” He couldn't even think of a lie. “At the…circus.” He honestly can't believe he actually admitted it. 

Lays face falls and he shakes his head. “Oh, Blitzo.” 

“The circus?” Paimon asks. 

Augestine smiles. “Don't you remember? The traveling circus you got Blitzo in the first place. It must be the same one.”

“Is it?” Paimon asks Blitzo. 

“Um-”

“You better answer truthfully, boy.” Paimon threatens. “I won't hesitate to travel to the circus personally and blow the place up.” 

“It…” Blitzo looks at lays, then to the ground. His fist clinches. “It's the same one.” 

“That lousy Cash Buckzo will be there.” He hears Augestine whisper to Paimon. “The one who stole all your precious artifacts.” 

Paimon hums. “Lays, deal with your ward.” He orders before turning away and heading to the main doorway. “And this time, make sure the lesson sticks!” He demands 

“Right away, Sir.” Lays says. 

“Wait-” Blitzø tries to ask what Paimon will do but before he can, Lays interrupts: 

“Blitzo, you're in enough trouble, don't make this worse for yourself.” 

Lays leads Blitzo downstairs, but instead of the servants hall, he's lead to the area with the dungeons. 

“Lays?” Blitzo asks. 

“Keep walking, Blitzo.” Lays tells him. 

Blitzo does as he's told, but he still doesn't know what's going on…not until they arrived…

In the room was two long shackles attached to the ceiling…

“Lays…you're not really going t-”

“You're not a child anymore, Blitzo. Clearly child punishments wont work anymore.” Lays says, closing the door and locking it. “Remove your shirt and lift your arms. 

“Please-” 

“Blitzo…now.” Lays says, not too harshly, but Blitzo knew he was serious. 

Blitzo had never been whipped like that before- not with an actual whip at least. Lays usually just hit him with a paddle or gave him more assignments. 

Augestine would hit him with his teaching rod if Stolas got a question wrong and he needed some ‘encouragement' or deal him any punishment he felt Stolas deserved. 

Being Stolas's friend and servant meant he was also used as a whipping boy. 

So, Blitzo was used to most forms of pain and punishment, but this was something entirely different. 

This felt…much more real. Like torture. 

His hands shook while he removed his shirt…once Lays makes up his mind to do something…he never backs down. There was no out. Blitzo was screwed. 

Lays helped him into the shackles. “Now, what is it you need to learn today?” He asks. 

“To…not sneak out.” Blitzø says hesitantly. 

CRACK!

“Ahh!” Blitzo can't help but scream at the first strike, he's never hurt that much before. 

“What was it you had to learn yesterday?” Lays asks before another hit. 

“Ah- to not sneak out-” *CRACK.* “With Stolas.” He added. 

“Exactly. For not learning from yesterday, you'll receive thirty. For running off today, you'll receive twenty. Now, starting from one, count.” Lays demanded. 

The whip hit him. “One.”

CRACK!

“T-two.”

CRACK!

“Ah- Three.”

CRACK!

“F-four.”

CRACK!

“Lays- please.” 

“Count.” 

WACK!

“Five.” Tears filled Blitzo's eyes. He tries to resist but the pain was too much. 

Blizo's back was burning hot and in the worst kind of pain Blitzo could imagine- he couldn't even think of what Paimon may do to his family.

Lays claimed he went easy on him but- it sure didn't feel like it. 

He'd hate to know what being hard on him was. 

{Later: Past:}⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️

Blitzo was sent back to work after his whipping, Lays warned that this would be his normal punishment from now on, which scared him...because there was no way he'd stay out of trouble. 

“Blitzo! There you are.” Stolas says. “I'm so glad you're alright. Augestine seemed very angry, it looked like he was going to kill you.” He says. 

Blitzo almost told him- 

But honestly, what would it do? 

“Sorry, I snuck out for a bit- Lays and Augestine weren't exactly pleased about it.” Blitzo says. 

“I assumed so.” Stolas says. “But where did you sneak off to?” 

“I'll tell you about it later.” Blitzo says. “I should get your lunch.”

Stolas looked confused but decided not to push Blitzo. “Alright. Later it is.” 

Blitzo hoped it was over…but oh, it wasn't. 

By the time he made it downstairs, Paimon approached him. 

“Clown boy.” He says. “Follow me.”

Blitzo didn't want to, but his legs moved before his mind could catch up to what's happening…

No wonder Stolas was scared of his father, he feels he may die just from being in the same room as him. 

He wasn't always afraid of Paimon…only once he became smart enough to know what the prince could do. 

Paimon lead him to the dungeons, but a completely different room from where Lays had whipped him…

Inside was his father…blindfolded. 

He didn't want this…to see his father like this- yes, he hated him. But he didn't want to see this. 

“Well, Mr Buckzo. We meet yet again.” Paimon says. “This time it'll be even more entertaining then the last.” 

“Prince Paimon, this was all a big misunderstanding!” Cash says. “I can pay you back every shilling!”

Blitzo turns to the Goetia. “Prince Paimon, I will pay you back for everything, I'll work- I'll- I'll work till I'm dead, but please let him go.” Blitzo begged. He thought that's what Paimon wanted, for him to beg and promise to not disobey again but…

Then paimon handed him a gun. 

“S-Sire, w-what?”

“Your father and you both stole from me. Your punishment is to do just that…work till your dead. But, your father however…won't get that luxury.” Paimon chuckles. 

Blitzo was able to put two and two together..

“Blitzo?” Cash asks. “You're still alive?” 

“You won't be for long.” Paimon says. He turns to Blitzo. "Go ahead."

“I can't- please-” Blitzo begs. 

Paimon grips his arm tightly. “Either take the shot…or you'll both be executed. The only reason you're alive is because my son favors you as his servant. You're nothing but a whipping boy to keep him in line, you're very easily replaced.” Paimon says. “Take the shot now.” 

Blitzo aims the gun and closes his eyes. 

“Blitzo!” He hears his father. 

Was it him pleading? Apologizing? 

Was he scared? 

He didn't know. 

He squeezes the trigger slowly until-

A loud gun shot blasts through the room and Blitzo drops the gun. 

“That's a good boy.” Paimon says. 

Blitzo sees red…and then white and- nothing else…

He- he- 

He couldn't breathe. 

“Look, Blitzo.” Paimon angles his head to look at his dead…bleeding father. “This is what happens when little imps don't know their place.” 

Blitzo only saw black, he couldn't move. 

“I trust you learned something today.” Paimon said. “Because if you haven't…we can always find your mother and sister next.” 

{Present:}

“It was my fault. I led them to him and…I pulled the trigger. I did it so they wouldn't kill me." 

“Please stop.” Barbie whispers.

“I'm sorry…”Blitzø says. “I should have told you the truth. I-I just..”

“I don't want to talk about this.” Barbie says. 

“Barb-”

“Shut up!” Barbie shouts. "Nothing happened! Just shut up and- and just-" Barbie's eyes were full of tears. 

"Barb-"

"We have to focus on getting home." Barbie says. 

Blitzø was getting dizzy from the gas- what the fuck. He was going to be sick. 

He started to see visions...horses and...blood-

bloody horses? Shit. 

One of the agents walk into the room, but Blitzø isn't sure if it's real. “Ready to talk now, demons?” He leans closer to Blitzø who spits in his face. 

“Ugh!” The agent recoiled. “Fuck!” 

Oh, its real! 

The other agent hit Blitzø across the face with her gun. “Remove your disguise, demon. Or else…” 

“Or else what, bitch?” Barbie asks. 

Suddenly an imp crashes into the room through the vents and takes out the two agents instantly. 

“Millie!” Barbie smiles. 

“Thank fuck. Mills, how did you get here by yourself?” Blitzø asks. 

Suddenly the window/mirror thing in front of them crashes, and they see Loona there quickly destroying the controls.

“Loonie!” Blitzø scolds. “You're not supposed to-”

“Not now! We got out of here before more fuckers show up!” Loona says, throwing the book at Blitzø. 

Blitzø takes the book and creates a portal that they all escape through before more agents try and follow. 

{Later:}

They arrived back at the office, and Blitzø very quickly insisted everyone go home. 

He contacted their client to tell them the deed was done, then headed to the bar for a few drinks. 

Many hours later, when he was sure Barbie and Loona were asleep…he returned to the apartment. 

He expected quiet was was immediately bombarded with questions from his daughter:

“What the hell happened between you and Aunt barb? She's been in a shit mood since we got back from-”

“Loona, stop, please? I just can't talk about this right now, okay? Go to bed.” He tells her. 

Loona sighs and stomps to her room, slamming the door. 

Blitzø pulls out his phone.

Blitzø: ‘Can we meet up? We need to talk.’

Reply: ‘Tomorrow at my place?’

Blitzø felt a wave of anxiety and he swore his heart skipped a beat. 

Blitzø: ‘I'll be there.’ 

Chapter Text

{Past, age 17: Blitzo:}

Blitzo hasn't seen Stolas in a week, not since they slept together. 

No one caught them- but because of Stolas's wedding he apparently needed more ‘professional help.’ They hired new body guards for him and a professional wedding planner to tend to his every need.

Blitzo was reduced to taking care of the horses in the stable, he loved horses, so he didn't really mind that, but when he and Stolas did still weighed on him- he wanted to see him, to talk to him. 

Unfortunately, Lays made it clear that Blitzo was to go nowhere near the demon prince or the wedding. 

Lays always acts like he knows what's going on- well he doesn't! Blitzo wouldn't stop Stolas's wedding…that was completely Stolas's decision to make…

To choose him for once.

Not that he ever did. 

When Blitzo was finally done with the work he was given permission to get cleaned up and then go to bed. 

He was about to pass out from exhaustion until he heard someone tapping on his window. 

Fizz. 

Blitzo opened the window and let his friend in. “Hey- what are you doing here?” Blitzo asks him. 

“I have something to tell you.” Fizz says, climbing into his room and grabbing Blitzo's arms. “I won!”

“Won what?” Blitzo asks.

“The Clown Pageant! Mammons contest! I got a contract with him!” Fizz says, shaking Blitzø. “Don't you remember?”

“Oh right! Shit- I'm Sorry- I forgot.” Blitzø says. “Congratulations, Fizz. I knew you could do it.” He says. 

“Thanks.” Fizz smiles. “Are you…okay?” He asks him. 

Blitzo sighs, he must have noticed Blitzo's sadness. “Stolas is getting married in a week.”

“Oh. What happens to you after that?” Fizz asks. 

“If I don't kill myself? I don't know.” Blitzo says. 

Fizz frowns at first but then gets an idea. He takes Blitzo's hand. “Come with me.”

“What?” 

“I'm going to greed to work with Mammon, Blitzo! If he met you and saw how great you are- I'm sure he would-” 

Blitzo shakes his head and pulls his hand away. “They might come after us…after you. I can't let them do to you what…” He couldn't even finish what he was about to say. “I can't lose you too, Fizz.”

Fizz frowns. “Sometimes, you have to take a risk, Blitzo. Aren't you saying that all the time?”

“Fizz-” Blitzo exhales. “Loosing you wouldn't be worth that risk. You're all I have left!”

“But- You are worth that.” He says. “Please, trust me?” 

Blitzo could swear his heart stopped and traveled up his throat. 

Fizz was willing to take the risks Stolas refused to take.

“Mammon picked me!” He says. “Mammon can help- we can keep you safe until they stop looking.”

Blitzo's eyes widened. “You think that would really work?” 

“I know it will, we'll do it together.” Fizz says. “I mean- what do you have left to lose?” 

Blitzo looks at the door to his room…

He's already lost His father, mother, who knows where his sister is, and Stolas-

Stolas made his choice. 

He then turns back at Fizz. “Okay. Meet me in the stables on Friday night. They'll be too busy with their rehearsal dinner, they won't even realize I'm gone.” 

“It's a date.” Fizz smiles, he climbs down. “I won't let you down. I promise.” He says before returning to the circus. 

{Blitzø: present:}

Blitzø got up early the next morning for his meeting. 

He just…has to get this over with, he has to talk about this before everything gets all messed up and complicated.

His phone buzzed in his pocket before he could get to the door. 

“Hey.” Blitzø answers.

“Hey, Cutie.” Verosika says on the other side of the phone. 

“That's a new one.” Blitzø says. 

“Sorry, are you not a fan of that nickname?” Verosika asks. 

“No, it's fine! Just unexpected. What's up?” Blitzø asks. 

“I realized that today is our one month anniversary.” Verosika says. 

“Wow. Is that a thing people celebrate?” Blitzø asks.

“What? Like you don't know?” Verosika asks with a gasp. 

 “I guess I've never dated anyone that long.” Blitzø says. 

“Well, it is, just- so important.” Verosika says, mostly joking. “It's like- a huge milestone for young hot couples like us!” 

“Oh, is that right?” Blitzø's tail sways back and forth. “Well, then how shall we celebrate our one month anniversary?” He asks. 

“Well…I'm kinda…working tonight.” Verosika says. 

“Oh.” Blitzø hums. “No big deal, it's not like it's five months. Right?” 

He's not sure why she'd bring it up if she was busy. 

“But, I'm only booked at one place. You can watch me sing then we can…do something fun.” She suggests. “I can plan something really fun for us!” 

“That sounds great, where are you performing?” He asks. 

“Ozzies.” 

There's a pause from Blitzø…

“How about I pick you up after?” He suggests. 

“Aw. Come on, please?” Verosika asks. “Don't you want to hear me sing?”

“You know why I can't go there, Ver.” Blitzø says. 

“Fizz is my friend. I'd like it if you two got along, even just a little!” Verosika says. “I'm going to tell him we're together tonight, I'm sure he'll change his attitude about you!”

“I would never stand in the way of your friendship.” Blitzø says. “But I also would never stand in the same room with your friendship.” Blitzø says. “Fizz is the worst.” 

“But why do you hate him so much?” Verosika asks. “What did he do?” 

“He…” Blitzø has already been forced to talk about some of his trauma with Barbie, and he's going to have to talk feelings with Stolas…he doesn't feel like doing the same with Verosika. So, he chooses a lie of omission. “He used to be my best friend.”

“Oh.” 

“And he…basically ghosted me.” He says, giving such a vague explanation on what happened it was practically a lie. 

“He did?” 

“We were supposed to meet up and…run away together but he never showed up.” 

That's basically the gist of it. Though he left out the explosion and burn marks that covered half his face.

“I'm sorry he did that to you, Blitzø…” Verosika says. 

“But?” Blitzø asks, knowing it was coming. 

“He was only a teenager back then, right? Maybe there's more to the story than you know? I mean- how would you feel if the roles were reversed?” She asks. 

“I would never be that reckless.” Blitzø says. 

“Sure.” She exhales loudly, as if she knew something he didn't. 

“Look, we can meet up after Ozzies and I can take you somewhere special.” Blitzø says.

Verisika sighs. “Fine.”

 “I'm not ready to face Fizz…but if it means that much to you, I'll consider it for the future. Deal?”

“Deal.” Verosika says. “I'll call you after my performance.” 

“Perfect. I have a meeting with someone this morning, and then I have a few clients to get to so I should get to it.” Blitzø says. 

“See you tonight.” Verosika says. 

“Bye.” Blitzø hangs up. 

Yeah, he's going to spend the entire day worrying about what might happen but…he'll be okay.

He's been through worse. 

{Past: Blitzø, 17}

The palace was busy with Stolas and Stella's wedding- everyone was working from early in the morning and didn't stop till it was very late. 

Blitzo had a lot on his mind and had almost no one to turn to…so he took the risk and approached Lays in the kitchen. 

“Blitzo, have you completed your work?” Lays asks upon seeing him. 

“Yes.” He answers. “Got up early and managed to get it all done.” He says. 

“Then go help the others until the day is up.” Lays tells him. 

Okay…” Blitzo turned away but then turned back to Lays. “I need to ask you something.” He says. 

“If you must.” Lays answers, looking through the wedding menu to make sure it's right. 

“Is it…possible to love two people at once?” Blitzo asks, sitting down across from him. 

Lays looks up at him with his eyes widened. “Pardon?” 

“If Catherine loved both Heathcliff and Edgar. She picked Edgar but did that change her love for Heathcliff or did she just make the smart choice?” He suggests, using a novel he knows Lays has read as a reference. “Or did she never love Heathcliff to begin with?”

Lays looked down at his papers with a sigh. “In my experience…yes. It's possible. But the feeling of love doesn't have to stay the same. To spare feelings or to keep one sane…we must learn how to channel those feelings into something different- something that fits our lives.” Lays explains. “Feelings get people in trouble- we must learn to be in control of them. Maybe Catherine loved Edgar- maybe not. But marrying Heathcliff wasn't good for her, so she made her choice. We all must make the right choice for us.”

Blitzo looks at him, silent for once. 

Lays looks up at him. “We all must make a choice, Blitzo. She had to do what's best for…everyone. Understood?” 

Blitzo nods. “Yeah.” 

{Present:}

Blitzø can't knock on the door…

It was too familiar. 

He travels to the side of the palace to climb up to Stolas's window to get into his room. 

He waits on the small sofa in Stolas's room untill Stolas finds him, which doesn't take long at all. 

“Blitzø!” Stolas says as he walks into his room. “What a surprise, you could have used the front door, you know.” 

“Well, I didn't want to disturb your staff…or your…Stella.” Blitzø says. “Or daughter.”

“Via and Stella aren't here, and none of my staff would recognize you, Lays doesn't even work here anymore.” Stolas says. “He left after you did.”

“Really? Where did he go?” Blitzø asks. 

“I'm not sure. Probably to work with my father or perhaps he found a different job.” Stolas says. 

Blitzø hums. “Well, I hope it's somewhere nice.” He says, not sure if he means that…he does.

“Indeed.” Stolas agrees. “He was more of a father to me than mine was…not that it took much.” 

Blitzø nods, he supposed that was true for him too…but he doesn't want to unpack all that. 

“So…what is it you needed to talk about?” Stolas asks. 

“Well…” Blitzø takes a deep breath. “I need to know why exactly you're helping me.”

“What?”

“If there's something you want- just tell me.” Blitzø says. “I can't afford debt- especially when I don't know what it is. Whatever it is you want- I can work it out-”

“Blitzø, I told you already. I just wanted to make amends.” Stolas interrupts. “Nothing more.”

“Well, I don't believe you.” Blitzø says, crossing his arms. 

“You don't?” Stolas asks.

“No.” Blitzø says. “If you wanted to make amends, you would have done it a long time ago.”

“Alright, Blitzø. You know what I want?” Stolas asks. 

Blitzø crosses his arms and looks at him- ready for anything he might say. 

“I want my best friend back! That's what I want!” Stolas says. 

Blitzø blinks at him then sighs. “Stolas-”

 “You left on the worst possible day- when I needed you most! You didn't even say goodbye! You could have at least left a note or something!” Stolas shouts. 

“I did…”

“What?” Stolas asks. 

“I mean I wrote one.” Blitzø says. “But I couldn't leave it…” Blitzø reaches into his pocket and pulls out a folded piece of paper. 

Stolas gasps softly. “Blitzø-”

Blitzø hands it to him. “I wrote that the night I left…saying exactly how I felt and how much u loved you…I felt like giving it to you would be like letting it all go.”

“And you kept it all this time?” Stolas asks, taking it. 

Blitzø nods. “But, I think- I'm ready to let it go now.”

“Let go…of me?” Stolas asks. 

“My feelings for you.” Blitzø says. “I'm happy. I've met someone who's great- better than I actually deserve. I can't keep holding onto this if I have a chance.” 

Stolas nods, tears filling his eyes. “I understand.”

Blitzø nods back. 

“Why didn't you just say goodbye that night? Why did you run? I was worried about you.” Stolas says. 

“Timing was important…also- If I even tried to say goodbye…I wouldn't have left.” 

“You would have been able to.” Stolas says. “I made sure of that.”

“What?” 

“Blitzø…” Stolas takes his hand. “When I told you I loved you… I meant it. I never ever wanted to keep you against your will.”

“That's…hard to believe.” Blitzø says. 

“The day before the wedding…I went to my father to tell him I wouldn't marry her because I loved you.” Stolas says. 

Blitzø's eyes widened. “Seriously?”

“But…I told him I would if he let you go.” Stolas says. 

Blitzø's eyes widened. “You freed me?” 

Stolas nods. “That's why my father didn't look for you. I couldn't live with myself if I were to keep you here after…that “

Blitzø nods. “That…does help. To know you weren't just…taking advantage of me.” He says. 

“I suppose I did in some ways.” Stolas says. “I'm sorry I wasn't a better partner to you before, I wish I were there for you more. Understood what you were going through.”

“You were going through a lot too.” Blitzø says. “It wasn't your fault. 

“I admit, I was hoping…you were here to tell me you…still loved me.” Stolas says. “That maybe we could have…made things work somehow.”

“You're married.” Blitzø says. 

“Not happily.” Stolas says. 

“Still married.” Blitzø stands up. “I'll always care about you but…I'm not even sure what we had was love or…just horny kids desperate for freedom.” 

Stolas looks down. “I loved you. I always will.”

"Then why did it take me stealing your book for you to tell me any of this?" Blitzø asks. “I know you know me. You could have found me if you wanted to.” 

"I didn't know if I could, I thought you hated me." Stolas says. 

"I do hate you…" Blitzø says. "But that's no excuse to shut me out."

Stolas hums. "You could have visited me too, you know."

"I didn't want to know if you actually married Stella…why do you think I left when I did?" Blitzø asks. 

Stolas nods. "I'm sorry I hurt you, darling. You're right, I am such a coward." He says. 

Blitzø shakes his head. "No, you're not. You're just responsible…which is much worse." He jokes. 

“Life honestly was utter and complete shit when I lived here.” Blitzø explains. “And I guess I resented you for that but…I shouldn't have. I'm sorry.” 

Stolas blinks in surprise. 

“You didn't do anything wrong. You made decisions you had every right to make.” Blitzø says. “Honestly that's not worse than anything I've ever done.”

“What have you ever done?” Stolas asks. 

Blitzø shakes his head. 

Stolas looks at the folded note, then back at Blitzø. “Would you do something for me?”

Blitzø looks back at him. “Okay.”

Stolas hands the note back. “Read it to me.” He requests. “I want to hear it from you.” 

Blitzø takes the note. He unfolds it and looks through it. “You sure about this?”

Stolas nods. “I can't see myself moving on otherwise. You left a flower on your nightstand that night and-” Stolas grabs a book from his bookshelf, ‘Anna Karenina’ and pulls out the single orange and yellow flower, all dried up and pressed. “I've kept it safe all this time. Wondering what it meant.”

Blitzø wasn't at all surprised that Stolas took care of it all this time- that's such a Stolas thing to do. 

Blitzø turns his attention to the note and decides to read it: “Stolas, I know someone like me could never be worthy of someone like you, but despite everything I still dreamed you'd somehow choose me over your stature. I know that isn't entirely fair to you, to give up everything you've ever known, but I'll never stop hoping that someday you might change your mind. 

I would have lived my entire life as your slave if that meant seeing you every day. You're the only reason I've woken up and faced every morning, the only reason I'm alive now. 

But to see you marry Stella will break me in more ways than one. I can't do it. I'd rather die than to see you married to her. 

I guess we both need to make decisions that fit our lives. Unfortunately, they couldn't align without sacrifices that would destroy our lives. 

I hope you find happiness despite marrying her, but I know I never can. I know I should let you go but you permanently own a huge piece of my heart that I'll never see again.

I'm sorry I couldn't face you, I hope you won't resent me for that. But, I understand if you did. I love you. -Blitzo.”

Blitzø looks up at Stolas and hands him the note. “Teenagers can be so…dramatic, huh?” Blitzø asks, trying to lighten the mood a bit as tears force their way out of his eyes. 

Stolas takes it and places it in the book with the flower. “Thank you, Blitzø. I do feel better knowing what you were feeling then.” He says. 

A moment passes the two of them- mostly catching their breath. 

“I suppose you did then?” Blitzø asks. 

“What?”

“Found happiness. You have Via now right?"

Stolas nods. “I do. And she's everything to me.” He smiles. “Despite what you once thought, somehow you managed it too. I'm glad you found happiness with Loona and your sister…and your partner-”

“Verosika.” Blitzø tells him. 

Stolas smiles and nods. “Verosika. I hope you two are so happy.”

“Thanks, Stols.” Blitzø says. 

“Do you feel that you now have…closure?” Stolas asks. 

Blitzø nods. “Yeah, I think so. You?”

Stolas nods. “I do. Does that mean we could maybe…be friends now?” Stolas asks. “Start again?”

Blitzø doesn't answer at first so Stolas keeps talking. “I know there's a lot of resentment and anger and I'm not downplaying any of it- especially all you went through because of me.”

“It wasn't because of you.” Blitzø says. “I got caught, that's on me.” He jokes.

“I'm serious.” Stolas says. 

“I know.” Blitzø says. “I know why you did it…and I forgive you.”

“I forgive you too.” Stolas says.

Blitzø nods. “Good. I'll see you later. I have work.” He says, walking to the window. 

“Blitzø?” 

“I think…I'd like being friends again.” Blitzø says. “We can help each other get over it.”

Stolas smiles and Blitzø does too. “See you later, Stolas.”

{Blitzø: later}

Blitzø went to work, but Barbie wasn't there. He hoped they could have talked about it- but he supposed it had to wait until they got back home. 

Business was slow- so even when Millie and Loona went home, he had very little to do. 

He focused all his energy on paperwork until there was literally nothing else to do. 

He went home, ready to face the music, he's ready to make this right and then he could go on his date without the guilt and anxiety-

“Barb?” Blitzø asks, knocking on her bedroom door. “Sis? Hey, we need to talk about it. Ignoring me is counter productive. If you're upset- just let me have it.” 

No response, so he opens the door slowly…

“Sis?”

She's not there. 

Probably on a date or…something. 

He walks over to the other bedroom. “Loonie? Do you know where your-” 

Before he could finish his question, he saw a note on his daughter's door. 

She's at a party…with Tex. 

He sighs. 

Well, he can't just sit here and wait- not while he feels this…awful. 

At least when he talked to Stolas it was about them and their relationship not…

That…

‘I can't please-’

‘Either take the shot…or you'll both be executed.’

Blitzø flinches at the sound of a gunshot.

‘That's a good boy.’

He can't be alone right now- he had to get out of here. 

Verosika is still at Ozzie's but…maybe it wouldn't be so bad- Fizz probably won't even recognize him…

If Fizz is even there.

{Ozzie's:}

“Sorry, dude. No date, no reservation, no entry.” Jesse, Barbie's shitty boyfriend told him when he tried to enter the club. 

“Jesse, I'm with Verosika.” Blitzø says. “She's playing tonight, she invited me.”

“Verosika Mayday?” Jesse asks. 

“No, Verosika Toasteroven.” Blitzø says sarcastically. “Yes Verosika Mayday!”

“You really expect me to believe you're dating Verosika?” He laughs. “You!?”

“Yeah.” Blitzø says. “Hasn't Barbie ever…I don't know- mentioned that?” 

“Hard to say.” He says. “I don't really listen when she talks.” He says. 

“Wow. You're such a piece of shit.” Blitzø mumbles. He walks away from him and tries to call Verosika. 

It rings a few times, then nothing. “Shit.” 

Okay so he needs a date to get in…to see his date. How hard can that be?

“Please pick up the phone.” Blitzø begs. 

“You've reached Millie, leave a message and I'll give you a call right back.” 

“Fuck.” Blitzø hangs up. Why does he only have one friend!?

Well…

He does have one more option…

He turns back to his phone…and presses the button.

“Blitzø?” 

“Hey…Stolas. I know this is probably awkward but can you do me a favor?”

{A few minutes later:}

Stolas appears in front of Ozzie's only a few minutes later. 

Blitzø looks him up and down. “Wow. You…dressed up.” Blitzø says. 

“Well- you know how I love any excuse to look nice.” Stolas says. “Even if I am only here to help you get into a club.” 

“Thanks for doing this for me- I owe you one.” Blitzø says. 

Stolas takes his hand. “You owe me nothing.”

They walk up to the entrance again and Jesse looks at Blitzø angrily. “Hey! What did I just say, shithea-”

“Do we have a problem?” Stolas asks. 

All the color drains from Jesse's face. “Oh! Uh, shit! Uh, my apologies, your highness. Uh, please go right in.” He bows and removes the barrier, letting them both in..

“Sorry this is weird.” Blitzø says as they are seated at a table. “Verosika wouldn't answer her phone and they wouldn't let me in unless I had a date…”

“It is weird, but honestly, I'm just glad to be out of the house, besides what are friends for?” Stolas says, because honestly he wouldn't know. “Will you point her out to me when she shows up? She must be lovely." Stolas says. 

Blitzø nods. “Yeah, of course.”

“Why- why did you call me? Why not a friend of yours or your sister?” Stolas asks. 

“Uh- my sister isn't talking to me…and I don't have many friends.” Blitzø says. 

“Oh, I'm sorry. Are you alright?” Stolas asks. 

“Yeah…siblings fight, that's normal.” Blitzø says. 

“Hopefully not like Stella and Andrealphus. I swear he's always two seconds from stealing her from me.” Stolas laughs. 

Blitzø laughs too. “You're kidding, right? He wanted to steal you from her.” 

“No!” Stolas says. “There's no way he liked me.” 

“Dude- you seriously didn't notice?” Blitzø asked. “I was threatened.” 

Stolas chuckles. “You were threatened by Andrealphus?”

“Not quite as much as that parrot who drooled all over you.” Blitzø says. "What was his name?"

“Vassago?” Stolas gasps. 

“That's him!” Blitzø says. 

“He did not!”

Blitzø smirks. “He did, and I'll bet he still would!"

Stolas looks away. “Seriously, stop it.”

"You seemed to know who I was talking about." Blitzø says. 

Stolas was about to say something but the show was starting. 

“Ladies and gentlemen! I see some sexy faces around here tonight!" Fizzarolli suddenly appears on the stage. "Welcome, welcome, to Ozzie's Lust ring's number one place for all kinds of sick twisted fantasies! Put on display for all you Sleaze and Sleazettes. The gin joint of Asmodeus himself! C'mon, give him some looooove!" 

“Did he say Asmodeus?”

“What did you think Ozzie's stood for?” Blitzø asks, holding a menu to cover his face.  

“Oz- stentatious?” Stolas suggests. 

“Seriously?” Blitzø asks.

“I don't get out much.” Stolas says. 

“Clearly.”

“I am the one and only Fizzarolli! Some of you may recognize this dashing clown face from my numerous toy-botic replicas across the rings of Hell. Gloriously designed by the big man himself and uh.” He rolls up a sleeve, revealing a cybernetic arm in a seductive mannor. “Ribbed for your pleasure tonight. We have a great lineup for you tonight: Verosika Mayday, Wet Dream and The Squirterz!” 

Stolas and Blitzø look over at Verosika, but she doesn't notice them- probably because Blitzø was still hiding behind his menu. 

“Blitzø…are you alright?” Stolas asks. 

“They really couldn't find a table closer to the damn stage, could they?” Blitzø sighs. 

Stolas tilts his head. “Blitzø…?”

“Woah! Looks like we have some demon royalty here tonight.” Fizzarolli says. 

“Stolas Goetia! My dark lord.” Asmodeus smiles. “Is that your lovely wife sitting with you?” He asks. 

But obviously, it wasn't, so Fizzarolli took the menu from him. “Woah- Blitzo?” Fizz asks. 

“Stolas! Are you sleeping with an Imp?” One Wally Wackford asked. 

“What? No!’ Stolas says, defensively and loud. “Of course not!” 

Blitzø turns to Stolas- Why would he be so defensive about that?

“Well- you wouldn't expect him to admit it would you?” Blitzø heard someone else ask. 

“Blitzo? You have some nerve showing up here!” Fizz says. “Hey, everyone! This guy is a total disgrace!” Fizz laughs. 

Blitzø stands up. “Me? You have nerves just getting up in the morning.” He snarls. 

The crowd gasps. 

“Ooo touchy!” Fizz mocks. “And rich coming from someone who can't commit to anyone. Even your date 

“Stolas isn't my date. Okay?” Blitzø says. “I'm here with my girlfriend, your dumb bouncer just wouldn't let me in without one so I called him!” He explains. “And when exactly was the last time you had a successful relationship?” He asks. 

“I get plenty.” Fizz says. “So, is this your girlfriend then?” Fizz asks. “I'm sure we're all dying to know!” 

The crowd cheers and Blitzø looks at Verosike who looks…

Apologetic...and ashamed. 

She's not saying anything. She's just standing there. 

She didn't say anything. 

“Okay.” Blitzø says. “I'm not with anyone.” 

Blitzø gets up to leave, and Stolas follows him. 

“Blitzø, wait-” Verosika follows him too, they make it outside before she grabs his arm. “Please, wait-” 

Blitzø pulls his hand away from hers. “Verosika, stop. Okay? I don't need to take this to save your ego, if you're ashamed to be with me, we shouldn't even be together anyway!” 

“Blitzø, I was going to tell him. I just-”

“I've been through it all before, Ver.” Blitzø says. “You sat there and watched it happen without a single word, do you think I don't know what that means? I'm used to people looking down on me, but I promised myself I wouldn't get involved with them again. This was my mistake.” Blitzø turns away again but she grabs him and turns him back towards her. 

“Blitzø, I should have said something- but in the moment everyone was looking and-”

“I really don't want to talk to you right now, okay?” Blitzø says, moving her hand away from him. “Let me go.”

Blitzø turns away once again and this time Verosika walks back into the club. 

“I'm sorry for wasting your time, Stolas.” Blitzø says. 

“Not at all.” Stolas says. “Are you alright?” He asks, resting a hand on his shoulder. 

“I-” Blitzø is about two seconds before saying something he'll regret. “I think you should go home.”

“Alright.” Stolas says. “I'll call you…or you can call me if you want.”

Blitzø nods and so Stolas leaves. 

He really is stupid. 

{Verosika}

Verosika walks back into the club in a huff, she's not going to stand for this! 

“Next up, Verosika mayday!” Fizz introduces. 

Verosika stands up on stage and gestures for them to cut the music. “I won't be performing here. Not where my boyfriend is unwanted.”

The crowd is quiet and so is Fizz and Ozzie at first.

Fizz walks over to her. “Ver-”

“Blitzø Buckzo is the love of my life and anyone who has a problem with him…has a problem with me. Goodnight.” Verosika throws the microphone across the room and runs off- demons trying to stop her as they ask a million questions- but her body guards stop them from making it to her.

She has to find Blitzø and apologize before it's too late.

She can't just give up on the one relationship that has meant something to her- 

{}{}{}{}

Verosika walks to the elevator in the rain- hoping Blitzø just went home. 

Once she reaches his apartment, she knocks on the door. “Blitzø? Are you home?” She asks. 

Blitzø sighs and opens the door. “What?” 

“I know I messed up. I should have told Fizzarolli we were together, I should have said something when he…did that to you.” Verosika says. 

“Yeah. You should have.” Blitzø says, moving inside away from the door, she follows him in and closes the door behind her. 

“Well, I'm sorry I hurt you.” Verosika says. “I didn't mean to! In the moment I was-”

“Everyone makes mistakes in the moment, Ver. But I didn't. I meant what I said. “I'm not going to be taken advantage of anymore. I’m done dating people who don't give a shit about me.”

“That's not true!” Verosika says. “I care about you- this was one bad night!”

“Oh yeah? And what exactly are you going to tell Fizz next time?” Blitzø asks. 

“Nothing. Because I just told him that I loved you and I wouldn't be caught dead in their stupid club again!”

Blitzø blinks at her. “What?”

“After you left, I marched in there and told them all to go fuck themselves.” She explains. “I wouldn't pick him over you!”

Blitzø doesn't respond to that. 

“Blitzø, I-” 

Blitzø hears his phone go off so he holds up a finger to tell Verosika to hold that thought. He glances down at it. “Oh…shit.”

“What is it?” Verosika asks. 

“Uh. It's Loona. Tex invited her to a party tonight but…she's asking me to pick her up early.” He says, getting up to look for his keys. “I have to go- we can talk later.”

“I'll come with you.” Verosika says. 

“I'd rather you didn't.” Blitzø says. 

“Well, too bad.” Verosika says. “We have to talk about this. You're not running off that easily.”

Blitzø sighs. “Ver-”

“I'm coming either way.” She says. “The only question is, am I following you on foot in the rain or not?”

Blitzø sighs as he finds his keys. “Alright. Come on.”