College makes updating a bitch but I'm still kicking so whatever. Check out my DA, EmeraldOverlord for art and such.
Bland. Dull. Tedious.
Those were the exact words Husk found himself describing his experience with cooking overall.
Granted, Husk wasn't exactly an expert chef or anything, cooking as a hobby was Niffty's preference.
However, without her there, Husk had to rely on himself to sustain himself. It didn't help that the only good ingredients were reserved for the Queen, meaning Husk had to scavenge materials to make the bare minimum.
He was able to create food that would sustain him for the time being, it was nothing special. Only plain, unflavored gruel, he found himself shoveling down his gullet in hopes of not feeling so empty for the time being.
The most irritating thing about it was that there was good food just around the corner, but all of it was reserved for Beelzebub and he was certain trying to take any of it would result in severe consequences from the other staff members (most of whom didn't seem all too fond of him as if was).
He supposed he shouldn't be complaining, he was alive and had recovered from Seviathan's near successful attempt on his life prior.
Alas, Husk couldn't bring himself to truly feel joyous over such a feat, for the knowledge that Seviathan was using his sister's identity for nefarious purposes under the other's noses kept him up at night.
Not to mention the great unease he felt knowing that it was only a matter of time before Seviathan chose to blindside the others while their backs were turned. It was entirely in-character for him to do such a thing.
And why wouldn't he? Seviathan was many things, bloodthirsty, malicious and downright dangerous. But stupid?
No. That didn't fit, not after what Husk had seen, what he heard.
Seviathan had demonstrated the ability to not only dispatch his sister in record timing, but managed to take her place, copying her mannerisms and mimicking her voice without the slightest bit of difficulty, using his position to serve as a double-agent and disposing of those who stood in conflict with his superior's plans. He even seemed to have been watching them prior, watching from the shadows before taking the opportunity to strike while his other half was alone and unable to call for help.
Seviathan's tactics relied heavily on deception and brutality, luring people into a false sense of security before blindsiding them while their backs were turned.
It was his MO, sadistically toying with others like they were pawns in his twisted game before stabbing them where it truly hurt and cruelly laughing at their suffering.
And woe for those who stood in the way of exposing this cruel charade, for any who did were silenced and disposed of without so much as a second thought. He had narrowly escaped Seviathan's wrath with his life and Husk had a feeling that the others wouldn't be so lucky if he didn't get there soon…
As of now, the only question that lingered in Husk's mind wasn't 'if' Seviathan would attack, it was 'when.' That feeling of uncertainty filled Husk with dread, knowing that while he was away, Seviathan mingled among the group like a wolf in sheep's clothing, hiding his nefarious intent behind a mask of aloofness, the others none the wiser.
Husk was overwhelmed with worry, and he could hardly get a wink of sleep, constant thoughts of doubt plagued his already troubled mind.
He was only snapped out of his thoughts when another tapped his shoulder, taking him off-guard.
With stress already rampant within his veins, Husk responded with hostility, hair raising with fury, "I'm working dammit, quit getting on my case or so help me-''He paused, realizing that it wasn't Flan behind him, but Tea.
His expression faltered, softening ever so slightly before sheepishly clearing his throat," Oh uh…didn't see you there. Sorry about that, I thought you were someone else…"
"I-I see…" She stammered, her voice still shaken from the violent outburst she witnessed mere moments ago, "Are you alright Hunter? You seem forlorn…"
"I'm fine, really" He lied, "Though I got to ask, what brings you here?"
"Flan told me this side of the corridor needed to be swept," She informed him, "The kitchen must always be tidy and I'm always willing to help out where I can. Speaking of which, is there anything I can do for you to make you feel better, Hunter?"
Husk was taken aback by the question of his wellbeing, asking, "Why do you care about making me feel better, Tea?"
"Because you're part of the team now."
"You sure? Cuz I sure don't feel like it. Flan treats me with contempt and the others don't even seem to acknowledge my existence. Hardly seems like I'm part of the 'team' so to speak…"
Not that Husk wanted to be a part of their little servant crew, not at all. But he certainly wasn't being made to feel welcomed in the group and was branded an outsider from the start.
Tea frowned, "Don't take it personally, Hunter. It's just that we've all been working together for years and having someone new arrive downstream is a bit jarring. I promise that everyone is nice when you get to know them. Maybe if we got you more acquainted with them, you would be able to have a good relationship with the rest of us. We are all a family and even if you are not related to us by blood, you deserve to be welcomed with open arms just like everyone else."
Husk scoffed, "Appreciate the offer but no thanks," He declined, "I don't need any more attachments right now, especially with my actual friends in jeopardy…" Husk cursed himself, he hadn't meant to let that part slip, but he truly had been stressed lately that his true thoughts passed through his lips like butter.
"Your friends? "She asked, "You have friends, Hunter?"
"It's none of your concern, really," he said, trying to downplay his words in hopes of getting her off his back.
This attempt yielded no positive results, as it was abundantly clear that Tea was a stubborn cookie and was not dropping the issue.
"Hunter, you do not need to lie to me. If there is something that is truly bothering, you can tell me. We are all on the same side…"
Husk resisted the urge to say he wasn't but bit his tongue, instead replying with, "I would rather not…"
She pouted, her lips twisting in a childish manner as she folded her arms over her bosom, "That's no way to treat someone trying to be your friend, Hunter. I am just trying to help…"
"You wouldn't understand…"
"Then help me understand. Bottling things up ain't healthy, it's like throwing together a fizzy drink and shaking it up while hoping something good happens when you open it. It's all gonna bubble to the surface eventually, might as well try hashing things out before it boils over…"
Husk groaned, Tea wasn't dropping the subject and at this point, he truly did need someone to talk to. Though if he was gonna speak with her about his feelings, it sure as hell wasn't going to be in this kitchen where about anyone could walk in.
"Fine, I'll spill…only if we go somewhere private. I don't feel comfortable speaking where others walk by and hear our conversation…"
Tea's mood shifted, returning to her bubbly personality with an eager smile on her face, "See, sweetie-pie? That wasn't so hard, was it?"
Husk cringed at the nickname; he wasn't fond of pet-names in general, but the way Tea said those words with a teeth-rottenly sweet smile unnerved him. Not Tea herself, but her mannerisms took after a certain Queen of Sin far too much for his tastes.
"No nicknames," He requested, "Just Hunter…"
"Oh alright, Hunter… "She huffed, "Have it your way. Follow me and I'll let you in on a few secrets of mine so we can get to know each other better. How does that sound?"
"Hmph…"
"I'll take that as a yes."
Tea motioned Husk forward to a corridor that seemed desolate, no servants seemed to venture into these parts, much to Husk's surprise as he asked aloud, "Where is everyone?"
Tea shushed him, putting her finger up to his lips before whispering, "Quiet, no one is supposed to know we're here…"
Husk narrowed his eyes for a moment, wondering where exactly he was being taken. The further he got, the more closed off they were.
Eventually, Tea had led him to a locked door that clearly wasn't meant to be opened by mere servants only to rummage around the inside of her cleavage to pull out a key that had been residing inside.
As Tea put the key inside and unlocked the door, Husk's eyes wandered a bit and for good reason. Tea had an hourglass figure, and she did have…assets that were quite visible despite her conservative outfit.
Not that he was going to try anything with her, but looking wasn't a crime now, was it? It had been a long while since he got a look at a girl's goods and he sure as hell wasn't complaining about the nice view he got from here.
"Hunter," Tea cut in, snapping Husk's out of the haze with a mocking snicker, "I'm sorry to inform you of this, but my eyes are up here…"
Husk's face burned with embarrassment as he stammered for a response. He got caught red-handed and Husk instinctively doubled down on denial over admitting such an embarrassing mistake in front of her, "I-I um…don't know what you mean…"
Fortunately for Husk, Tea didn't seem angry about his perverted antics, instead seeming to find amusement in it before moving onward.
Tea led him inside the room and shut the door behind them.
On the other side was something Husk had never truly expected to see.
Behind those walls was a large beekeeping area, buzzing filling the air. Husk was astonished to see so many bees being held within captivity and an eerie feeling crawled up his spine being near so many insects that could potentially sting him if he ventured too close to their territory…
"What is this place, Tea?"
"This is Lady Beelzebub's most private chamber. Only authorized staff are permitted here…"
"Are you one of them?"
"Well…yes…" She admitted nervously, "Though I'm not supposed to let anyone else down here unless specifically authorized. You'll keep my secret though, won't you, Hunter?"
Husk nodded, "I ain't gonna rat you out if that's what you're thinking…."
She exhaled a sigh of relief, a large smile returning to her face as if all doubt had been eliminated through sheer words alone,"Phew…I knew I could trust you, Hunter…"
Trust…it had been a long while since anyone ever told him they trusted him with such brim confidence. Made his cold dead heart feel appreciated for a split second, but only just….
He hadn't anticipated a pun-loving maid to be a rule breaker, but he supposed that he should come to expect the unexpected at this point. There was more to meet the eye in this realm, he may as well try and keep an open mind while he was here.
Tea began showing him about the place, highlighting not only where the bees were being kept, but showing where their precious honey was being collected/stored.
To his surprise, there was an entire row of honey propped up in glass bottles, the mixture glistening in the light. The bottles were wrapped in glass with care, and he'd be lying if he said he was not impressed with the quality.
"Who wrapped up all these?"
"Why me of course," She said with a hint of pride.
"You did all of this? "He balked; the number of bottles would indicate countless hours of work that no one person could do without rest.
"Of course. You didn't think my job just consisted of lugging around a broom now did you?" The maiden proclaimed," Oh no, our Lady wouldn't ever let us have such a minimal workload. Everyone must earn their keep around here you know?"
Husk cringed, "You manage this entire area?"
"Mhm. I'm one of the few Lady Beelzebub trusts enough to wander around here willy nilly. Course I got to remain working throughout the night but that's just the way things run around here I'm afraid…"
The way she spoke sounded…discontent yet accepting, as if this had been her life for quite some time.
"Tea…when was the last time you slept?"
"Slept?" Tea asked in a confused manner. The question was so simple, yet you'd think with how bemused she was that he had asked her to count how many grains of sand were on the beach.
"Do you not know what sleeping is?"
"Of course, I do," She huffed in a faux-offended tone, "What do you think I am? Dumb?"
"Listen Tea, you know I never implied you were dum-"
"Relax, I'm just pulling your leg, Hunter," She said while elbowing him playfully, "Though seriously, that thing you call 'sleep' isn't a thing in this palace. No one truly 'rests' throughout the day…"
Husk was bemused by this admission, though it did make sense the longer he thought about it. He never saw any of the servants sleep since he arrived, nor did he see them eat for that matter. As if it wasn't a requirement for their kind, as if they weren't human…
It wasn't the first time he dealt with supernatural beings and no doubt it wouldn't be the last, but he found himself curious as to what exactly Tea was.
The words escaped his lips without him knowing, "What even are you, Tea?"
"What am I?" She seemed…amused by this question, giggling that high-pitched cackle that unnerved him ever so slightly, as if he had told some funny joke. "Quite a personal question, don't ya think? I mean, isn't it obvious? Little ole me is human…partly…" She added mischievously.
"Mostly?" He pressed, "Tea, I'm not joking…Be straight with me…"
"I am Hunter, honest!" She swore as she performed hand motions, swearing her integrity, "I am part-human…"
"And what's the rest of you?"
"Sort of complicated….Though I think it would be easier shown rather than explained," She admitted.
Before Husk could truly ponder what that meant, a pair of large translucent wings abruptly sprouted out of Tea's back akin to the ones you'd see bees. The only true difference was that due to the size, you could see the extravagant patterns better as Tea's wings were the size of her body.
Tea let out a relaxed sigh, stretching her wings out a bit and allowing them to flutter around a bit as she spoke, "Ah…much better. It's been a while since I let these babies breathe."
"Holy shit…" He heaved, "You're…a bee? How…how is that even possible?"
"A lot of things are possible when you're the offspring of the Queen," She informed him in a matter-of-fact manner.
It was only then did it all clicked in Husk's head. It all suddenly made sense, the unnatural ability to not require food or sleep despite being somewhat human, the wings and even the subtle mannerisms they shared, it was all connected…
Only one thing didn't add up in his mind….
Why was Tea a house cleaner? Surely someone who shared Beelzebub's blood would be treated royally wouldn't they?
Wouldn't she be considered Beelzebub's heir to that effect? Why was someone with her potential sweeping floors and doing menial tasks you'd expect out of someone from a lower social class?
The question bothered him, so much to the point he couldn't help but ask, "Then why not you a Princess?"
"Pardon?"
"You heard me, Tea. Why aren't you a Princess if you share Beelzebub's blood in your veins? Surely, you'd have some sort of claim to the throne by divine right, wouldn't you? Why are you stuck cleaning kitchens and shit instead of learning how to be an heir?"
"If I were her only child, I would be. However, Lady Beelzebub never intended for us to be heirs. No, we are merely servants for the hive, our purpose, aesthetic for everything to function."
"I don't see why she didn't just hire regular servants…"
"Well, regular servants require maintenance. They need to eat, they need to sleep, they need a roof over their heads. While she could've easily provided this, as time went on, our Lady eventually grew tired of their complaints on the workload and often asked for raises…"
Husk cringed, "I take it she didn't respond well to that suggestion…"
"Your guess is correct. Our Lady was quite infuriated with how her workforce required all these needs and I believe them asking for a raise was the final straw. She, however, hatched an idea one night, a devious yet intelligent plan nevertheless and decided to give it a test run. She summoned one of the many noble suitors who were eager to garner her favor and had them over for dinner."
Husk could feel his stomach turn a little at hand for the dinner' segment, already having a bad feeling of what was to come.
"They had a nice chat, had a few drinks. Both got tipsy. She then took this opportunity to lure this man to bed, offering him a proposition if he laid with her. He eagerly accepted and once the deed was done and the man was asleep…she turned him into a pastry treat and devoured him as a midnight snack."
Husk's stomach turned in disgust, a wave of fright paralyzing him as the realization dawned on him at the nuke, he had dodged prior.
No doubt Beelzebub would have had 'him for dinner' as well had he accompanied her to her chambers prior…
When the shock waned enough to grant husk a chance to speak once more, his voice was shaken beyond belief-How do you even know this?"
"She told me one night when I was serving her wine. I believe she was a tad tipsy when she spoke of the incident as she recalled the night of passion she had before ending the tale on an abrupt end detailing how 'delicious' he was…"
"What about the other servants? Are they too your siblings?"
"Half siblings," Tea mentioned, "We all share the same mother but have different fathers. Given Lady Beelzebub only was pregnant for a few days each time she had us, it was hardly a chore. All she had to do was gorge herself on her honey stockpile and wait for us to be born and put us to work once we got old enough."
Husk cringed; it was hard to comprehend being so cruel to give birth to a plethora of children purely to satisfy one's gluttonous obsession. Their potential was untapped, an intentional mark on Beelzebub's part to ensure none of her heirs got any ideas of usurping her.
It was disgusting and Husk felt nothing but contempt towards Beelzebub for raising her children, her own flesh and blood like cogs in a never-ending machine.
"So, what about you?" She asked, "Remember our deal, Hunter. I told you my story, it's only fair you tell me yours."
Husk groaned; he had honestly forgotten about that part until now. He should've seen this coming. She was trying to get him to open after all and explaining her life's story was no doubt a way to get him to crack on his past.
No matter, had it been any other situation, Husk might've considered lying, but he didn't feel right lying to Tea after she had poured her heart out to him moments prior after bringing him to this forbidden place. Might as well fill in the gaps…
"It's a long story," He admits, "I know you're not going to believe me, but I'm not from here…"
"I could tell you that much, Hunter…"
"No, I mean like. I'm not from this Realm, Tea. I am from an entirely different timeline, one much more…advanced," He said. Tea's expression seemed skeptical, and he sighed, "Listen, I get it's hard to believe, but you got to hear me out. I promise it'll all make sense when I break it down for you…"
And so, Husk explained everything from the beginning, answering any questions Tea had as he went along. It was quite a mouthful but by the end, Tea had finally digested the material, falling silent as she collected her thoughts.
"I see…you weren't kidding when you said you weren't from this world, were you? How are you even alive if you were in the afterlife, Hunter? I thought the trip to the afterlife was a one-way ticket, yet you've escaped such a grim fate."
Husk scoffed, "Hardly escaping. I traded one Hell for another. Only difference is that I've got something to lose this time…that and I'm not covered head to toe in fur…"
"Don't you always have something to lose as long as you're alive?"
"For a long time, it never mattered either way. I couldn't bring myself to care anymore and had I not landed here, I would've continued that thought process for the rest of my afterlife. But now, despite not having realized it at first, I grew attached to those around me and now that they're in danger, I can't bring myself to not care anymore. I've already lost too many and I'll be damned if I don't try saving them."
"That's…. quite brave of you, Hunter…" She admitted, "I must say I hadn't expected you to carry such a tale with you when I first met you and it pains me that I can't help you in your journey."
An idea came to mind and while Husk knew it was risky, it was always worth a shot of having extra hands, "Who's to say you can't?"
"Pardon?"
"You heard me. Why don't you?"
"Hunter, Lady Beelzebub-"
"Isn't here. She can't stop you from making your own choices. I understand you're scared, but who's to say you can't work behind her back? You've been her servant for centuries and haven't even got any sort of compensation for it. You workday and night for free and she hardly registers your existence as anything other than a cog in the machine. Is that truly the life you wish to live for all eternity?"
Husk received silence on the other end, Tea contemplating his words ever so slowly. Before she could come to a decision, however, Flan abruptly shoved Husk away from Tea, wielding a sword of all things at his neck.
"Not another step," Flan growled, taunting the weapon at the man's neck with utter disdain in his voice.
"Flan, how did you get here?" Tea exclaimed, not expecting her half sibling to intrude on them like this.
"It was easy really, the door wasn't even locked," He informed flatly, "You never learn, do you, Tea? Even when you're trying to be cautious, your clumsiness always shines through."
Tea winced at her brother's criticism, feeling a tad embarrassed for making such a foolish mistake.
He sighed, "No matter. I must say I'm disappointed you're so easily swayed by this man's words. He's clearly trying to stir up trouble and I cannot believe you were considering listening to this loon…"
"How long were you even there for?" Husk grumbled.
"Long enough to hear your outlandish story. I must say, I've heard my fair share of tall tales in my day, but you've certainly taken the cake…"
"It isn't a telltale buddy," Husk retorted, "If it were, I wouldn't be here…"
"Even if I were to take your claims seriously, that still doesn't excuse you trying to manipulate my sister into doing your bidding. Don't think you're slick, I can see through you, hunter…"
Husk scoffed, "I ain't trying to manipulate Tea into doing jack shit, buckaroo. Tea's a grown woman and she chose to hear me out. Ain't my fault my deal's enticing to her. If anyone is to blame for that you should take it up with Beelzebub."
Another question came to mind, something Husk was eager to have answers for as he eyed the man up and down, "Speaking of that bitch, why so eager to defend that vile woman anyway?"
"Watch your mouth, do not speak of the Queen so lowly," He spat.
Husk remained unfazed by this threat, "Listen kid-"
"I am not a child," He growled, "I am older than you are, Hunter. You are testing my patience and I am giving you until the count of three to give me ONE good reason why I shouldn't report you to the Lady for your treason."
Despite the dicey situation he was in, Husk remained calm. He had one trick up his sleeve, and he silently prayed that this tactic would work, else this mission would all be for naught.
"Because it won't make you any happier."
"How does my happiness have any relevance to the situation at hand?" He remarked, bemused by Husk's change of subject. He may not have been obvious as his elder sister, but Flan seemed…interested in what he had to say.
"Everything, actually," Husk said, "Tell me, when's the last time you prioritized your own happiness?"
Flan seemed unable to formulate a response, as if Husk's question had pierced straight through him.
"I'll take that puzzled look on your face as never," Husk said, "I thought as much. Beelzebub doesn't seem like an attentive mother, and it seems her negligent treatment of her children bears no exception for those desperate to remain in her good graces."
He then sighed, "Listen Flan…I'm telling you right now, I can tell what you're trying to do. You may not admit it but for all your talk about Beelzebub, I've got the feeling you don't like her any more than I do. You're just scared, scared she'll get tired of your slipups one day and dispose of you as she's done to her other mortal servants who outlived their usefulness."
"What would you know?" Flan scoffed, "You know nothing about me. Don't act as though you know me, Hunter."
"You're right, I don't know you. But I know that just by looking at you that if you had a choice in the matter, this wouldn't be the life you want to live."
"What does it matter what I want?" He retorted, "My duty is to serve the Queen, nothing more, nothing less. That is everyone's duty, though I suppose I can't expect humans like yourself to understand how our hierarchy works…"
"You're human too, Flan…"
"Do not equate me to you," He hissed, "I'm not a lowly mortal like you…The fact you're allowed to mingle amongst the crowd is due to Beelzebub taking a liking to you, nothing more. Had I had it my way you would not be an inch within the palace's border…"
Husk resisted the urge to roll his eyes at this blatant supremacy. Far from the first time he had heard something like this but that did not make it any less annoying.
"I figured as much, but my point still stands. This isn't the life you want to live and frankly, it's not a life Tea wants to live either.""
'Even if that were the case and you were right," He replied slowly, "The idea of living a life free of servitude wouldn't ring the same so long as my other siblings remain in bondage…"
"Then let them tag along," Husk shrugged, "I ain't objecting to volunteers. The more the merrier, or so they say anyways…"
"And how exactly do you plan on pulling this off? Even if we were to assist you in this endeavor, Lady Beelzebub would never let us go without a fight and none of us would do well to combat her."
Husk narrowed his eyes, that was a fair point, and he still hadn't worked out the details of getting Beelzebub off their backs. Even if he managed to amass all this support, the Queen of Gluttony would have to be dealt with somehow to ensure she didn't get in the way of their plans…"
Tea then said, "That doesn't mean we can't stall her in the very least."
Having been silent for quite a while, both men were taken aback by Tea's sudden intrusion into the conversation.
"What do you mean, Tea?" Flan questioned, "What could we possibly do that could stall someone like her?"
She sighed, "It's a longshot but hear me out. We don't possess the capability of ending her life or anything, not that I'd want to," She added, "But I do believe that it's possible to at least put her out of commission long enough to do what we need to do."
"And how exactly do you suppose we do that?"
"Lord Belphegor gives Beelzebub ingredients for us to use so that she can get 'drunk' so to speak. It's primarily because the regular beer has little effect on her, so she commissions him to prepare the items for her."
"So basically, we just need to get her to overdose on whatever that sleazeball made and we're good to go? Count me in," Husk said.
"Not so fast, Hunter," Flan said, "There's still the question of how we're going to get her to consume the alcohol in question. I doubt you're aware of this but she usually only drinks when she's in a certain mood."
"And what do you suppose we do about that?" Husk retorts, "It's not like we can magically change her mood or something."
"Actually," Tea started, "I think we can…Though you aren't going to like it…"
"What do you mean I'm not gonna like it? What do you have in mind, Tea?" He asked again, a tad uncertain what the half-human had in mind.
"Hunter…as you know, Lady Beelzebub has taken a liking to you so perhaps it'd be best if you…'spent time' with her so to speak."
"Are…are you saying you want me to go on a date with her!?" Husk exclaimed in disbelief.
"Do you want to save your friends or not?" Tea inquired, "I understand it's uncomfortable but if you want to have a teaspoon of a chance saving your pals then you got to swallow your pride long enough for the drugs to take effect."
Husk groaned in defeat before heaving his shoulders,"Alright, fine. I'll do it…Just get the drinks prepared and make it snappy. I don't want to overstay my welcome any longer than I have to…"
Beezelbub was always in the mood for some tea, no matter what time that may be. It was curretnly dinnertime and while she had eaten her afternoon snack earlier, her cravings never strayed too far from her.
Today was no exception and as she prepared to sit down, she was met with a surprising sight. Hunter was sitting there, a lone candle stationed in the center with a cup of fine wine situated in his hand along with a pre-made meal on both sides of the table.
"Well, well well," She spoke, breaking the silence as she sniffed the air, "Look what we have here. A full course meal. Why, you shouldn't have…" She remarked, speaking not just of the array of food before her, but of the man sitting before her very eyes, her gaze resembling that of a hunter squaring up her prey.
Husk remained calm despite the ordeal, swallowing his disgust and forcing a smile across his lips, "A bit late for complaints, your highness…."
"Oh, I'm not complaining, far from it" She remarked with glee, "I'm just so excited! You know it's been a while since I've had someone to dine with. I could always use a partner for dinner before I got to bed," She remarked with obvious flirtation in her voice.
"How about you take a seat?" He offered, pointing at the chair on the other side of the table, "Wouldn't you want your food getting cold, would you?"
"No, I wouldn't," The Queen admitted before taking a seat in her chair, her gaze never leaving his and rubbing leg up against his from under the table.
Resisting the urge to move away, Husk drank from the wine glass to cool his nerves.
His eyes darted to the tea at Beelzebub's side, watching intently as the Queen of Gluttony reached for the teacup and took several sips out of it after downing some of the desserts on the table.
"So, Hunter, how was your day?" She inquired.
"Standard stuff," He muttered, eyes flickering towards the clock, "Just did chores and what-not. Nothing special…"
"You sound awfully tired," She remarked, "Why don't you relax? This is a date, isn't it? You should enjoy yourself after a day of hard work. Or you need assistance after being so wound up?"
"Let's not get ahead of ourselves, haven't even finished dinner," He stalled, secretly praying for the drugs to quicken the pace on her immune system. Every second felt like an eternity and Husk wasn't certain how long he'd last before she became insistent.
"Don't be like that honey-bun," She whispered softly, her voice slurring a admits been a while since Mommy's got some sugars, why don't you come with me? Then we'd be able to have some real fun~"
"Not now," He said, his mind screaming internally, 'How long is this going to take!? Are those drugs going to kick in or what!?'
Thankfully for Husk's sake, his prayers were answered as Beelzebub clutched her head, "My…I feel a migraine coming on…Quite a strong one…" She then glanced at her tea, cracking her tongue at the strange taste in her mouth, her vision becoming hazy, "Everything's so…blurry…Did…did you spike my tea!?"
Her accusation sounded bridled with fury when he saw the woman stand up, struggling to maintain her balance.
She then started laughing, "You…shouldn't have done that, Hunter…You know I usually eat men like you alive…but you are too good for that…I should be allowed to savor the entire being you before you die…" She remarked sadistically, her eyes glowing with twisted delight.
Husk acted fast, shoving the table. Because of her drugged state, Beelzebub was shaken by this and tripped over her chair, tumbling backwards onto the floor as she hit her head. Husk's immediate response was to push the table on top of her as an extra measure, watching as the plates shattered across the floor, food spilling all over her.
The second he had done that, Flan and Tea emerged from the corridor, having witnessed the entire scene. Tea tensed up at the sight of her, "Was pushing the table on her truly necessary, Hunter?"
"Just had to be sure," He admits truthfully, "Speaking of the bitch, how much drugs did you put in her drink?"
"We didn't make exact estimates but considering how she went out faster than a candlelight, I assume that the copious number of drugs had a fast effect on her immune system. "Flan informed, "Regardless of that fact, it's best we make haste while we still can. She won't remain that way forever, so I suggest we get a move on before she awakes from her slumber."
"Not yet," Husk said, "I still need to recuse my friends…"
Flan groaned," Oh right, almost forgot about them…Well, you best make it quick before someone suspects anything is wrong…. It's only a matter of time before someone finds out what happened here."
The servant boy spoke of this while motioning to his mother's unconscious body underneath the table.
"Fair point," The Former Sinner mentioned, "Though I must ask a favor from you two before I go."
"What is it?"
"Amass your siblings to form an army, we're going to need backup in case shit hits the fan," He informed.
"An army you say? I can't say any of us have fighting experience, but we'll do the best we can," Flan said reluctantly, not too keen on the idea judging by his expression.
"Don't be like that Flan, we're finally free and it's time we pay back that debt!" She cheered, her voice filled to the brim with confidence as she elbowed her half sibling in the side, "Come on, let's go get the others and stir things up!"
"Fine…" He grumbled.
"Thanks, you two, I appreciate it," Husk said before vanishing into the air, much to their surprise.
"Did…did he just vanish and thin air!?" Flan shouted.
"It appears so…He's really full of surprises ain't he?" She said with a smile.
Belphegor jotted down notes in his book, a hint of frustration on his face. Helsa wasn't as receptive to learning about her Blood Magic capabilities and her sheer unwillingness to dabble in the dark art was frustrating.
He could tell she had potential like her brother, but unwillingness to use large amounts of Blood Magic held her back. She claimed she didn't want to become a monster 'like him' whenever pressed about it.
He considered it preposterous of course, Seviathan wasn't a monster, not in his eyes anyway.
No, the Prince was much more than a mere monster, no, he was, the ultimate weapon, a creature meant to strike terror into the hearts of those who dared cross him. All Seviathan's lesser traits that had once held him back were tossed to the backburner in favor of ramping up his sadism and eagerness to cause havoc.
As he was in the middle of his train of thought, however, he could have sworn he felt a chill of wind when the door to his laboratory had been opened. He turned around, seeing nothing but the open door and a few leaves from outside blowing in.
He sighed, "I'm going to have to strengthen that door. It keeps letting the chill in…Oh well, I'll do it later…"
He directed his attention towards his notes once more, turning his back on the issue entirely.
Unbeknownst to him, a 'presence' had 'borrowed' a few tools off the handle before disappearing into the wind…
Husk made his way to Helsa's cell, allowing himself to be visible before walking up towards the glass and knocking on it.
Helsa put the book she had been halfheartedly reading down, glancing up at him upon noticing his presence," Oh…you're back. Listen, if you are here for a conversation I am not in the mood-"
Her sentence abruptly stopped when she saw him holding the keys to her cell,
"You found the keys…Impressive. I admit I didn't expect you to pull this off. I would've thought you had given up, but I suppose I had underestimated you. We do have a chance of stopping my brother after all…"
"I'm many things but when it comes down to what matters most, I'm a man of my word," Husk retorted before reaching over to the cell door.
"Yeah yeah, whatever. Just get me out of this godforsaken prison, will you? It's been awfully dull lately and I've long been reading the same set of books several times over and it's boring me to death…"
Husk scoffed, "Alright, alright, I'm coming…" Husk approached the cell door, unlocked it, and walked inside to approach Helsa and free her of her restraints. He then offered to help her stand up only for the Princess of Envy to dismiss his hand with a shake of her head.
"I can stand on my own," She signed to him.
Husk shrugged, "Suit yourself…"
Once she regained her footing, Helsa glanced at the staircase before saying, "We're going to have a problem…"
"What do you mean, Helsa? What problem?"
"I know it's not an issue for you considering you can vanish into thin air, but something tells me if I go upstairs that I won't go unnoticed…"
"Can't you do the same?"
She scoffed, "And leave snow particles in the area? Even if I turn invisible, I'll leave particles behind, and it'll be a helluva lot harder to justify considering it isn't even snowing outside. You can turn invisible, and he'll dismiss it as the wind, but I don't possess such capabilities."
"That's fair, but that doesn't address how exactly we're going to sneak past him without him noticing your presence if you leave ice particles in your wake…."
Helsa narrowed her eyes, concentrating for the longest time before an idea came to mind. She grits her teeth and Husk took notice of her dismay,
"Did you find a good idea?"
"Yes…but neither of us are going to like it…"
"Lay it on me."
"You know how Seviathan stole my identity and acted as a double-agent for the other Sins to relay information about our whereabouts and such…"
"Hard to forget considering the bastard stabbed me once I found him out," He gruffly admitted.
"Well…I can try a similar tactic. I don't know if you've seen him yet, but Seviathan created a clone out of his own blood earlier and when Seviathan reports back information he uses that copy to relay the information whilst remaining in his original body."
"Where are you getting at with this, Helsa?"
"If I pretend to be Seviathan's clone, I might be able to outsmart him. Not only that, but once we reach the outside world, we will have clearance to walk around the perimeter without suspicion. Seviathan is a trusted member of their forces so no one will pay any attention to someone waltzing about similar. They will just think Belphegor sent me on an assignment if anything…"
"That…sounds like it could work," Husk admitted,"Alright, let us give this idea of yours a whirl. Show me your best impression of Seviathan…"
Helsa made a face, "I'm not as experienced as my brother in the Blood Magic department but I'll do my best…"
The Princess consecrated for a moment, changing her form to resemble her brothers to the best of her ability. Due to her general inexperience, Helsa's form had more flaws that were more visible the longer you looked at her.
Her curves and bosom were very visible, and her color scheme was unable to be changed, her outfit a pale blue with white trim. Even her mask had a more feminine streak, having eyelashes and her appearance was overall softer with less spikes involved with her hair compared to her twin.
She glanced at him with uncertainty as she asked, "How do I look?"
Husk winced, "It…could be better…I'm not sure if Belphegor's gonna fall for this honesty. Especially since you can't talk so your cover will get blown if he tries engaging in a conversation with you. You'll have to practically run past him to ensure he doesn't get a good look at you since the discrepancies will start adding up the longer, he glances at you."
"You're acting like I want him to engage with me…."
"Just saying, it's best we move out of there asp. And Helsa…"
"Yeah?"
"Just know that even if you can't see me, I'm still here…You're not alone on this…"
"Thanks…"
As they concluded their conversation, Husk turned invisible and Helsa took a deep breath before ascending the stairs. Her heart pounded each time her boot collided with the staircase and threatened to burst when she got to the top…
She peered through the door, and she could SEE Belphegor sitting there. There was no way past him, and the fucker was the only thing standing between her and freedom…
She bit her lip underneath her mask, mustering up the confidence to make it through, 'You can do this, Helsa…you can do this…'
The Princess of Envy then opened the door and speed-walked past Belphegor. She didn't dare look him in the eyes, nor did she try to make a conversation with him, merely keeping her head down in hopes he'd overlook her.
Of course, life never went her way as the Lord of Sloth peered up at her as she put her hand on the doorknob,"Seviathan, since when did you get here?"
Helsa didn't (and frankly couldn't) respond to this question, merely remaining silent as internal panic bubbled in her stomach.
The Lazy Sin glanced up at Helsa as he said, "Quiet today, are we? You know if you wanted to visit my lab you simply could've just asked. Teleporting inside without permission is rude and I expected the better out of you. Did you have something to tell me that required such a sudden intrusion?"
Helsa shook her head 'no' to dissuade him from further questioning.
Fortunately for Helsa's sake, Belphegor bought her reasoning as he merely said, "Whatever, Seviathan, so long as you didn't touch anything it's hardly that big of a deal. Though I must ask you to inform me when you visit from now on…"
The second Belphegor stopped talking, Helsa flung the door open and slammed it shut urgently before anything more could be said.
Belphegor raised an eyebrow at this behavior before saying, "He's quite a strange child sometimes…he even looked different. Did he gain weight? I swore he was less curvy last I saw him." He then dismissed it, "I probably just need some coffee. My eyes are playing tricks on me. It's a shame he left before I could ask him to get me some."
On the other side of the door, Husk was quick to express relief after making himself visible, "Thank god that worked…Now we can move on to finding Vox…"
"Speaking of Vox, do you know where he is?"
"No, but he can't be far from here," Husk admitted, "The other Deadly Sin's quarters are all nearby. Mammon's place must be somewhere nearby…"
Suddenly, Tea and Flan approached them, "Hunter, we asked around and I think I found out where your friend is!"
Helsa became tense and despite the mask, it was evident she was unnerved by their presence as she signed, "Who are these people, Husk?"
"Oh, I forgot to mention this, but I found some allies back at Beelzebub's place. Meet Tea and Flan. Tea, and Flan, meet Helsa."
Tea waved with a warm smile, "Heya, it's nice to meet ya!"
"Hello ma'am." Flan said in a quieter tone. When Helsa did not respond, he looked annoyed, "Are you deaf, madam?"
"She's mute actually," Husk informed before any conflict broke out.
She hissed, "You trust these strangers!? Husk, they could sell us out!"
"Relax, they're on our side, trust me. Hard as it is to believe, these guys are two are Beelzebub's kids and we got rid of her.
"You killed her?"
"Nah, we just knocked her out. She will not stay that way for long though, which is why we all got to hurry and find Vox before they become aware of what is truly going on around here. Speaking of Vox, where did you guys here he was?"
"Mammon's soldiers were talking about how someone is being kept in the top of the Tower and he's not allowed to leave."
"Figure that bastard wants to keep Vox under lock and key. Not like that is gonna stop us though, is it, Helsa?"
The Princess of Envy shook her head firmly.
"I admire your determination but you're not going to get anywhere through sheer resolve alone," Flan informed, "If you wish to find a way inside, you're going to need some sort of trojan horse to get in through the gates, so you're not dismissed."
"Any ideas on that note?"
"Well, Mammon has been relying on Lady Beelzebub's crops ever since this hunt started. If we deliver something to them, they will be more receptive…" Flan admitted, "Of course they will have to inspect it and all, but once the security check is done you should have a clear path inside…"
"Do you guys have anything we could use as a bargaining chip?" Husk asked.
"The Kitchen always has fresh goods stored in the back, "Tea pointed out,"Ooh! I got it. We strap some produce to a wagon for an 'extra delivery' and let ourselves in. Flan and I can buy you a cover while you search for your friend!"
"You two are lifesavers…" Husk heaved, "Can you two get that sort of thing set up at once? Not sure how low those drugs are going to last, and I would prefer if we got Vox out of here before her highness wakes up royally pissed from her drug-induced nap."
"We'll have it done in no time," The male servant explained, "We will not disappoint."
Also the offical HH leaks on twitter said Velvet's redesign is now called Velvette. I think it's a bit much but I'll edit Velvette into the prior chapter's. From now on, it's Velvette for Velvet.
Thanks for 28,496 views, tell me what ya'll think below and feel free to comment on any questions you have.
Guest: Postive things have to be sprinkled in this dreary story to make it not entirely hopeless. Though that still leaves Vox in Mammon's clutches and that's gonna be a problem since... you know how he is with Vox.
Guest: We've got a couple oddball pairings in this fic, from Angel and Charlie, to Vox and Mammon and Beelzebub having a one-sided thing for Husk(poor guy).
Enigmus-288: At least teh wait was worth it. To be frank, Husk doesn't wanna blow his cover of being more than a mere human around these people so he's reluctant to his powers around them. I doubt she'd care honestly, she's that type of person to not care for mortal's relationship's when she's trying to woo them and would only see Husk as a freebie. Yeah, he did have a wife, she left him because of the booze addiction instead of dying like Vox's had.