Welcome to the dramatic part II of the Silver Bell Ball! From here, we're building into our second arc, and the ending will give you clues as to where we're going... Enjoy!
Is it possible to be this bored at a royal ball? Andromeda idly swirled the wine in her crystal cup and studied the black eddies that formed in the purple liquid. Just beyond the glass's edge, Mewni's illustrious upper class were gathered in small groups all across the royal ballroom. For the most part, they kept to predictable cliques made up of close allies: the Lucitors with the Butterflys, Pony Heads, and Johansens, the Pigeons with the Avariuses and Kelpbottoms, and the Musty Mountain royals with the Spiderbites. Andromeda caught snippets of their conversations as the groups traveled about in search of food, drink, and more company. The men talked of hunting and economics while their wives favored polite and feminine topics over delicate finger food. Andromeda tried to be social with them earlier but quickly tired of poetry and sewing. Her mother never raised her to be the mere wife of a royal—Butterfly queens were the exception to the usual gender norms.
After putting in an appearance, Andromeda retired to one of the wine tables and watched the ball from her quiet corner of the ostentatious universe. Many outsiders would have envied her position. She was Her Royal Highness Princess Andromeda Diaz-Butterfly, crown princess of Mewni. She was arrayed in the finest cloth and adorned with the purest gold. She stood in the middle of a lavish paradise, which would one day be her inheritance, and every royal she encountered this evening praised her beauty and grace. But Andromeda saw through the silverware and compliments. She knew the insidious purpose that called the Silver Bell Ball into being. To the royals, she was nothing more than a fancy broodmare to be won. Marrying the future Queen of Mewni was like winning the jackpot of jackpots—a trifecta of land rights, power, and genetics. The hope of being able to join the famed Butterfly line formed a desperate undercurrent to every social interaction Andromeda had with the royals, aside from her mother's friends. It was her burden to bear alone.
Andromeda finished her glass and wished that the alcohol affected her as quickly as it did humans. The First Dance had yet to start, and she already wanted to disappear into thin air. Maybe there's a spell for that, she considered inventing one.
"Andromeda, what are you doing out here like a recluse?" Etheria's intrusion brought a swift end to the princess's sanctuary, which had lasted a grand total of three minutes and ten seconds.
Note to self, ask Mom to provide vodka next year, Andromeda longed for something stronger when saw her great-great-aunt waddle towards her. The only thing worse than shallow interactions was enduring another of Etheria's bullshit lectures, and the princess sensed one brewing. Instead of scowling, which would've been met with fierce correction, she plastered a smile on her face. "Good evening, Great Aunt Etheria," she dipped her head.
"Same to you, Your Royal Highness," the older Butterfly clumsily curtsied. "Funny to find you away from the princes, dear. You really should be more social. One of them might become your future husband. Prince Aster is looking mighty sharp tonight."
Andromeda grimaced at the thought of ending up with the loudmouth son of Queen Spiderbite. She'd rather her ovaries shrivel and die than bear his daughters and sons.
"Anyways," Etheria went on. "We need someone to open the dancefloor. I can't believe how shy your generation is when it comes to dancing. Back in my day, young royals begged to dance. My dear sister, Comet, was always the belle of the ball—adored by all the princes. She was Mewni's most beloved queen, and Moon really followed her footsteps when it came to likeability. It's a dreadful shame they're both gone now."
"Yeah…" Andromeda sighed, thinking of the grandmother she would never know. For the first time ever, she started to feel something towards her crusty elder. Maybe she had a heart buried deep in her fatty torso.
But the warm feelings evaporated as soon as Etheria opened her mouth again. "As I was saying," she began. "You see how important it is for a princess to be fully engaged in every social occasion. Hiding is very unbecoming of a queen, and I shall not stand to see the Butterfly name desecrated any more than it already has been. It's bad enough that the bloodline is tainted, but there's nothing a proper match can't fix. Say, how about a dance with Prince Lucitor?"
He's half-human too, Andromeda narrowed her eyes. Etheria could make fun of her all she wanted, but if she said anything unpleasant about Dante, then her head would be left spinning on the dancefloor.
"I think he'd be a lovely match for you," Etheria said. "Don't you think?"
"I dunno…maybe," Andromeda fought valiantly to hide the blush on her cheeks. It made her blue stars turn purple.
"You really ought to consider. The Butterflys and Lucitors have been close allies since the founding of Mewni. A marriage would be extremely beneficial to both kingdoms. Do you know the story of the Promise?"
"You mean about the Butterfly-Lucitor war?"
Andromeda heard the story many times for it was a favorite of Grandpa River's. Long ago, one of the First Queen's peasants accidentally fell into the Underworld and landed on King Lucius I. The act caused a war that lasted for ten years and claimed a third of the Mewman settlers. Tired of the devastation, the First Queen rode into the Underworld and challenged Lucius to a duel on the Burning Plains. It is said that their clash is unlike anything anyone had seen before or since. The ground in the Borderlands cracked and volcanoes from the Underworld oozed lava onto the surface. In the end, the First Queen and Lucius nearly killed each other and were humbled by the other's display of magic. They agreed to a treaty that stood to this day: neither kingdom shall ever turn on each other again.
"Not just the war, dear, but the Promise," Etheria replied. "The truce between the families will stand as long as they unite the kingdoms through marriage within a thousand years."
"Do you really think it's real?" Andromeda asked. "There's no record of such an agreement in the history books. In fact, some say it's just a myth."
Etheria's jowls jiggled when she laughed, "Ah the foolishness of youth! There's a lot of truth in the old tales, and the sooner you heed them, the longer you'll live."
"Etheria, Baroness Beesting is looking for you!" Aunt Crystalla called to her.
"I'll be right there!" she waved, then turned to Andromeda once more. "Just consider my words, will you, dear?"
"Of course," the princess nodded and said her goodbyes.
Once alone again, Andromeda reached for more wine and continued her solitary watch. I got off lucky this time, she let out a sigh of relief. Usually, Etheria's lectures were much more targeted and mean-spirited, laced with insults towards her mother and father. There were still hints of it in their talk, but nothing seemed overly spiteful. As the princess drank more, she began to think about Etheria's words. What if the Promise was real? It had to have been a thousand years since the Butterfly-Lucitor war by now, and the kingdoms never married their royal offspring to each other. What if they were on the brink of calamity?
But when Andromeda saw her parents drinking with the Lucitors and Pony Heads, she found it impossible to imagine a war—not with Star and Tom as the heads of both families. Just like everything else Etheria said, the Promise was a load of hogwash. Nothing could make the Butterflys and Lucitors turn on each other. Plus if they did, it would be the end of Mewni. Since the beginning of the alliance, the two bloodlines had only become more powerful. If Star and Tom fought each other at full strength…
Suddenly, a commotion stirred in the middle of the room, catching everyone's attention in an instant. Seriousness descended upon the Silver Bell Ball. The conversations ceased, and the cliques dissolved into a circle around the dancefloor, forming a wall of skirts and suit jackets. The meandering chamber music, used to form a mindless backdrop to the ball, found purpose in the triple pulse of a waltz. The First Dance was underway. I bet it's Shellheart and Forrest, Andromeda remembered seeing the prince and princess holding hands earlier. But when she drew closer and peered over Lady Johansen's shoulder, she gasped. It was Orion with an Earth girl!
That must be Mia, Andromeda had heard her name once or twice. She watched the waltz between them bloom from a rigid, tentative dance to one of passion and boldness. It was a side of Orion she'd never seen before—so cautious and gentle. He was usually reckless and wild—the first to jump into danger and try new things. This Orion on the dancefloor was a stranger to Andromeda. A dim reflection of someone she once knew as intimately as she knew herself. Things hadn't been the same since Mewberty and the severing of the bond. The silence in her head drove her mad sometimes. She couldn't abide with its permanence and heaviness—with its emptiness that echoed. They never kept secrets from each other, but Orion never talked about his Earth adventures with anyone, especially not her. I thought we were wombmates for life, Andromeda sighed.
Disheartened, she stalked back to her corner but soon discovered another presence in her hiding spot. A pair of gleaming, red eyes put a slight smile on her face. "Hey, Andie," Dante purred. "I thought I'd find you here."
"We aren't supposed to be seen together," Andromeda hissed, and she quickly looked around to make sure no one saw them. So far, the royals were still watching the dance.
"I know," the prince replied. "But I know you won't kick me out."
"You got me," she sighed and rested her head against his shoulder. His red prince suit was so warm and soft.
Magic radiated from Orion and filled the ballroom in a beautiful display of color. The royals beamed in awe, and Andromeda sensed her parents reminiscing about the Blood Moon Ball and the Prince's Ball when they were betrothed. Dante let out a low whistle, "I gotta say, Rye's got himself a nice catch. She's very pretty, but—" he gave Andromeda a kiss. "—I've got the Princess of Mewni. Nothing compares to her."
"You think so?"
"Of course," he nodded. "What's up? You seem down in the dumps."
She shrugged, "Oh nothing."
"Are you upset that we can't be public?"
"No…"
Though she wondered what it would feel like to claim Dante in front of Mewni. Andromeda heard the stories of her mother's dance with Tom. Butterflies and flames mingled in a gust of love that won them the distinction of the best dancers at the Silver Bell Ball. If their shallow romance could generate such magic, then she could only imagine what she and Dante would unleash.
"Sure, the pageantry is nice," Dante said. "But sneaking around is its own kind of fun. Wanna get out of here? I wouldn't mind heading to the beach to cuddle."
"Tempting…," Andromeda tapped her chin. "But we can't run off. Someone will notice."
"Or they'll be so busy with Rye and his wife that they won't. C'mon, Andie, let's have our own First Dance."
They slipped away when Orion's dance reached its climax and ventured into the Warnicorn Hall, so named for the magnificent stained-glass window of a leaping warnicorn. The quiet hall was a different world from the trivial festivities in the ballroom. Only the moon kept watch over the serene corridor, and a light breeze stirred the tapestries lining the walls. Andromeda tasted the shiver of frost on the wind, reminding her of the cold days to come with the deepening of winter. I could go for mulled wine and meat, she scented the delicious items from the town below.
"I've never been back here before," Dante said and leaned on the windowpane.
"This is the queen's private passage," Andromeda told him. "It links the throne room, ballroom, and war room to the rest of the castle—the three most stressful rooms on Mewni. It's designed as a place where the queen can slip out of the public eye and find reprieve."
"I can tell," he breathed. "I feel totally relaxed already. When I'm king, I'm going to build one of these in Lucitor castle. Perhaps, it'll keep me from roasting a lord."
"I've never seen you angry."
"I get my cool head from my mom. Nothing bothers her—and I mean nothing. It's a relief to be the first non-angry Lucitor."
Andromeda smirked, "It's a shame that I'm stuck with the boring Lucitor. I bet you'd look cute angry."
"Why don'tcha beat me at a game of volleyball and find out?" he said, pressing his lips to hers.
"I might have to," she murmured and merged into his kiss.
She pushed him against the glass and began to fiddle with the buttons on his jacket when she heard someone running towards them. Who the fuck is out here ruining my fun? Her Mewberty wings buzzed in annoyance as she pulled away. Interrupting the princess's makeout session was a civil offence.
"Andie! Andie!" Jupiter held onto the hem of her purple dress as she ran. "You gotta come quick! Uncle Marco and Orion are fighting!"
"Fighting?" Dante and Andromeda sent each other an uneasy glance.
Although Mewmans loved a good fight, they seldom turned their aggressions on family members unless it involved a queen in Mewberty and her female kin. No one was crazy enough to chance the Stump's wrath for he ruled over all relationships and revenge. I bet they're both drunk, Andromeda concluded. There were only three acceptable reasons to fight family, and she doubted either Orion or Marco Jr. stole the other's corn, land, or wives.
"Don't worry about it, Jupe," the princess comforted her sister. "It's probably nothing, but I'll see to it anyways."
As Andromeda turned towards the ballroom, she saw the moon turn red out of the corner of her eye. Beware the Darkness coming soon, a raspy voice echoed in her soul.
What's that supposed to mean? She'd never heard the Blood Moon speak to her before, and it sent icy dread down her spine. Something terrible was about to happen—she felt sure of it. On the way to the ballroom, the entire castle began to shake violently. The tapestries came free of their hooks and slid to the ground like fallen leaves, and the glass ratted in warning.
"What's going on?" Jupiter whimpered and clung to Andromeda.
"I—I don't know…but it's going to be okay," she tried to remain strong, but the same fear from earlier intensified in Andromeda.
Dante froze and sniffed the air. "Sulfur," he grunted. "I can smell it on the breeze."
"I smell it too," she replied stiffly. "Let's get to the others."
By the time they reached the ballroom, they stepped into a dark world of panic. The music, idle conversations, and dancing were gone, replaced by an overwhelming sense of danger that hovered like a thick fog. The royals stood in stark silence with ashen faces and trembling lips that uttered a single word. Demon. Apparently, just as Uncle Marco and Orion were about to clash over Mia, Sir Katrina barged in with urgent news—a demon had crawled out of the Underworld and was headed their way. The ballroom, carefully adorned for the Silver Bell Ball, had become a gilded deathtrap.
All eyes fell on Tom, who paced around the deserted dancefloor. A few times, he opened his mouth to speak but promptly close it again and returned to thinking. Finally, Queen Pony Head broke the silence, "Okay, Demon Boy, like why's there a big, scary demon harshin' our party vibe? Aren't they supposed to be like locked up or something?"
The other royals murmured in agreement.
"That's what I'm trying to figure out, Pony," the king snarled.
"Can you figure it out faster?" asked Duke Gullface of the Kelpbottom kingdom. "We're all sitting ducks in this castle! My wife and sons are here!"
"Yeah, Your Majesty," added another Kelpbottom lord. "As King of the Underworld, you're supposed to be in control of demons. Never in the history of Silver Bell Balls has such a thing happened!"
A common consensus grew, especially among the closest allies of the Kelpbottoms, and the royals added their complaints until a mighty uproar disrupted the eerie calm. Some cried in fear, others prayed loudly to the Spirits for help, and a few ran out the door in an attempt to escape. So much for being Mewni's leaders, Andromeda shook her head at the cowards. Instead of whimpering like scared puppies, the royals should be helping Tom with a plan to save the castle. What was the point of having responsibility and power without actually using it? Kings and princes should be on the frontlines to defend their kingdoms, not cowering under dessert tables.
"Quiet!" Count Roachmarch's yell reverberated throughout the room, causing everyone to look at him. "As one of the most senior members of the Spiderbite royal family, I know of many deeds. In my honest opinion, I think we should start reconsidering the alliance with the Lucitors. As shocking as it sounds, I've never considered allying ourselves with one of the most vicious and tyrannical families on Mewni a good idea."
"Count Roachmarch, I dismiss that entirely!" Queen Penelope immediately countered. "Tom and Janna are good friends of mine. I would never betray them." King Slime nodded in agreement.
"But they're still Lucitors," snorted Duchess Horsefeather. "We Pony Heads have been around long before the arrival of the Mewmans, and we have long memories. We suffered great losses at the hands of the Lucitors during the Butterfly-Lucitor War, the War of the Second Dance, oh, and we call can't forget the Draconius invasions, can we?"
"Or the fact that Lucitors are partially to blame for the Monster-Mewman wars," a royal from the Musty Mountain kingdom added. "Without King Darius I's help, the Size-Shifters would still exist!"
Anger replaced fear as royals took sides, dividing houses and families. This isn't helping! Andromeda watched the adults squabble instead of band together. What was the point of figuring out who's right or wrong when Mewni's entire ruling class was in mortal danger? Why were royals so stubborn?
"Quiet! Everyone, stop fighting!" A kingly roar ripped through the room as Marco stepped onto the dancefloor. "Let me be the first to say that no kingdom is above the dark history of oppression and violence, though some of us are far guiltier than others. Star and I have worked to rectify the wrongs committed by her ancestors, and nothing will ever fully repay the Monster lives lost through warfare and genocide. But you've given us a chance, and I implore you to do the same for Tom."
There were a few grumbles in the crowd, but the arguing largely stopped. No matter what they felt about Tom or the Lucitors, very few royals would dare speak against King Marco, lest they draw the queen's ire.
Tom flashed his old friend a grateful smile, "Thank you, King Marco, for the noble speech. Now, I know many of us are upset, but we have to work together. I've come up with a plan that I think will save all of our lives so please listen." He cleared his throat and stood tall among the royals. "The type of demon coming this way sounds like a Wild-Type or Old-Order demon. They're nothing like the demons who currently live in the Underworld or are in my bloodline. We're talking about ancient, evil creatures who have incredibly powerful magic. That's why I've decided that only Star, Marco, Janna, Eclipsa, and I will fight them. It's far too dangerous to let anyone else engage—even the Kingsguard."
Captain Higgs nodded at the decision, "Wise idea. My knights are better off staying here to guard the royals. We are ready to lay down our lives for Mewni." The knights raised their swords in agreement.
"I'm not going to leave you guys totally vulnerable," Tom said. "Should anything happen, we need another line of defense. It's a tough decision, but I'm calling on Dante, Andromeda, and Orion to be stationed outside the castle."
"You're going to trust our safety to a bunch of kids?" Etheria gasped.
"What part of 'incredibly powerful magic' did you not understand?" It was Orion who spoke. "We have an entire building of non-magic users to think of." He glanced at Mia when he added the last part. "I doubt my uncle made this decision lightly—he's put his own son on the frontlines too."
"Orion's right," Andromeda found the courage to join in the conversation. "The three of us are the future of Mewni, and it is my responsibility as future queen to be out there defending my people." And she meant it too. A thousand years of magic coursed in her blood, and if being queen was her lot in life, then she'd spend every day of it fighting for her kingdom. Orion smiled at her and dipped his head.
"Are you sure you can handle this?" Marco asked through the Blood Moon bond.
"I promise we can," she smiled. "We'll be careful."
Another Mewniquake shook the castle, but this time, it was far more violent. Tables fell over, and sections of the wall crumbled, sending the royals into a panic. They held each other and screamed as crystals from the chandeliers pelted them with shards. "The ceiling's coming down!" Persephone screamed and pointed at the crack forming above them.
Star sprang into action, "Oh no ya don't!"
With one hand, she cast a protective, pink dome over the royals huddled around her, and with the other, she repaired the ceiling and added a brace for extra support. The royals looked on in amazement. Very few magic-users possessed the ability to Dual Wield for it took incredible amounts of power and control to master. Andromeda read that only three other queens were able to do it: The First Queen, Princess Celesta, and Queen Eclipsa. But unlike them, Star did it without dipping down.
Once the shaking ceased, Star released her magic and slowly sunk to her knees. Marco immediately helped her up, fretting over her through the bond. "I'm fine, Marco," she shot him a shaky smile. "It takes more than that to defeat Queen Star Butterfly, my love."
"I've never seen anything like that before," he breathed in awe.
"It's nice to that Dual Wielding has survived the generations," Eclipsa said.
After returning to her feet and catching her breath, Star addressed the rest of the royals, "Look, we're running out of options and wasting precious time. Tom's plan is the best one we've got besides waiting to die, so let's get to it! Captain Higgs, I want all of your knights—squires included—in here now. How many do you have on duty?"
"The full Kingsguard, Your Majesty," Higgs replied firmly. "More than plenty to make a perimeter. I'll send Sir Chloe and Sir Runt out to collect the others immediately."
"Perfect," Star nodded. "Eclipsa, Tom, Janna, and Marco, are you ready to ride with me?"
Janna smirked, "Finally, a fun royal ball. Of course, we're ready!"
"Excellent. And lastly, kids," she turned to Andromeda, Dante, and Orion. "I believe in you. We've fought plenty of evil beasts before. The most important thing is to rely on each other and on your magic. I know you can do this."
"Shouldn't be a problem," Dante replied. "Plus, Rye and Andie are Blood Moon bonded. This should be a piece of bone cake."
Uh…about that, Andromeda dropped her gaze, and Orion flinched next to her.
Marco appeared and unclipped the dimensional scissors from his belt and passed them to Andromeda. "Here, take these," he said. "If anything happens, one of you come and find us. Please be careful—all of you."
"We'll be fine, Dad," Andromeda said.
"Yeah, we've got this!" Orion shot him a thumb's up.
"And don't worry, if you die, I can revive you," Janna playfully joked to her son.
Unamused, Tom scowled at her and muttered something to Dante in Demon. "Oh, I almost forgot," he added for all to hear. "Demons are duty-bound to listen to Lucitors, so don't be afraid of flaunting the name, Dante."
The prince nodded, "I'll scare the shit out of it, Dad."
The families exchanged well wishes and hugs before going their separate ways. Star and her group mounted the warnicorns the servants hastily gathered and rode out the front door, while the young royals waved their last goodbyes. Please let us all come home safely, Andromeda prayed silently to the Blood Moon, which she felt pull on her soul. They barely won the last fight with a demon in the Borderlands, and what hope did they have split up?
As if he sensed her doubt, Orion gently nudged her, "Lighten up, Andie. We are los Tres Amigos. We're gonna save the day!"
"Orion, wait!" Mia shoved her way through the crowd. "You're not really going out there, are you?"
He saw the concern in her wide brown eyes and gave her a kiss. "It's okay," he murmured. "Fighting demons and beasts is a part of being Prince of Mewni—it's in my blood. After all, danger is my middle name."
Andromeda rolled her eyes, responding in Mewnian, "*You don't have one, Rye. The closest thing we have to a middle name is Diaz.*"
"*They both start with a D*," he stuck out his tongue, then switched to English. "Oh, Mia, this is my twin sister, Andromeda. She's the Princess of Mewni and heir to the throne."
"Nice to meet you, Your Royal Highness," Mia curtsied politely.
"Yeah, please don't call me that," the princess stopped her. "I'm just Andie to everyone. And don't worry, Dante and I will keep you beau safe and sound."
"*Andie…*" he blushed while she laughed.
"*We all saw you on the dancefloor, brother. I swear you looked like you were going to ask her to marry you.*"
"*No, I wasn't!*"
Dante shook his head, "*Dude, it's alright. Just save the bedroom eyes for after the Silver Bell Ball.*"
Orion glared at him but said nothing in reply.
"Yeah, mi cielo," Marco Jr. appeared out of nowhere and threw his arms around Mia. "This handsome stud will keep you very safe and warm…I know all the best cuddling places in the castle."
Are you okay, brother? Andromeda heard a low growl escape from Orion's bared lips. Mine! She thought back to Mewberty when they found him crouched over Mia, whom he had under his olfactory spell. While Andromeda was still unsure of what was going on between Uncle Marco, Mia, and Orion, she knew that messing with a mature Butterfly's mate was suicide. Queens often fought to the death over their lovers, and she sensed the same unhinged rage in her brother.
Luckily, Sir Higgs stepped in and smacked her squire over the head. "You've caused enough trouble tonight Nerd Jr. Now, stop trying to get your dick wet and do your damn job!"
"Yeah, captain," he groaned and followed her.
With the situation defused, Andromeda led Orion and Dante to their post outside. The second they crossed the threshold, Sir Jorby and Kelly closed the doors and locked it shut. We're on our own now, Andromeda gulped. Help was either miles away in the darkness or deep inside the castle.
She sat on the top step and peered into the night with her senses. It was about five o'clock, but night had fully descended on Mewni. The sun's light and warmth were distant memories captured in the twinkling majesty of the stars flecking the sky. Cold, dry air drove ghost-wisp clouds across the and the moons, deepening the inky shadows on the ground. What a shame we spend the night stargazing, Andromeda longed for the private moments she spent in the Underworld with Dante. He taught her a lot about demon lore.
"Anything out there?" Dante sat next to her.
She shook her head, "I think the tremors scared the townspeople inside. I can smell ashes and the remains of their dinners. As for our parents and Eclipsa, I can sense them but that's it. I can't tell if that's a good thing or not."
"Sometimes no news is good news," he replied casually. "I feel if something's wrong, you'd know."
"Are you sure?" Her mind filled with pessimistic images of death, blood, and loss. She never doubted her mother's strength, but anything could happen out there.
"Hey, I see that look on your face. Stop worrying, Andie, or I'll make you," he teased with a purr.
"Oh, and what are you gonna do about it, Lucitor?"
"This," he pinned Andromeda to the cold stone and crashed his lips into hers.
"WHAT THE FUCK?!"
She shoved Dante off when she heard Orion's shriek. "Orion, I—" Andromeda stopped mid-sentence when she realized that his shock stemmed not from surprise but from upset.
Why didn't you tell me? His green eyes directly stared into her soul. As much as she wanted to counter about his double life, she averted her gaze in shame. It was going to come to this sooner or later. They couldn't keep avoiding the conversation they needed to have after Mewberty. Why on Mewni did they tarry for so long? Why did they let one bad day drive them apart? At this point, she wondered if they could trust each other again after all of the pain they caused. Sorry seemed so inadequate.
Dante laughed, unaware of the awkward tension building into a storm, "Wait, Rye, you didn't know that Andie's my girlfriend? We've been dating for months. Man, you have been on Earth for a long time." When no one joined him, the demon prince grew serious. "I thought you two shared everything through your bond."
"It's gone," Andromeda's voice became a whisper as she struggled to contain the bitter tears threatening to escape. "W-we severed the Blood Moon bond months ago because of Mewberty."
"Why?" he gasped in horror. "Why would you two do that? You're twins! You've always done everything together!"
"The bond caused me to go through Mewberty even though I wasn't supposed to," Orion said. "I couldn't bear letting it happen again."
"So what, bro? It's just puberty. You don't abandon your sister over that!" Dante started smoking through his clothes. "This isn't like either of you!" For a second, Andromeda saw a literal demon before her—the Prince of the Underworld in his scary glory—but he released his anger in an exasperated sigh. "Sorry I got a little intense there, but c'mon guys. You shouldn't act like this and you know it. Anyways, I'm going to cool off. While I'm gone, you better sort things out."
He disappeared around the corner, leaving brother and sister alone. As much as Andromeda dreaded the next few moments, she knew Dante was right. She and Orion had no reason to keep major secrets from each other out of spite. In light of that and her position as the oldest, she spoke first, "Orion, I want to say I'm sorry for not telling you about Dante. I wanted to keep our relationship a secret from the royals, but I shouldn't have kept it from you. Also, I don't know where to begin about Mewberty..."
"I still don't know how I feel about it," Orion sighed. "I shouldn't have run away afterwards, but I was scared and confused. It called to me through you."
"Don't blame this all on me!" she lifted her chin and glared. "Did you ever think that you went through Mewberty because you were meant to? Did you think I wanted to go through with it? I was a hell of a lot more afraid and confused than you. But of course, no one cares—you don't care—because I'm supposed to endure it. Just because I'm Mom's firstborn daughter! I didn't ask for any of this—Mewberty, Etheria's bullshit lectures, the kingdom's expectations. I didn't ask to be the future Queen of Mewni!"
Tears froze to her cheeks, and her body shook in silent sobs. Orion's eyes softened, and he sat next to her on the step. "I'm sorry I vented on you," he passed her a tissue he conjured with his wand. "I wasn't trying to blame you. Honestly, I blame myself for all of this. I was caught off-guard by what happened, and like an Orion, I never brought it up again. And that stunk. I stunk."
"Yeah…" Andromeda breathed. "I get that a lot was going on, but it really stunk."
"Sometimes, it's weird that we share a headspace, but I guess being weird has always been our thing. With or without the Blood Moon, we still belong together."
"I guess…" she nodded.
"Hey, Andie, what do your guts feel like?"
"My guts?"
"Yeah. Mine could go for some cornshine and night of Racing Rage XX with the best driver in the world."
"Well, my guts are feeling a pint of ice cream…and a lap of Cute Cow Hills."
"You're such a Safe Kid, Andie," he rolled his eyes. "What's the point of playing Racing Rage if you don't fly straight off the road in Rainbow Rampage?"
"Because I actually want to win. Why struggle if it gets you nothing?"
"It's not war, Andie. It's just a dumb game."
"If you say so."
They laughed until the dry cold air made them cough and breathless. When she caught her breath and saw the glimmer of joy in Orion's eyes, the world felt right again—warm and full of light. No matter what, they shared something deeper than grudges and more powerful than Mewberty. A bond that called them together in the darkness of their mother's womb and bond their Fates with bright, red string. No matter what, they were wombmates and each other's best friend forever. Siblings are so weird, Andromeda mused as she smiled at Orion. She never chose him to be by her side, but she couldn't imagine anyone she wanted to share part of her soul with than her dorky brother.
As if he picked up on her thoughts, Orion nodded, "I feel the same. I know it's been rough lately, but I'm glad we've made up finally."
She agreed, "Yeah…y'know everything feels better after you talk about it."
"It does…it really does."
"So last question: Is there anything else you need to tell me?" Andromeda conveyed her seriousness by staring straight into his eyes. From this moment forward, there would be no more secrets and hiding from each other.
"Oh boy," Orion took a deep breath. "I don't know where to begin. Okay, well, for starters, I think I have a girlfriend now."
"You think?" Andromeda's tease earned her a jab.
"Anyways," he went on. "We were just friends before the dance. The only awkward thing about us being a couple is that Mia has this crazy, clingy ex-boyfriend she's been trying to get away from, and he just so happens to be Uncle Marco."
"That's rough, buddy," she let out a low whistled. They all knew how protective their uncle became over his girlfriends. In fact, he broke a guy's jaw for harassing his last girlfriend—popped out three molars. Andromeda could not imagine the same outcome between Uncle Marco and Orion. Besides being close relatives, the fight would be far bloodier. Mewmans were tough opponents. "He'll get over it," Andromeda decided. "Just give him a few weeks to find another girl like he always does."
Orion shrugged, "I hope so. He really seemed to love her. And honestly, I'm surprised Mia's into me after what I did to her during Mewberty. I was really tempted to…y'know."
"Maybe it's the Diaz charm. Mom always said you were blessed with it."
"Oh! That reminds me. Mom's having a baby—I found out today."
Andromeda gasped and slapped her hands over her mouth. "Holy shit! Holy corn, Rye, no way!" Her muffled exclamations tingled against her palms. She had a feeling her parents were trying again, especially considered how they were around each other so often in the mornings. The last time they spent that much time together, Star became pregnant with Jupiter after wanting another child for years. "Jupiter's going to freak when she finds out," Andromeda said. "Also, boy or girl?"
"Boy," Orion replied proudly. "The reign of girls is over."
"If you say so."
They fell silent and watched the stars climb higher above the castle. Andromeda leaned against his shoulder for warmth and breathed in his scent. Its similarity to hers and her parents' smell was oddly comforting. She felt safe. The moon suddenly turned deep crimson, causing their cheekmarks to glow red along with it. In her mind's eye, she saw two stars—one blue and one red—dance, drifting closer and closer until they became a bright flash that overwhelmed the universe. Orion saw the same vision too—Andromeda just knew it.
"I love you," she pressed closer to him.
"I love you too," he crooned contently. "Let's never separate again."
"Agreed." The Blood Moon bond thrummed contently between them, and Andromeda's mind finally felt full again now that Orion had returned.
"Aw, you two aren't going to kiss are ya?" Dante laughed when he saw them.
"Shut it, Lucitor!" Orion and Andromeda rolled their eyes together.
He smirked, "Well, I guess you two are back to normal. Glad you got the angries out."
"So, you're really dating Dante?" Orion glanced at Andromeda. "May I ask how?"
She shrugged, "It's only fair after I tried to fuck him during Mewberty."
"True."
"Are you guys even listening to me?" Dante scowled. "I was just saying that—"
The ground shuddered and groaned, cutting off the demon prince and spurring the twins to rise to their feet. The castle's stairs rolled underneath them in fast waves, crumbling bricks and splitting stone. Screams erupted from the town as the citizens scrambled out of their homes and into the middle of the street. After ten agonizing seconds, the shaking stopped, but Andromeda did not relax. The epicenter had shifted closer to the castle.
"I know," Orion shivered. "It shouldn't be the case if Mom and Dad are miles away. Something's up."
The royals huddled together when another Mewniquake opened a fissure under a section of wall, collapsing it into a pile of rubble. The rising smoke blotted out the moon and the stars, but Andromeda swore she saw something moving among the debris. She almost dismissed her suspicions until a beast with four blood-red eyes crawled into the dim light. It had the shaggy body of a werewolf but the hind legs and head of a red stag. Majestic antlers crowned its head, marking it as a royal among demons. After acclimating to the open air, the demon marched towards the castle and embers leapt where its hooves hit the ground.
"That's a Fire-Bringer," Dante trembled. "And not just anyone either. He's a Principality—a prince of demons. They used to control huge territories of the Underworld before King Draconius threw them into the Lake of Fire, and they're no joke. Very few mortals encounter one and live to tell about it."
"So, on a scale of one to ten, how doomed are we?" Orion asked.
"Is a fuckton a valid number?" Dante gulped.
Andromeda was too terrified to say anything, Instead, she kept her eyes glued to the demon and watched it grow in size as it loomed closer. If the demon made it to the castle, then did something happen to their parents? "Dad? Where are you?" she called to him in a panic.
"I'm here, Andie," he answered her gently. "We're still dealing with the demon."
The dread within her froze her body into ice. There were two powerful demons on the loose—one headed right towards the defenseless castle. We've been set up, she realized that whoever was behind the whole thing had a sinister strategy to isolate the royals from the only people who could properly protect them. But what kind of enemy could control demons?
"There's a demon at the castle?" Marco picked up on her thoughts. "Hold on, sweetie! We'll be there as soon as possible! I'll tell Star and Tom."
But until then, Andromeda, Orion, and Dante were alone, and the odds of three teens defeating an ancient Principality seemed impossibly slim. "Hey, don't worry," Orion squeezed her hand. "We've got the blood of a thousand warriors in our veins. Whatever happens, we'll face it together."
"I'll try to keep that in mind," she said, although she was thankful for his courage.
It eased some of the crippling doubt in her mind, allowing her to think clearly and strategize. If they were to have a chance at succeeding, then they had to be smart about fighting. On their own, they were three inexperienced magic-users faced with an impossible task, but if they fought together, maybe they could hold off the demon long enough for their parents to return.
"I like this idea," said Orion. "Share it with Dante."
Andromeda relayed the details to the other prince, who nodded as he considered the idea. "It's the best option we have right now," he said. "Only the strongest Lucitor kings have ever beaten a Fire-Bringer or a Principality."
"Then we're sticking with Operation: BFF," she said. "Look, I don't know what's going to happen out there, but I just wanted to say that I love both of you—obviously in different ways."
Orion smiled, "I love you too, Andie. And Dante, uh, I guess I love you in a bro way."
"'f course," Dante laughed. "The feeling's mutual. Oh, Rye, could you give me and your sister a few seconds."
Groaning, Orion turned away while Dante pulled Andromeda into a passionate kiss. "Babe, I love you so much," he purred against her lips.
The intensity of his touch made her Mewberty wings tingle. "I love you too, Dante."
His hands drifted lower on her back, coming teasingly close to previously forbidden territory. "Easy there, Lucitor," she growled and nipped his ear. "You might make me go through Mewberty again."
"As if that scares me…"
"Andie, I can feel everything," Orion gagged.
"Don't act like you don't want to with Mia," she rolled her eyes at him and broke away from Dante. "How about this, anytime we get physical with our partners, we close the bond."
"Deal," he nodded. "I don't wanna think about my best friend the same way you do."
With their feelings out of the way, Andromeda, Orion, and Dante faced the Fire-Bringer with new determination shining in their hearts as one. "Let's do this," Andromeda unsheathed her wand and summoned forth its magical, blue blade. "For Mewni!"
"For Mewni!" the princes echoed, and they followed behind her into battle.
The Fire-Bringer swiveled its head in their direction and breathed a rushing wall of fire to meet them. "Split up!" Andromeda ordered. "Surround him and wait for my signal!"
Dante and Orion took up the demon's flanks while she snuck to the rear where the demon couldn't see her. "Now!" Andromeda shouted and lashed out with her blade.
When it connected with the demon's leg, ice spread up its body. Orion unleashed a strong version of his Electric Butterfly Storm, which was followed up by a fire attack from Dante. Wave after wave of magic lit the courtyard in bright fury as the three royals threw every spell imaginable at the demon. Andromeda never thought she could be so creative with spell casting before, but she invented quite a few new attacks, including heavy-hitting physical moves and elemental magic. Mom's going to be amazed when I tell her about this! She marveled at her latest creation: a supercharged uppercut she dubbed Lightning Blitz. Yet the demon weathered each blow, and his ancient body only bore shallow scrapes despite the spells being hurled at him.
After a while, the Fire-Bringer grew annoyed at the teens and lashed out with his fists. "Watch out!" Andromeda ducked behind the fountain.
When the royals dodged his slow attacks, the demon switched to magic. He chanted in a gravelly voice that shook with thunder, causing a glowing pentagram to form on the ground. Before Andromeda knew what was happening, her body seized in agony. It was like her body was on fire even without being touched by flame. She heard Orion and Dante similarly scream, and she tasted blood in her mouth. Darkness edged her vision, and the world faded into nothing.
"Andie, get up!" Orion's cries brought her back, and she saw the demon rushing towards her.
At first, she thought he was going to kill her, but the demon veered past her and went straight for the door. New energy surged in Andromeda's sore body. "Guys, come on!" she rallied them. "We have to defend the castle!"
But they were too late. By the time they climbed the stairs, the demon had barged inside. We can still head him off! Andromeda led another round of attacks to deter the demon from venturing any further.
"Come and face us!" She slashed the Fire-Bringer's thin ankles.
Suddenly, the entrance filled with black fire and arrows fell like rain from the ceiling. They pierced Andromeda and the princes' sides until Dante cast a shield to protect them. "Damn, he's strong," she winced as sweat mingled into the gashes on her cheeks.
"I know," Dante struggled to maintain the shield. "I don't know how much longer we can last. Andie, can you keep up the shield? I'm going to try something."
"Please be careful," she begged.
"Oh please, I'm a Lucitor," he smirked and left them.
Once outside the protective bubble, Dante summoned his purple fire in a dazzling display of his might. The ground shook with each of his steps. "Face me, demon!" he spat in his scary, Lucitor voice.
Reluctantly, the Principality obeyed.
"I am Dante Thomas Lucitor II, Prince of the Underworld, Heir to the Obsidian Throne, future Sovereign Ruler of the Dead, Shaker of Grounds, and Master of Lava," Dante boasted. "My ancestor, The Star Maker, created the stars in the Underworld and his descendant, King Draconius, hurled your kind into the Lake of Fire. I command you to depart from us!"
Surrounded by purple light, Dante was as scary and ghastly as the demon he faced. No more did he seem like a teenage boy; he was everything those titles proclaimed. He was the future King of the Underworld—the one who would sit among obsidian and lava in the shadows under Mewni. He's so hot, Andromeda longed nothing more than to be by his side in the dark world of the Lucitor Kingdom.
"I wouldn't say he's hot, but Dante sure sounds convincing," Orion commented on her thoughts.
The Fire-Bringer laughed, "U feveren odtha, Dante sot Lucitorius! Ur varna altda!"
A long broadsword appeared in the Fire-Bringer's hand, and the red runes carved on the blade looked like bloodstains to Andromeda. Their own. However, instead of striking Dante, the demon used the weapon to splinter the door to the ballroom. Horrified screams filled the air as the guests scrambled to find places behind the line of brave knights poised to defend them. Their fear made the demon laugh, and he boasted something else to Dante in Demonic. Suddenly, the Principality reached into the ballroom and returned with a girl desperately trying to free herself from its great hand. The knights tried to attack, but the demon knocked them back with a gust of magic.
"Holy shit! That thing's got Mia!" Orion's eyes grew wide in panic.
"Rye, I know this is bad, but we need to see if Dante can negotiate," she heard the prince arguing intensely with the demon.
But Orion didn't hear her or his friend. Everything around him went dark with anger until he only saw Mia—his beloved—in mortal danger. He had to act. Now! "Wait!" Andromeda tried to stop him, but he had already slipped out of reach.
"Let her go, you beast!" He snarled and charged straight towards the Fire-Bringer.
"Orion, come back!" Dante shouted.
The Fire-Bringer brought down his sword and stunned Orion with a rippling shockwave. Then, he picked up the prince and flung his body into the ground over and over as hard as he could while Mia screamed. The Kingsguard mobilized, but the demon cast a spell that paralyzed their bodies.
"Leave him alone!" Dante tried to intervene, but his action drew the demon's ire. A stout kick sent his limp body flying into the stained-glass window. In just a matter of seconds, Andromeda watched everyone she loved—her entire world—get torn apart.
At last, the demon slammed Orion to the ground once more and stomped on him. With a sick laugh, he set Mia down and watched her cry over his bleeding body. Stop it...Andromeda felt uncontrollably rage invigorate every drop of blood in her body. She was going to wipe that stupid demon's grin off his ugly-ass face. She was going to end him. Her body started to burn again, but Andromeda welcomed the feeling until the heat shivered with barren cold. Dark purple light glowed from her cheekmarks, and she felt invincible. She feared nothing—not the sword or magic or the demon. Not even death scared her for she was beyond its power.
Andromeda boldly strode towards the demon, and the blade of her sword turned as black as obsidian. "Leave my kingdom alone!" She spoke with the authority of a thousand years' worth of Butterfly queens, whose voices were magnified by righteous anger and deepened by bloodlust.
She leapt into the air and sliced the demon's right arm off at the elbow. Sticky blood sprayed everywhere as the demon howled in pain and held the wriggling stump. She lashed out again and again until the once defiant beast whimpered like a kicked puppy. For her final blow, the wand's blade became white, and it gave her an idea. "Darkness Purge!" She sunk the sword into the demon's eye and quickly withdrew it.
White fire danced where red once menaced, and the demon sank to its knees, shrieking. "What did you do to me?" he hissed in Demonic, which Andromeda suddenly understood.
Drained by the surge of magic, the warrior-princess released her augmented abilities and returned to normal. "I don't know," she said while panting. "It's something the Magic came up with. Also, I thought you only talked to Lucitors."
"I am compelled to listen to you, daughter of Star Butterfly," said the demon.
This is the weirdest moment of my entire life, Andromeda thought but decided that this was also her chance to find out the perpetrator behind the attacks. She asked, "Okay, demon, who sent you? Who is your master?"
"I am oath-sworn not to reveal his name, Star-daughter, but know that he is coming for revenge. Out of the jaws of death, he shall ride forth in a plague of madness. A thousand years have slumbered, but so shall an ancient grudge be justly woken."
"Very poetic, demon."
"His plans are not even known to me or the others who joined his ranks. He commands us where to go, and forth we venture to cause turmoil unless someone shall claim us first. It appears that you have done so, Star-daughter. Your sword of purifying flame has given me a choice: to serve you or perish. I have freely chosen the former."
"So, I can tell you to do whatever I want?"
"Your bidding is my bidding. Your thoughts, my thoughts. Your command, my duty," he swore.
Hmm…Andromeda considered his words for a moment, then said, "Y'know, I could send you straight to the Lake of Fire…"
"No!" the demon cried. "Do not send me back to the tormenting fires! Please, Star-daughter, have mercy for I repent of my evils! Give me a chance—I can be of use to you. I can protect you from others like me."
"How can I be sure you won't attack me or my friends again?" she challenged. "How can I be sure you'll serve me and not your old master?"
"Give me a name," he said. "Long ago, the Darkness called me and my brethren from the Light-Ways given to us by the Spirits. In turning to evil, we were stripped of our old selves, and names are what my brethren miss the most. Without a name, nothing can be true to itself. Without a name, nothing is free."
"If that's what you want…how about Azazel?" Andromeda said. "I think it's a fitting name for a Principality—a prince of demons."
Azazel tested his new name on his tongue and was satisfied. "I find this name pleasing, Star-daughter."
"Good, now, can you please release my friends?" she pointed to the frozen knights staring at them in disbelief.
"Your wish is my command," he waved his hand and set them free.
"Thanks, and now, what about my brother and boyfriend?"
"Both should be fine. Star-son is a Mewman, and it takes more than that to kill one. Nevertheless, I shall heal him."
Azazel muttered a healing spell and touched Orion's head. At once, his eyes fluttered open, and he groaned loudly, "My head is killing me…"
"Rye! You're alright!" Mia cheered and hugged him.
Dante limped towards Andromeda and drew his rapier at Azazel, "Get away from my girlfriend, creep!"
"It's okay, boo, Azzy is a friend," she patted the demon on the head. "I kinda own him now."
"Uh…okay? How on Mewni did you tame a Principality."
"Sorry for hurting you, Dante Tom-son," Azazel bowed. "I have been freed of my former bonds-oath, and I serve a fairer master."
"Please never call me Tom-son again," he scowled.
"Oh, what's wrong with being your old man's son?" Tom jabbed him.
Star and her patrol had just returned to the castle, and the royals cheered when they saw them. Andromeda and Orion sought comfort in their parents' arms after the long fight, and almost refused to let go for a second. "I was so scared," Andromeda confessed to Star. "I had no idea what was going to happen to us."
"It's okay, Andie," the queen stroked her reddish-blonde hair. "I'll always be here for you. I know how scary your first real fight can be on your own, but fear gives us the courage to protect those we love. I fought Toffee and his minions to save your father at your age, and I can see that you've proven yourself to be an amazing protector. You tamed a demon—how cool is that?"
They watched Jupiter and the other children climb on Azazel's antlers.
More and more royals streamed out of the ballroom, but Andromeda noticed something different about the latter group of them. The Kelpbottoms and Pigeons kept their distance from Tom and Janna, and they murmured urgently to one another. Why do I feel like this is only the beginning? Andromeda turned and saw the pale Blood Moon rising.
While the royals celebrated victory with their leaders, a single figure roamed the back hallways of the Butterfly castle. She paused every so often and leaned against the cold walls to catch her breath. Age was a cruel mistress—one Etheria knew too well as the oldest living member of the Butterfly household. Almost eighty years had passed in a blink of an eye. Eighty hard years forever calcified into a hard shell over her heart like the cataracts over blue eyes. Mewmans were certainly long-lived beings, and many reached years beyond eighty with few problems. In fact, it was not unheard of elders living to a hundred and ten, but Etheria knew the odds weren't in her favor. She spent too many years struggling to survive the end of the Monster-Mewman wars and mourning the loss of her beautiful sister, Comet.
As sunset drew near, Etheria found herself thinking more about the old days that haunted the shadow of her mind. She also thought of the future—of the countless sunrises to occur long after her. What kind of Butterflys would meet those golden days? It was an elder's job to fret about such things, especially Etheria, who lived between the passive queens of yore and the active queens of late. Her mother, Queen Estrella, did little but doodle all day, but Comet rode into battles and negotiated with the Monsters. When Moon was born to her, followed by Heartrude and Felicity, Etheria saw a future of strong royals who would finish the mission started by their foremothers: exterminate the Monsters and deliver the bountiful land to the righteous Mewmans.
But then came Star. Etheria always thought the Johansen blood in her veins messed with her head. Butterflys weren't supposed to have blonde hair or reckless spirits. They were supposed to be meek and tame. They were supposed to be model rulers the dull masses could look up to and envy. But Star Butterfly was destined to be a troublemaker. If Moon had her a week early when she would have been born a Wise Deadhorse instead of a rebellious Pig-Goat—cursed to bring ruin to the Butterflys.
And that she did by deciding to mate with a human. Etheria blamed Moon for allowing Star's relationship with Marco. A powerful princess, born with magic that rivaled Eclipsa, should have been arranged to Prince Lucitor as soon as her first bleed. There was a reason for arranged marriages—it kept teens from making foolish choices in the name of lust. Now, the bloodline was tainted beyond repair, and the future of Mewni lay in the hand of halfbreeds. Andromeda seemed like a fine princess, but every time Etheria looked into her pretty, brown eyes, she saw her mongrel father. She saw Mewni's end.
"Something must be done…" Etheria muttered darkly.
"I agree, something must be done," another voice spoke.
In the hazy moonlight, a familiar figure huddled under a hellhound ruff as if he too felt the chill of winter despite being a ghost. For some reason, Etheria could see Dave clearer than any living being. He appeared like the magnificent king he had been in life, clothed in royal Lucitor attire. The delicate, golden flames embroidered on his sleeves flickered with movement, and dark fire burned as wine-purple flecks in his handsome, red eyes. If Etheria were younger, perhaps she would have felt a different longing, but her withered loins had long been barren.
"I have full confidence in Mewni's future, now that we are working together," she smiled. "Though I must reprimand you for such careless use of demons today."
He shrugged, "Not my fault. Demons are notoriously stupid. The Fire-Bringer was supposed to draw Marco away and kill him, but such is life. I think now, I must take matters into my own hands if we want anything done."
"I agree," said Etheria. "Especially since tonight officially marks a thousand years since the Promise was formed. Our families have broken the ancient oath, and vengeance is rightfully yours."
A wicked grin crawled on Dave's face, "I most certainly am. I tried to raise my son to be a respectable, young man, but he let a mutt claim his rightful place as King of Mewni. It's time I put both of them in their places."
"Are the Lucitors ready to seize what belongs to them?"
"As for my dead relations, most of them are siding with war. We have a few holdouts—the usual do-gooders are arguing to extend the Promise."
"Dante I and the First King?"
"Of course, especially Dante I. He has a soft spot for my grandson—his namesake. His argument is that the Promise can be extended a few years since the prince is in love with Princess Andromeda. Johannes and Darius I are starting to side with him, but I don't worry. They'll see our side in time."
"Excellent," Etheria nodded. "Is the trap ready?"
"It will be very soon," Dave said. "Star and Tom are inching closer to their doom without even realizing it. I know you're upset about the demon attack, but this is a part of my plan. Everything is set in motion—it's now up to them to bring about the end of the world."
It was late, but Marco was too restless to sleep. Even hours after the demon attack, he remained in his royal clothes and paced about the dancefloor, thinking deeply to himself. Something wasn't right. Demons rarely escaped the Underworld, and now, Mewni had suffered three attacks within a short amount of time. Many of the royals tonight expressed their frustrations about the matter, and Marco knew tension was rising in the alliance against the Lucitors. What are we going to do? He sighed and sought the Blood Moon, which dimly glowed in the late hours.
On top of the rising tensions, Marco worried about his family. Although, Orion and Andromeda did an amazing job protecting the castle with Dante, so much could have gone wrong. He saw how shaken up they were afterwards. I have to keep my family safe, so please help me. Show me what to do, Marco prayed, sensing great darkness coming.
"Are you still awake?"
Marco had been so lost in his thoughts, that he did not hear Star approach him. She traded her royal dress for a nightgown, robe, and thick, fluffy slippers. "Aren't you cold?" he welcomed her into his arms and gently held her.
"I'm never cold with you around," she breathed. "Besides, you're up way past your bedtime. Stop worrying and come to bed with me. We'll face whatever's going on in the morning."
He breathed in her comforting scent, and the lingering darkness in his mind vanished. Only Star could put him at ease. She was his sunshine on a cloudy day and his ray of hope in despair. As the Blood Moon bond relaxed, Marco suddenly sensed something within her, but Star squirmed away before he could discover what it was. He scowled—she never hid things from him. Ever since the Blood Moon bond opened between them when they were teenagers, they hardly had any private thoughts anymore. They were of one mind and one consciousness that had no distinct beginning or end from each other.
Star read his thoughts and responded, "How about this, Marco, I'll tell you after our dance."
"Really?" he said. "You still wanna dance after fighting demons all night?"
"You wouldn't deny your wife, would you?"
"I wouldn't dream of it," Marco took her hands and led her into a simple yet intimate waltz in the empty room.
The light turned red as they danced, and Marco thought of the other times he shared this waltz with Star. The Blood Moon Ball occurred over eighteen years ago, and they still were unraveling the meaning behind the sacred moon. Familiarity is said to breed contempt, but Marco never tired of Star or their dance. It formed the fabric of their amazing lives across time and space and the infinite realities of the universe.
"You're such a dork, Marco," she laughed.
"It's true," he said. "Now, what did you want to tell me?"
Star grinned against his chest, and let the bond open fully between them. Marco's eyes grew wide and joyous tears started to well in them. "Really?" his voice squeaked in surprise. "Are you really…?"
Smiling, she gave him a quick kiss on the lips, "Yes, Marco, we're having a baby."
Review Roundup
RJWritingInk- It's about to get more interesting. Also, no promises.
Lyger 0- OMG that's such an adorable song! Honestly, I was feeling more "Can't Help Falling in Love" but that works too!
Aldal- Orion and MJ's rivalry will become more apparent later on as things get more serious. Just wait until you see the fallout from MJ's side. Festivia would make a protection spell. She's the party queen. Sometimes, her parties get a bit too wild. Funny you should bring up Andie and Dante cuz next chapter is all them. We'll see what they've been up to. And yes, the Butterflys have accepted Marco. Mostly...
Alfonso Sparda- We'll see indeed. This isn't going to be the last time MJ and Orion get upset with each other.
pandcora04- I have great plans for Andromeda and Dante both in this story and in a future(!) project, but your idea sound cool as well.