Daily Life of Monster Girls in Alabama

by GoatManofAnime

It's time for a MonMusu fanfiction that takes place in sweet home Alabama, nuff said.

72. A New Gospel

Chapter 66: A New Gospel

…. Meanwhile…

While that was going on, Camilla could be seen sitting at a nearby park bench, close to where Ein and Loretta's group were. She was catching a break from entertaining those children and fully grown adult women to recover her mana. At least, that's the excuse she used. The spells that she used barely even used up one-tenth of her energy reserves, she just wanted time alone. She watches as the wind weasel and Loretta talking and laughing with the other church members, even playing with the kids using her aero kinetic powers.

"Tch, at least one of us is having fun.", She scoffs.

Oddly enough, despite being slightly annoyed at being used as a carnival show, she noticed some of their expressions became less and less distrusting towards her. Those children even seemed enthralled the entire time and, despite their constant demands and ceaseless prattle…it was oddly enjoyable seeing such innocent eyes on her.

"Excuse me, is this seat taken?"

An unfamiliar voice catches the Elder Devil's attention as she looks up to see, to her surprise, a Greater Devil with long black hair and wearing a blue sundress with an inverted cross necklace standing before her.

Camilla was, understandably, surprised to find an ACTUAL member of her kin here of all places. Nevertheless, this was her alone time.

"What if I say that it is?", Camilla replies, a bit rudely but didn't want to 'entertain' another stranger right now.

"Then I'll just make my own.", The Greater Devil remarks with a smirk summoning a blue seal in front of her. The floats next to the edge of and quickly forms into a second park bench composed of blue mana to Camilla's surprise. The Greater Devil plops down, crossing her legs with a smirk, "Problem solved!"

'Tch, cheeky little brat. Still, that IS a unique spell.', Camilla thought, making a mental note to start experimenting later with solidifying seals.

"I'm Livia. What's your name?"

"Camilla. Now what do ju want? Or are ju just bored and wish to annoy me?", Camilla says, already tired of her presence.

"Whoa, chill out there honey. I just wanna chat.", Livia waves off the rude response then changes the subject, "So, you're the other Devil I heard those Imps mention earlier. Gotta say, you changed the atmosphere as soon as you arrived."

"How exactly did I do that?", Camilla skeptically asks.

"We were on edge, what with all the Devil-hating Christians around here. Then you, an Elder Devil, pull up. Let's just say that immense mana of yours made us more at ease."

"So what? I am your security blanket if they decide to turn on ju? Am I to kill them all for ju if they become too violent?"

"Kill is a strong word, more like deter. Honestly, I am hoping neither will be necessary.", Livia says with a shrug.

"Hmph, if that's how ju all feel, why would ju even come here among these wretched humans that worship angel faith?", Camilla uttered with disdain.

"Simple. He's why.", Livia points out to where a Caucasian human male could be seen talking to two other male hosts and their homestays, seemingly enjoying himself.

"Him? That pathetic looking human?"

"Hmph, just show what you know. He's way more capable than you think. Hehe, we actually caused something of a stir among some humans a while ago. But, I personally see nothing wrong with a girl showing her man some affection in public."

Camilla gives a blank, unamused stare.

"Anyway, that guy right there means a lot to me. He gave me a home when I was at my lowest even though, given his religion, he's supposed to hate me."

Camilla looks to her, seeing the devotion and love in the young one's eyes. She then sees the man wave to her and she waves back.

"Is…is that man your…Destined One?"

"Yes, at least that's what I'm sure of. I know when I met him my body just…reacted to him in way it hasn't before. I don't really know how to describe it just felt…like…"

"Ju were complete. As if being reunited with a part of yourself ju didn't know was missing.", Camilla finished, her interest in conversation growing.

"Yeah, exactly!", Livia stated, "After that, I knew where I belonged and it was wherever he was. It was hard though. Most of his family still doesn't like me. Only his mom, sister and his brother are ok with us being together. I thought he'd resent me by now for causing so much trouble for him but…he hasn't ONCE blamed me for anything. He and his brother even defended me from his cousins once. I guess the rest of his family will always hate me."

Camilla could sense the hurt in her tone, knowing how closed-minded these deeply religious humans were, even to their detriment. A worthless lot they are.

"I doubt they'll change any time soon…but that's ok. What matters is that James and I love each other. Plus, some of his family actually support us! We're even getting married in a couple months if you can believe it.", She says looking at an engagement ring on her left hand.

Camilla's eyes widened in surprise, upon seeing the silver object on her hand. She then lightly chuckles.

"Hey! What's so funny?"

"I just never imagined one of us wearing one of those human trinkets to symbolize a union."

"Oh, this is just to make the normies shut up. The real symbol is hidden where only my hubby knows.", Livia says rubbing her lower tummy.

"Wait are ju–?!" Camilla ask her eyes widening at what she is thinking.

"What? No! Well, not yet, I hope. I mean my mark! Don't get me wrong, it's not like I don't want him to be the father of my babies! It's just…" Livia said, getting an embarrassed blush.

"Ju don't want it right now?"

"Yeah! Wow, you're good at finishing sentences!", Livia jokes before looking at her human partner, "But anyway, that's why I came here. Being a Christian is part of who he is and…I want to be a part too."

"So what? You're abandoning your heritage for Angel faith?!", Camilla says in disbelief.

"Fuck no! I meant it's part of his culture. Hell, he's not even a devout religious guy, he just goes to church every now and again. Despite that, he respects my adherence to the Seven Chaos Principles. So it's a mutual thing."

"If ju say so.", Camilla dismissively is only partially convinced.

"What about you? Clearly you know what I was feeling, is your hubby or boyfriend or whatever around here?" Livia asked, glancing around here.

Camilla pauses then looks away with slightly flushed cheeks, "Why is that any of your concern?"

"Ha! I'll take that as a 'yes'. So, you understand why we'd do something so stupid as to come to a park filled with humans that hate us since you did too.", Livia cheekily remarks then shifts to a softer tone, "We're in love and love has made us kinda stupid."

Camilla pouted with a small blush, "We came here for his uncle's sake. He doesn't even want to be here as much as I."

"Still, he loves his uncle and YOU love him. So it still tracks. Might as well face it, you're addicted to love, honey."

"Are ju always this obnoxious? Go play with that human of yours, little girl, and leave me be.", Camilla says in annoyance, shooing her away.

"Hey, I happen to be 83(22 in Devil years) and if I'm a little girl that makes you an old lady, hmm? Bet ya got plenty of experience in those bones.", Livia said with a teasing smile.

"Keep running those lips and I will show you how experienced I am..", Camilla threatens, conjuring a small red ball of energy at her fingertip.

"Ok ok, I was just playing around.", Livia assures, surrendering after sensing how strong that mana was lead Camilla to dissipate the spell, "Anyway, point is, we love our guys. If enduring one day of this will make them happy then so be it. Besides, the food is pretty good."

"Hey, Liv!",

"Oh, that's my bae calling me.", Livia happily says, getting up and quickly dissipating the mana bench, "Nice talking to ya, Camilla. Later!"

Camilla watches her leave, scoffing to herself, before looking up to the sky in thought. She then sees Livia go up and hug her human partner who hugs her back, even kissing her.

'Love has made me es stupida huh? No…', Camilla thought bitterly, remembering her time in Mexico butchering any human or liminal that crossed without hardly any remorse, 'I already was. Love…gave me purpose."

"Hey!", Ein says, coming up to the Elder Devil who sighs in exasperation, "How are you doing over here by yourself?"

"Fine, if other people can stop interrupting it."

"R-Right, sorry. I just saw you talking to that other Devil a few minutes ago and just wanted to check on you. What were you talking about?"

Camilla pauses for a moment, seeing the Greater Devil and her lover enjoying the music from the choir, then with a small grin, answers , "Something stupid and nothing else."

"O…k?", Ein raises an eyebrow at her strange answer.

"E-Excuse me?"

Another voice caught both of their attention as they turned to see Anna Mae's daughter approaching them with her baby in her arms as the little infant sucked its fingers.

"Haaa, what now?", Camilla expressed softly, looking at the human woman.

"Sorry to bother you, I just…wanted to say…well…I'm glad you came. You're actually…a nice lady.", The dark skin human woman expressed as Camilla and Ein look at her with surprise.

"Well, thank you. We're happy we could meet you all today! Right, Camilla?", Ein looks at her friend expectantly.

"Jes, it has been a pleasure.", Camilla half-heartedly sighed.

At the moment, the baby in her arm coos loudly, getting their attention as it reaches it's hands out while squirming in their mother's arms.

"Ah! I-Is there something wrong?", Ein stated as Camilla looks to them in confusion

"I don't know, I just fed her. What you doing? Where you trying to–", the woman says before noticing her daughter reaching her arms towards Camilla, "S-She wanna go to you. You mind…holding her?"

Camilla visibly tenses up at the proposition the ways her hands in objection, "Q-Que?! Nonono! I-I do not think that is—"

"Go ahead, Camilla. You don't wanna make the little one sad, do you?", Ein guilted a bit as the baby started whimpering, eating at the Devil woman's core.

Camilla blushes and sighs deeply before reluctantly reaching out her slightly trembling hands, "C-Come."

The woman motions over and hands her child to the Elder Devil. As the infant starts calming down, Camilla becomes more uneasy and holds the child at arms length away from her to the mother's confusion.

"Hey, come on now, you have to hold her closer than that. Babies love physical contact.", Ein directed the Elder Devil, "It's ok."

"B-But…", Camilla utters, nervously noticing the back staring at her then smiles. She blushes, feeling the infant melting her way into her heart before, compelled her to cradle the infant closer to her chest. It was at that moment, the Elder Devil was unable to hold back a grin for the tiny cooing and giggling child's face and sweetly utters who uses her hand to grab her finger. She then softly utters, "Hola."

Ein watches silently, smiling warmly at the pair as the child's mother couldn't help being impressed as she takes a few pictures with her phone.

"Chiara did you see where–", Anna Mae stops mid-sentence upon seeing her grandchild in the arms of the Elder Devil, "Oh my…goodness. She's holding the baby? L-Loretta. Loretta, come over here! You gotta see this!"

Camilla, not even caring about anything else right now, felt an indescribable bliss looking down at child. A bliss she's been…deprived of…for so long. A bliss…that felt…lifeless.

At that thought, the memories of her past failed pregnancies flood into her senses. She looks down, seeing her trembling hands stained with the rancid smelling blood of her miscarriage and a lifeless small devil child in her lap barely even in the second trimester. Her heart races fast enough to feel it will burst from her chest and her blood runs ice cold as her breathing becomes erratic. She could hear Ein's voice calling her name but it was too muffled and nearly unintelligible.

"Camilla! Can you hear me?!", Ein stated worriedly as the Elder Devil sat visibly trembling and breathing erratically staring off with a look of fear the Karmaitchi had never seen.

"What's wrong with her?!", Chiara stated, starting the panic before the baby started crying in the Elder Devil arms.

Camilla, upon hearing the infants crying, suddenly snaps back to reality and looks down to see the child sobbing and looking up at her.

"T…Take…Take her. Take her!", The Elder Devil managed to utter before Ein does as requested removes the infant from her arms giving her back to her mother who quickly inspects her child. She found no injuries on the baby but then looked at the distraught devil woman.

Camilla's breathing starts to slow as she touches her forehead. She felt the sweat on her brow and hunched over feeling like she could vomit onto the grass but nothing came up. She then touches her stomach with her other hand, clenching her teeth as tears well up in her eyes before gently sobbing.

Ein then goes up to the distressed Devil woman and gently pets her head to comfort her before Camilla weakly grips the hem of the Karmaitchi robes prompting Ein to hold her closer caressing the sobbing devil woman.

At that moment, Anna Mae happily brings Loretta and a few others over before pausing at the now saddening sight. Chiara urges her mother and the others away letting the pair be alone as Loretta gives a worried look towards them.

Ein didn't understand what was wrong. All she knew was she needed a friend right now.

….. Elsewhere….

Aurelia could be seen panting, gripping her racket tightly watching the heathen rider hitting the birdie sending it flying towards her.

"I've got it! WAHH!", Christian stated, ready to serve it back before Aurelia rears up on her hind legs, making him lose balance.

"No! I've got it, Master! Watch me!", Aurelia vehemently stated, swinging her racket at the projectile only, to her shock, the shuttlecock soars just a couple centimeters from touching the racket landing to the ground and leaving Aurelia speechless.

"OW" Christian said, making Aurelia flinch, realizing she had knocked her master off her back again.

"Rider has fallen off his mount! This round goes to Team Bizzell! That puts our score at 5 wins for Bizzell and 3 for Bautista!", Drei announced as Lyca and Zwei cheered, quickly joined by several other humans and liminals that stopped to watch the spectacle out of boredom or curiousity.

"You ok, man?!", Caleb stated out of genuine concern.

"Yeah..I'm good. It wasn't as bad as the second time.", Christian responded by picking himself off the ground and brushing his clothes as Aurelia tried to help but he stopped her, "I'm fine, Ari, really. I've been through worse."

"Do you want to take a break?" Caleb asked his friend.

"I'm good to keep going, what about you Ari?" Christian asked but Aurelia wasn't listening, caught in her own thoughts.

'How are they beating us!?' Aurelia screamed in her mind. The two heathens have been dominating them, working together almost flawlessly with each other. They seem to have a profound almost unnatural understanding of each other's bodies. It's almost as if they're one entity, bonded in body and soul, 'No, they couldn't possibly have a bond that surpasses the one me and my master have forged! Even IF they had more time together, there's no way a couple of dark goddess worshiping mongrels could be so strong unless they–'

"Hello!", Christian stated, gently patting her shoulder to get her attention.

"WHAT?!", Aurelia stated, slightly agitated, startling her rider. His eyes widened in shock at what she just did, "Ah! I-I'm sorry, master! I didn't mean to yell at you! Please forgive me!'

"I-It's alright, Ari. Really. I just wanted to make sure you're ok. You seem to be spacing out." Christian asked her, looking concerned.

Aurelia gives a shameful look while trying to hold in her frustration, "I'm fine, Master. There's no need to worry."

"Maybe we should call the game here." Christian said, seeing Aurelia might be letting the game get to her.

"NO!" Aurelia yelled, causing Christian to flinch as the crowd started whispering to each other at what they were seeing. The idea of letting that heretic beat her again was unacceptable, "I mean, master, we can still turn this around and win! We shouldn't give up! They're just using their vile tricks to get an edge!"

"Tricks? What like cheating? That doesn't sound like something Caleb would do."

"You never know what he's capable of after being around that heathen.", Aurelia venomously remarks under her breath, looking at Mirabelle as the pair were having their own conversation.

"What? What are you even talking about?", Christian asked, critical of her tone.

"Um, Dear? I need to…um use the loo before we continue.", Mirabelle whispers to him, slightly embarrassed, not wanting other people to hear.

"Gotcha, baby.", Caleb says, giving an assuring pat before climbing off her back, getting Aurelia and Christian attention, "Her guys! Let's take a halftime break."

"THIS late in the game?", Zwei asks.

"Better late than never. Alright, go ahead sweety."

Mirabelle nods before teleporting away, much to the shock of everyone outside of Caleb's group.

"Holy shit! She disappeared!", One of the human male spectators stated.

"She's a centorean Houdini!", Female wererabbit proclaimed.

"Huh, so that's what the normal response sound like from the outside.", Zwei remarks

"Desensitization is a virtue.", Drei comments as Lyca nods.

"Hehe, we're used to Mira doing stuff like that."

"It's cool man. Moon pie's just taking a bathroom break, she'll be back.", Caleb assures his friend, who looks at him dumbfounded by his casual attitude.

"O-Ok. I'll take your word for it. I could use a break too honestly", Christian replies, as several people quickly lost interest and started walking away.

'Bathroom huh?', Aurelia thought to herself, glancing around for the closest restroom before spotting one along with the purple hair heathen trotting towards it in the distance, 'There you are.'

"Master, I require liquid refreshment. I ask that you kindly dismount your knight." Aurelia respectfully says quickly but chivalrously.

"Oh, alright." Christian complies, dismounting the centauress, to her disappointment.

Aurelia trots away before going into a full gallop towards Mirabelle location.

Zwei and Drei quickly share a look that has the two come to silent agreement.

"Here." Drei said, coming over and handing Christian his phone back, then walking away.

"Oh, thanks."

"Where are you going?", Caleb raises an eyebrow.

"Taking a shit.", Drei replies leaving both men and a few female strangers nearby stunned.

"I have…never heard a girl say that before.", Christian points out.

"Yeah, she has no filter sometimes.", Zwei chimes in, "So, you guys wanna kill time while we wait?"

"Sure, we got about…over half an hour before the sermon starts. What do y'all wanna do?"

"Ooh, what about THAT Chief?", Lyca stated, eyes wide with excitement, pointing to five large arcade-style basketball games where a few human teens, a few liminals and their hosts could be seen shooting hoops.

"Oh cool! They have those here too?", Caleb stated, getting a little excited.

"That does look kinda fun.", Zwei admits.

"What are they playing, Chief?"

"It's called basketball. You guys never played before?", Christian asks, a bit surprised, then looks to Caleb, "Shame on you for not sharing a huge part of your culture."

"Don't typecast me. I'm not some sports obsessed clod that peaked in high school."

"Enough stereotypes! Let's go ballin'!", Zwei started strutting over to the basketball games with Lyca taking Caleb by the hand. Christian follows them, loosening his shoulders a bit after their last game.

…

Further away, Mirabelle could be seen humming blissfully washing her hands inside the recently restructured women's restroom as the stall designed for people with her body-type could be heard flushing and cleaning itself. She dries her hands and exits the restroom.

Right as she rounds the solid blue-colored brick wall to the outside, she's stopped by the sight of Aurelia, who was patiently waiting with folded arms.

Mirabelle was shocked but tried to remain calm, taking a deep breath, "P-Pardon me. I am finished now. T-The cloakroom is all yours.", She says, not making eye contact while trying to pass by the larger centaur.

"You're not fooling me, heathen."

Mirabelle tenses up, "W-What?"

"You may be able to fool the rest of these humans but I know the truth. I know exactly what you are. My family always warned me of your disgraced lot. I know this is all you're doing!", Aurelia accused, blocking Mirabelle's path and backing her into the restroom.

"A-All of what?! I-I haven't done anything!", Mirabelle responded, becoming scared and freezing up.

"Do not play dumb with me, you filthy Nyx worshiper! My Christian…he was never like this when we met. There's no way! He would've told me if he felt any attraction towards… MEN!" Aurelia said, struggling a bit near the end.

W-Well did you ever ask him?" Mirabelle asked, gathering her courage.

"OF COURSE NOT! What would he even need from them there would be no point! What could he POSSIBLY get from them?!" Aurelia said.

"Love." Mirabelle weakly said.

"Your sick lie won't fool me! What can a heathen like you know about love? You can't even fathom the responsibility of carrying on a family name and the blood of true warriors! MY Christian understands and I KNOW you are messing with his mind, making him confused by putting false thoughts and memories! I just know it! I will rid him of them and protect my master from your vileness!", Aurelia berates as Mirabelle steps backwards in fear until she feels her rear against the wall, trapping her. She then grabs Mirabelle by the hair and holds her against the wall.

"P-Please! Let me go!"

"Not until you release your charm on him! Heh, you know something? I'm glad that you made that PATHETIC man your master cause it allowed me to find one worthy of me!" Aurelia said as Mirabelle flinched. Seeing this, Aurelia decided to press on not noticing Mirabelle tightly clenching her hands, "Honestly I can't help question why ANYONE would want to be around such a WEAK and COWARDLY man but for some like YOU it makes sense! Maybe it's easy for you to control him. Maybe boost whatever ego he has to control him. That's probably how you got him to agree to be your rider. How you've manipulated his uncle and the rest of those humans. He and his entire family are truly DISGRACEFUL! "

"Stop it.", Mirabelle utters weakly, her body shaking as she shut her eyes tightly.

"You know, for a moment I almost felt envy for what you and your heretic had. I desire such intimacy like that with my Christian. But now I understand it was just foul LUST that birthed that intimacy! It will no doubt vanish like a dying ember and you'll be left with NOTHING! Meanwhile, OUR love will thrive! Bards will sing tales of our TRUE LOVE as yours turns to dust and is forgotten." Aurelia boisterously spoke, pressing hard onto Mirabelle, inciting a pained yelp out of her as she whispers in her ear, "Now pass this message on to your rider, heathen. He is to NEVER come near MY Christian again. I will never allow him to taint MY Christian. If he ignores my warning, I will personally ensure he can never ride you again." Aurelia said with a satisfied smile, gripping the handle of her dagger.

Mirabelle's eyes shot wide open, before teleporting out of the centaur's grasp, to her surprise. She then reappears behind Aurelia.

"Ah! You filthy–"

"SHUT YOUR FUCKING MOUTH!", Mirabelle shouts, her voice slightly distorted, as every muscle in Aurelia's body freezes and her mouth is forced closed. Aurelia tries to open her mouth as every word is muffled then looks on in shock seeing Mirabelle's purple eyes glowing menacingly.

She had finally revealed herself. The monster that she is. At least, that's what Aurelia thought along with a surge of fear.

"Now, listen bloody well, you wretched scrubber, because I'm only going to say all this ONCE." Mirabelle said with pure rage in her eyes, "FIRST, my Dear is not pathetic or weak and most certainly not a coward! He's done things that, before meeting him I didn't even DREAM people would ever do for anyone much less for me. He risked his life and was even willing to DIE if it meant protecting me, Camilla or Lyca! SECOND, his uncle is a kind and wonderful man who loves his nephew with all his heart and from what seen today a deep and true believer of his faith simply wanting to show it to everyone who is willing to listen to what he has to say REGARDLESS of their background, species or their own faith. THIRD, and most important, Caleb's heart is filled with more love than you could EVER imagine. It is that love that saved me more than even HE knows! He's not my rider or my master. Our bond is far, FAR deeper than that!"

Aurelia's eyes widened in shock at the statement, her jaw still locked firmly and body unresponsive. Deeper than rider and master?! No, it couldn't be. Are the two of them…BETROTHED?!

"I didn't do anything to Christian. What he feels is his own feelings and you need to accept that! The only one I'm seeing trying to change him is YOU! You insufferable tart.", Mirabelle bitterly spoke as Aurelia glares at her.

Mirabelle then walks up to the paralyzed blonde centaur looking up at her dead in the eye, "But let me make something clear: Don't you ever, ever threaten my Dear again. If you DARE try to harm him, I promise, I will make you understand WHY we are called 'Nightmares'!"

At that moment, Aurelia's arms start moving on their own, drawing out both large daggers much to her horror. She then directs both blades towards her neck causing her heart to race and her breath to quicken as fear slowly overtook her sense. She tries to scream out, hoping someone would hear her, but her mouth would not open. In a swift motion, Aurelia feels the cold steel blades are plunged through her neck sending indescribable pain through her senses.

"AHHHH!", Aurelia screams loudly in the restroom, breathing laboriously then touching her neck with both hands realizing it was still intact, not a drop of blood in sight. She looks to her blades that were still resting in their scabbards, neither having budged. As she collects herself, she looks to the Nightmare staring at her with disdain before vanishing from the bathroom.

Aurelia takes repeated deep breaths from what she just experienced then clenches her teeth in frustration before drawing out both daggers about to pursue her.

"Well, that was intense. Though you did walk into that."

Aurelia pauses then looks up towards where the voice came from. There standing nonchalantly propped against the wall,l right in her path, was Drei.

"What do you want , Rodent?! You're in my way." Aurelia said, very agitated.

"Firstly, I'm a weasel. Second, just making sure you don't do anything rash. Though I might have had it reversed after seeing that."

"I-I can take her! I'll bring her down before she uses her evil magic on my Christian! Someone like her CANNOT be allowed near my Master!." Aurelia insisted, gripping her daggers harder, wishing she could use her weapon of choice against the heathen instead.

"Oh, is that right? Then, by that crazy look in your eyes and those daggers you're clutching tighter than a payday check, you intend to take drastic action. If so, it's my responsibility to neutralize you. " Drei said, not backing down.

"DON'T STAND IN MY WAY!", Aurelia shouted, rushing her with both blades drawn. She performs a crossed slash attack on the Karmaitachi, who doesn't even flinch.

In a swift movement, Drei does a tai chi sweeping motion, then using her middle and index finger on both hands large her own daggers, jabs the centaur in both her wrists striking the nerve clusters.

"Gah!", Aurelia elicits from the sharp pain in both hands, dropping both blades to the restroom floor.

Seizing the opening Drei leaps up with both hands held far apart.

"Tit Attack!", Drei shouted, clapping both of the centaur's breasts together, making them bounce uncontrollably.

"Yowch!" Aurelia screamed as she moved her hands to stop her breasts and her face went bright redder, "W-W-WHAT THE HELL IS–"

"Hmm, I would give them 6, maybe a 7 out of 10 if I'm being generous. I've definitely felt better. Those are pretty average." Drei casually said, examining her hands.

"What!? How dare you?! I'll have you know my mother's genes are the finest of my clan! These are her gift to me and their pride of the Centaurus race! You should feel honored to touch them!" Aurelia berated as Drei went to the sink.

"Hm, I guess her jeans are off brands." Drei quips, proceeding to wash her hands which angered Aurelia further. When finished she dries her hands and says, "Also, there is something I should make clear as well. Threatening Caleb would be a very poor decision on your part. It will only lead to your face being in the dirt and your ass in the air. Not that I don't find the mental image mildly amusing."

"D-Don't make me laugh! That vile heathen merely caught me off guard!" Aurelia said as Drei used a hand dryer before turning to her.

"I can't tell if you're so prideful you've become stupid or so stupid you're full of pride. Either way, I never said she would be the one doing it." Drei said, coldly glaring at the centaur, "Don't forget there's strength in numbers.", Drei emphasized, flashing her MON badge to the Centaur, making her eyes widen in realization.

As she leaves, Aurelia could be seen still fuming from what just happened. Being humiliated not once, not twice, but THRICE?! How can this get ANY worse?!"

At that moment, the toilet flushes from one of the Humanoid-type stalls, getting the centaur's attention. The door opens and out step Livia who looks very embarrassed.

" Excuse me, Imma just get out of here and leave you to do… that.", Livia says, quickly rinsing her hands then grabbing some napkins and hurrying out.

"Ohh this won't STAND!", Aurelia shouted, startling Livia even more as she left the restroom.

"Yeesh, some freakin' weirdos in this place, man.", The Greater Devil spoke walking away from the scene quite confused.

….

While that was going on, the others could be seen shooting basketball hoops.

"Settin' you up, Fuzzy!", Caleb stated with his back turned and chucking the ball behind him.

Lyca grabs then, with a battle cry, tosses it towards the goal. It hits against the backboard a couple before going through the net making the score counter go from 6 to 8 The ball hits against the guard net on the side before rolling down the slope.

"HAHA! Everything about that felt right! I really love the sound it makes when it goes in!", Lyca stated, tail wagging in satisfaction.

"Everybody does, Fuzzy. Now watch out, I'm bout to make it rain!", Caleb stated, grabbing one of the other balls the shooting it towards the net. It bounces off the rim back towards him, "Damn."

At that moment, Lyca leaps in, grabs the ball, then tosses it back up making it go through the hoop perfectly. The score counter goes up to read 10.

"OOOOH! LYCS WITH THE ASSIST! And with his aim he definitely needs it!", Zwei quips as Christian chuckles.

"Quiet, you're throwing off my groove. Let's keep it going, Fuzzy.", Caleb says as Lyca happily grabs two more ball as they roll down the slope.

Zwei was about to comment but Christian touches her shoulder, stopping her.

"I'm sorry but you can't be throwing off the man's groove."

"Well, sorry.", Zwei remarks, grabbing one of the basketballs from her side and tossing it up. It bounces against the rim a few times before going through the net with the titular sound, "Ooh, that is satisfying."

"Hehehe, they've got pretty good chemistry, don't they?", Christian remarks, getting Zwei's attention as she notices him checking out Lyca and Caleb enjoying themselves, doing a double high five after hitting the goal.

"Yeah, I…guess they do.", Zwei replies.

"Actually, I kinda sensed it when he was with Mirabelle and that devil lady. I don't know, he just has good chemistry with all his students. I have a feel for these things, vibes and all."

Zwei looks to the man quizzically then chuckles softly, "Yeah, you kinda got them pegged. Uh, no offense."

"None taken."

"Ahahaha! I made another one Chief!", Lyca chuckles happily as her mate gives her head pats of approval. Zwei smiles warmly at them, glad to see the She-wolf's smiling face.

"I also can see it the way they both treat you too. They care about you alot."

Zwei blushes slightly, taken aback by the sudden comment, "W-What are you…I mean we have been around them awhile and it's basically my job to make sure they're safe."

"You're job huh?", Christian remarks, tossing the ball at the goal making a perfect layup, "Something tells me there's more to it than that."

"L-Look the details are highly confidential to a civilian like you. I ask for your sake to stop prying.", Zwei warns, getting a bit defensive.

"Alright, sorry officer.", Christian said, spinning a basketball on his finger, seemingly unbothered by the threat as Zwei looks to him skeptically. He then says, "I just meant that you're all really comfortable around Caleb and I perfectly understand why. He's always had this openness about him, despite not being the very social type. He's always been kind, supportive, and accepting, even though he can be kinda scary when he's mad but it's almost never from malice or hate."

"Yeah, I can definitely vouch for that.", Zwei lightly chuckles, playing with the ball in her hands.

"It's that attitude of his that helped me come out of my shell. He was actually the first person I came out to, believe it or not."

Zwei gives a shocked look, "Wait so…were you guys…"

"What? No! I meant he was the first person I told I was gay. Not even my family knew before then. But we didn't date or anything.", Christian assures then look at the ball thought, "Believe me, even he was surprised at first…yet he didn't treat me any differently since, nowhere near how my actual family did. He's always been good at putting people at ease, even when they're at their lowest. He's a good man…I just hope sometimes he realizes that."

Zwei looks to him in thought then to Caleb and Lyca laughing together, "Who knows, but as long as he has those three, he'll be alright."

"I'm sure you're right, but still…"

Zwei stares up at the basketball goal inquisitively, "So…what was your experience like?"

"Hm? What?"

"When you…realized you were into your own gender? How'd your family react?" Zwei asking trying not to sound nervous.

Christian looks to her then ponders a moment, "I think deep down I always knew but I never realized it until my senior year in high school. Then I got to college and just…really decided to explore that side of me. I dated a little and realized I did, in fact, prefer men over women. As for how my family reacted…well…my dad said he'd love me no matter what my preference is and my mom…she didn't really talk to me for like a month after I came out and told them. I'm an only child so…she was really upset about not getting the grandkids she dreamed of having." Christian said with a slightly forlorn expression at the memory.

"Sorry. S-So is everything with your family ok? They don't hate you or disown you?" Zwei ask anxiously.

"After some very heated discussions on gender roles and identity, and a lot of Heineken beer, officially the rest of my family, at least on my dad's side, are accepting of who I am. Some of them on my mom's side are fine with it too, but she and my aunts and some of her cousins don't really acknowledge me much. It makes family gatherings incredibly awkward. Despite all that, I feel much happier with my life because I don't need to hide who I am. I'm living it the way I was meant to." Christian said, giving a glad smile.

Zwei looks at him, eyes widened in surprise, then looking away glancing over to where Caleb and Lyca

sees them still engrossed in their game, "Ok. I asked because…I kinda…have this friend who…has feelings for another girl but she…also kinda likes this guy too…equally as much. She doesn't really know how her si-I mean family will react and friends of the girl and guy or even his friends and she can't stop watching them have–!" Zwei stops herself, covering her mouth before the last part slips as Christian raises an eyebrow.

"Alright, clearly your "friend" has been dealing with these feelings for a while…and in a creative way.", Christian says as Zwei glances away, blushing in embarrassment wishing she could just take back what she said, "But I would tell her that her feelings are valid and there's nothing wrong with her sexual preference. It doesn't make her any less of a person. Though, I feel it's best she EXPRESS these feelings and stop bottling them up. Tell her crushes how she feels and talk to her family when she is ready. Also for the love of God, don't do it during the holidays or during major events. A lot of people come out around these times and it's always a disaster."

"But what if…they resent m–her? What if they don't like her anymore?" Zwei said, looking like she was on the verge of crying.

Christian touches Zwei's shoulder, getting her attention, giving an assuring grin, "Let me ask you this one last thing, does your friend trust them? And does she have any siblings that love her greatly?"

"I…yeah, she does. They do."

"Then I doubt she has much to worry about. If she cares greatly about them then that must mean they love her just as much, perhaps even more, no matter what. She's blessed to have them so there's no need to be afraid. She should take her shot when she's ready."

Zwei's eyes light up, feeling an indescribable warmth and ease at his words then look to the basketball hoop, "Thanks. I'll…make sure to tell her all that.", She says before aiming the ball at the goal then tossing it at hoop. It lands cleanly through the net.

"Swish. Yeah, I believe in your friend.", Christian remarks making the weasel girl smile.

"I'm back, Dear!", Mirabelle stated, trotting up to the group, getting their attention.

"Hey, Moon pie. Glad you could join us, we were just practicing layups.", Caleb greets, rapidly dribbling a ball between his hands.

"We be ballin'! Right Chief?"

"That's right sweety.", Caleb says in approval, patting the She-wolf's head.

"That's splendid. Mind if I join you both?", Mirabelle says, straining a smile, trying to move on from what happened moments ago.

"Sure, go ahead.", He hands her the basketball.

"Oh, did you to see Aurelia on your way back? I think she was getting something to drink.", Christian asks making the purple centaur tense slightly.

"Oh, um, she was just…"

"She's using the restroom now too.", Drei quickly interjects, waking past Christian with calm strut, "Her stomach had the rumblies, she might be awhile."

Mirabelle looks to wind weasel smiling in appreciation.

"Oh, I wish she could've told me. I think I have some Tums on me.", Christian says, rummaging in his pockets pulling up out a roll of mint Tums, "Never leave home without them. Never know when food won't sit right."

"Ain't that the damn truth. Alright now, Moon pie just take aim, then take the shot.", Caleb remarks before turning his attention to Mirabelle, helping her aim properly.

"O-Ok. Like this, Dear?"

Zwei then walks to her sister with a ball in hand and discreetly asks, "Did she cause any trouble?"

"Nothing I couldn't handle. How about you? Did I miss anything besides you guys forming a really diverse basketball team?"

Zwei pauses a second, remembering her conversation with Christian then responds, "Nah, nothing to write home about."

"Hm. Alright then."

'Now's not the time. I won't ruin their day. They need this with what coming tomorrow.', Zwei thought, looking at Caleb, Lyca and Mirabelle playing the game, getting a small smile seeing the fun they were having.

"Hey, whaddya doing?", Christian says, catching Zwei's attention.

"Fulfilling a childhood dream.", Drei says, levitating on a swirling cyclone above the goal with a ball in hand. She dissipates it, letting herself drop, the does an epic slam dunk garnishing the amazement of the human teens, other liminals, and Caleb's group. She hangs off the metal rim from a second then let's go sliding down the slope with the other balls hands behind her head, "I got game."

"Haaaa! Everything about that felt right!", Lyca stated with stars in her eyes then climbs up, "I wanna do that!"

"Hell yeah it di–wait, LYCA NO! YOU'RE TOO BIG FOR THAT! You're gonna tear the incline!", Caleb stated, grabbing the She-wolf by the waist trying to pull her off with Mirabelle's help.

"You guys are a nutty bunch…I kinda love it.", Christian chuckles.

The group spent a good fifteen or so minutes at the basketball game area before finally deciding to head back to the choir stage. Christian wanted to wait for Aurelia a bit longer but Drei assured him the centaur would have no trouble finding him. People were already starting to gather there near the stage, taking what seats they could. Among them were Ein and Camilla.

"Mr. Bizzell! Over here!", Ein called out, getting the group's attention as the Elder Devil looked pleased to see her lover's face.

"Hi guys! What have you been up to?", Lyca happily asks.

"I hope Uncle Junior friends didn't give y'all a hard time.", Caleb asks, a bit worried looking to Camilla who shifts her gaze away.

"They…did not, Senor. They were a bit more tolerable than I expected. It was nice.", Camilla assures much to Ein and the other's surprise.

"Wow, really? Well that's good to know. Honestly, I was kinda worried something might have happened."

"A-Actually, sir, something did happen.", Ein admits, remembering the Elder Devil episode earlier, "Camilla–"

"I entertained the human children with a few spells! Ju should have seen their delighted faces, Senor!", Camilla jubilantly stated, cutting the weasel off.

"Oh smashing! I really wish I could have seen it!", Mirabelle stated.

"Me too! I bet the pups really enjoyed it too!", Lyca chimes in.

"Believe me, they could not get enough Senora."

"Hehe, I'm sure you must've had your hands full! Glad to hear you enjoyed yourselves, Jelly Bean.", Caleb acknowledges with a relieved smile as Camilla smiles back, "Alright, lets get ourselves some good seats."

As the group starts heading towards the stage area, Ein catches up with Camilla.

"Hey, what was that? Why didn't you tell him what happened?"

"There is nothing TO tell him.", Camilla coldly replies.

"Camilla, he has a right to know. As his mate–"

"As his mate! I refuse to give him more stress than he has already. I wish to enjoy the rest of mi time with mi amor today so, for once, be silent.

Ein releases a sigh, knowing she couldn't change her mind, "Fine but once he gets back from his community service, you NEED to tell him or I will."

"Fine.", Camilla agrees then looks around and notices Loretta gathering with the other choir members towards the stage. A small part of her felt a little bad about leaving them abruptly after her…experience but even Ein knew it was for the best.

As the group continued to the stage, Christian looks around, becoming more worried about Aurelia by the minute.

"I'm really worried about Aurelia, she been in the restroom for quite a while. The sermon's gonna start soon." Christian checking his phone

"She is probably just about finishing up and should be here soon." Caleb said though he definitely was not complaining about how long it was taking her to get back.

"I should go check on her." Christian said

"Master! I finally found you!", Aurelia shouted galloping towards the group

"Well, speak of the bitch and she shall appear.", Drei comments softly

"There you are I was getting worried. How are you feeling? Need a Tum?"

"Eh? What are you tal–never mind that! We are leaving RIGHT NOW, master!", Aurelia stated, grabbing him by the and yanking him to her side.

"Ow! What?! But the sermon is about to start." Christian asks confused as he dug his heels in the ground, trying to stop but she was overpowering him.

"Master, this for your own good! I need to get you FAR away from these wretched heathens as possible! Everything has gone wrong since THEY arrived!"

"Aurelia, stop, you're hurting my arm!", Christian stated wincing at her tightening grip.

"HE SAID, LET GO!", Caleb fumed, grabbing the blonde centaur by the arm, gripping as hard as he could.

"Dear! No wa–"

"FILTHY APOSTATE!", Aurelia yelled, releasing her master, then easily rips her arm out of Caleb and was about to strike him across the face, "HOW DARE YOU LAY THAT FILTHY HAND UPON–"

At that moment, a blue magic seal stops her arm midswing and she notices, to her shock, the Elder Devil glaring at her with unbridled rage. Not just her but the Nightmare, werewolf and even the Karmaitchi all glares with hostile aura.

"How dare JU raise a hand to mi amor?!"

"I told you, it would be a poor choice for you if you tried anything.", Drei said as her hand subtly reached for her paralyzing seram.

"I would advise you lower your arm and move your other hand away from that blade or we will be forced to incapacitate you and charge you with attempted assault on a host." Ein said trying to keep malice out her voice and to stay professional yet her body for some reason was screaming at her put down threat before her?

"Aurelia, please just stop! Why are you acting like this?!", Christian demanded as random people were drawn to scene, much to Caleb and Mirabelle's discomfort.

"I'm trying to protect you, she has been working her vile magic on you and everyone else here!", Aurelia stated pointing an accusatory finger at Mirabelle who glares back.

"What are you even TALKING about?! You're not making any sense!"

"Don't worry, it WILL my dear master! I'll break you free of her spell that making you homosexual and make you NORMAL again!" Aurelia said as her words are heard by everyone around.

Christian, along with Caleb, the girls and some other people that were around look at her in disbelief.

Christian pauses, taking in what he just heard, then quietly turns around with a sullen expression before he just walks away. Zwei looks at him with concern.

"Christian? Bro?", Caleb asks with concern for his friend knowing where that idiot hit was a sensitive area for him.

"M-Master…?", Aurelia spoke, reaching out to him as he just keeps walking, not acknowledging her or the people around them. A surge of guilt plague her senses. She then notices Caleb and the others looking at her with disgust, "W-Why are you all looking at me like that?!"

"You…grrrrrrahh I'm so fucking done with you and that idiotic brain of your's.", Caleb expressed, pointing a enraged finger at the blonde centaur.

"I-I was just trying to pro-"

"Don't ju fucking dare try shifting the blame on Mirabelle or anyone else!", Camilla yelled interrupting

"I-Is he going to be alright?" Zwei asks, worried for the man feeling shaken up by her words as well.

"I'm going to check now. You guys deals with this delusional ass idiot. If I stay around her imma beat the hell outta her.", Caleb threatened, making Aurelia recoil, before walking after Christian.

"I will go after them and watch out for them. " Zwei quickly volunteered following behind the two men.

"While their doing that, I suggest we grab our seats for the sermon. I hope everyone is willing to comply.", Ein advises, taking control, then shooting a glare at Aurelia.

"B-But my master's needs m–"

"No. No he doesn't.", Drei cuts her off, "I advise you to do the right thing for once today and comply. Otherwise, these two going to beat you into the ground. Face first."

Camilla cracks her knuckles as black electricity ripples around her fist and Lyca bares her fangs, striking her fist to her palm.

"We're more than willing to oblige."

Realizing she was outnumbered and outmatched, she begrudgingly complied. She then looks at Mirabelle who had been watching with folded arms and a cold gaze.

"You're enjoying this aren't you?"

Mirabelle looks at her coldly, unnerved, "What part of that would anyone find enjoyable?"

Aurelia was taken aback by the question, then clenches her fists in frustration.

…

While that was going on, Christian could seen walking away, wanting to get away from the crowd to somewhere quiet so he could process what happened.

"Hey! Chris, wait up!", Caleb called out, while jogging after him with Zwei right behind him.

Christian stops in his tracks, allowing them to catch up as Caleb walks up to him.

"Are you ok, man?", Caleb asks in concern as Zwei watches from the sidelines ready to intervene.

Christian takes a deep breath and sighs, "Yeah…"

"I'm sorry you had to hear that."

"Well…it's nothing I haven't heard before.", Christian morosely sighed, "I just didn't expect it from her. It just stung more" Caleb could see pain in his eyes

"Listen, I don't know what her problem is, but she had no right to say that to you!", Caleb affirms.

"I know. I just…don't understand why she's like this right now. Is what happened between you guys THAT bad?"

"It's a little complicated but short version is she believes that Mirabelle and her species are inferior because of their beliefs, how their species needs have babies and terrible things each have done to the other.", Caleb answers

"It sounds like bad blood between liminals species."

"That's just how it is sometimes. It's one of the uglier sides we have in common with you humans.", Zwei chimes in.

"Heh, guess every species has it's assholes.", Christian chuckles bitterly.

"Like you wouldn't believe.", Caleb shook his head in agreement.

"Still, I can't believe Aurelia would say that. She's always been kind to me and helps me out as much as she can. She gives food to the homeless for God sake!"

"You never know who people are until you've been around them long enough, trust me on that."

I...guess you're right."

"Hey there, nephew!"

Their attention turns to Junior who walks up to them.

"Hey, uncle Junior."

"Y'all going the wrong way, ain't ya? Sermon about to start.", Junior says in a joking manner.

"We were just…talking about some stuff.", Caleb says.

"Ok, but y'all should hurry so you don't loose your seats. I'd hate for y'all to be standing the whole time listening to the preacher's word."

"Thanks but we have more impor–"

"You're right! Thanks for reminding us, sir.", Christian interjects to Caleb's surprise, "Let's go guys."

"A-Alright?", Caleb says, exchanging look with Zwei who shrugs, before they both follow him. He walks up beside Christian with a concern expression, "You sure you're ok though?"

"No, but I'll be ok. Like I said, this nothing new. Thanks for coming to check on me but…you don't have to worry about me as much anymore. I'm not going back in the dark and I don't care who has a problem with it.", Christian affirms with a proud smirk as Zwei walks beside him and couldn't help feeling more inspired by his words.

Caleb look to his friend and smiles to him, "Yeah. Don't you dare go back."

"Didn't plan on it."

As they made their way back to the stage and the others, Junior could be seen walking back as well while dialing a number on his phone. It rings a few times and then goes to voicemail, much to his annoyance.

"Where the hell he at? Caleb has been here for almost the entire time so what are you doing you said you be here.", Junior complained.

…..

Mirabelle and the others could be seen taking their places at one of the columns of long picnic tables aligned parallel to the stage in a similar fashion to indoor church pew benches. She and the others in the household say together while Aurelia, by her own choice, kneeled beside one of the tables next to them. Mirabelle, not the others, objected her choice. It was occupied by the two Imps from earlier and their host, to Aurelia's annoyance, who happily chatted away.

Mirabelle looks to her, seeing the blonde centaur's regret-filled demeanor almost feeling bad from for her. Almost.

"Hey y'all, we're back!", Caleb stated, getting their attention, with Zwei and Christian at his side.

"Ah! M-Master!", Aurelia stated to which Christian doesn't respond.

"You're just in time, Dear! Is everything ok?", Mirabelle asks, looking between him and Christian.

"Yeah, we're good.", Caleb assures as Zwei takes a seat next to Drei and Christian goes to the table Aurelia was at.

"Excuse me, is this seat taken?", Christian asks the host of both female imps.

"Nah bruh, you good."

"Yeah, hopefully your more fun than sad sack Seabiscuit over here.", One the female Imps teased, gesturing to Aurelia who glares at her.

"Thanks." Christian said as he took his seat next to the centauress.

"Um...master I-", Aurelia meekly utters, reaching out to touch his hand but he quickly withdraws from her.

"Stop, we are going to talk about THAT when we get home just be quiet and don't cause any more scenes today.", He firmly spoke, shooting her a cold glare that stung like a knife in the centaur woman's heart.

"U…Understood."

Mirabelle and the others look to them curiously, sensing the tension between the pair right now.

"What did you guys say to him?", Ein asks.

"Not much, he's just stronger than we thought I guess.", Zwei shrugs.

"At least nobody had to be grievously injured.", Mirabelle remarks.

"The day isn't over yet, Senora.", Camilla remarks.

"Come on, girls, let's not–", Caleb was immediately interrupted by loud percussion drum beats from the band on stage. It was quickly followed by synthesized keyboard beats meant to sound like a modern version of a church organ. He looks to see Lyca happily vibing to the beat as did Mirabelle, Zwei and even Ein. He then notices Camilla's displeased expression wincing slightly with every strike of drum bears, making her cover her sensitive ears.

Caleb, remembering her race's hypersensitivity to sound, rummages through his pockets for the one thing that might help right now. A pair Bluetooth earbuds.

"Camilla, here, put these in.", Caleb says handing the earbuds to the Elder Devil, who immediately puts them in her ears, right as the choir starts singing with Anna Mae hitting the high pitched vocals.

She then nods to him with an appreciative now able to listen without enduring ear torture the whole time.

As the choir continues singing, the Reverend could be seen walking on stage to the podium, lightly humming along with the choir before singing along while putting a bit of soul into playing their instruments and the choir members take their seats.

Caleb, the girls, and everyone else in the audience had their attention focused on the preacher as he prepared himself.

"It's a blessing to be here. I don't mean today, on Sunday, I mean it is a BLESSING to be here. You know why? Each and every person, no matter who or what you are, was brought into this world with a purpose."

"Ah geez…", Caleb softly sighed before Mirabelle shushes him.

"Those of you looking at me right now crazy thinking, 'what the world is he talking about? Purpose?'.", Reverend Kirk preached, getting a few chuckles from the audience, "What I mean is we ALL have a reason for being in this world. God has given all purpose that guides us, shapes, educates, and determines how we treat each other. It unites us, regardless of race, status…or species. Through purpose, we find the foundation for strength, acceptance, passion and love for ourselves and those around us."

As he continues, Caleb passively listens while Christian other around them nod in agreement, actively taking in every word.

"Unfortunately, there are those who never find or recognize their purpose. They end up lost. They become disillusioned with their place. They give into false stigmas and practices that go against their true purpose! It leads them to hate, alienate, exploit, and harm others to the point they are DIRECTED and MISLED from their purpose! They've become…hollow.", The Reverend continues as people in the crowd voice their agreement.

Caleb looks to Mirabelle and the others, seeing their different levels of intrigue; even Camilla's attention was on the preacher. He could see they were at least trying getting into it.

"As human beings, our history is filled with those who committed horrendous acts on each other because of a false purpose that anyone different is therefore inferior. THEIR purpose is simply to be an object of hate, exploitation, and alienation! Members let me tell, old habits die hards.", Reverend Kirk preached, getting resounding claps from the audience.

Christian claps his hands in agreement as Aurelia does the same. He immediately stops, shooting looks at her which prompts a disappointed look from the Centaur.

"We live in a world now where human beings…are not alone anymore. Liminals, non-human people of all different shapes, sizes, species are now a part of our daily lives here in Alabama. I've met plenty when I'm out shopping, getting haircuts, even live next to a man with a couple Oni. Believe me, they stay arguing.", He says, getting a few chuckles, "We've several host families here today, I wanna ask y'all a question and give your professional opinions: have you ever noticed how 'human' these non-humans are? I look upon this crowd right now. I see humans and non-humans together as one community in the presence of God.", The preacher says as hosts and their liminal students ecstatically cheer and clap while voicing their agreement. Lyca and Zwei even pop up clapping with the crowd as Ein tries to get them to sit down.

Caleb smirks, actually agreeing with something this reverend said, "Don't I know it."

"Hm? What was that, Dear?"

"Nothin', just thinking out loud.", Caleb remarked as Mirabelle looked at him curiously.

At the same time, there were those among the crowd that remained quiet. Silently dismissing or even scoffing at the idea. Mary could be seen among these people with her granddaughter in her arms.

"Has anyone ever asked why humans and liminals exist together? For what purpose, has God allowed for a multitude of species to exist in this world?", Reverend Kirk stated as multiple humans and liminals look to him in thought, "A lot of you can't give me an answer, only guesses. I'm one of them. The only thing I do know is there's a purpose for all of us to be here together. The problem is…there are those who twist that purpose and misshapen it into an instrument of CRUELTY and HATE! WE'VE SEEN THEM IN ACTION! Innocent human and liminal lives are taken by folks with hate as their hearts! Non-human people being exploited and treated like property! Humans being killed for doing what is right! They have corrupted their purpose into seeing them as LESS than people and thus DESERVING…of hate! I sure some of y'all would call that the work of the Devil."

Camilla and the other devils narrow their gaze on the preacher expecting him to vilify their race with Angel rhetoric.

"Let me tell you…we give him too much credit. You don't have to be a Devil to do evil!", The reverend says to Camilla's, the other devils, and the rest of the audience's surprise. Caleb was also taken aback by the statement as the preacher continues, "Nowadays, we see ACTUAL devils that live among us…most of them don't act nearly as bad as some people. Yet they believe it's acceptable to derogate and alienate them because THAT, in their eyes, is their purpose. Brothers and sisters, I refuse to believe GOD put ANYBODY, human, devil, arachne, elf, it doesn't matter! YOU WERE NOT PUT ON THIS EARTH FOR THE SOUL PURPOSE TO BE HATED AND TREATED AS LESS THAN WHAT YOU ARE MEANT TO BE!"

Caleb, Camilla, the girls, and many others including the church members and choir, were taken aback by his proclamations. It was dead quiet as everyone appeared to take a moment to process his statement.

"I refuse to believe it. I rebuke that idea. I cannot even fathom the thought that anyone can exist simply to have suffering done unto them by others for no reason. It doesn't make sense.", Reverend Kirk ponders, patting his head with a handkerchief as a few listens shake their heads in disapproval, "I guarantee you there are folks here in this crowd that don't like what I'm saying. They believe I'm trying to shift the blame or proclaim myself a supporter of demons! The very thing we, as christians, have been raised to despise."

As he says that, Mary and several others look at him dubiously, unmoved by his words. Caleb looks to Camilla seeing her uneasy expression before gingerly touching her hand getting her attention, trying to keep her calm.

"I'm here today to tell everyone…that's not the way anymore and you see it everyday. We knew it was coming. The bible says, God promised a new heaven and a new earth in which righteousness will dwell! I say…we're already halfway there.", Reverend Kirk says as several people, including Junior, start clapping and cheering in agreement, "WE ARE LIVING IN A NEW WORLD! WE ARE NOT ALONE ANYMORE! THE OLD WORLD, THE OLD YOU, YOUR OLD WAYS, ARE GONE! NOW IS TIME TO BE LIVING IN YOUR TRUE PURPOSE THAT GOD GAVE TO YOU!"

Caleb was taken aback by the statement. As if a new found clarity has just stirred within him. The memory of his old life before meeting the girls was so incredibly different, almost scary. At the same time, he felt a strong sensation that things were…unfinished.

"YEAH!", One of the church women, Anna Mae, enthusiastically shouts as she raises up clapping getting Caleb and the girls attention, "PREACH REVEREND! YES LORD! YES LORD!", She shouted as three other women get up and started fanning her to calm the holy spirit within.

"Wow, gimme some of what she's having.", Zwei remarks with a sly grin.

"I don't think you can handle it.", Drei plainly comments before Ein shushes them both.

"Now we have a choice, brothers and sisters. We can hold onto those beliefs of the old world. Be blind to change, deaf to understanding, and stray from our true purpose…or we open our eyes and SEE our new world and the abundance of opportunities it presents! Open our ears and LISTEN in order to understand our non-human neighbors for words and language can bridge any culture better than the sword ever could! The choice is yours. It always has been.", Reverently Kirk stated as the crowd, humans and liminals alike, cheered and clapped enthusiastically. As soon as they calmed down enough, he continued, "Before I leave y'all today, if you take nothing else from this gathering, I want you to remember that your purpose is not defined by labels, beliefs, or other people. God has already instilled it in you and it is your responsibility to discover that purpose. Only then can you become who you were always meant to be. Don't you dare go hollow. This is a new world…and it's time for a new gospel."

Upon hearing that, Caleb's eyes widen feeling something deep inside react. It was a strange warmth but not unpleasant.

"That's all I have to say. God bless you, God keep you, let all every heart say 'Amen!' ", The reverend stated.

"AMEN!", One of the deacons shouted as the crowd erupts in an uproar of ecstatic cheers and clapping from humans and liminals with some of the also shouting 'amen'. Except for Camilla and the other devils who, despite enjoying the message that was spoken, didn't feel comfortable using Angel religion rhetoric.

Caleb looks to see Mirabelle, Lyca, the Zyklons, even Camilla of all people applauding as the reverend exits the stage. He glanced to the side ponderously before giving a small grin then applauding as well. Mirabelle looks to her boyfriend clapping and smiles contently.

Aurelia was clapping along with Christian, though her attention was not on Reverend Kirk, as she looked toward where Caleb and Mirabelle was. Both looked quite happy with each other. Why can't she have that?

…

After the sermon was over, Caleb and the girls, having gotten their fill of good christian company, were getting ready to head home. He and Christian exchanged contact info and was standing with Mirabelle and the others, socializing a bit more with the Junior, Loretta, the deacons and the church ladies. He saw Lyca playing around with some of kids, Zwei and Rufus wer playfully teasing each other, and Drei relaxing on a nearby bench waiting for the others.

"I'm so happy y'all could join us today. Hope you enjoyed yourselves.", Loretta says to Caleb and the other, shaking their hands.

"We did. Everything was wonderful and we would love to do this again some time.", Ein says with a smile.

"Indeed! They was a marvelous experience! The priest on stage can certainly deliver a powerful message all with a proper chuffed attitude.", Mirabelle chimes in, "I look forward to doing this again as well."

"This was so much fun! I wanna do this every Sunday!", Lyca ecstatically proclaims, holding up Loretta's giggling granddaughter Kayla.

"Easy there girls! I can only take so much good Christian company so often.", Caleb replies, not sharing the same enthusiasm.

"Come on now, child, don't say that. You never know you'll be blessed by coming back.", Anna Mae chimed in then looks to Camilla, "Ain't that right, Camilla?"

Camilla pauses then looks to her and Loretta, seeing the acceptance in their gazes before responding, "I suppose…I would not dislike going to another of these. But let's get one thing clear, I am NOT joining a church. I am a proud Chaos-Born! Don't ju forge"

"You don't have to. It's your choice what you believe in. You, your friends, and Caleb are always welcome in our church.", Loretta assures with a smile, "And don't worry, everything that you worried about, God will work out."

Camilla was taken aback by the statement, unsure and a bit conflicted on how to respond. She, while swallowing a little bit of her Devil pride, responds with a simple, "Gracias."

Caleb looks to the Elder Devil, surprised by her actions, yet glad she was able to come out of her shell even just a little bit.

He's then driven out his thoughts as a big heavy hand slaps him against his back.

"Hey! What y'all got goin' on over here now?!", Rufus stated as Caleb give him an annoyed glare, "Thinking of joining our church? Cuz y'all welcome in as brothers and sisters. Believe me, I take care of my sisters now. What you say, brother Caleb."

"Don't call me that.", Caleb replies plainly

"Man, Rufus, leave that boy alone! You just as nasty as all outdoors!", Loretta berates, the old man. Caleb casually pulls away right as the two have another heated back and forth with Luther, begrudgingly, stepping in to break it up.

Caleb then looks around, noticing Christian and Aurelia talking with the two Imps and their host with two of the deacons. He notices his uncle was nowhere to be found among the group.

….

While that was going on, Junior could be seen further away from the crowd with the phone to his ear.

"What the heck is he doing?! Service is already over!", Junior fumes angrily, looking at the phone as it, once again, goes to voicemail, "What are you doing, Nate?"

"Andrew, I have had it."

Junior turns around to see Mary standing with a displeased expression. Already he could tell he wasn't going to enjoy what she had to say.

"What are you talking about, Mary?"

"I mean I've had enough. You know I just saw the reverend talking to those two little demons and they man? He letting them join the church because they think he entertaining! Ain't that some shit?"

"What's the problem? At least they're getting something out service Mary.", Junior attests, getting the attention of a few people who were passing by.

"I been a member of this church over fifteen years! Pay my tithes, conduct youth member activities, got my grandbabies BAPTISED here! I'd rather see it burn to the ground before it becomes a damn gathering of Satan minions. I mostly blame you for this! You are the maker of this whole thing and got Kirk to go along too." , Mary accused as Junior looks at her unfazed.

"Mary, I ain't the maker of anything except my own breakfast in the morning.", He replied while facing her, "I brought up the idea but everyone else carried it out while I supported them. I'm not the only one tired of history repeating itself."

"Don't compare us to them. We're not the same.", Mary replies unflinchingly, "Keep being friendly to these demons and everything else, you'll find yourself messed up. You going to be the worst off."

"Is that a threat?", Caleb spoke, getting their attention, as he walks up to his uncle's side with Mirabelle behind him glaring at Mary, "Cuz that sounds like a threat. If so, keep talking and you're going to be one who's 'worse off' "

Mary takes a step back, unsure what the man apparently the ally of devils would do.

"Caleb. It's alright, she ain't gon do nothing.", Junior assures his nephew, placing a hand on his shoulder. He then looks to Mary speaking in a calm but serious, "You can leave if you want to Mary. Nobody's gonna stop you."

Mary looks to him then at Caleb with deep resentment in her eyes. She turns and leaves with a huff leaving the three alone.

"I-Is everything alright?", Mirabelle asks the old man, concerned.

"It's fine , it was a possibility we knew could happen when we planned this. I just was hoping she would come to her senses after experiencing what church with liminals is like. Maybe I was the fool."

"No, you're not uncle Junior. We just

can't win over everybody in a day, especially when they're set in their ways.", Caleb said.

"You right. Anyway, y'all and the girls enjoyed your first revival? I hope y'all got at least something out of what the reverend was preaching."

"It was a grand time! The others definitely enjoyed themselves, hehe, even Camilla believe it or not.", Mirabelle lightly chuckles as the Elder Devil's ear twitches in the background sensing her name being spoken.

"That good! That's very good to hear, baby girl!", Junior stated then looks to Caleb, "What you think nephew?"

"I'll admit, it wasn't as bad as thought it would be. Also, the preacher…did a good sermon. Really said a few things I honestly needed to hear lately.", Caleb answers, rubbing the back of his head.

Junior pauses for a second then lightly chuckles patting his nephew's shoulder, to his surprise, "Haha! See? I knew you'd get something out of it!"

"I…I guess you were right…this time."

"Boy hush! I'm ALWAYS right!", Junior proudly stated as Mirabelle looks to them lightly giggling.

"Hey, Caleb.", Christian calls out, getting their attention as Caleb and Mirabelle keep their guard up seeing the blonde centaur at his side.

"Hey Christian.", Caleb said, ignoring Aurelia still, "You gonna stay a little longer?"

"Nah, we were just getting ready to go. It looks like the trolley won't arrive for another hour though so I guess we are 'technically' staying longer."

"Um master, I could bring us home if y-"

"No." Christian said shutting down what she trying to say, much to her disappointment.

"Well, y'all might as well grab a few plates to take home in the meantime.", Junior suggested.

"Thanks but we're good. I planned on cooking after we got back anyway", He replies as Aurelia looks to him curiously wondering if would really still make her favorite meal today, "Anyway, I came over because THIS one owes these two an apology."

Aurelia gives him an incredulous look, "M-Master–"

"Otherwise, I'm not making her favorite meal today.", He affirms much to the blonde centaur's shock.

"What did she do?", Junior inquires.

"A whole lot.", Caleb emphatically replies.

"More than enough.", Mirabelle added, arms folded as Aurelia shot her a glare.

"Well? Go ahead.", Christian urges as Aurelia looks back noticing his serious expression.

She turns to the heathens before her clenching her jaw and her fist, feeling the large lump in her throat that was her pride. She took a deep breath trying to calm herself as the pair patiently waited.

Aurelia then utters, almost growls, through clenched jaws not making eye contact, "I…I'm sorry."

"Excuse me, we're not on ground, look at US.", Caleb says to Aurelia's annoyance but complies choosing to glare at them, "One more time please?"

"I'm…SORRY!", She nearly shouts but tries to restrain herself.

"Hmm, good enough for me. You?"

"Abhorrently sloppy but it will suffice. We accept.", Mirabelle graciously accept with a hit of snarkiness.

'Worthless little…', Aurelia bitterly thought, wanting to smack the little purple harlot to the ground right now.

"Good, that's settled. So are you guys planning to stay any longer?", Christian asks, getting Junior's attention.

"We were just about to leave right now actually. I just wanted to thank my uncle before we left."

"Well, hey, wait! Caleb you can stay just a little bit longer.", Junior insists.

"Sorry, but you know I can't. I have to get up early tomorrow morning to leave with Rodney.", Caleb half lied.

"Oh right…your business trip. Ok, I won't keep you.", Junior replies a bit disappointed.

Caleb then touches his shoulder, "I would if I could though. Maybe…next time."

Junior gives a surprised look then smiles warmly who pats him assuringly with a grin.

"Ok, Moon pie, let's gather the others."

"Wait, you're leaving now? The trolley not gonna be here for a while and it'll be dark by the time you get back if you all walk.", Christian says in concern.

"Oh, we don't need to walk. We're going back the way we came.", Caleb replies as Mirabelle trots besides him giving a thumbs up. Christian, Aurelia, and Junior watch them in confusion.

It took barely a minute to gather the others together.

"Alright, everyone got all they need?", Caleb asks the girls looking around at them as Junior, Christian and a few other people look at them curiously.

"Got all I need.", Drei remarks holding a stack of five aluminum foil wrapped plates of food.

"No complaints from me, Chief.", Lyca replies as Camilla, Ein, and Zwei agreed.

"Ok. Let's get it Moon pie.", Caleb says clasping her hand to his.

Mirabelle nods before closing her eye to concentrate her energy. Each the girls place their hand or any body part really on either one of the couple.

"What in the world are they doing?", Junior asks.

"Ok, we're ready.", Caleb replies, sensing the flow of energy was high enough for all of them.

"See ya later Uncle Junior!", Lyca waves to the old man with a smile while Zwei proceeds to dab.

In an instant, they all vanish in a flash of purple energy much Junior and everyone else that sees it's shock.

"Oh MY lord!", Rufus expressed as Aurelia scoffs at the heathens vulgar display of power.

"Then just vanished into thin air!", One of the deacons stated.

"Heh, yep, apparently his Centaur homestay can teleport. I had the same reaction.", Christian answers, only partially able to ease stunned church folks.

"Golly, these liminals somethin' else.", Luther remarks to Junior.

"You got that right. I feel like I learn something new about everyday."

"That's the new world we live in.", Luther says as Christian and Aurelia moves through the crowd towards the entrance of the park all while passing any remaining host families saying their goodbyes, "Heh, seeing how happy these young are taking care of liminal folks, almost makes me wanna join them. But I'm too old for that, they probably wear me out."

"Hehehe, you never lied, I'd probably kill myself trying too.", Junior chuckles before seeing the man with the two Imps carrying one of the girls on his shoulder as she ecstatically while the other flies around them wanting attention too, "I feel like it'd be worth it though."

"You know, sometimes, you almost talk as crazy as Rufus."

….

Later that same evening, as the sun starts to set, Christian and Aurelia could be seen riding the trolley seated together but at arms length from each other. She could sense he was still upset with her and desperately wanting it to stop.

"M-Master I…I cannot begin to express my apologies."

"Really? Because you expressed yourself quite openly today, why so shy now?, Christian replies in slight irritation as Aurelia recoils, going quiet in shame, "How about we start with why you had a problem with Ms. Marequine anyway? She's a sweet girl and she's with Caleb so I know she's pleasant to be around."

"That's what her kind WANT you to think.", Aurelia bitterly spoke noticing his cold stare at her forcing her to change her time, "My clan, and others like ours, have always had bad relations with the Nightmare. Mainly because they've done horrendous things to our members, ruined their very minds with their wicked magic They even bewitch our men and steal them away for their own perversions."

"Even if there's a possibility that what you're saying is completely true, what gives you the right to treat her that way when you barely know her?"

"I know ENOUGH of her and everything I speak is the truth. My family has experienced their wickedness first hand.", Aurelia firmly attended, "My uncle, Octavian Lambos, was bewitched by a Nightmare used as tool for her own pleasure. When she was finally caught by my aunt she unleashed a vile spell that drove my aunt mad and rendered some of my cousins invalids to this day!"

Christian looks to her in disbelief, "Jesus. That's a really bloody history lesson. So they never caught her or…?"

Aurelia visibly seethes with anger, gripping her fist tightly to the point her knuckles turned white before Christian touches her hand sensing her pain. She looks to him a moment, takes a deep breath and responds, "No. For all I know, she's living her best life somewhere while my family suffers. Nightmares. I'll never forgive them, especially not the one who started this…Madeline."

…Elsewhere…

After parting from his church fellowship, Andrew Bizzell Jr. drove back home as was currently seen entering his house then plopping down on the large leather recliner to relax after a long day.

At that moment, his phone prompting a tired groan from the old man.

"Always when I get just gettin' trying to get settled! Who the world calling me at—", he stops his rant upon seeing the name 'Nate' on his phone. He quickly answers, "Hello? Nate?"

'N-No, it's me Junior.', spoke a feminine voice.

"Tamera? What are doing with Nate's phone? Where he at?"

'He's in the other room right now. I just noticed his phone had been going off all day. I had to check his phone then I saw it was YOUR number so…I got worried something was–',

'What are you doing? What did I say a while ago?!', interrupted another more masculine and irritated.

'You can't just ignore him! He's your family!', The woman stated.

'We're not doing this again right now. Go check on the baby!', The man said as Junior could hear the woman curse at him while storming off, 'What is it Junior?'

"First of all, don't you take that damn tone with me. I don't care if you 30 imma STILL put you in a childs place if you wanna act like one! Second, where hell have been?! You said you would come and now I find out you been ignoring my calls intentionally?! You better have a good explanation!"

"I didn't say I would, I said I'd see. As in, I'd SEE if that piece of shit would even show up and I'd just burn a quarter of a tank for no DAMN reason."

"Don't call your brother that and he did come and stay till end of service! So don't try to use that as an excuse for dodging my calls cause if you pick up you would know that."

'He actually came huh? Funny how he'd go for you but not see his own parents be laid to rest.'

"Nate, you are stepping into something you don't want to and you KNOW reason with everyone throwing blame on him and guilt he was feeling!", Junior stated.

'Oh don't give me none of that! He didn't even try to deny what he did! Couldn't even show up to his own parents funeral! That alone says what a coward he is! Oh, but wait, I bet you gonna bring up what a 'hero' he is for saving a bunch of hellspawn! Bullshit, he's just a bastard that loves the devil than his own kin and we know it. You and Vanessa just too blind to see it.', Nate spoke as Junior looks at the phone visibly shocked and angered.

"WE ain't the ones who blind. You're the ones still hurting yourselves with the same, old, tired MESS. I wanted y'all to get together today AS BROTHERS and try throwing a little of that mess away but you wanna still live in filth."

'My family and I are living well. That's all I care about. As far as I'm concerned…I don't have a brother anymore. Sure Tamika the same way.', Nate spoke in a cold slightly somber tone.

Junior shakes his head in disappointment, "You think it's right that your family doesn't even know he exists? That Tamera has a brother-in-law and your kids an uncle?"

'... It's better this way.', Nate says before hanging up the phone.

Junior looks at the phone incredulously seeing the call disconnected and clenches the device in frustration. He takes a minute to calm himself and keep his blood pressure from going up any further.

"How is it better when you lose what God gave you?", Junior spoke with a sigh. He honestly loved his nieces and nephews even if they were all foolish in their own way, "Hell, I tried. I need me a drink."

He gets up and grabs himself a bottle of Jack Daniels from the fridge. As he enjoyed the rich taste of his favorite beer, the old man looks around his quiet house with only the TV going in the living room.

He remembers days spent there with his wife and daughter. After she passed it was him and his daughter then Caleb came into the picture. Now, both of them are fully grown and living on their own. Being around so many host families today made him realize how empty this house was now. Did it have to be? He's got some years left in him.

"Yeah, it sure is worth.", He spoke to himself before taking another drink.

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WN

What's good Fam?! Yeah, I'm back once again. Sorry for the late upload, this particular chapters took longer than expected because of pacing and dialogue are clunkier than I was satisfied with so has to get that patched. Unlike Bethesda, my patches actually work.

Also had to break this chapter of into two because it was TOO DAMN LONG but hey…you guys get two in one day(Maybe three if I can knock this other one out by Saturday). I just hope everyone enjoyed it took plenty of effort and I'd just be crushed if you thought it sucked( HE'S LYING HIS SICK FUCKIN ASS OFF! HE'S A TIGHT ASS! HE'S A SADIST!)

Welp, that's all for now folks. Remember to hug you momma even though mother's day is over, drink water, don't be a Mary, definitely do be a Rufus, and I'll see y'all later. PEACE FAM!

'My-Mind' by ProducedbyMelv plays in the background