Chapter 76: Bury the Hatchet
Upon the arrival of I.A. security and medical personnel,a short investigation began on the 'attempted hellhound murder' as they coined it. Everyone from the restaurant staff to the customers were questioned and, Kaiya Cerberjack, the victim in all this who was still unconscious, was loaded into an ambulance-like vehicle to be taken in for further treatment. Her mother insisted on going with them to look after her daughter but due to her…generous size they could not accommodate the hellhound, much to her frustration. Kreã and Tristan volunteered to look after Kaiya overnight while they handled things at the restaurant.
That left the person responsible for the situation which wasn't hard to figure out Sue immediately stated it was an employee that ICEP sent them who worked on the drinks NOT any one they personally interviewed and hired with her making that detail very clear to everyone there. She told them since he wasn't out in the dining area that meant he was probably still in the kitchen unless he went through their back entrance and ran. Afterwards, two security officers went into the kitchen and found their suspect, a contract employee named 'Johnny', in the corner in the fetal position crying and muttering to himself as another employee tried calming him.
They dragged him into the dinning area, confirming he was the employee she told them about immediately placing him under arrest and bringing the employee that was with him in for questioning. However, as soon as he was identified the physically stronger security personnel had to contend with and hold back the furious Hellhound mother and her children to keep him from being ripped to shreds. Their loud, hellish barks and furious red flaming eyes terrifying the employees. Security only managed to distract them for a moment, load both employees into the park of the car and drive off, leaving the still furious Amara, barely held back by two Red Oni, to eventually simmer down under threat of her and her pack being charged with disorderly conduct.
As things calmed down, Caleb gave his testimony to the I.A squad leader, surprising Scarlett, the girls, and the hellhounds, that he came back. All the while, he deliberately kept his distance from hellhounds, choosing his words carefully. When security personnel were done, even lightly praising Caleb for his role tonight, they turned their attention back to the Hellhounds and owner. At that point, Caleb took the opportunity to leave, having cleared enough suspicion from himself. He was noticed by Scarlett and Tristan as he seemingly 'vanished' into the night.
…Later…
Caleb and Drei eventually arrived back to their unit. Neither one spoke about what happened the entire ride back. The second they walked in and locked the door, Caleb teleported to his room before Drei could say anything. She decided to give him his space to collect his thoughts.
Sometime later, unbeknownst to either of them, Scarlett arrived back to her unit now standing in front of Caleb's door in the dark. Her Scarlet red night vision eyes shining brightly as the nearby electricity tower light partially illuminated the surroundings.
'Come on, just do it already.', Scarlett thought, urging herself as she held her fist to her neighbors door, ready to knock on it but was hesitant. She wanted some answers but…she remembers his terrified expression after teleporting out of the Hellhound's swarming him. She lowers her fist, instead placing her hand on it and sighs softly in deep contemplation before uttering, 'Who or what in Discord's name are you?'
She turned away, deciding tonight wasn't the night for interrogation and chose to let him rest. She needed hers too for tomorrow's emergency meeting with the girls and the Hellhounds.
…the next morning…
It was a relatively peaceful Saturday morning in the I.A. complex. The air was cooler, the autumn leaves falling, and the atmosphere was somewhat lively with liminals going about their business, heading to work, the gym, recreational activities or simply enjoying time together.
"So you hear about some human worker who tried to poison a Hellhound last night?", Said a female German shepherd-type Kobold in a gray tracksuit on a morning run with a female Australian Shepherd-type Kobold.
"Crikey! You gotta be pulling my leg!"
"Wish I was. Happened over at the new steakhouse with those two weird talking half pints. Apparently, they put chocolate in her drink."
"Bloody hell, of all the dirty–did even CATCH the bastard?!", the Aussie Shepard stated in displeasure.
"Yeah, security took him in. Still, it makes you think, doesn't it? What did that Hellhound even do to make that human wanna kill her?"
"Who knows? Makes me iffy next time I see a human bloke preparing MY food though."
"Ja, same. Still, he's a fool to make enemies with a Hellhound pack. Their lot rarely forgive anyone and DEFINITELY don't forget. I doubt he'll last a week here.",
"Haha! He's a right galah(dumbass) to have to the jimmies to pull somethin' like that, eh?"
"Or an actual death wish. All I can say is, I appreciate his funeral, if the food will be good, maybe some Kartoffelpuffer.", the German shepherd-type Kobold remarks before chuckling, prompting the Aussie shepherd to burst out laughing.
Above them, Hana and Scarlett could be seen flying towards their destination.
"You sure this is the right way? We're getting a bit too close to these damn Angel's turf for my liking.", Scarlett remarks, still a little bitter from her last encounter.
"This is what I got from the I.A. directory. It should be within the same building complex as the gnomes on Baker's street, just keep eyes open.", Hana replies, looking at the GPS on her phone.
"How? Most of these buildings look pretty much identical to me, it's not like they're gonna have a giant… sign." Scarlett was saying only to stop when she spotted ,a stone baphomet statue in front of one the dorms
"Hey Scarlett, what's wrong?"
"I'm ok. I think I found the dorm. Come on.", Scarlett replied, proceeding to descend as Hana follows her. The short blue devil finally notices a large baphomet statue, gazing upon it with intrigue.
"Well, that's one way to stand out. You think I should have dressed nicer?"
"Why? We're just going to have a casual talk with their leader.", Scarlett replied, not understanding her question.
"Yes but this is a meeting between Chaos-born leaders. I believe the occasion calls for a bit more…formality, you know? Plus, this is my first meeting with a baphomet and I've heard them quite particular about these things. I just want to make a good first impression.", Hana replies as they walk into the building.
"Listen, it's a Saturday and it's morning, I doubt anyone is in the mood for formalities right now. We're going as regular women that want to have a civilized discussion. Besides, we are making a good first impression. Why do you think Sharon and Sylvia aren't here?", Scarlett asks, raising an eyebrow.
Hana thought for a second then nodded understandingly, "Point taken."
At that moment, they came upon a large doorway with another, slightly smaller Baphomet. This one is much more feminine with three humanoid girls with witch hats beside her. There was a large pentagram symbol with several magical symbols carved into it. Scarlett and Hana go up to it, sensing the powerful mana radiating from it with the red haired devil reaching out to touch it. Her hand is immediately repelled by a red barrier that also shocks her fingers with red sparks.
"Ow! Damn, well I guess the front door's locked. What kind of barrier is this?"
"I don't know. Several of the symbols are familiar from our usual spells but their placements are quite different. That and this mana is quite intense. We're definitely not getting in through here. Maybe there's another way?", Hana suggests.
"Where ELSE could we possibly–"
"Hey, excuse me?", called a familiar voice, getting their attention as Scarlett's eyes widened seeing the human man from the dollar store, "Sorry, but this area is off limits. I need to ask you two to…wait, I remember you. The redhead devil from Dollar General yesterday, why are you here?" Gregory asked them.
"We are here to follow up on the request to join the Chaos faction." Scarlett said, though knowing it wasn't quite as simple as that.
"Yeahhh this isn't really the best time because there was a little… incident recently that has caused some distress. I need to ask you two to leave and come back later in a few days, maybe a week possibly?" Gregory asked the two.
"We are WELL aware of that and it is also another part of why we are here. Please allow us inside. It's very important and we'd be ever so grateful, mister." Hana spoke politely giving her signature 'blue babydoll eyes' as she gazed up at him, hands clasped with adorable ruby red orbs.
Gregory's heart skips a beat upon seeing the cute display feeling his will power being broken some. But he is able to fight through it and refocus on what his job was. Being around the witches like Gala long enough has given him some mental fortitude for over cuteness-attacks. That and the elven charm he wore around his neck nullifies charm spells.
"I'm sorry… but like I said before, now is not a good time so could you please leave and come back later.", He replies, seemingly able to resist the charm on him leaving Hana confused.
'Huh? I thought for sure I–'
"Look, it is in their best interest that they talk with us now." Scarlett said, getting a very annoyed.
"Ma'am, was that a threat?" Gregory ask his relaxed state vanishing as he stares at Scarlett, his body becoming more tense.
"No, it's a warning of trouble to come if you don't let us through. Now.", Scarlett spoke, not backing down as Hana tried to get her to remain calm. She didn't want things to escalate.
"You two need to leave or I will be forced to arrest you!", Gregory spoke, feeling threatened as he reached for his sidearm stepping in front of the doorway. In the back of his mind worrying if he'd be able to back up that against TWO devils. Still, he had a job to do.
"Yo-"
"Gregory is their problem, sweety?" a voice asked as they all looked and saw it was Venus.
"Ah! Ms. Venus? When did you leave the building?", Gregory asked, still tense.
"Well, I was off on morning broom ride around the area when I spotted this lovely herbal shop so i picked up a few things to use for a few potions to brew something for Callista to help her get some sleep.", Venus casually replies in a nonchalant, cheery tone showing tote bag hanging for her broomstick, "Now then, what's going on here? These devils giving you trouble?", she asks, her cheerful tone remaining but the atmosphere becoming much heavier as Hana and Scarlett sense a sudden and shocking spike in mana from the short woman that shouldn't be possible from someone like her. Their instincts told them fighting would be a bad idea.
At that moment, Hana bows half her body graciously much to Scarlett and the other's surprise.
"We are just here to speak to your leader about the Chaos faction incident that happened. We don't want trouble, we only wish to prevent any more trouble and ask your coven to join our group.", Hana quickly spoke hoping to defuse the situation as Scarlett mimicked her blue skinned friend reluctantly and bows her head slightly.
Venus stares at two for a moment before the mana vanishes. "Alright then, let's head inside to continue this chat somewhere a bit more comfortable.
"Wha? Ms. Venus, are you sure about this?", Gregory asked incredulously at her decision.
"No need to worry, sweety, I appreciate you looking out for us but I've got it handled. I think these two can tell what will happen if they cause trouble inside, right?" Venus asks the two.
"...Yeah.", Scarlett begrudgingly spoke, arms folded as she couldn't deny the power she sensed earlier.
" Thank you so much. We really appreciate it, Venus-sama.", Hana politely spoke.
"Ohoho! No need for formalities, Sweety. It's no problem. Besides, I have my own questions I would like to ask you."
"That's fine though if we can speak to your leader here first it's kinda urgent."
"You already are Sweety. Now let's step inside." Scarlett and Hana eyes widen hearing that.
Venus turns to the entrance as Gregory gives her some room. She takes a deep breath as Scarlett and Hana look at each other curiously wondering what she was going to do.
"Fantina, Fantina. Oh lovely Fantina! Campaigner of small stature and frame. If you think it's obscene-a to love girls like Fantina, well you can die in a flame!", Venus stated the incantation proudly, arms stretched out before whispering 'Fan-Fan' to the seal.
Scarlett and Hana look to her bewildered at what she just said only for their thought to be interrupted when the seal dispels and the door audibly slides open. They peer inside, astonished to see an enormous field of lush green grass and vibrant wildflowers, along with the sound of a flowing stream in the distance.
"Oh…my…Discord…", Scarlett spoke, her jaw dropped in amazement.
"Geez, what did you do to get a place like this?" Hana asked, impressed by what saw watching river water flowing under a bridge deeper into the building.
"You'd be surprised what you can accomplish with hard work, a little bit of negotiation and a pinch of magic.", Venus smiles, rubbing her fingers togethers creating blue sparks of mana to fall before hopping on her broomstick, "Now sweeties, follow me."
Scarlett and Hana look at each other, deciding their best bet for getting clear answers was to just do as she asks as they take to the sky after her. Leaving Gregory on the ground alone as he closes the doorway as the seal becomes active again locking the building down.
"Haahhh…maybe I should've switched with Barry for the saturday shift after all.", Gregory lamented, regretting not requesting the weekend off when he had the chance.
…Elsewhere…
"So if I ask you what 'x' is, what would you do next?", Caleb asked, seated outside on a stone picnic bench campus courtyard with a large fountain behind him. In front of him were a couple of textbooks related to pre-calculus along with two open notebooks.
"I would…add 5 lower seals to this right?", Sharon, who was seated on his right, pointing at the paper with the equation. She wore a pink shoulderless frilly top, black skirt with matching tights and brown opened toed shoes that exposed her painted red nails.
On the left of him was Sylvia who wore a long sleeve red shoulderless top, black denim cropped jacket, black yoga pants with a red handbag sitting beside her and brown heeled ankle boots.
"Um, no…", Caleb shakes his head to Sharon's disappointment before he gestures to follow along, "Remember, this follows a form of a quadratic function. The same way your spells follow are constructed by putting existing variables together to the same can be said for any formula. If you move five seals here, in order to get positive 20 and a 9x, you would have to multiply by…", Caleb trails as he sees the gears turning in the blonde devil's head.
"I see now! Multiply out the mana of each seal by four you GET 20 then add them into a new spell you get 9…", Sylvia stated jotting down her answer then showing the notebook to him, "So the spell that should be constructed would be 'x + 4', right?!", the brown haired devil inquires with a hopeful expression.
"Yeah! You got it, Sylvia!", Caleb praises as the brunette devil smiles widely doing a cute shimmy as her tail waggles happily. Sharon puffs her cheeks in annoyance
It had been over an hour since they started their outside study session. Caleb was understandably surprised and confused when the pair showed up at his apartment wanting to begin their study date until he remembered his promise at the restaurant prior to…everything that happened. At first he thought of canceling, but then remembered how he basically spent all night with his thoughts since it was one of those nights he DIDN'T need to sleep. He decided he may as well get out and distract himself and, if it helped these two out, that was a bonus. Of course, he immediately rebuffed their suggestion to study in his room…alone. He knew better. They soon settled on the campus courtyard since it was somewhat still lively with a few liminals students hanging around and I.A. security patrolling the area. Drei could even be seen observing him from atop one of the building structures.
However…there's one thing he forgot to account for…
"Yay me!", Sylvia exclaimed, pressing herself against him, mushing her large, soft breasts to his arm making a jolt shoot down his spine, "I've been trapped on that concept, like, forever. You explained it way better than my teacher.", Sylvia emphasized, pressing herself harder against him, sandwiching her breasts to his arm as Sharon jaw drops.
"G-Glad you understand. Now try and solve the quadratic formula like I showed you using the leading coeffi–spell part.", Caleb cheeks flush correcting himself, diverting her attention from him as he quickly removes his arm.
"Gotcha.", Sylvia sweetly replied, returning to solving the problem while hiding a devilish smirk at his adorable reaction.
Caleb sighed internally, cursing himself for not seeing this coming.
"Caleb? Can you help me?", Sharon shyly asks, hugging her chest with one hand pushing up her ample Double Ds. She wore a ditsy expression with a black pen resting at the edge of her parted plump, pink lips as her trembling ruby eyes behind thin-framed glasses, that seemingly appeared out of nowhere, focused on him.
Caleb cheeks flushed, taken aback by the display but takes a deep breath calming himself down. He wasn't some virgin idiot that didn't know how to act around girls. Not anymore. He knew better.
"Ok. What uhh…what do you need help with? Also, I didn't know you wore glasses.", Caleb replied, choosing to focus his eyes more on the book.
"Me neither. Trying a new human fashion trend, shar?", Sylvia slyly replies, shooting a knowing smirk.
"Hehe, you can say that." Sharon nonchalantly replies, "It's this problem here. ~I just can't figure it out, could you please help me?~", she sweetly spoke moving in closer to rest her finger on the page, accidentally pressing her thigh against his and resting her breasts on his arm.
Caleb was sweating a little, trying to remain calm with a statue-like gaze as his hand robotically moves.
'Jar jar Binks! Jar jar Binks!', he repeated internally, keeping himself as un-aroused as possible then clears his throat, "Ahem, y-yeah uhh…first with this kind of problem…"
Sharon smirks in satisfaction at his reaction as he explains, 'Hehe, I just knew this would work. That article online I read about men liking women with glasses was spot on. Can't believe they sell these so cheap in that Dollar General store!', She shoots a triumphant smirk at Sylvia. Or at least she thought it was Sylvia. Everything was blurry from the glasses so she could barely see.
"And that's about it. Does that make sense?", Caleb asks, looking at Sharon, focusing exclusively on her eyes.
"Eh? O-Oh uhh uhh…", Sharon looks down, hardly able to make out anything on the page.
"You…want me to explain it again?"
"N-no no, that's alright, I can do it uhh…", Sharon assures, taking her pen and beginning to write.
"While she's busy with that, check this out baby, I even did one extra!", Sylvia shows him her paper as Sharon jaw drops in surprise.
"Cool, let's see. Mhm…mhmm…yeah. You got it on both. Even got radical numbers this time. Great job, Sylvia.", Caleb praises as Sharon gives a jealous pout.
"Thank you. How about a little reward for my effort?", Sylvia slyly replies as Sharon ears perk up looking her way, "You know, I read little treats are excellent motivators for studying."
"Yeah, I guess I can understand that. What do you want?"
"A kiss on the lips.", Sylvia casually replies much to Sharon's surprise.
"No.", Caleb plainly rejects as Sharon looks at him shocked.
"A kiss on the cheek?"
"No. No kisses, period.", Caleb firmly replies.
"Aww, hmm, how about a five second tit touch?", Sylvia suggests pushing up her breasts.
"A pat on the head. Take it or leave it.", Caleb replies firmly.
"Sold."
Caleb shakes his head as Sylvia moves her head closer to him with an expectant gaze.
He moves his hand and gently pats her head as she coos with a satisfied expression and light blush. The feeling of his large, masculine hands mushing down her brown locks, skin brushing her dark gray horns, gave her an almost euphoric sensation.
"Got it! Check it out!", Sharon stated, not enjoying being ignored, getting his attention as showed him the tablet, "So, whaddya think? Did I get it?", She spoke confidently, pushing her glasses up, wanting to be praised as well.
Caleb raises an eyebrow in profound confusion at what he saw on the paper that could barely count as legible; let alone correct. The equation for solving was written sloppily and haphazardly over the actual question with crooked numbers all over the place. Sylvia couldn't help snort a chuckle trying to contain her laughter.
"Uhh…Sharon? Can you read what this says?", Caleb asks, eyebrow raised as he points to the paper with the pen in hand.
"S-Sure it's….", Sharon reluctantly replies leaning in close adjusting her glasses; which didn't help at all, everything was still blurry, "I…wanna say…'Y' or maybe–"
"Ok. Face me real quick.", Caleb cuts her off with the request.
"O-Ok…", Sharon complies, turning her body to him. She then feels a pair of gentle but masculine hands on the sides of her face proceeding to remove her glasses, clearing her vision as she was greeted with Caleb chocolate brown looking deep into her own, striking her speechless.
"Better?", he asked.
"Y-Yeah.", Sharon shyly glances away with a blush across her cheeks.
"Why are you even wearing these if you can't see out of them? You realize you can mess your eyes up doing that, right?", Caleb lightly scolds.
"I just thought…you know they'd help…"
"Help you be smarter? Since a lot of smart people wear glasses?", Sylvia slyly remarks.
"No! Well Maybe…?"
"Haaa, I really hate that stereotype. Glasses do NOT equal genius! Just look at Kanye.", Caleb clarified with slight annoyance as Sharon recoils a little, fearing she upset him, "Most people wear them because they're vision is bad. Hell, I'm near-sighted as shit so I have prescription glasses but I mostly wear contacts since it's less in the way. Point is, don't wear glasses if you don't need them.", Caleb advised then hands her the glasses back.
"O-Ok, sorry if I made you feel self-conscious.", Sharon replies feeling ashamed.
"It's fine. Now, try solving this equation again.", Caleb forgives her and hands her the tablet.
"Ok…"
"Huhuhuhu, look at you channeling your inner 'daddy'.", Sylvia coyly giggles, resting her chin to her palm with an admiring smirk.
"Please don't call me that. What is up with you two?"
"It's just…I like your tutoring style. You're a lot more patient than Heidi and you explain the concept in a way that isn't boring and easy to remember."
"We all have our own ways of learning. Sometimes we need to be creative in how we study or approach problems. All I did was take what Camilla told me about how she constructs her spells and just…applied algebra to it. The symbols and figures used in your seals aren't that different from variables and expressions used for math.", Caleb shrugs off, trying to downplay it a little.
"Still…you're really good at teaching us. We appreciate you a lot.", Sharon spoke looking at him with a smile.
"It's…not a big deal honestly. If it's within my power to help, I'm going to. Hehe, just be glad my dad isn't the one teaching you…", Caleb catches himself realizing what he said without thinking.
"You're…father huh? Is he…that bad?", Sylvia inquires curious.
"I…wouldn't say bad, more old fashioned with how he taught. Many tears were shed when Dad tried to help, ESPECIALLY with math.", Caleb shakes his head at the memories.
"H-He didn't hurt you, did he?!", Sharon ask, worried as was Sylvia.
"What? No! He, like MOST black parents, wanted their children to succeed in life. Best education, opportunities, all that but sometimes they go overboard. My dad was no different. He just…wanted the best future for me possible though I didn't make that easy.", Caleb clarified, spinning the pen in his fingers in thought.
"Well…that's a hell of a lot better than MY dad.", Sylvia replies, looking off with her chin resting on her palms, "I was just another mouth to feed that he kicked outta the harem. I was barely even 60(18 in human years) at the time. Mom didn't even try to stop him. I was basically on my own until I met up with a gang of other stray Devils. Then we got drugged and sold as slaves on the black market until we met up with Hana. Still wonder where the others ended up.", Sylvia told with a lightly somber tone.
"That's tame compared to MY dad. HE traded me for some bimbo Lesser devil girl from another clan. Who I swear would make the US look like geniuses in comparison! Did you know that dumb bitch thought men ACTUALLY had a second brain in their penis because someone used the phrase as a metaphor?! And then the male he traded me to was the biggest creep in the universe! Seriously! I was like SCREW that and left that crap behind! What's crazier is I found out later my mom ended up taking my place. My mom! What the FUCK?!", Sharon vented in displeasure.
"Fuckin' hell…that's just…wow.", Caleb replies, shocked at all they've been through.
"Didn't you say you tried joining ICEP? How'd you end up in the slave market again?", Sylvia inquires.
"I met this guy agent…or at least I THOUGHT he was an agent. He had the suit and badge. Though, looking back, it was pretty weird his badge was in a wallet with a Yu-Gi-Oh card in the pocket. Even weirder that his ICEP van was all white with no windows. He did have some pretty good snacks though so I didn't mind it."
"STRANGER DANGER MUCH?!", Caleb and Sylvia expressed in utter disbelief and disappointment.
"Give me a break! I didn't really have many options. My dad wouldn't take me back and mom took his side of things like always. I didn't have it easy.", Sharon somberly spoke, clenching her fists.
"None of us did.", Sylvia agreed with a sigh.
Caleb pauses understanding the lives they've lived considering the environment Camilla was forced to grow up in. He could only imagine the depths of their trauma and the pain they've experienced up to now.
"Still, at least it sounds like your dad loved you", Sylvia admitted, forcing a smile as Caleb looked surprised, "Even if he had his faults, he still made someone like you. He sounds like a good man."
Caleb pauses at those words, feeling a tightening in his chest from guilt gnawing at him, "Yeah…he was a good man…"
Sharon and Sylvia's eyes widen sensing his tone and seeing his somber expression. They look at him sadly, understanding what he meant.
"Oh…oh no. We're so sorry.", Sylvia expressed.
"Yeah, w-we didn't know.", Sharon spoke, gently petting his back to comfort him.
"It's…it's fine. I'm fine, thank you both.", Caleb assured them.
Sylvia ponders for a second then responds, "You know…I really believe Discord brought to us for a reason."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean, before you came along and… did what you did for us… I believed that ALL men wanted to do was hurt, abuse, and exploit us. Then you showed up and just threw that notion out the window.", Sylvia answered earnestly, placing her hand atop his.
"Yeah, you protected us, you're kind to us, and you treat, and even LOOK at us like normal girls. That's not something a lot of men we met have done without at least wanting or having something to gain. You're different. We like that about you. I'm sure the others feel the same. Even Scarlett, even if she's too proud to admit it", Sharon added, clasping his hand in her own to his slight discomfort as she traces his fingers, "In a way, you're…kinda what I wish my father was like."
"Huhu, same.", Sylvia chimes in agreement, "I'd love to call you daddy instead."
"C-Come on. Don't make this weird! I'm not that different from any other decent guy.", Caleb replied, becoming embarrassed.
"Maybe, but that doesn't change how much you mean to us.", Sylvia replies, pressing her shoulder against him as her tail snakes around his lower back, making him flinch.
"She's right. No matter what you'll always have a special place in my heart.", Sharon remarks as he looks at her only to be met with and eye full of cleavage as she pulled her shirt to give a little peak, "Huhu, ~made you look.~", she giggles flirtatiously.
"L-Let's just get back to studying!", Caleb stated firmly, grabbing the textbook as they smile at him amused by his reaction, "Did you manage to finish that one I gave you?"
"Oh yeah…let's see…is this right?", Sharon shows him her tablet as he examines it, watching him in anticipation.
"Hey, you actually got it.", Caleb praises with a small grin as her face lights up, "X values are right and the quadratic equation solved out correctly. Good job."
"Thanks.", Sharon happily replies, her tail undulating excitedly then flushes in embarrassment, "So…can I get a head pat too?"
Caleb looks at her a second then sighs concedingly, "Alright."
He places a hand atop her blonde head making her coo happily, closing her eyes in content as he pets her head. His skin grazes her curved hard but smooth black horns making her sigh softly.
"You know…you can do a lot more than just headpats if you really wanna.", Sylvia sensually whispered in his ear, making a chill go up his spine.
"Stop it. Not happening.", Caleb firmly replies, ceasing the petting as Sharon looks at him hungrily.
"Aww, come on. Three of us can have a little fun when we're done. I'm sure Camilla wouldn't mind us having a little taste.", Sharon spoke, pressing her ample chest to his arm as her tail rubs against his waist.
"Yes, the fuck, she would! That's enough of that now, we're studying for both your sakes! Otherwise, I'll just leave right now.", Caleb stated in a serious tone glaring between them.
"No no, we're sorry daddy–I mean Caleb. We'll behave, right?", Sylvia apologized, moving off him as Sharon did the same.
"Yeah, totally! We'll be good girls.", Sharon replies putting a cutesy smirk, "Oh but…can we still get headpats when we solve a problem correctly?"
Caleb glares at her for a moment sensing the sincerity in her words. Apparently, she was really afraid of losing that little reward.
"Alright, fine. Headpats stay but if I hear one more sex related comment I'm packing it up. Are we clear?"
"Yes!", "Yes!" Sharon and Sylvia simultaneously replied, both fighting the urge to add 'daddy' to the end of their statements.
"Alright, so now we're going to take what we learned so far and introduce the concepts in Pythagorean Theorem…"
As he spoke, both girls listened intently to him, enjoying how passionately he spoke. His scent was intoxicating and his welcoming aura making it hard to not focus on him but restrain themselves the entire time.
'I'm going to ride that dick eventually, on Chaos.', both girls thought in unison with deviously lustful smirks.
…Meanwhile at the coven…
Scarlett and Hana eventually made it to witches home or more accurately, to their astonishment, a whole VILLAGE nestled inside a seemingly normal building. They could be seen following Venus taken in by the uniquely designed houses and amenities seeing the witches going about their daily routine and chores. Or at least they were, before more and more gradually turned a curious gaze at the two devils, whispering as they passed.
"Tch, you'd swear they'd never seen a Devil before.", Scarlett remarks, uncomfortable with so many eyes on her.
"I mean, to be fair this is MY first in a witch's village so I'm just as curious as they are. Still, it's understandable considering I'm more on their level than you are. And I'm not just talking about height.", Hana replies, gesturing to her petite form compared to Scarlett's more adult assets, "Not to mention you're technically considered above them in the Chaos-Born hierarchy."
"Thanks. Now I'm even more self-conscious." Scarlett said, annoyed looking at the witch happily leading them, "So this place, how does something like this even exist? I've heard some liminals have units made to simulate their natural environment but all this seems beyond even ICEP capabilities. Hell, even the AIR is cleaner like I stepped into a forest untouched by humans."
"Oho, yes I suppose that's true. I'll tell you. Everything here…was once apart of our old village. I just moved it all here with my magic. The houses, tools, and every individual blade of grass.", Venus casually explained much to the shock of both Devils.
"Wait, seriously?! How is that even possible?! How much mana would it even take to do all this?!", Hana expressed, shocked at the witches answer.
"A lot actually. That day I had nearly depleted sixty-five percent of my energy."
'JUST SIXTY-FIVE?! IS SHE SOME KINDA MONSTER!?', Scarlett and Hana thought incredulously, both of them realizing it was a very wise choice not to fight her earlier.
Suddenly, Scarlett notices what appeared to be a house that was notably larger than the other one and had a goat design for the roof , "Hey! Is this where—"
"YOU AGAIN?!", came a familiar voice as Scarlett and Hana look to see a familiar magenta colored pigtailed witch staring them down with an irate expression.
"I swear to Chaos If this keeps up.." Scarlett said under her breath as her patience waned.
"Why are you here?! How did you get in here!? If you harmed even ONE hair on my Gregory's head I will–", the witch berated pointing her wand at Scarlett.
"Gala! That's enough.", Venus firmly stated looking at Gala with a stern, authoritative gaze that sent a chill down the magenta pigtailed witches spine making her put away her wand the glare at the devils, "Gregory is fine. I let them in."
"But why?! More importantly, why HER?", Gala cried out, pointing at Scarlett who scowls at her.
"Lady Venus, who are they?" a lavender haired witch asked while several other witches walked up to them listening intently.
"No need to be alarmed by dearies. These two are simply here to discuss important business on top of recent events. Please, carry on with your activity but be polite to our guests and show them proper hospitality.", Venus says as many witches look at her with mixed reactions as a few murmur in confusion while few others look at them with slight fear or disdain. Venus then looks to Scarlett and Hana with a calm grin gesturing to them at the house entrance, "If you both will step inside. Don't worry it's…now unlocked.", Venus waved a wand unlocking then opened the door wide for them.
"Thank you.", Scarlett sighed in relief, walking inside, glad to be away from prying eyes as a few witches looked on outraged at the devils, setting foot in the Mistress' quarters.
"It's Nice to meet you all.", Hana waves with a warm smile to several witches' surprise then walks inside.
"Ohh this will not stand! I will–", Gala grumbled in irritation.
"Gala!"
"Y-Yes Lady Venus?"
"You know before I arrived the red head was going to force her way inside. Gregory stood his ground, guns ready and willing to protect you and the others.", Venus whispered in her ear much to Gala's surprise.
"H-He did? He tried to…protect me?", Gala spoke, cheeks flushing pink and magenta eyes twinkling. Her imagination conjured up an image of shirtless Gregory battered on his last legs with the red haired Devil red seals drawn and him pointing his gun at her. He says a cheesy badass line about protecting his one true love and adorable 'little sister', Gala, to his last breath. It then turns saucy with triumphantly taking in her arms and throwing himself at her in heated passion. Gala faces goes bright red with hearts in her magenta eyes and a lascivious grin, "~Oh Gregoryyyyy~
"Wouldn't you think he deserves a nice gift for his hard work? I imagine he's getting hungry right now." Venus suggests as Gala gasps in understanding.
Gala eyes widened. How could she let her brother go hungry with him protecting her right now? He needs a delicious lunch from his dependable little sister!
"Right! Please excuse me Lady Venus!", Gala stated, conjuring her broomstick out of thin air then hopping on and flying back to her house as the other witches watch her suddenly leave wondering what Venus told her.
Venus smiled 'That should keep her busy and out of trouble. She might even get a big brother out of it. Win-win.', she thought, then walked inside, shutting and locking the door with her wand.
….Back to Caleb…
It's been nearly two hours since the trio began studying and in that time both of them had made significant progress. Sylvia appeared to have a better understanding of the material than before while Sharon, though still fumbling with certain concepts, was also making progress in solving a few types of quadratic problems. He could tell they really wanted to understand how to work the problems out.
That or maybe they just enjoyed the headpats he gave whenever they got a problem correct. Or both. Still, he couldn't deny the positive reinforcement was helping them. At the same time, the euphoric expressions on their faces became more and more unsettlingly lewd as he questioned if he had inadvertently awakened a new fetish within them.
"That's another one!" Sylvia said, showing him another problem she completed with an excited smile.
"Same here! I even managed to find the high on pottenuse!", Sharon stated with similar energy showing her paper.
"You mean 'hypotenuse'? Ok, let's see.", Caleb replied to take a look at their answers, nodding in approval, "Hm, yeah this is much better. You two pick up pretty fast."
"It helps when you have a cute teacher.", Sharon sweetly flirts with a grin.
"Watch it.", Caleb lightly warns in a no nonsense tone.
"Only stating a fact. Now, headpat please?", Sylvia chimes him leaning her head on his shoulder as Sharon did the same.
Caleb sighed softly, "Alright."
He raises his hands behind him, careful to not bump their wings, then squishing the tops of their heads down making them coo lovingly, pressing more against him like cats brushing against their owner. Both girls enjoyed the moment, taking in his intoxicating scent while fighting the urge to straddle his lap right then and there.
"Hehe and here I thought only my sister's could get off from headpats.", a male voice lightly chuckles, catching the three's attention. They turn to see Tristan Cerberjack standing with a knowing smirk as Caleb tensing up upon seeing him.
"Oh! Hey Tristan!", Sharon greeted the male hellhound with a smile.
"What's up, Trist? What are you doing here?", Sylvia inquires.
"I was just out taking a walk, getting fresh air and everything. Then I noticed you three being all close together and decided to see what that was about.", Tristan cheekily replies much to Caleb's embarrassment.
"Cool, so…how's Kaiya?", Sylvia carefully asks as Caleb shoots her look, not wanting to engage too much.
"Oh, she's doing ok now. Got plenty of rest and all that, doc says she can go home this afternoon.", Tristan replies.
"Well that's great! She's at least doing better!", Sharon happily acknowledged in relief.
"You're tellin' me chommie. Doc said it could've been way worse if she didn't get that Epi-Pen in time.", Tristan replies looking at Caleb with a warm smile who looks away visibly uncomfortable.
"Yep! That's our sweet little hero boy for ya!", Sharon happily stated, clinging to Caleb's arm, prompting Sylvia to do the same as Tristan look at them with intrigue.
"Please stop.", He says with a groan, becoming more uncomfortable.
'Shit, shouldn't have brought that up.', Tristan thought, mentally facepalming as he tries to salvage things, 'Ok, just back peddle. Umm…'
"I'm hungry.", Spoke the voice of Drei appearing out of nowhere, getting their attention.
"Ah! Oh, it's just Drei.", Sharon yelped loudly, right into Caleb's making him glare at her, "Sorry bae."
"Hey, are you almost done helping them? I require nourishment, now.", Drei says, sounding slightly irritable near the end.
"Now that you mention it, I'm getting pretty hungry too."
"Yeah, I guess we have been at this for a while.", Caleb admitted before taking out his phone, "Wonder what's nearby we can get something to eat."
Tristan then notices Drei gesturing with her eyes towards advising him to take the opening as planned.
…Twenty minutes earlier…
Drei was on sentry duty, surveying the area for threats while occasionally checking down at Caleb and the girls; studying and seemingly flirting at the same time headpats he keeps giving them. She noticed a pair of kobold jogger stopping the grab some sports drinks, a male wererabbit reading Fifty shades of Gray in public and enjoying it, a male I.A. worker walking and carrying muffins by as several pixies fly around him ecstatically with one nuzzling him cheek, little girl in witch outfit on bench alone, the male hellhound from earlier watching Caleb and the two gir–wait what? Drei focuses her attention on the male hellhound.
"Hmmm…alright, be cool chomm, just go to them, say hi, we yip and yap a bit then I invite him over for some grub, we hang out and badda-bing! We become buds! That's how it WOULD go if it was that easy but…", Tristan murmured, rubbing his head in thought, unsure how to approach this.
"But reality is often disappointing?", Drei said, startling him into a combat stance.
"Jamani(The Fuck)?!", He barked, fists raised, then immediately relaxed his stance, "Eh? Hey,I know you. You're the cat girl that tried to help my cuzzo. What are you doing?"
"I could ask you the same. Also, I'm a weasel.", Drei replied plainly, "mind telling me why you're stalking him now?"
"What? I'm not stalking! I just…we want to pay him back for what he did for Kaiya. If he wasn't there then she would be…", Tristan says trailing not wanting to finish, "I came to invite him over for dinner with us. It's a thing we have for Hellhound culture to express gratitude."
"So you're only doing this so you can sneakily pay back a debt you owe him without him realizing it?", Drei asks, giving a cold stare.
"No!" Tristan stated firmly, "None of us would do that! Hell, if Aunt Amara found out we try something like that, she would spank us until our asses were more raw than cape buffalo guts! We just wanna do something nice for him in return for saving one of our pack. Then again…given what happened last night…I can tell he still wants to keep his distance from us."
Drei looks at him curiously for a moment, sensing no hostility or deceit in his words then replies, "So what exactly are you making for dinner?"
"Uhh…mostly barbecue meats of different kinds; chicken, beef, venison, lamb, ham, bear, goat, you name it. We can order stuff if you're not a meat eater."
Drei stares at him blankly, drooling down her lips before quickly wiping her mouth then sharply inhaling, "Allow me to assist you in your approach."
…Present…
"Hey, chommie, no need to spend cash at one of these garbage food places, my aunt's cooking a huge meal for when Kaiya gets out. I wanted to invite you over. Sylvia and Sharon can come too.", Tristan invited with a toothy grin.
"Oooh, really?! I haven't even SEEN where you guys live!", Sharon excitedly stated.
"I think Scarlett and Hana probably have when they invited you to join the Chaos Faction, right?", Sylvia questions.
"Actually, we met in the gym or whatever. Scarlett just approached my aunt during her workout and we just went from there."
"Oh so we're the first ones over to your place AND free food?! Count me in!"
"Me too!", Sylvia stated, eager to join in.
"What about you, chommie?", Tristan looks at Caleb a bit expectantly who was immediately.
"Uh…thanks but that's alright I'm good.", Caleb brushes off much to their surprise.
"Awww, come on, bae. You really don't wanna join us?", Sharon inquires, disappointed.
"We're having barbecue on everything from chicken to venison. I hear humans from this region of the country enjoy premium barbecue. You basically make it science!"
"Very true…but no, I'm good. I just don't feel…right about being there.", Caleb dismissed.
"Aw, come on! You're more than welcome.", Tristan assured him using Drei's advice on how to approach him.
Sylvia and Sharon look at him quizzically, guessing simultaneously that he still has his fears and aversions towards Hellhounds despite everything.
That is when a slight breeze happens and Tristan notices Drei, pulling her ear as the signal to use the 'secret weapon' when all else fails.
"Alright, chommie, I understand. Guess we're gonna have to try that drink called Diet Dr. Pepper without you.", Tristan fake bemoaned as Caleb's ears twitched.
"Excuse me? You said diet Dr. Pepper, right?"
"Yeah, I tried the original one too. It's craaaazy good! I bet the new flavor will slap even harder."
"New flavor? What new flavor?", Caleb asks, leaning in listening intently to both girl's surprise.
"It's called 'vanilla creme float'. It's like NEW new. Not many places in this country even have it on the shelves yet except for New York and Florida. My aunt had them delivered with those flying robot things.", Tristan informs as Caleb looks at the hellhound intrigue and very eager to try it. Said Hellhound then pivots around, "Oh well, guess I'll just tell others you won't be joining us."
Caleb pauses in thought for a second as Drei looks to him counting in her head, "W-Wait! I…don't see much harm in dropping by for a few minutes and having a couple (dozen) drinks. I mean, if that—"
"Of course it is, chommie!", Tristan excitedly stated with a smile, offering hand to Caleb, "Like I said, you're MORE than welcome!"
Caleb looks to his hand a second and slowly reaches before taking a deep and clasping the male hellhound's hand. It felt similar to Lyca's hand with typical fur and paw padding but was notably bigger and obviously more masculine. At the same time, Caleb felt an odd sensation of camaraderie radiating from the hellhound genuine smile as he stood from his seat meeting eye to eye.
'And the rabbit takes the carrot buts gains an ally.', Drei thought, nodding to herself discreetly giving a thumbs up as Tristan nodded in understanding.
"Wooo, chommie, let's go! Don't wanna keep the pack and Pepper waitin' do we?!", Tristan howled, slinging his arm around Caleb's shoulder, urging him to follow.
"Woohoo! Let's goooo!", Sharon cheered eagerly following.
"Ah! Alright but can we at least pack the books and stuff first?"
"Only studying you should think of right now are the slabs of meat on your plate, chommie!", Tristan informs with a grin.
"What are you even talking about?"
"It's cool, Cal, I'll grab our stuff.", Sylvia says conjuring a blue magic opening up her tote bag as all the study material flies into the bag.
"See? Ain't these magical gals great?", Tristan stated
"Please don't call them that, it feels wrong for some reason.", Caleb replied as Drei watches from a distance as the two banter.
Not how she expected today to go but at least she'll get a free meal and hopefully he'll be able to let go of his fear of Hellhounds. Or he'll be traumatized even more. She gave it a 50/50 shot but it's a chance she's willing to take.
… Back at the witch village …
Outside of Venus' house, several witches could be seen trying to peek or listen in on their conversation using various spells at their disposal. However, a magic barrier around the house nullified each of their spell.
"Dammit. Couldn't even conjur it that time.", one of the witches complains the magic seal on her wand fizzling out.
"Lady Venus doesn't hold back…ever huh?", another witch acknowledges.
There was another witch who was further away from the group, long blue hair and navy blue cloak.
"What the hell could they be talking about in there? I have to know.", the blue haired witch says get a few witches attention.
"Hey, Callista?!", came the voice of Mars getting their attention as she and Nova descended from off their broom then making them vanish, "Is it true? Are there really a Greater and a Lesser devil here?!"
Callista looks at the house skeptically, "Yeah, and Lady Venus is inside talking to them now. Discord only knows what they want with us."
"Crazy how they showed up the morning AFTER that whole thing with the hellhounds.", Nova spoke prompting Callista's eyebrow to twitch.
"Oh yeah, a few gnomes told us about that and THEY heard it from some fairies working with I.A. security.", an orange curly haired witch spoke, "They said it was some human male employee. What's crazier is he was one of our coven's big brothe–"
"Shut up!", Callista shouted, startling the orange curly witch and a few others, "Stop telling such lies about my Johnny! He has a sweet and gentle soul and wouldn't hurt anyone! He's NOTHING like that asshole Keith– "
Slap
Mars slapped the blond haired witch across the face with a disgusted expression, surprising Nova and the others.
"Don't you dare! We don't TALK about him! ESPECIALLY around Moon!", Mars berated as Callista held her reddened cheek, glaring angrily at the redhead.
"Speaking of, where IS Moon?", Nova asks, both trying to diffuse the tension and genuinely curious since she didn't see her in the crowd.
"I…don't know. Haven't seen her all morning. Did anyone remember seeing her at all today, maybe during breakfast or bath time?", A silver hair witch with round glasses asks, prompting the others to shake their heads or murmur, unsure themselves as Mars starts getting worried.
"While we're at it, where's Gals at?", Nova inquires
"Oh, she was here a while! Venus made her leave when she got a bit unruly though. Then she just took off yelling something about Gregory.", a blonde witch informs.
Mars and Nova paused at the explanation with plain stares not doubting a single word she said.
…Elsewhere…
Gregory sat on a nearby log enjoying some freshly baked strawberry muffins sitting in a wicker basket.
"Mmm hmm these are amazing! You really make these?", He asks Gala, who was sitting next to him, watching him happily.
"Yeah! I kinda made a few too many and thought, you know, you'd might want some.", Gala brushes off with a nonchalant smile while screaming in pure joy inside. At the same time, leaving out the part where she scrambled like a mad woman making those muffins, employing several different spells to cut down on prep and bake time while also making them freshest and most delicious they could be. She nearly fainted from overexerting her mana but it was worth it to see him smile and enjoy her love-filled creations.
"Yeah, you're a lifesaver. I totally forgot to eat breakfast this morning."
"I'm glad you like them though. It is the least I can do for you since you're looking out for us.", Gala spoke discreetly, scooting closer without him noticing.
"I mean just doing what I was assigned to do. Seriously, these are bussin'! You should open a bakery!"
"I only bake for people I like and care about.", Gala remarks while closer, her small inching close to him.
"Hehe, well I'm kinda jealous of whoever's gonna make YOU their wife.", Gregory chuckles with a grin.
"W-W-Wife?!", Gala stammers in surprise, blushing bright red as her imagination runs wild from his statement. From Mistress Fantina blessing their union, to them living together, to her seated on the bed rubbing her large belly with the father kneeling down smiling.
"Hm? Hold still a sec. Something in your hair.", Gregory says leaning a bit closer and reaching out, to Gala surprise, as he cups the side of her head sending jolts through her nerves thinking he was about to kiss her or even more. Gala mind and heart raced at a hundred miles a second, "Think I got it. What is this, flour?"
Instead of answering, Gala falls backwards, face beet red and steam wafting from her head prompting Gregory to act fast catching her in his arms.
"Whoa, what's wrong? Are you ok? Whoa you're burning up!" Gregory asked concerned
"Take…me…", she uttered with a delirious smirk.
"Take you…to get help?! Don't worry, I got you!", Gregory scoops her up and runs towards the village.
…Meanwhile…
"You have a lovely home.", Hana says, looking around the surprisingly large house with a bedroom and kitchen area along with a plethora of occultist items from blank voodoo dolls lining the shelves, paper and bead talismans, large black cauldron in the corner, and various plants and animal body parts in ingredient jars.
"Thank you sweetie but it actually belongs to Madame Fantina. I'm just looking after things while she's away."
"Oh! Is she a baphomet?! Aww, I wish I could've met her.", Hana spoke in disappointment, "I bet she's really nice."
"She is, though sometimes even she doubts it doesn't make it less true. I'm sure she would've enjoyed meeting you in particular.", Venus assures the blue devil girl then turns to Scarlett with a less certain expression, "You…likely not as much I'm afraid."
'The hell did I do to get hated but someone I've never met?', Scarlett thought incredulously.
"Now, I could already suspect you're here to talk about what happened with the hellhounds?" Venus asked the two devils as a floating freshly brewed pot of herbal tea poured them each a cup.
"Ah, yes, so you're aware that a human had poisoned a hellhound in an attempt to kill her." Hana said, picking up her cup.
"News travels fast in these parts. We happen to be on friendly terms with the gnomes in this building and they tend to hear plenty of gossip around the facility… along with OTHER forms of information."
"To think that a human was both bold yet foolish enough to try to kill a hellhound WHILE she was with her pack. What could he have hoped to gain? Revenge, maybe? If so, for what?", Scarlett added, still trying to comprehend the logic.
"I agree. It doesn't make sense why Johnny would do such a thing. It's completely out of character for someone like him.", Venus agreed, sipping her tea.
"Wait, you know this human?!" Scarlett questions as Hana looks into surprise.
"Yes, he is the big brother of Callista, one of the older witches in the coven. The two of them are quite an adorable couple and he always treated her kindly and sweaty."
"If he's such a kind man, why would try to kill a liminal student?", Hana ponders out loud.
"You never know what some men are truly thinking, Hana. Sometimes you might think you know but then they show you their true colors.", Scarlett says in a bitter tone while trying to suppress some bad memories.
"Sounds as though you're speaking from experience sweety.", Venus says in a calm, sweet voice to put the Devil at ease.
"Don't you worry about that. I just want to know why there are human men staying with you all?"
"Well, first there are my witches' big brothers. It would be cruel to separate them after the challenges they've been through. As for your question, that is a secret. I can't disclose the reason due to an agreement with ICEP. I trust you can respect that." Venus told her motherly tone before shifting to stern gaze, "However, let's get back to Johnny. I think there's more going on than we know of."
"What? A conspiracy of some kind?", Hana inquires, a bit intrigued at the thought.
"Ask yourself this: why would he poison ONE hellhound specifically? Why not ALL of them? And why do it in a way that points the finger at himself in the end? Johnny might be a lot of things but stupid isn't one of them. Plus, from what I understand, he was in a state of shock by what happened. Does that sound like the behavior of a calculated killer?"
Scarlett and Hana ponder in thought, admitting it was quite bizarre indeed.
"Maybe not, but there's a chance he was acting like that to try garnishing sympathy and feign ignorance.", Scarlett points out.
"Come now, sweetie, even you must admit that still doesn't explain his motives. Why out himself as the killer at all? Why stay instead of fleeing the scene the second he served the drinks?", Venus vehemently points out taking another sip of tea, "No. There must be other forces at play here. Which brings the question, was hellhounds the real target or was it us? Taking one of our brothers from us? That's who our true enemy is. The one or ones that wanted to kill the hellhounds and harm our coven!"
"Wait, you can't be serious? You seriously think the person that tried to kill Kaiya is still out there AND they could be anyone?!" Hana stated in surprise.
"Correct. Who knows if their grievance is limited to just us and the Hellhounds but I suggest you girls watch each other's backs as well.", Venus advises in a serious tone as Hana wears a worried and contemplative look.
"While we're in the spirit of watching each other's backs, I'd say it's within our best interests that all of us Chaos-Born stick together. If someone is threatening the harmony among us, we can't let it as it pleases.", Scarlett vehemently spoke standing up in her seat, getting Hana and Venus' attention, "That's why….I ask you, Lady Venus, will you and the rest of the coven join us as part of the Chaos Faction?"
Venus looks up at the Devil curiously then sips her tea, "...Or?"
Scarlett raises an eyebrow at her confused, "Or…what?"
"Well, judging by your tone and the way you were presenting your offer, it almost sounded as though I didn't have a choice in the matter. Devils have never taken no for an answer when it came to our kind. Imagine some of your kin still aren't on friendly terms with my kin", Venus says in a skeptical tone making Scarlett tense slightly. She had a feeling this elephant in the room would make itself known at some point but still wasn't ready.
"W-What well that's…not completely true but that can change. We–", Hana tries to salvage the situation but Scarlett stops her, shaking her head.
"Mhm. Answer me this, what exactly do you have to offer me and my coven sisters if we accept this membership? A benefits package?", Venus inquires, staring intently like a mother trying to catch a child in a lie a Scarlett tenses.
Scarlett takes a deep breath then sits back down in her seat, back to Venus' level, then closing her eyes as she collects her thoughts, "I don't have much to offer. Nor can I give you what you likely can't provide on your own. That's not what our group is for. It's meant to be a bridge for all of us species, feared, loathed and avoided by society to come together and create our own second chances. You and your sisters deserve that as well. No matter our background, former predjudices, or social status, none of that matters now. We are ALL Chaos-Born. We're all striving to succeed in this new world where we don't need to hide anymore. I want us all to walk that path together, improving and learning as we go. I wish you and the coven to move forward with us, hand in hand, as equals.", Scarlett finished speaking from her soul, taking a breath as Venus looked at her intrigued.
"Huhuhuhu, that was a lovely sales pitch sweetie. Though, you might want to work on brevity a bit, just for future reference.", Venus lightly giggles in amusement as Scarlett looks at her incredulously feeling embarrassed, "Still…I can't deny an honest soul when I see one. That's what I love to see. I certainly hope you can bring that same energy for me and the others at your next meeting."
Scarlett and Hana's eyes widen in surprise before looking at the witch across from them expectantly.
"Y-You mean!", Hana stated, her face beginning to light up with a smile.
"Yes, sweetie, I'd love to join this club of yours.", Venus confirms with a caring smile.
"I-It's actually more than just a clu–", Scarlett tries to clarify but Hana jumps in.
"Wonderful! We're so happy to have you Venus-sama! We promise you and the other witches are going to enjoy yourselves! We do plenty of…", Hana happily stated, beginning to list some activities as the witch patiently listens.
All the while, Scarlett smiles to herself clenching her while doing a little pump under the table, proud that she was able to get her to join them despite her initial doubts. Somehow, it worked out. Still…the thought of someone going after her fellow Chaos-Born was something she couldn't ignore. They needed to be found and stopped for the good of the faction and all Chaos born here. Not only that, but how would Amara and the rest react when they learn of the human's connection to witches here? Can she keep the peace then?
"Well, why don't we go tell the others?", Venus suggests, clapping her hands together, "I'm sure most of them are still waiting
"Good idea. The sooner they know, the better."
Venus drops the barrier using her magic wand then flings the door open, "Good news everyone!", she stated looking around to see only a few witches as Hana and Scarlett, "Hm, where is everyone?"
"They're seeing about Gala. Mr. Gregory came running in the village in a panic carrying her.", a light pink haired witch informs her, "Nova and the others took her to her house to try healing her."
"What?!", Venus was surprised as Scarlett and Hana looked shocked at the information. Scarlett herself started to wonder if this was the work of the enemy.
"Lady Venus!", Mars calls to her, descending on her broom landing.
"Mars! What is going on? Is Gala alright?", Venus questions in concern.
"She's…fine actually. We tried healing spells on her but there were no injuries or harmful substances of any kind. Then Gregory told us what happened when she was with him and…it all made sense.", Mars answered in a slightly disappointed tone of voice, "She got too…excited and passed out."
"Oh. Ohhhhhh! Oh…", Venus expressed going from piecing it together, to full understanding, then disappointment in the span of a few seconds then sighs, "Haaa, these untouched girls are a handful."
'Untouched?', Scarlett and Hana thought simultaneously and curiously at the term.
Mars eyes widen upon finally noticing Scarlett and Hana, "Ah! It's you again! You actually came."
"Yep and I have to say, nice place you got. Leagues better than my apartment.", Scarlett replies with a smirk.
"Hehe, well, we try our best to be self-sufficient.", Mars giggles rubbing the back of her head then looks to Hana, "Oh, my apologies, I'm Mars.", the redhead witch extends a hand to the lesser devil.
"Ah, like the planet? Cool name. I'm Hana. Hana Tachibana.", Hana replies, happy to shake hands with someone of equal stature.
"Oh cool, I think that means 'Wild orange flower' in Japanese, right?"
"Yes, actually, my mother named me that since I was born in our orchard. She couldn't make it to the bed so I literally delivered under a tree.", Hana lightly chuckles as Scarlett looks upon their sudden solidarity, "You understand Japanese?"
"I dabble a bit in my–"
"Excuse me, Mars, but where is Gregory now?", Venus interrupted, becoming impatient at the pair's prattling.
"Y-Yes, apologies! We sent him back to the front gate. He was worried but we assured him she'd be alright. Besides, his presence wasn't exactly HELPING her condition.", Mars informs.
"Well, have one of the witches look after her and gather everyone else in the village common area. I…WE have an announcement to make.", Venus emphasized, looking at Scarlett and Hana as the former nodded in understanding.
"Understood lady Venus! Oh, but there's something else… Have you seen Moon this morning? We have been checking around and no one has seen her at all today?"
"No, I haven't either…", Venus said, having a bad feeling as her mind went through possible reasons why no one had seen her and none of them were good, "I'll go search for her after the announcement."
"U-Understood…"
"If you want, we can help you. We've gotten pretty familiar with this place.", Hana offers.
"Thank you but no need. I have my ways of finding people, especially members of this coven. For now, one thing at a time.", Venus assures walking ahead, conjuring a large black witch hat with goat skull buckle on the red strap prompting Scarlett, Hana, and the other witches to follow while Mars flies off on her broomstick to inform the rest.
…Elsewhere…
Further away from the witches' building just bordering Angel territory, there was a stone walkway lined with trees and nearly trimmed bushes. It was a typically calm and serene spot, making it ideal for morning jogging, picnicking, or just getting away from the noisy and livelier parts of the facility.
A particular bald headed Carolina man with an insulated bag slung on his shoulders couldn't agree more with that sentiment as he strolled down the stone road enjoying the cool autumn air. The sound of dry autumn leaves crunching under his feet with every step he took.
'Haa, I really needed this.', Beechfauz thought to himself, trying to walk out his frustration at having to be in the office today. All because some worker apparently tried to poison a Hellhound for GOD only knows what reason, leaving him having to work overtime, launching an investigation into that man's history and coordinating with I.A. security to keep the peace in the facility so other students don't panic. All to salvage this mess.
Yet, he knew his work wasn't done so, to avoid losing his mind, he decided to take his 45 minute break AWAY from the office to his favorite and quietest spot in the facility. A spot for him to enjoy his homemade barbecue wings and roasted potatoes lunch in peace. He looks ahead to the end of the past was an old bell tower that was built back in the late 1890s when the facility was a regular college. It was still fully operational, even chimed every hour or so. Surrounding it were five stone benches and tables where students would typically sit around and study.
As he approaches, he notices a figure seated at one of the tables. A girl with black hair and dressed in turquoise colored cape with matching shirt, white skirt, black leather boots, and turquoise-white candy cane pattern leggings.
Suddenly, as several questions went through his mind, he could hear the girl lightly sobbing to herself.
'Why? I just wanted someone to hold me, t-to love me. K-Keith…why? Why couldn't I keep my voice down? Why couldn't I just do what he said? If I did, I'd still be his. Then…I wouldn't be…' Moon thought to herself, covering her face in despair, tears trickling down through fingers.
"Here."
A voice spoke, startling her, causing her to look up with tear-stained puff red eyes and see a tall, bald human man holding out a pack of Kleenex pocket napkins. She was surprised and confused to see a human or anyone there since she heard not many people come here. Still, the kind smile on his face told her he meant no harm and she accepted.
"T-Thank you…", Moon opens them, proceeding to dry her tears.
"I didn't expect to find someone else in this spot, especially not a little girl. Are you lost? I could call security to help find your parents.", Beechfauz offered, kneeling down trying to comfort her.
Moon scowls at him in annoyance, "I'm not a CHILD. I'm 25 years old. And I'm not lost. I know EXACTLY how to get back to my coven!", she firmly emphasized, conjuring her broom beside her with her wand.
Beechfauz was taken aback by the revelation, "O-Oh! You're one of those witches we brought in. Sorry, that was my mistake."
Moon looks at him, her irritation subsiding as she senses his apology was genuine. She then looks away with a saddened expression going quiet.
"You…mind if I sit here?", Beechfauz asks, moving to the opposite side of the bench.
"...no, I don't care."
"Well, those tears say otherwise.", Beechfauz says, taking his seat, placing his bag beside him as Moon clenches her fists, unable to deny his statement, "What's your name, if you don't make me ask?"
"...Moon. My name is Moon.", She plainly answers
"Nice to meet you Ms. Moon, I'm Benjamin Beechfauz or you can call me Ben for short. So, why are you crying?"
"W-What does it matter to you? Nobody can give back what I lost.", Moon spoke, her voice trembling.
"Maybe not. But it doesn't do any good to keep that pain bottled up. If it's hurting that much we can talk if you want.", Beechfauz offered as Moon looked at him a bit surprised.
"I-I'm just a stranger to you. What do you care about? You don't have to waste your time on me."
"Well, it's my job to see after the students in the facility. You're no different. If something's wrong I can take time out and listen. Besides, I'm already taking a break from the office for a while and this place does get pretty quiet. I could use the company.", Beechfauz says with an assuring and kind smile, "I'm ready when you are Ms. Moon…"
Moon looks to him with hopeful eyes, feeling a sudden warmth in her chest upon seeing the kindness in the man's eyes. A kindness she's not seen…ever even from…him. She takes a deep breath the replies with a tiny smile, "Moon. You can just call me 'Moon'."
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WN
Sup Fam?! It's me again, back with another one. Hope everyone is doing well. I'm doing a little better than last time I was here. Work has been keeping me busy and adapting.
Hope y'all enjoyed this chapter as much as I KNOW you're going to enjoy the next. Caleb going into the Hellhound's den now. I'm halfway into it so no spoilers. But PLEASE tell what y'all like about this one, what are the highlights you love, character moments, and lines that left you weak. I have to thank my lovely co writer Sandshrewmaster and my betas for making these what they are. Love y'all.
Welp, that's it for now. Peace FAM!
..'my-mind' by ProducedbyMelv plays in the background..