Alright before we begin huge shout to Pyrojack25 for helping me out writing and making this chapter as well as proof reading it to make sure there weren't any other problems. So rock on and thanks a bunch for that dudes help.
Now without further ado, here's a special for you all and now, let's go the host of Helluva Servant, Destiny itself.
Right now, we see Destinys bar come into view, it was all covered in Christmas decorations. Speaking of the said entity we see it happily humming to itself wrapping up a present reading to Mitty all while singing some Christmas carol it made up with the same cat that attacked it close by.
"Check them little critters but keep them jolly-Fa la la la laaaaaa, la la la laaaa."
It then proceeded to toss the wrapped present aside before starting work on wrapping another gift.
"It's Christmas so don't choke nobody-Fa la la la laaaaaa, la la la laaaa"
Destiny is then hauling a Christmas tree trying to get it through the door but was having a hard time doing so.
"Let the dumbasses get their heads out of there asses-Fa la la laaaaaa, la la la laaa,"
Next up Destiny is seen making some homemade Eggnog happily stirring the contents.
"Do we gotta constantly have gender issues? Because they're all still humans and other shit-No no no, no no NO, hell no no! We still do!"
While drinking the eggnog it had made, Destiny was using its abilities to decorate the tree.
"Can't we all see past our races, and the colors where all lives matter-Please please please, please, please, * please, please please please."
We now see Destiny tucking away the wrapped gifts underneath the lighted up tree
"Uhhh...can't think of anymore shit that rhymes oh well-Fa la la la laaaaaa, la la la laaaa"
As Destiny finished up decorating it finally noticed the readers/audience was watching. "Oh! Hi!" It then waved out using both hands. "You all know me already and now this month is a special time of year. But for many of you, it's known as, HANUKKAH, KWANZAA, WINTER SOLSTICE, LAS POSADAS, DIWALI, CHINESE NEW YEAR, whatever you want to call it, all of these holidays are celebrated in December the month that starts a new year where say goodbye to last one! It's the flow of time and how it works. Any who, a lot of you are familiar with Christmas of course."
We now see Destiny licking a spoon of cookie dough from a bowl nearby sitting on it's barstool next to the old tv. "I'm sure some of you normally are used to me doing recaps, but honestly, I'm too damn excited for this! Screw the recap! Because in this chapter/episode we get to see a particular Christmas down in hell itself. And yes, somehow it still happens down there."
As it's talking Destiny is unaware that the same cat that attacked it from days ago was eating out of the bowl containing the cookie dough.
"Now if your gonna tell a story, then you have to do it right." Destiny grabs a book and a pair of glasses. "You know, I wish Billie Mae Richards would be here with me. But, he's dead." After a brief pause for some reason and still not seeing the cat eat from the bowl Destiny continued.
"Anyways let's start. Twas two days before Christmas, or as the denizens of the 'down bellow' like to call it, Infermus, everyone was preparing for this special time of year, which would soon become horror because in a few days afterwards the Extermination brings the Exorcists down from Heaven to kill anything to reduce the population. So this time was special because they didn't know if they were gonna die or not. Although this place is pretty much a cesspool of evil, there was still a handful that kept the Christmas/Infermus spirit alive. Not everyone did though, but only a small few...not even the...stupid cat that's eating my cookie dough!" Destiny stopped in-between and noticed the cat was now fat and running away. "Dammit Mitty! You ate all of it!" Destiny grabs the bowl and throws it. "Get out of here you stupid cat! Go live with Garfield and see if I care!"
Destiny sighs, shaking it's head. "I don't care, as they all say. On with the show!"
Chapter/Episode 6
Snowy Inferno
It has now been officially three weeks since the whole Loo Loo Land incident and among other things like finding out that Miguel actually started dating that Hellhound, Loona. Which turned out to be none other than Blitzo's adopted daughter! Donner was generally surprised by this but no less was glad to see that his friend was feeling and looking more chipper than usual.
Then again when you haven't dated for a long time when your previous lover died it naturally wasn't easy.
But right now our focus comes to the Goetia Palace. Inside something big was going down. As of the moment we see all the staff gathered, among them being Donner, Arnold, Stu & Loretta. We see Merida standing at the front
"Alright, now that everyone has gathered here I'm gonna get straight to the point in about two days from now the Goeita family will be holding their annual Royal Christmas or as many prefer it in Hell, Infermas. I don't need to remind everyone how important this is. So all of you need to be on their best performance."
She brings out a clipboard. "Before we get to that topic, there's a few things we need to address. First, a few toilets have been reported clogged. I can't imagine how that would be." She glares at Stu who simply turned his head whistling away while his sister shook her head. The head maid continued listing the things that were needed. "The ballroom itself needs to be cleaned extra good and when that's done the decorating needs to start asap. We'll need to also have a supply check to make sure there's enough essentials for the guests. There's also a pest problem that needs to be dealt with soon as possible."
"What pest problem?" Arnold asked in confusion.
Suddenly multiple large hell rats were seen rushing by the staff. A vast majority of them either screamed out in disgust, tried to kill them or just plain screamed like a little girl before they disappeared into a ventilation shaft. "That pest problem." Merida confirmed answering Arnold's question since they now knew what she was talking about.
She cleared her throat continuing on. "Aside from that, there's another issue. Now, what side do you want to hear? The good news or the bad news?"
"The bad news!" A female imp called out.
"The bad news is that we have only just two days to finish preparing for this party."
"And the good news?" The grounds keeper crossed his arms.
"The good news is that the entertainment for the party and the other necessary preparations have already finished." Merida answered and already there were a bunch of groans from some of the maids, butlers, all the workers.
"Seriously?" Stu uttered. "This is the same thing as last year!"
"Not to mention the decorating only got started just last week." Loretta chimed in her tone showing much annoyance. "With how everyone's been working, that hasn't been looked at. We're already too far behind as it is."
"So we gotta bust our balls at the last minute. Yaaay..." Stu said dryly with sarcasm.
"The sooner you get this done, the sooner you may return to your duties." Merida glares with authority. "So unless you wish for Lady Goetia to wreak havoc once more, it would be best to start now."
Everyone muttered in agreement because they knew first-hand how Stella was. Not just when she was bitching at the Lord of house, but they also knew just how fierce and serious she was at parties such as this. "Alright, Donner, you, Arnold and Loretta start getting to work on the ballroom, I'll be sure to send extra hands soon when I'm able too and Stu, you'll be handling the pest problem." "Fine with me." Donner gave his response. "I don't care." Loretta replied. "Got it." Arnold answered.
"What?!" Stu exclaimed. "Why me?"
"You know exactly why, dumbass." Loretta said with a blank stare to her brother.
"Oh shuddup, Loretta." Stu glares at his sister. "You know damn well why I hate rats."
"Stu..." Merida spoke up, making a blank face of her own now. "It's either that, or would you perhaps like to accompany the first daughter of Beelzebub like last year?"
The imp immediately panicked. "Oh sweet lucifer no! Not her! I'll do it! Anything but that! She's a freakin sexual predator! I can't do it! No way I can't do it man!"
"You also stink when you come out of the 'private room'." Loretta commented with a frown.
"Can we please just get this over with!" The imp begged, looking down in embarrassment. He screamed when he spotted a rat between his feet.
However much to the employee's amusement it was fake and it got a good laugh out of everyone. "Oh fuck all of you!" He screamed out before marching away stomping his feet angrily.
"Ahem!" He paused, turning back to Merida who gave him a firm look. "It would be best to watch that tone of voice. Unless you wish to do more than rat-catching." The sinner warned the imp.
"All I know is, I'll take those little bastards over that..." He gagged in disgust. "Nasty bee any day of the week." He said before hoisting up a spiked mace walking off.
The Head Maid turns to look at the rest of the staff. "As for the rest of you, I would not make light of this. So it would be best to get to your stations as well. Unless of course, any of you wish to volunteer?" She winked.
They all took the hint and made a run for it. She sighed, pleased to know her 'word's of encouragement' was getting the job done. As they were leaving, one of the servants leaving just so happened to be Donner who she called out to. "Oh! Donner! A moment?!"
Donner stopped and walked back to her. "Yeah Merida?"
"Donner, do you know why this party is held every year?"
The avian demon took a moment to recollect. "If memory serves right, it's to help maintain good connections with the rest of the Goeita family and demons of noble blood."
"That's right. Now, since you have been officially placed as Lady Octavia's Bodyguard, your normal duties that you've been doing for the past many few years will change. You'll be with her for the entire duration of the party itself."
"Ok."
"Also, Donner, a bit of warning before you cross that bridge..."
"What is it?"
"I understand that you have taken a liking to her." She stated "But on this occasion you mustn't show your compassion. Many of the guests there, especially Stella, will most certainly tear you apart if they see you interacting with her beyond formalities."
"I understand what you're saying."
"On top of that, that whole incident with Prince Zane is still fresh and many are still talking about it. Under no circumstances must another incident like that repeat."
"Respectfully Merida, I'm only going to do that unless they mean harm to her." Donner said in his defense. "I mean, some of these other households aren't like Master Stolas. They are cruel to both their family and their servants. Plus, the whole mess with the Imp thing, what's to stop them from treating her like garbage? I've seen how some of them are."
"I get that, but unless they so much as raise a hand against her, you must remain neutral to both this house and to others." Merida implored.
"However, you are given permission to warn them. Master Stolas made it perfectly clear for me to tell you that."
Donner sighed, shaking his head. Knowing that some of these demons weren't gonna be pleasant at all. But he had to do what he needed to do and uphold his service, but his top priority of course was making sure Octavia was safe and he was going to make sure of that. "Can you at least tell me what to expect? Who might be coming?"
"Well, a vast majority of them are going to be from Lady Stella's side of the family including Lord Andrealphus." Donner frowned hearing that name.
"What about Lord Paimon? Is he gonna show up as well?" He questioned. "No." Merida answered much to his relief. He never liked Stolas' father much either. He never could figure him out, sometimes he was curious, and other times he was very snobby like most nobles. "He won't be able to make it this year. But, aside from them Lord Bruns and his wife will be coming as well."
The thunderbird smiles upon hearing this. "They are? Besides Bruns, I haven't seen the wife and kids in a while." Well technically one kid, one is on the way, but technicalities aside he would be looking forward to seeing them.
Merida put both hands on the avian demon's shoulders. "Donner, just promise me that you'll be mindful and stay out of trouble if possible? Can you do that for me please?"
"I'll try." Donner responded, making her smile.
"That's all I ask. Now off you go."
"Yes ma'am." He nodded dutifully, before following Arnold and Loretta to the ball room.
With them out of sight, Merida sighed. "Things are gonna be really hectic soon. Best to be sure things go well."
We now change to the ballroom where we see Donner, Arnold and Loretta cleaning away. Knowing they were completely alone and no one else would hear them Donner started up a conversation.
"So did you guys hear?"
"Hear what?" Arnold questioned.
"Evidently Andrealphus is coming to the party." Donner gave them the information already knowing they weren't gonna like it.
"Oh no..." The grounds keeper groaned, face palming to himself.
Loretta felt the same as he did. "Great...as if one bitch wasn't enough now we gotta deal with her brother on top of it? That's gonna be a long night..."
"Good thing I ain't gonna be there..." Arnold said in a very pleased tone getting Donner and Loretta's attention.
"Got something else in mind?" Donner asked.
"Well, I've been doing some overtime for this occasion and in exchange I get to spend a little while at home with my wife." He then gained a pleased smirk. "And we got plans too to celebrate. No bullshit, no delays, no work. Just us two."
"Lucky for you..." Loretta said as she continued cleaning. "I just want to get this whole thing over with.
"We'll just need to set all of this up and bob's your uncle from there." Donner stated.
(Montage start)
First we see Donner flying in the ballroom holding up some of the decorations. From the floor we see Loretta and Stu telling him where to put it, but while they were doing so screaming was heard making them look to see Stu running away from the horde of rats from earlier. They didn't seem to mind and continued working.
The next, we see the trio cleaning the floors, polishing them even. Taking caution for where they moved. The moment they finished up, they heard squeaking from across the ballroom. Stu spotted a few rats and was going to capture them but he slipped and fell on to the polished floor sliding down the, panicking. The rats screeched in fright, running away from the barreling imp before they all crashed into a nearby wall.
After that we see a bunch of imps helping to hoist up a massive tree imported from Earth into the air trying to get it to stand up. However due to their small stature they weren't having much luck as the extra household workers helped out in the effort.
It also just so happened that Donner flew up to give the tree a boost eventually getting it up in position. Once it was we see Merida giving a thumbs out to the one who'd turn on the lights that were on the tree itself. The unlucky poor soul to do it was Stu, as he hesitantly hit the switch. But when he did nothing happened. He sighed in relief before getting zapped, his skeletal outline being seen.
At the same time the lights on the tree came flashing on, bringing a whole bunch of colorful lights to shine. While everyone was applauding at their hard work paying off they all stopped looking up to hear a scream. They all then scooted out of the way to let Stu fall onto the ground, groaning in pain from the hard landing and getting electrocuted.
We now see the rats peeking through the ventilation shaft making sure it was safe but as they were exiting out we see Stu with an evil grin holding a flamethrower.
But in his eagerness to incinerate these little pests, he neglected to hear a high pitch screech that echoed through the ducts.
It was the whole horde of rats on fire wailing in agony going straight towards him. Naturally seeing this he turned and ran away screaming
For his reckless use Stu now had to clean up whatever soot, scorch marks and any other form of residue he's responsible for. "I fucking hate rats." He growled.
(Montage End)
We now see Donner sighing in relief standing up against a nearby wall in a hallway. "Holy crap...we actually did it..."
"You did a pretty nice job Donner." A voice said making him turn around to see it was Octavia wearing a santa claus outfit. But it was heavily tweaked to fit to her liking, as there were white stars on a cap instead of her usual beanie, and the coat while she was wearing a long red sleeved shirt underneath with white stripes topped off with black pants.
It was truly a new look for the princess, and it was a surprise for her bodyguard. When she wasn't dressed in mostly black, she really... 'Oh no! Not now!' Donner shook his head out of his thoughts. "What are you wearing?"
"Just a little something for fun." The female owl replied, shrugging her shoulders. "I like wearing this rather than one of those tight dresses my mum makes me wear. What do you think? You like it?"
The green bird smiles. "I actually do like it. Those sleeves actually suit you, my lady." he points to her shirt.
She smiled in return. "Thanks."
"So, are you looking forward to the party that's coming up?" Donner inquired.
"Ummm...not really..." She drags the last word a bit. "I mean sure there I get to see some family I can stand and get along with. But..." She sighs a bit. "Mum asks a lot out of me and has a lot of expectations."
"Well even then there's only so much you can do. I mean, you're only just one demon." Donner pointed out.
The princess sighs exasperatingly. He was right and it's annoying to hear, but it's true. If it were up to Octavia, she'd either be in her room, listening to her music or even dragging Donner along for a trip out to the city. But no one really asked her, besides her dad and her bodyguard.
"I know, but I have to..." She said, until someone else had walked up to them. That someone just happened to be Stella. "Ah, Octavia. There you are."
"Hi, mum." The Owl Demon waved boringly.
She then turns to see Donner giving him a scowl. "Oh you're here too." She said in an insulting tone pretending she just noticed him. "I'm just simply doing my duty milady." Donner replied doing his best to ignore the scowl he was given and already knew where this was going to lead up to.
Stella looks back to her daughter and notices the way she's dressed. "Octavia, darling, what happened to the dress I picked out for you?"
"It's still there. I just wanted to wear this since the party won't start till two days from now."
"Well why don't you give it a try for me?" Stella placed a gentle hand on her daughter's shoulder. "I'll come and see you when I can."
Octavia looked over to Donner. "I'll see you a bit, Donner." "Will do milady." Donner bowed, putting on his act while Octavia walked off leaving him with her mother.
"Now what were you two talking about?" She glares at him once again. Thankfully, her puss wasn't as sour as it usually is.
"Nothing really special, she just wanted to say hi and thanked me for my hard work today." Donner answered.
"Is that so?"
"Yes."
She sighs irritably, pointing a finger at Donner. "Consider yourself lucky I have other matters to attend to." She turns about before turning back to him. "But know this, don't embarrass me or my daughter when the guests arrive. I don't care what my husband has to say, I'll be sure you'll never see the light of day." The avian demon warns him. Surprisingly she didn't scream at him this time.
"I'll take note of that milady." Donner replied before walking off.
"Never a dull moment with her." He muttered to no one in particular.
Maybe I should do something tomorrow, after my chores for the day are done..." Suddenly an idea dawned on him. "And I think I know just what to do."
Two days later
We now see all the household servants standing before the lord and lady of the household. Stolas was the one to step forward addressing the crowd before him with Merida seen standing next to Stolas while Octavia was standing next to Stella. "Very well done." He began. "Thanks to all of your hard work, everything is all set and prepared for tonight's main event."
"However, keep in mind that we are far from finished. The party itself will begin approximately 7:P.M Tonight. So that means everyone's full effort is to be expected."
"All the more reason to make sure that there'll be mistakes either." Stella exclaimed, bumping into Stolas's shoulder rather rudely shoving him away which annoyed him immensely but kept his beak shut about.
"This annual gathering is very important for this house and this family. So under no circumstances there better be no mistakes that'll transpire. There will also be no room for error as well. If there is just one incident, anything at all that'll ruin this party, it'll be on every single one of you. Understand!?"
"Yes milady." Everyone replied in unison bowing in response to what was said
Even though they did this, deep down some were really fearful while others, like Donner, Stu and Loretta really wish the bitch would take a chill pill.
Stolas, meanwhile, steps past Stella, clapping his hands together. "Now, you all know your assignments, yes?"
"Yes master." Merida spoke up. "I've already given each and every single staff member their assignment. Everything is ready, we just simply have to wait for the guests to arrive. Rest assured it is taken care of."
"Splendid." Stolas was pleased with the answer.
"Now without further delay, it's time to take your positions." He ordered. "There's much to be done and company will arrive shortly." He almost had to bite his tongue on that last part. Besides a few established guests, he is not looking forward to the rest of them.
"So get to it now!" Stella yelled out, making everyone scramble. "And I meant what I said! No one had better fuck this up!"
It took all but under a minute for some to run off towards the kitchen, some to set up the drinks and sample trays and a few more to stand around the room on watch. They made painstakingly sure that not a single soulless being was unaccounted for.
This indeed was a crucial moment for the staff working in the household. Not only were their paychecks at stake but also the possibility of losing their job which was the last thing any of them wanted.
Two of the guards had just made it to their post by the entrance when an audible knocking came aloud. There's no doubt many of the staff dread who's at the door first.
Many of them began to do rock, paper scissors to try and figure out who'd be the one to answer it. Seeing this, Merida glanced over to Donner.
"Would you please?"
"Do I have too?"
"Yes." The sinner glares flatly.
The one on the left sighs, before opening the door.
Much to Donner's and everyone else's displeasure it was one of the few they weren't looking forward to at all.
Standing before them was a male avian demon with white feathers, turquoise eyes and beak, and periwinkle hair. He wears a bright blue fur vest with a navy-blue undershirt. He also wears a turquoise-colored crown and a white dress with his tail feathers behind him.
'Oh great...this guy...' They all said mentally in unison. It was none other than Stella's brother, Andrealphus.
"Stella!" The white bird cheers, as he approaches his sister.
"How are you dear sister?" "I could've been better." Stella replied as she approached him. "But no less, you are a sight for sore eyes brother. Unlike someone else."
"Oh, you know how it is. The hungry eat their food, while the humble serve it all." He winked, like he was trying to be funny. "Speaking of which, what's this I've been hearing about recently?" Andrealphus asked curiously. "How a family was insulted by some fool in green."
Stella scoffed upon hearing this. "You're referring to that little wretch my 'husband' appointed as bodyguard to our daughter."
"Oh? Is that what he is?" Her brother questioned. "I honestly assumed he was some other no hoper, pretending to be us."
"Indeed so. What a joke." She and her brother laughed as they walked out of sight. Donner scoffed at this frowning.
"How about actually having the gall to say it to my face..." He muttered to himself.
While he was, Donner was unaware that Octavia was approaching him. "You ok?" He quickly snapped out of it. "Yeah...I'm fine."
"Right, and glaring at my uncle tells me you'll make great bedfellows." She said sarcastically.
Donner sighed. "It's nothing new. I've been putting up with that crap for as long as I can remember. You know this by now."
"Yeah..." She looks at him sympathetically.
"So, what do you want to do in the meantime?" The female owl asked out of curiosity hoping to find a way to cheer him up a bit.
"That all depends. Technically as of right now though I'm supposed to be sticking by you doing my job." Donner replied.
"Well..." Octavia rubbed her beak, trying to think of something they could do with what little time they have.
"We could try some of those games you have." She suggested.
"Ok." He turns over to Stolas and Merida. "Hey, since nothing else is going on and I'm supposed to be with her, we'll have some free time to ourselves right?"
Stolas gave it some thought, before smirking. "Well alright. But remember to return before the half hour. No dawdling!"
"Yes, Donner, go on ahead." Merida gave her response and with that Donner began to lead the way with Octavia following behind him. "Where are we going?" She asked. "My room." Donner answered.
"Oh!" She looks at Donner a little flustered. "Is that where you stash them?"
"Hmm?" Donner looks over his shoulder noticing his expression. "What's that look for?"
She turns away quickly. "Nothing."
Donner shrugged taking the answer before they stopped at the door. "Ah, cool. Here it is." He opens up the door and once in there Octavia saw that this was the same size as her room was. There was a single large mattress, with a small shelf containing a few records inside including the record player itself. A mini fridge was seen off to the right close by the closet, with a small desk nearby. To the left was a flatscreen and a few game consoles below it.
"Well, this is my room." Donner commented as they went inside with Octavia closing the door behind her
"And I thought my room was packed." She looks around in amazement.
"This is really yours?" "Yeah." Donner answered. "Only a handful of the staff that work and call this place home rarely earn themselves a room. When did you get this?" "When I was eight." He said before plopping down onto his bed. "Not too bad. A lot cleaner than I expected."
"Expecting something a little more messy?" Donner cheekily asked.
"Maybe." "Oh come on, you're really gonna play the card that because I'm a guy there's a high likelihood my room is a mess?" "You said it, not me." Octavia replied as she went to check out some of his options.
"I mean I remember how your room looked last time. So no need to judge."
She looks through the selection of games he had available. "Huh, some of these are pretty good titles. Huh? A Way Out? Hey Donner, what's this one?" "Oh that's just a game that focuses on two brothers plotting to escape prison." He replied.
"Didn't really get too far with that one."
"How come?" The princess asked.
"Eh, other stuff came up and I was interested in playing something else." Donner spots another from his shelf. "Aha, here's another good one."
"It Takes Two?" Octavia read the cover of the game
"Yeah, it's made by the same guys who made that." The thunderbird pointed to the game she saw earlier.
"You never heard of this one?"
"No, why are they dolls?"
"Well, the story is that the two characters are actually a husband and wife on the verge of divorcing. So somehow a book that their daughter found was magical, transforming them into her toys. Basically, it's like one big marriage therapy where they rediscover the love they had for one another. I've beaten it twice, really good. But I hear it's lot better with another person to play with."
She looks at it sadly. If only it were that easy, she would think to herself. Falling into some kind of fantasy and rekindling something that she assumed was there.
Donner noticed this. "W-We can play something else if you want."
Octavia took up that offer. "What else do you have?"
"Plenty. But let's just pick one before time's up." Donner suggested.
"Alright."
...
Time flew by rather quickly; Donner played a couple of games with Octavia until the time was up. Because right about now the party was about to start and the guests were only beginning to arrive just now. Currently we see Donner standing next to Octavia's door examining his watch.
'Yeah, it's about that time.' Donner said to himself before knocking on the door. "Um...Octavia? Are you almost done there?"
"Yeah, I'm just finishing up..." She responded back followed by a groan of annoyance being heard. "But I'm having sort of a problem."
"What kind of problem?" Donner questioned. "I...I can't reach the back of my dress to tie it." She replied back.
"Oh...Do you want me to call for Merida or something?
"No...C-Could you tie it for me?"
Donner felt his cheeks get warm and for a split moment steam emitted from his ears. 'What'd she just say?'
"Octavia, what do you want me to do?" He asked, although he might've squawked a little bit.
"I said I need help here. I can't reach the stupid ribbon." She responded back. "Gah, why did mum have to go with this one?"
He breathed; he couldn't believe he had to do this. 'The amount of accusations that the old shrew would cook up over this.' Donner opens the door to help his friend with her disposition.
He looked around and spotted her and immediately he paused absorbing what he was seeing. Octavia was now wearing a white Victorian style ball gown, with long sleeves. Underneath the skirt was blue ruffles. She also has a few patches of blue around her chest and some on her shoulders. She also had her usual long hair neatly prepped up being held by two feather-like accessories.
However, it was complete because there was indeed a ribbon that was giving her trouble. Even with her head turned completely around thanks to her being an owl, she wasn't having such a good time finishing up.
"Grr! Stupid thing!" She cursed in annoyance.
The bodyguard shake's his head, snapping himself out of his stupor. Before approaching the now radiant owl demon before him. "Where's the, Uhh... Where's the ribbon?"
Smooth. Real smooth.
"Right in the middle." Octavia replied and sure enough Donner spotted it.
"This thing?"
"Yeah. Could you please?"
"Alright, alright." Donner began to tie it before pausing. "Wait, do you want this just tied into a ribbon?"
"Best do that. Otherwise mum is gonna be on my case about it all ni-Ow!" She winched a bit. "Donner, that's a bit too tight."
"Sorry!" He readjusted the violet string on her back to where he hoped isn't too unbearable for his friend.
"Is-Is that better?" "Much." She replied before breathing out and turned herself around to face her bodyguard. "Thanks Donner."
"Not a problem, my lady." He stood up, his feathers on his cheeks started turning pink.
"So...what do you think?" Octavia asked out of curiosity.
"Oh, umm..." Donner chuckles nervously. "You... You look great." He blurted out. Mentally facepalming himself.
"Thank you...So, they're starting right now?"
Donner nodded in response. "They are."
"Well," The elegantly dressed teen goth sighs. "Let's not keep them waiting."
Donner opens the door and lets her out and proceeds to follow her.
The green bird wasn't going to enjoy this. As fun as what happened earlier was, he'll be forced to only be nothing more than a glorified muscle without. No proper conversations, without somebody making a big deal over it. Then again Octavia was in the same boat as he was. She'd have to try and act all 'proper' since it was one of those parties. If she wasn't her mother would be on her case like a shark smelling a drop of blood in the water.
They stopped at the doors that would lead them into the ballroom with Donner holding the handle to let her through. "Donner, how much would I have to pay you to go in there and say I'm sick?" She quickly asked, throwing it out there.
"If it were any other occasion, I would say a soul." The thunderbird answers honestly. "But if we weasel out of this one..." He didn't need to say more.
"Well, can't say that I tried." She replied back as he opened the door and immediately, they were greeted by the sounds of classy music, talking and laughter coming from multiple places. The ballroom itself was packed, there was a lot of demon nobility here tonight. But aside from that it was a pretty nice party, there was a big tree up against the windows where some were dancing close by it, not to mention a lot of tables that were reserved as well. All the servants of the household were in full work mode, giving out drinks and small entrees to the guests attending
"Big turn out this year." Donner commented, glancing around following Octavia through the crowds. "Looks like more than the previous year too."
"With this many people around, I'd say it would be easier to sneak out." The princess commented.
"Hardly." Donner commented. "Anyone that'd tried sneaking in or out would have a hard time doing so."
"I take it that you've dealt with some of those?" Octavia inquired, almost bumping into a fat bird noble resembling a penguin.
"A few, most of the time they never ended peacefully." Donner replied as he swiped a piece of chocolate from a tray that was being carried by an imp servant eating it. "Mmm, chocolate's good this year too."
"So out of all of them, which one was the worst of them?" The young Goetia asked.
"That's a tough one to pick." Donner pondered. "I think it was this one guy who almost poisoned your father but caught the bastard before he could."
"Someone tried to poison him?" She raised a brow at this.
"Key word. Tried." Donner said before noticing a few imps off to the side carelessly holding a tray full of glasses. "Hey, what are you doing? Be careful with those things. Don't want the lady of the house to get on your case, do you?" "Heck no on that." The imp replied as the continued on. "I also recall one time too, when I saved your life at one of these parties too.
"You did?" She is surprised to hear that. "When was that?"
"Last year." Donner replied. "A guy dressed up as one of the servants here, tried to use the old blow gun trick. Which I have to admit is smart, and quiet. But poor choice when there's eyes that could lay on you at any moment."
"If they wanted to try that, they should've tried something more discreet than a blow dart." he added.
"How would've you done it?" She asked curiously.
"If I told you that, then I'd have to kill you." Donner replied as they finally arrived at their table pulling out the chair for her to sit.
"Thank you." Octavia nodded.
"My pleasure." Donner replied, pushing her in. "But I will be honest. I was pleased to find out that your father made it a rule not to smoke indoors. All the Perfume and strong Cologne is hard enough to stand as it is." He sat down, taking a seat right by her. "If they did smoke, I'd have a hard time not hurling."
She gagged in agreement. "I know what you mean...I swear I have a harder time breathing than being in one of these dresses."
She then glanced around already noticing the looks she was getting along with a few of the guests talking most likely about her, or rather the very bodyguard she was with.
A couple were pretty hush-hush about it. While a few were open about the discussion, positive and negative. Mostly negative. Though the princess could've sworn one them said he was some bastard child of her dad. She groaned at that comment.
"Not even a few minutes sitting down and I get a lot of attention."
"Welcome to the club."
Donner commented. "So what's your mother got planned?"
Octavia shrugs. "I don't know, all I heard is that she invited a very special guest for tonight. Other than that I really wasn't listening."
"Special guest?" Donner grew intrigued. "Who?"
"I don't know." The owl girl replied. "All I heard is that he's some rich guy outside of the Pride Ring. Not much else to be honest."
"Well there's quite a bit of rich guys in Pride. Wonder who she has in mind." Donner said as a few noble kids around their age came up to them.
"Hey there, beautiful!" One of them commented. "Aren't you that girl on that post?
"Yeah, that's the same one." Another added. "Why are you guys even bothering with her?" A third member questioned. "You already know who she is..."
That individual then gained a smirk.
"Oh no..." Octavia groaned.
"After all, she's the imp sucker's little girl." He and his friends laughed at what he said. "Must be nice, living in a place like this and you have very little grace. But after what happened. Wouldn't be surprised if the apple didn't fall too far from the tree."
The trio's laughter grew hardier, while Octavia just facepalmed herself. "Hey, speaking of which, check out Mr Lean and Green here!" The fourth one chose now to speak up. Pointing his lanky finger at Donner.
"Wh-What the hell? I could've sworn he was bigger on the video. That idiot actually got humiliated by him?" They continued on with their laughter.
"Yeah, man! For all that trouble, this guy could've torn the guy's throat with these chompers." The second noble spouted. "I mean with teeth like that, it would have been too kinky for that big dude."
"No, man, he looked like he fell out of the ugly tree and hit every branch on the way down!" The first one jabbed. "Nah, I'll do you one better. I bet when he was a baby, they had to put tinted windows on his incubator!" The third one piles on. Every single time laughing harder and harder with each joke.
"Hmm, very amusing jokes." Donner finally spoke up, getting into character. "But if there's nothing important you wish to speak with Lady Octavia you'd be best to move on." He said while cutting into a piece of meat that was getting served to him ignoring the looks he was getting
"Oh, I see how it is." The first demon grinned. "Here we are trying to be friendly, but you can't take a single joke." The others added some of their own opinions on it. Mostly just 'booing' and 'yeses'.
"Being friendly and belittling others are two different things." Donner said as he ate a piece of cut meat with his fork. "If one were to do it, it simply means that those individuals don't understand anything."
"Ohhh!" The three of the nobles oh'd. The first of them chuckled at this bit. "Oh, now you're just hurting my feelings." He mockingly held his chest in. "If this is how you treat your guests, I can only imagine how well mannered our hosts are if they aren't throwing down." That got a chuckle out of his friends, maybe a couple onlookers too.
"No, just to those such as yourselves." Donner replied.
"Is that so?" The fourth guy chimed in.
"If I may be so bold sir, but don't you have better things to do? I'm sure your relatives would most likely scold you for wasting precious time talking with the likes of me."
The third one scoffed. "Not like they give shit about us talking to you and your girlfriend here."
"Well you maybe." The fourth guy jabbed at his buddy.
"Excuse me?" Octavia questioned being sure she heard this right.
"Oh, so she can talk!" The third one commented, ignoring his friend's snark.
"I think we're done here." Octavia said having enough of them. "Will you please leave now?"
"But why would we do that?" The second one questioned. "We've got nothing to do. Especially with these old geezers who talk utter nonsense."
"Yeah, besides what's good as a party without a little action?" The first demon teased. The fourth one rolls his eyes at this situation.
"So your term of a good time is embarrassing your family's names?" Donner inquired, raising an eyebrow knowing how'd they'd react. "Clearly they haven't taught you much on proper manners either."
"Damn~!" Each of the group, besides the fourth one, started to pat the first nobleman on the back.
"You gonna take that, brother?" The second one yelled enthusiastically.
"You gonna listen to that green motherfucker?!" The third glares at Donner. The fourth simply sighs, stepping a couple feet away from them. Knowing how this might go.
The first seethe in anger clenching a fist. "Why you little...you dare to talk to- '' He takes a step forward but Donner speaks up.
"Take one more step, you're not gonna like how this ends." Donner broke his character, making the noble stop in his tracks. "I've been given specific instructions to give warnings. So you should heed it. I won't say it again."
"Oh, boy." The fourth guy facepalmed.
"Really?" The first still wouldn't back down. "How are you gonna do that? My family-"
"Your family is the reason you're here right now. If it was, otherwise, you'd be rotting in the streets. They don't care who you are, no one cares who you are. You don't care what I am and that's perfectly fine. Because I don't feel anything for you at all." Donner gives him a stone-cold glare.
"Look into my eyes...What do you think is gonna happen if you don't leave Princess Octavia alone?"
The fourth didn't need to hear him twice. He just walks to the crowd, bumping into a man as he passes through. The second stopped smiling and actually started to back up a bit. The third most certainly kept his mouth shut.
"You wouldn't dare..." The first one said finding him to be bluffing. But flinched, noticing a few sparks of electricity surging around his body.
"Try me..." Donner challenged.
Before things could further escalate a new voice spoke up. "I believe that won't be necessary, gentleman." It sounded like an older fella and sure enough, a hand was placed upon the nobleman's shoulder.
The one who spoke was a very tall bald humanoid like demon with extremely long limbs wearing black/graying fur dressing in a very expensive looking suit. His most notable trait was his solid pitch-black eyes. "After all, a party such as this shouldn't be ruined. It'd be rude to our hosts. Plus, the young man right here is right. You really should learn some manners, son." He patted him on the back. "Now, off you go."
The kid looks at him in pure shock. The two had already backed off. But the last one couldn't budge. Before a small jolt no one saw caused him to yelp and run through the crowd. The man turns to the pair of birds before him. "My apologies, Lady Goetia and to you Mr...?
"Donner." "No last name?" He inquired. "None." The avian demon replied back.
"Hmm." he hummed. "Again, I apologize. People down here don't seem to know when to leave well enough alone these days."
"That's for sure." Octavia agreed. "Um...I'm sorry, who are you?"
"Oh?" He raised an eyebrow. "Where are my manners?" The old man held his hand out to the two. "My name is Quentin Estil. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance." The spider demon said politely.
"You're a sinner..." Donner noticed knowing what he was instantly. "No offense intended, it's just, well. From what I've seen over the years, the Goeita don't really invite many of them here. Of course every now and then, there are exceptions."
Quentin smiles at this. "Yes indeed, I happen to be one of the few exceptions. In Fact, the fact that many have benefited from my work is how the Lord and Lady of the house invited me." His hand is still out expecting to be shaken.
Donner takes it and upon doing so a few sparks were emitted not just from himself but Quentin himself. He hummed, noticing this, almost sounded interested.
"Quite the grip you have, young man." The suit complimented.
Donner nodded back in response. "I appreciate the assistance sir even though I had it handled."
"I'm sure you could." He chuckles. "If someone like you can take on a fella three times your size, I'm certain no one would think to try their luck."
"You'd be wrong about that actually." Donner noted. "Size matters very little. If you're big, you're slow. But if you're small, you're quick. In the end it all depends on how you choose to fight."
"Exactly!" The sinner pointed at the thunderbird happily. "Someone who understands strategy. If I wasn't a busy man I would've challenged you to a chess game sooner than later. Or whatever you youngsters play these days."
"I've played chess before." Donner shrugged. "I prefer to keep myself open minded, not just the simple things most are used to. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy playing games, but I can always appreciate the classics before them."
Quentin nods to him. "Very nice." He turns to look at Octavia. "My apologies, my dear, I didn't mean to leave you out of this conversation."
"No, no it's alright. I'm sort of used to moments like this by now." She replied back.
"Now that shouldn't be the case, my lady." He playfully gasped. "No one should be hiding behind another's shadow. Everyone is open to speak up about their opinions ." He leans by the table. "It's how America was founded, it's how Hell thrives. And so far it's benefited many of us, even your friend here." The spider demon pointed at Donner.
"And the rest?" Donner inquired. "Those who aren't so fortunate?"
"Well, they're more than welcome to seek sanctuary." Quentin said, casually. "Not everyone can start life as fortunate as you say, Mr. Donner."
"Even so, you were human once yourself just like the rest..." Donner pointed out. "Even Lucifer himself was an angel before he fell. Surely you must feel a bit of sympathy for those that won't be so lucky during the upcoming Extermination Day."
"Indeed I do." Quentin lamented. "A few investors as well as many of my employees were slaughtered on those days. It truly hurts to tell a child that their father has fallen because of such a travesty."
"I know the feeling...I have a friend who's lost much because of that day." Donner said. "And many others as well. I do hope that the project, Princess Charlotte is working on goes well. It's something that we'll need as time goes by."
"The Happy Hotel?" He looks at the green bird surprised.
"Yes."
"Huh, I actually tried to offer a deal with the young girl previously." The salt and pepper demon commented.
"And I'm assuming she didn't accept it." Octavia guessed.
"On the contrary, I was about to reveal my offer to her when this peculiar man, brazingly crashed through the doors and brought with him some very troublesome mugs, expecting to... Well the less I recall that predicament, the better."
"You're referring to Alastor The Radio Demon." Donner said. "Are you not?"
"Oh?" Quinten was generally surprised to hear this as was Octavia. "You know him?"
Donner shook his head. "No. Only by name and reputation. That and I also listen to whispers now and then."
"Then you should count yourself fortunate, both of you." Quentin furrowed his brows. "The Radio Demon is bad business. Even before his death I heard many reports of him slaughtering many people over the morning radio. That man is dangerous.
"And we aren't?" Donner pointed out getting a chuckle from the demon before him.
"Fair point. But still, he is quite powerful, not quite the egg I want to crack without catching something, you understand?"
"I do. But he has one weakness. The same as the rest of us. He's alive and he has a beating heart." Donner stated that fact.
"Indeed." Quentin nodded. "To kill a parasite, you must kill it at the source."
He then cleared his throat. "I've enjoyed our conversation. But I believe I must be off now. Do enjoy the rest of your night." With that said he left walking off accepting a glass of champagne in the process.
"Well that...was...tense." Octavia noted.
"I'll say." Donner agreed. "Would you like something to eat?"
"You know what, yeah, I'm famished. " The female owl demon answered feeling that it would be better to help set in for what she didn't want to do. One of the big special events that her mother arranged.
...
Two hours had gone by now another part of the Infermus Party itself would begin. Something that Octavia wasn't looking forward to, dancing and it just so happened that she would dance with some of the young noble male demons. This was something she had to put up with for at least two years, when she turned 15 her mother became more firm on special lessons. The owl knew exactly what it was for, it was an attempt to hook up Octavia with a potential candidate. Naturally Stolas objected to the idea but being the stubborn bird she was Stella didn't care, she was very insistent on helping her daughter's 'future' so long as it benefited the Goeita name itself.
From the sidelines, in the upper levels, we see Donner keeping his gaze locked and focused on Octavia who was dancing with another demon making sure he didn't try anything including keeping a watchful eye out for anything else suspicious. 'Nothing so far...' He said to himself.
To be quite frank, watching Octavia getting passed along like that just sparked something in him. He wasn't liking it for a second. It's like seeing animals fighting over a piece of meat. The thunderbird crossed his arms, glaring as each of these 'suitors' continued to take turns moving in rhythm with the music in the background. Something about this is just bugging him.
'I know she's hating every single moment of this...A lot might not see it, but she's not enjoying a single second...' He watched as one of these suitors finished their dance with her before she moved onto the next one. He frowned, noticing how rather close he was getting to her. For a brief moment a small spark emitted from his body.
He had about half a mind to zap the dancer where he stood. But Donner knew better, the last thing the bodyguard needs is giving his master grief and he especially does not wanna put up with that sourpuss for a wife.
'What's going on with me? I was just like this a couple weeks ago too...'
He felt his feathers stand up a bit before he shook his head, laying them back down. 'Why is it that every time I'm near her, I feel this sudden rush?' he growls slowly.
"Hello Donner." 'Oh shit...great...' He knew that voice from anywhere. It was Andrealphus.
"What's the matter, Lad? Feathers caught your tongue?" The icy bird jokes. As if Stella squeaking her beak off wasn't bad enough, he has to put up with this arrogant prick
"No, I'm just keeping alert sir." Donner replied even though he didn't want to keep his gaze focused on Octavia.
"Alert for what? It's a party, there's absolutely nothing wrong with relaxing." Andrealphus sighs gleefully. "Besides, staring at my niece like some predator will not end well for you." He winked.
"I am making sure she is safe. Nothing more, nothing less." Donner replied, ignoring his wink. "And dropping your guard down is a fools mistake."
"Why I have no idea what you're talking about." Stella's brother feigned ignorance. "After all it's not like we're bringing another imp into this ballroom, just to fuck one of my own family."
"What exactly is it that you want Lord Andrealphus?" Donner knew that he had something in mind. After all, just like Stella, he didn't like him either. "You do not find me good company, much less worth your time."
"On the contrary, dear boy." He smirked. "You seem more entertaining, compared to some of the worms here. Especially if what my sister told me is true."
"And what might that be?"
"Oh, I don't know. You following her around, scaring away suitors, killing a few of them even. If I didn't know any better, I would assume you wanted her for yourself." His icy eyes were now looking directly at Donner's own sapphire blue gemstones.
Despite this Donner didn't flinch, nor show any signs of fear. "I've already made this perfectly clear to Lady Stella, I am doing my duty as her bodyguard and I intent to make sure she stays safe as long as I'm breathing."
"Such devotion and loyalty..." Andrealphus chuckled. "Interesting...Stolas certainly knows how to pick them." He smiled coldly.
"You seem like a very calm and reasonable person at most times Donner...Tell me...Are you? A calm and reasonable person?"
"Only when the moment calls for it..." Donner returned his gaze back to Octavia resuming his watch over her.
"Oh, what a pity." He moans. "Someday they won't need you. When they throw you away, no one will miss you. Octavia perhaps, but she'll get over it. Perhaps she'll find someone truly worthy of her affection and when she does... She won't bat as much of an eye at a toothless worm my dear brother-in-law found on his gutter."
"I know..." Donner replied as he noticed that the dancing was now over and the other guests began to flock to the center of the room grabbing their partners. "I have a question for you now my lord… Is that all she is to you? To the entire Goeita family? Just a mere means to keep their status?"
"Now what kind of silly question is that, lad?" He questioned. "We're destined for this; many have tried to stand out just like you are. But in the end the world will snuff you out like a candlelight. That's all it is, a way of life."
"It all depends from either perspective..." Donner pointed out. "It's what we do...We either live for nothing, or we die with our beliefs believing in something...Hence like dust in the wind. Nothing will take that away. It'll be there till the end of days. She has her own life, her own choices, nothing can ever stop free will. If something did, it'd only be just too simple and too easy."
"Really?" A sudden grin appears on his face. "What's stopping you from saying that? You talk about freedom and yet you serve my boorish brother-in-law and my dearest sister. You have many chances to change your destiny, yet you do absolutely nothing. Admit it, you're just as much of a slave as the rest of these fools." He waved a hand, gesturing towards the crowd.
"True. In the end we're also mere slaves to something, even to ourselves, which leads to their ultimate downfall. I'm no exception. That'd also include you my lord. As well as every single other being in Hell." Donner smirked. "Ironic, most don't ever think about it."
"Hmm." Andrealphus scoffed. "Stella was not exaggerating when she said you were a tough nut to crack."
"If I was, it wouldn't be amusing now, would it?"
"Don't feel too proud of yourself, boy." The white avian warned the thunderbird. "Stolas may give you freedom for as long as he wants, but someday he'll be gone and Stella will ensure you get back in line. Just like the rest of the servants and that whore that pretends to be your mother."
Donner frowned at this and Andrealphus noticed a claw twitch including a small spark. "Oh, did I struck a nerve?" The white avian grinned once more. "If you truly knew you're place, you would be better off seen but never heard, no better than your daddy." He further mocked. Wether or not it was in reference to Stolas or not doesn't really matter.
"View it however you wish." Donner said before he walked off to join the one who was assigned to protect before pausing. "But just know this my lord, whenever you or anyone else doubts my loyalty, I say this...Those who would dare harm Princess Octavia will die."
He turned his over glaring directly at the noble. "That also includes the very Goetia's themselves should they ever think to do so. It's not a warning, it's a promise. Now I must go to her." Donner puts on a smile. "Have good rest of your night sir." With that said he walks off.
The cold scowl on the avian demon's face definitely showed itself. 'How dare that little bastard threaten me!' Andrealphus thought. He turns to walk elsewhere; Stella will be sure to hear of this revelation. While doing so, he pondered. 'Although I do admit he is interesting. Most would cower at my presence alone...There's also that...There's no mistaking it...With the right amount time he very well can be on terms of power with myself as well as Stolas.'
His scowl grew far colder. 'That cannot happen...Even someone as foolish as him can die. But how do you get rid of someone with such an annoying reputation?''
...
At the same time Donner was seen in a hall with a shadow covering his eyes. He proceeded to stop and punch into a nearby wall causing it to crack.
"That plastic faced piece of shit!" He growls frustratedly.
"Oof, I see Andrealphus came and talked with you." A voice said snapping him out of it to show it was Bruns wearing his normal royal clothing. "I also noticed he too was awfully pissed off about something."
"I don't need a reminder, Bruns." Donner vents. "It seems like every time I listen to that cocky son of a bitch, I wanna fry his damn face in."
Bruns was amused by that comment and put a hand on his protégé's shoulder. "I don't blame you. Personally, I think he needs a good smackin around. Walk with me." Donner proceeds to follow the noble bat through the halls. "It's been a while since we've last spoke, hasn't it?"
"Yes, it has. By any chance is the wife here?"
"Oh Ferne? No, she ain't. You know she very much dislikes Stella. Plus, she doesn't need the stress as of the moment." Donner knew he was referring to the state his wife was in.
"How far is she?"
"Six months. Still got a little way to go before the new addition arrives." Bruns answered as they got out to the open beginning to make their way through the number of guests. "So, your currently searching for Octavia are you not?"
"I am."
"Hmm." The bat demon smirks.
Donner gave him a blank face knowing that look from anywhere since he was one who loved gossip. "What?"
"Oh nothing, Donner. Just something I noticed." Bruns teasingly shrugs.
Donner wasn't so convinced but hoped he dropped whatever was working in that 'odd' mind of his.
"Although, word around you scaring off a few guests started buzzing about. Was that your doing?" Bruns asked curiously. He knows Donner wasn't that guilty, but he wanted to hear him out.
"Only a small part, the rest was intervened by a demon called...What was his name?...Quentin Estil. You know him?"
"Quentin Estil?" The older demon looks to him, wanting to be sure he heard correctly.
"Yeah...the tall bald guy, wearing a fancy expensive looking suit." Donner noticed him getting tense. "Something wrong?"
"Only that there's more rumors than facts about him." Bruns said seriously. "What's clear is that he is a business man and owns a few establishments. If what you say is true, than him being is quite an occasion."
"Is he really that big of deal?" Donner questioned. "I never heard of him."
"With how many people are benefiting from his backing, including a few of noblemen here. Yes, he's a big deal." The bat nodded. "Though it's understandable you never heard of him. From what I understand he's reclusive, this is probably one of few times he's shown himself. Especially here of all places."
"Should we be worried?"
"No. It's fine." Bruns changed the subject and they continued to look for Octavia and seized the opportunity to change the subject for his amusement. "So? How's your position as bodyguard been?"
"It's fine."
"Really?" The bat demon grinned. "If it's fine, why do your feathers stick up?"
"Oh that? I'm just keeping myself on edge. You have to be ready just in case."
"Ooooh? Is that all?" He teased some more. Raising his brows for good measure.
"What are you-" Donner frowned in annoyance. "Oh, knock it off already Bruns."
"Knock what off?" He nudged the thunderbird.
"Can we just find Octavia already?" He picks up the pace grabbing a few samples of food from nearby trays in the process.
"Oh, c'mon Donner! I just wanna know what's going on between the pair of you." Bruns stated, grabbing a champagne glass from another tray.
"I don't care, I'm not interested!" The teen avian replied back.
"Yes, you are." The bat grinned ear to ear.
"Do I need to wear garlic?" Donner questioned in annoyance.
"Oh, come now, Donner! No need to be so hostile, especially over a girl." He teased, not caring about the glare pointed at him.
Bruns' smirk grew even further. "Ah, there she is now." He said pointing over to Octavia who was talking to Stella. "Not another word. Please shut up." Donner requested as Bruns started to calm himself down to prepare for the talk with the mean bird.
"Very well-done Octavia." "Thanks mum..." The teen owl replied still ticked off that she had to waste her time with dancing. Especially when some of them were set to be her possible 'husband'.
"You know, this is actually the calmest this has been all day." Stella commented. "Normally, someone would come charging in to ruin it all."
"Milady." Donner called out getting their attention much to Octavia's relief while Stella was ticked off but even more because Bruns was with him. "There you are."
"Me and my big fucking mouth." She mutters lowly. "And where have you been?" The avian demon asked glaring at the green bird.
"Your brother just wanted to talk to me and while I was looking for Princess Octavia I ran into Lord Bruns." Donner answered.
"Is that so?"
"Yes, my lady." He nodded.
"Hello Stella." Bruns greeted the owl and got her usual face which was her usual scowling face.
"Bruns..." She greeted back but not as nicely. "I see your 'wife' is nowhere to be seen."
"Ah, she's very deep in her pregnancy you know how it is." The bat answered, referring to when she was pregnant with Octavia.
"Yes. I do." The avian demon rolls her eyes. "I honestly assumed she was binge eating."
Bruns hummed at this. "No, not really. If I seem to recall, you craved rats coated in peanut butter. Not to mention other odd cravings that were amusing."
"I did no such thing." Stella huffed.
"Could've fooled me." Bruns chuckled. "By the way, you and Stolas hosted a very lovely party this year." The bat commented. "You always do good with these."
Stella puffed up her chest at that, her scowl still intact. "I take great pride in my work, Bruns. Thank you."
'Heheh. Loves to be confidant in herself as usual.' Bruns said to himself keeping his smile. 'Good thing my wife didn't come otherwise a forced labor would've happened wouldn't want that to happen. Heheheheh. Let's see if I can rustle her feathers some more and that'll make my night.'
"So any plans for the rest of the year."
"Oh yes, plenty. Many of which you aren't invited for." The pink eyed demon smirked.
"Ah...is that so? And would that include some of other questionable getaways I've heard so much about?" Bruns kept going with his grin showing off his fangs. "Something...rather...naughty~"
"What are you applying, blood sucker?" Stella glared.
"Nothing~"
Bruns still kept his teasing smirk. "As I said, it could be...naughty~
"If you're insinuating that I'm no better than that embarrassing excuse for a friend of yours, than that is a goddamn lie!" She growled, but her volume grew higher with each word.
"Oh no, no, no. I would never consider ever thinking that." He said dramatically faking it. "But you said it not me." He chuckled in amusement. "Also, you really should calm yourself, it's not very fitting for a lady of your 'stature' and reputation. Upholding such simple things like that is necessary for demons such as us." The bat knew he got her exactly where he wanted her.
"Don't talk to me about etiquette." The avian stepped forward, pointing a finger at the bat. "Why don't you do us all a favor? Mind your own fucking business and keep that claptrap of yours shut!"
Bruns stepped forward as well, not intimidated by her. "You might be a Goeita, Stella, but deep down, you're just a scared spoiled brat that gets angry whenever things don't go there way for you." He then turns to Octavia ignoring the fuming glare he was getting from her mother smiling her way. "By the Octavia, good to see you again little one. You look wonderful tonight and have a either a merry Christmas or Infermus." He looks back to Stella. "Ta-ta." He walks off humming happily to himself. Oh! He could hardly wait to tell his lovely wife at home how the party went.
"That fucking bastard..." Stella was clenching her fists before exhaling out in anger. "I think I've had enough for tonight."
Octavia cheers from behind, while her mother wasn't looking and at the same time Donner was holding back a snicker.
She turned to them and raised a not so amused eyebrow. "Something funny?"
"No mum!/No ma'am!" Both Octavia and Donner replied in unison not wanting to get snapped by her.
Stella's frown grew even deeper. She didn't bother to address her guests. Just storm out of the ball room to, possibly, vent about her latest embarrassment.
"So, how was that dance of yours Octavia?" Donner questioned deciding to change the subject.
"Ugh," The princess gags. "I don't even know where to begin." She pinched the bridge of her beak.
"I also felt at least a couple of them trying to grab my ass." She shakes her head groaning in annoyance. "I'm just so fucking glad that's done."
"But I noticed you catching them too." Donner commented. "I was making sure nobody did try anything while at the same time making sure everything was good too. Until your uncle came up."
"Was that who you were talking about earlier?" She asked specifically.
"I rather not talk about it." Donner replied crossing out his arms. "Had the freakin gal to talk about Merida like that..."
"What did he say?" The princess is starting to worry.
Donner sighed, shaking his head. "He kept taking jabs at me...kept talking trash about your father and he said and I quote, 'the whore that pretends to be my mother.' I wanted to cave in his fucking skull... If he said another word...'"
"Hey, hey, hey!" Octavia gently placed a hand on her bodyguard's shoulder. "Let's not go that far right now, alright? I'm sorry I asked."
He calmed down smiling appreciating her gesture and attempt. "I know...I just needed to let it out...Every time when I hear someone dissing Merida I just...get angry..."
"Has this happened before?" She feels like she's going to regret asking that.
"Sometimes...I can't help it...I never knew my parents and well...she's honestly the closest thing to a mother I ever had. She did raise me."
Octavia could only nod, remembering what he has told her up to this point. Stella belittling him was one thing, but Uncle Andrealphus? What did he do to deserve all of this?
"I think I had enough tonight too..." Octavia said. "Let's go find dad and let him know."
"Alright." Donner followed her and as he did this someone was watching them from the sidelines drinking champagne. Whoever this demon was, didn't appear but instead only a long bony hand handed the glass cup back to an imp servant before walking off.
Stolas meanwhile was sitting by the sidelines as usual. Watching how the party progressed from his viewpoint. Surprisingly, not a word out of Stella's beak, much less from his dipshit brother-in-law. While a few guests have tried their luck, it was quelled without incident. Overall, this is probably one of the rare few times nothing in Stella's parties has anything to do with him and his manhood.
"Dad!" He turned over to see Octavia walking towards him with Donner. "There you are Via, I see you found Donner, or did he perhaps find you?"
"He more or less found me." The teenage owl shrugged.
"Ah, ok." He turned over to Donner. "No trouble I presume to report Donner?"
"Well, besides a few brats, you're 'better half' and having to put up with the brother. Nothing too crazy." The thunderbird played it off as calmly as he could. "That and also none of the dancers tried anything funny."
"Except a few..." Octavia blurted out.
"I beg your pardon?" Stolas looks to his daughter with concern.
"A few were rather 'handsy'" She air quoted.
Stolas looks down to the girl even more worried. "Did they touch you anywhere? Did they say anything to you?" The poor father was practically having a heart attack at this.
"Just the first thing..." She answered in annoyed tone giving him the list of ones who did. "Dancers from 1, 3, 7, and 10. Also dad, can I be done for the night? I think I've had enough."
"Yes, I do believe that's quite enough." The father nodded his head. He, honestly, wanted to end the party anyway.
"Have a good night, Via. You too Donner, excellent work as usual." Donner bowed in response before they left. "You too my lord have a good rest of your night." He proceeds to follow her and while doing so he noticed something. 'Hmmm, almost every single time when I see my little owlette tonight she always has that frown, but...She seems to smile more around Donner...'
Stolas ponders the reason why that is. In all honesty, it reminds him of how he felt around others, besides Bruns, and Blitzy... 'Wait a minute! No, that can't be right.' The owl was trying to rationalize this. 'No way that my own daughter could possibly...' He placed his hand on his beak, worried he may just say something out loud. In front of a waning crowd no less.
"Oh dear...I really should consult this to Bruns later..."
Meanwhile back in the hallways Donner glanced over to Octavia pondering on something, wondering if he sieze this opportunity. He stopped in his tracks. "Um...Octavia?"
"Hmm?" Octavia stopped in her tracks and turns a heel to look towards her protector.
"Hey, would you meet me on the roof? In a little bit?"
"What for?" She quirked a brow.
"J-Just me up their if you could..." Donner stuttered before running off much to her confusion.
"Umm, okay..." Octavia looked towards where he bolted off to.
"What's gotten into him this time?" She then thought of something putting her palm onto her other open hand.
"Oh, maybe it's that?" The owl had a pretty solid idea of where he was going with this. But she feels it's best to hear what he has to say than jump to conclusions just yet. So she'll humor him and go up to the roof... At least after she takes this crap off.
...v..0..v...
A little later we see Donner on the roof of the Palace, right now he was wearing a very heavy-duty jacket customized to fit his large wings to keep himself warm. Each breath he took could be seen due to how cold it was.
He put his claws together rubbing them together for warmth. "Crap it's cold...I know this place is supposed to be warm especially where we're at, but geez."
To anyone who thought there couldn't be a cold day in Hell, they were dead wrong. While there isn't any snow in these parts, it is still cold enough to give the Thunderbird the chills.
While doing this, he reached into his jacket pulling out a medium sized box tied with a silver ribbon.
He hummed to himself wondering if she was going to like it or not. He was both anxious and nervous. So this was a bit confusing, killing was almost easy, but something like this? He rarely ever had done.
He hummed to himself wondering if she was going to like it or not. He was both anxious and nervous. So this was a bit confusing, killing was almost easy, but something like this? He rarely ever had done.
"Donner?" Hearing that voice made him flinch and quickly hide what he had, stuffing it into his jacket.
He turned around to see it was Octavia wearing the same clothes that was wearing earlier two days ago. Only it was bit more decked out to help keep her warm.
"Octavia, you made it!" Donner said, cringing a bit at the obvious.
"What made you think I'd stand you up?" Octavia questioned, raising an eyebrow.
"What? Oh no, I just thought that you... Umm..." The thunderbird rubbed the bottom of this beak, trying to get the words right.
She chuckled playfully pushing his shoulder. "Relax, I'm just kidding."
"Ah, right." Now he's rubbing his head sheepishly. Why this is happening to him, he'll never understand. He cleared his throat quickly changing the subject. "Pretty c-cold up here. You gonna be alright?"
The princess nods, "Yeah, I'll be fine." She looks to him seeing how he looked. "Aren't you cold?
"A little bit." Donner replied holding out his hands. "I really wish I grabbed gloves. But each time I do, my claws puncture through them."
"You know there are gloves for that." She pointed out. "Stylish Occult sells some of that for people with claws or talons." She raised her fingers, lazily for reference.
"Seriously?" Donner questioned. "That's good to know." He then glances over to a nearby bench. "So...do you want to sit?"
"Umm, alright." They walk over to it and with a flap of Donner's wings the snow blew off. "Oh, thanks." They proceeded to sit down. "You know, I rarely go up here." Octavia noted as she looked out in the distance. "I can't remember the last time I sat here either. I always enjoyed the views."
"It's probably the best places in the palace to go when I want to just breathe." Donner nodded, a small smile forming on his face."Don't get me wrong my room is ok and I love but yeah, you get the point."
The young Goetia nods in understanding. She brings something out; it was a thermal. Surprising Donner because he didn't expect to see this. "Whoa, you actually brought hot chocolate?"
"Thought you could use a pick-me-up. Plus, it'll keep you warm up here." She gives the drink to Donner.
"Thank you, wow." Donner happily accepted it and started sipping away, sighing away in content. "Mm, this is good."
"You're welcome." She gently smiles. "So, what was with you earlier? Running off like you saw a live rat."
"Oh, come on, I'm not Stu. He's more afraid of rats than I am. I even caught him trying to kill them with a flamethrower...which... didn't end well for him." He chuckled.
Octavia snickered, "I think I remember seeing one hiding in his jacket earlier. Back in the ball room."
"How much do you wanna bet it'd take for him to find out?" Donner questioned with an amusing smirk.
"A soul." She winked.
Donner laughed at what she was referring to, it was one time when he said he'd help her out for a soul. So yeah, that actually made a bit of sense.
"You sure you wanna cash that in right now?"
"I should be asking you that, mister." The princess jabbed.
Both chuckled at that comment as they stared out in the distance. "You know, it's a real shame that this peaceful moment isn't gonna last very long." Donner glanced over to her for a bit.
"Because of the Extermination right around the corner? Yeah, I know what you mean." Octavia looks back to her bodyguard. "So as I was saying, why did you run off earlier? Be honest with me."
"Um..." Donner started to get nervous and reached into jacket as she watched him do so in confusion.
[5:41 PM]
"H-H-H-Here." He quickly placed the box he had onto her lap looking away and as she glanced down at it Donner was blushing like crazy.
The owl demon grabs the box. "What's this?" She, carefully, untied the ribbon and pried the lid open.
When she opened it she her eyes widened in surprise. She reached inside of it and pulled out a very well-done black scarf with a starry night pattern.
"No. Way!" She gapped. "Where'd you get this?!"
"Um..." Donner fidgeted his claws. "I remember you were eyeing something like this before and yesterday I went out and grabbed it. Also no, didn't steal it."
"I...I know it's nothing much and you can get anything you want...But...I just figured...I-I try to be nice...since it's Christmas..."
Donner couldn't say much more, as Octavia leans over, ducking under his beak to give the thunderbird a big hug.
"..." Donner was having a hard time processing this, he was sure she wasn't gonna be into it, but he wasn't complaining and returned the favor.
She released him from the hug and quickly tied the scarf around her neck. "Donner, thank you. That was actually very kind of you to think of me."
Donner smiled in response. "So did I do good?"
"Yeah, you did." Octavia nodded and reached into her coat pocket. "In fact, I got you something too."
"You shouldn't have to, Via." He grabs the gift, smiling softly.
He then blushed realizing what he just said. But shook his head and opened up the gift that she was giving him.
"I know," she brushed off what he called her. "Besides, I wanted to do this for you. You've been a pretty good friend to me ever since you came through the door."
He reached into the box and inside was a necklace with a gold chain and a small little bird at the end of it.
"So...What do you think?" Octavia asked not very sure if he was going to like it.
The green bird bird couldn't help but smile at what was given to him. Carefully, he placed the neckless around his neck, locking it in place.
"Not too bad...Not bad at all...Thank you Octavia."
"You're welcome."
"You know Donner, this Christmas has been different for me."
"How so?" He questioned. She shrugged in response while looking at the scarf she just received.
"I guess, because usually I'm always spending it by myself in a way."
"By yourself?" Donner was generally confused. "I don't understand."
"Maybe it's because I was little and didn't know any better..." Octavia answered as Donner listened in. "I used to always enjoy this time of year, but gradually, it just...died out. As I got older, stuff in my life happened as well."
Donner got a pretty good idea of where she was going at with this. He sometimes had a hard time enjoying Christmas too at a young age, but Merida was always there to make sure it would always be good. Even then he'd sometimes feel lonely, just as she did. Only difference was, it was him wondering what his real family would be like. What they'd give him what he would try and figure out what to give to them. Donner yearned for that, but he was thankful that at least he got to spend this one holiday with others who had a special place in his heart.
"I can sort of understand that." Donner spoke up. "Not in the exact same way, but in my own different form."
Hearing this made her smile, pleased to at least know that Donner tried to talk. Even if it would fail, she really appreciated this. Then for some odd reason she deke a small page from her dad. Something that ever did, but often heard him do
Octavia: I don't know...if you believe... in Christmas...Or if you have presents...underneath...the Christmas tree...
From the corner Donner looked over to Octavia. He had to admit, her voice was actually very beautiful he was always used to her normal personality so this was a shock to him.
Octavia:..But if you believe...in love...That will be more than enough...For you...to come and...celebrate with me...
Donner shrugged his shoulders figuring why not and joined in.
Donner: For I have held the precious gift...that love brings...Even though... I never saw...a Christmas star...
Octavia glanced over to Donner a look of shock on her face. She never thought she'd ever hear his voice much figured he'd sing but smiled at this sight.
Donner:...I know there is a light...I have felt it burn inside...And I have...seen it...shining...from afar...
Both teen avian demons began to sway their heads slowly side to side completely getting into synch in perfect unison.
Both: Christmas is that time to...come together...A time...to put all differences aside.
Octavia: And I reach out my hand... to the family of man
Both. To share the joy I feel...at...Christmas time
Octavia: For the truth that binds us...all together...we would like to say...a simple prayer
Donner: That at this special time...you will have true peace of mind...And love to last throughout...the coming year.
Suddenly both were taken by surprise as multiple fireworks shot up into the sky brightening up the sky itself with many colors. Another little tradition in the Goeita household decided to add a while back as a way to help end the party with a bright bang.
Both: And if you believe in love...That will be more than enough...For peace to last throughout...the coming year...And peace...will last throughout...the year.
Suddenly a loud bell toll was heard a loud toll from the clock tower in the Pride Ring. Donner checked his watch and sat it was now 12:15 and noticed that the guests from the party were starting to leave. "Well, I guess that concludes this year's party."
"Yeah." She sighs. "Do you wanna head back inside?"
He hummed at that thought. "Nah, I'll stick around out here for a little bit longer."
"In that case I'll stick around too." Octavia spoke up.
"You don't have too." Donner commented. "You've done enough for me tonight..."
"I know...I want too." Octavia smiled looking out at the distance leaving Donner blushing hearing her words.
For the first time in either of their lives, they have a something to look forward to. And even now, this was best night of their lives.
(Song now playing in the background. Jennifer Love Hewitt - When I'm With You)
Donner glanced over to Octavia and very hesitantly then proceeded to take off his jacket and covered her shoulders taking the owl by surprise. Though she hid it through a smile, eyes looking towards him. "What are you doing?"
"Just thought I'd help warm you up a bit." He then panics waving out his claws realizing how that sounded. "B-B-B-But not t-t-trying anything funny though! I swear! You...looked cold."
"I get it, I get it." She laughed a little. "Geez, you need to lighten up a little. It's not like your trying to get into my pants." Octavia than proceeded to put the other end of the jacket over Donner's shoulders which in turn got them really close together. "Thanks though. I was cold."
"Also I got a request Octavia." Donner spoke up.
"Hmm?" Octavia tilted her head.
"If your mom does ask...Please don't tell her I gave you that scarf."
"Really?" She questioned. "That's your request?"
"Yes...she would kill me..." Donner answered chuckling nervously. "Just like she'd kill me if she found out you were here right now..."
Octavia sighs exasperatingly. He was right, but it's hard to say. Considering that imp is still alive and doing his thing, the girl wasn't sure what her mother would do. But recalling what was told to her, she may do something very drastic. "Ok, you have my word..." The female owl demon said. "Merry Christmas Donner."
Donner smiled as well. "Merry Christmas Octavia." As the two enjoyed this moment unknown to them both a set of mischievous eyes were watching them. As for who they belonged to, it was Bruns.
'Oh my...' The bat demon chuckled to himself.
'Now this should be interesting.' He turns away from the door and walks down the steps. "Good luck, Donner." He mumbled.
With those words said he dropped down and flew off. "Ohohoho. I can't wait to tell my wife about this...And Stolas...Oh, boy I can't wait to see his face." He sighs in content. "I know I shouldn't, but I do love me some good gossip." He chuckled happily, picking up flight speed.
(Song in the background now end)
Back in Destiny's Bar we see the tv zoom outwards showing the being wiping tears
"What are you looking at? I'm not crying...Dammit, I'm not crying...that was so beautiful...Just get out of here already. Merry Christmas and have a happy new year! Santa please bring me something..."
Suddenly from above a red box with a gold ribbon fell down right in front of it upon seeing it Destiny and grabbed it.
"Yes! Yes! Thank you!"
To be continued
Song used A Christmas Wish (From the Muppets) (Honestly don't know why but it just seemed to fit)
Also in the next story I'll update their will be a very important update regarding some stories on here. So just FYI on what to possibly expect later on.
Now replying back to reviewers
Guest#1: We'll see what happens. But I ain't honestly to worried for them right now.
Guest#2: Yeah, that'll be interesting.
Gamelovwe41592: Thank you.
The saiyan boy: Once again thanks.
silverstudent: Thank you very much and thank Pyrojack25 for the idea. It was pretty funny and considering what I was gonna do that said scene just worked great with it.
King of 2211 X2: to hear that. 2. Who knows he's a pretty chill guy. And yeah thanks I do enjoy working with these Oc characters as well.
Marbled Gold: Well it's just part of the process to make every character unique in their own way, plus Rocky defiantly ain't no normal kid and Miguel knows this perfectly well. Heheheh.
Desmond bot: Eh, we'll see how things go as for something you suggested well we'd have to talk before that can even be possible. I'm not saying no, but it's important to know what exactly I'd be doing you get what I mean.
heroflow1000: Oh I am, relax yourself I started working on the next chapter so for now like everyone else just be patient.
