Here's chapter 12 everyone, you're all in for a surprise for this one. But, a word of advice, you'll most likely, you know what screw it. Your gonna need headphones for this chapter.
Big shout out to Pyrojack for helping to make this chapter. He really does a kick ass job.
So without further ado, let the show commence!
As of right now Destiny's bar was currently filled with a bunch of flashing lights, multicolored and very funky upbeat music being heard. We see our host wearing disco clothing and had a very, very large afro dancing away. "Uh-huh. Kick it up yeah~"
*Meow*
"Shut up Mitty, you're just jealous. Ugh, yeah! Beat, pop, pop, WOO!" The host took a rather familiar move, walking before twirling across the bar and caught their leg on a bar stool. Knocking them and the stool over. "Ow."
From the side you could see the cat bear a smirk looking away and turning around as it used its tail to 'accidentally' spilled a cup of fruit punch that seemingly and was conveniently there all over the equipment that was playing the music causing it to short circuit.
Destiny continued to dance but paused upon seeing everything stopped and the music wasn't playing. He gasped very dramatically and looked to see the cat door was flopping showing Mitty had left the bar. "Damn you Mitty! No catnip for you!" The little furball simply rolled its eyes, uncaring of the owner's demeanor. It nudged its head to the TV before jumping down from the bar.
At this moment Destiny finally noticed the readers/audience. "Oh, there you are. Yeah, sorry, for all that drama. Turns out I had a shit ton of old music, and yes disco was one of them." It raised an eyebrow. "Don't give me that look, I know some of you are into something and you're just embarrassed to let others know. That's right, I'm not the only one with secrets. But it's my job." Destiny sits up on one of the barstools sitting next to the tv.
With a snap of its fingers, we see a few clips of what transpired in the last episode/chapter. Such examples included Donner helping Octavia out while she was sick and her doing some reflecting. "I have to say last time was interesting. Not only was our boy Donner doing his job, but it also further deepened their bond unknowingly if I might add. Hmm~"
We then see one last clip showing Octavia putting a blanket over Donner who was snoozing on her couch. "Awww~How sweet!" The recap stops. "Now, let's talk about one common fact in life. Surprises. What do we know about surprises? Hmm? Anyone can easily give an easy answer, could they not?"
Nothing but dead silence from the audience, besides a cricket.
"Nobody?" Destiny looked around confused, and promptly stamped the ground where the cricket was. "Alright, I'll tell you. Surprises come in all forms when we least expect it. Ranging from happy surprises, and dark stuff, like ambushing, murder and mayhem. Yep, it can be both a good and bad thing. However, sometimes the best surprises always happen because you don't plan nothing! Nothing at all, that's one ultimate form of beauty right there. Like stumbling upon your favorite entertainer without a towel."
We cut to a gag where we see a group of teenagers enter a locker room but soon, they see a very old guy stepping out. Upon seeing the horrors, they run out like a bat out of hell.
If Destiny's face could be seen it'd be smirking. "Too much? Well, it happens. But you'll be happy to know this one, won't traumatize your fragile and non-steeled minds. Because this one will be both in some ways make you feel emotions, but mostly happy ones."
We now focus onto the screen of the old tv that shows off the title of the story.
Helluva Servant
Chapter/Episode 12
The Sound of the Rekindled
Another day in Hell, and the usual, violence, drugs and all sorts of inhumane things that filled the very streets tormenting those who've committed great sins. At least that's the idea, because mostly half the time they end up dying, 'again'. Being it through revenge, overdosing, sex, there were so many ways, it made a bunch of shit on Earth almost seem like you were just walking eggshells.
We see someone running by wearing a cheap black ski mask, he'd just robbed someone snatching their purse. The ultimate classic, yet cliche thing to steal. However, the thief didn't go too far as a door was opened slamming into the face of the crook. Then comically the purse that was taken returned back to the old lady who proceeded to take out a baseball from the small bag and started beating the living shit out of the dumb sap.
The one who opened the door and ignored what was being done was Donner. He'd just finished shopping from a local bookstore. It was actually one of many that he'd been visiting. The reason why he was flying around visiting any bookstore he could find was because Octavia asked him to. Actually, scratch that, it'd be more proper to explain what's going on.
About four days ago. Stella made it clear to her daughter she had to go and meet possible marriage candidates. Octavia was not enjoying it, at all. After she recovered, she was thrown into the flame and was forced to interact with the candidates. But luckily, she only had three more days of putting up with the crap. Donner had to be very silent but he had to be honest with himself, he was pissed. Very pissed off.
Seeing these men talking about their problems. These minuscule problems they have ranged from whatever to outright stupid things to argue about. What doesn't help is a couple of them could be as old as her grandfather for Lucifer's sake! The thunderbird was pretty close frying some of them had Merida didn't distract him with something.
But it wasn't just that, he was angry for the way Stella was being towards Octavia. Her own daughter, disregarding everything that she tries to say almost half of the time and expects her to get to know one of those noble schmucks who just want to play with her and then move onto something else when they're bored? Is she getting knocked up and bearing a child all she was good for?
Because dammit, she had a right to be happy and choose her own life. If he wasn't in the position he was in, he'd tell Stella off and speak out his mind, especially with all the shit he's had to put up with her since he was little. Both the physical and emotional abuse, those countless nights where Merida would make sure he was ok, and he didn't snap. Because if he did snap, that owl would've been dead, but it wouldn't do him much good because he'd get killed himself in the end of it.
The servant sighs, rubbing the end of his beak. As frustrated as he is, he's got a job to do. Speaking of which, he looks down to the book in his hand.
He put it into a small bag he was carrying filled with a few other books. Making a sigh he sits down keeping the bag close to him and brought out his phone. He started to text her.
Thunderstruck4: Hey, Octavia are you there?
He instantly got a reply back.
Gothchk17: Yeah, I'm here.
Gothchk17: Something the matter?
Donner chuckled a bit, he really appreciated her concern before replying.
Thunderstruck4: No, nothing's wrong at all, except for you not being here...
Thunderstruck4: I found those books you requested. Took a while to find them, but they're with me right now and waiting for you to read them.
Gothchk17: You didn't have to go out and get them.
Gothchk17: And what? You miss me that much;p
Thunderstruck4: It's boring, that's why!
Gothchk17: See you in a bit, Donner.
Thunderstruck4: Let me guess, you're meeting 'one of them' now, aren't you?
A gif appeared showing a suicide shot to the head. Donner sighed seeing this before texting back.
Thunderstruck4: Just hang in there ok, you can tell me all about it when you get back home. I'll listen to your frustrations. ️
Gothchk17: I'll try. Thanks though.
Thunderstruck4: Anytime.
He pockets his phone and walks on, passing by the twitching corpse of the purse snatcher.
Donner let his head hang back a bit groaning. He knew he was in love with someone he wasn't supposed to be. The avian demon really wished he could help out more but, there was already so much he was doing. He wished that things were different, and he had an opportunity to say something. However, being inexperienced as he was, there were a bunch of things he took into account, like for example, Stolas and how'd he'd take it. The guy was like a father that he never had, would he be willing to risk that bond for pursuing happiness? There was also the fact that the other members of the Goeita family wouldn't approve of it. No, they'd make sure it would never happen.
The only ones who'd probably support them would be most likely those Donner calls his friends, and the Penubra's. It didn't take long to piece together that Bruns was onto him. He wouldn't be so bold if there wasn't a reason. "Damn that bat." He grumbled.
His stomach growled very loudly. Donner glanced down at it. "Guess that's my que to get something to eat."
Minutes later we see Donner eating a large burrito filled with all sorts of goods. But before he did start, he made sure it was cooked properly and there wasn't anything that wasn't supposed to be there. Like a few traces of drugs or in the more common instances hell cockroaches.
Yes, you heard right, even down in this infernal pit of fire, there was still the problem with cockroaches. It seemed that most likely you could never, ever escape from those little stubborn, seemingly almost unkillable bastards.
Normally Donner would be back home, he was supposed to go with Octavia, as he was her bodyguard. He went the first few, but evidently in the last 'meeting' the noble felt uncomfortable around Donner. Because of that Stella made sure that more 'suitable' security would be with her, which were the hellhounds they had.
So, Octavia made sure to try and keep Donner busy, but also a bit of free time for himself, so she asked him if possibly he'd be able to get some books. Nothing too special, she wrote him a list of what to look for, which were just a few crime and mystery novels and one of them was fantasy. She even 'snuck' a bit more money so he could use it for himself and get a book that caught his attention. However, despite that, he didn't use that money, he saw no need to use it because him getting out of the manor and having free time to himself was more of an award than anything. Especially getting away from Stella.
Donner moaned, enjoying the taste and texture of what he was eating. "So good...Wonder if Octavia would want one of these? Eh, probably not." He continued eating. Considering she ate food from top rated chefs it wouldn't be no surprise.
As he was eating, he saw someone walk by. This person was wearing a large hat, and a set of sunglasses, including a large coat. Donner could only make out a few features such as hot pink skin, and a tail. He knew instantly this was succubus, one that ombre-white hair with pink undertones, from lighter to darker towards the tips, and a darker pink streak down the length and across the bangs.
This was a bit odd. Considering most Succubus took pride in their appearances, showing off as much skin as they could. Normally, it's none of his business about choice in clothing. But a succubus dressed like that spell's curiosity. Seeing as she's walking off somewhere, Donner decided to finish his meal and follow the woman.
Of course, he wasn't stupid enough to follow on foot, so he took to the air and watched like a hawk. She stopped at a park bench and so perched onto a tree Donner watched, curious to know what'd happen next.
Right then he saw someone walk up to her. Donner glanced to see whoever the succubus was looking at. Much to his surprise, it was Arnold?
Granted, he's dressed in a more casual set of clothes. But the albino skin and the missing horns are easy to pin down. "Hey, babe." The imp greeted the woman.
The succubus giggled in response before getting up, she was a bit taller than Arnold, most likely by four inches. She leaned down and captured his lips. "Hey yourself~"
Donner's eyes widened at this interaction. He wasn't expecting this.
"Did I keep you waiting?" He smiled.
"No, you came just in time. Didn't need to wait at all..." She traced a finger across his cheek. "That calls for an extra reward."
"Oh~?" The groundskeeper blushed, a grin growing on his face. "Well in that case..."
He grabbed her ass earning a surprised lustful moan from the succubus and Donner was starting to wonder if he should stick around. Because clearly this is something very 'private'.
On other hand though, he mentioned he had a wife. So, wait...could he be cheating on her? No way, there was no way he'd do that. Arnold was a very nice guy, and the way he spoke about her, told him plenty enough he wouldn't be stupid enough to do that.
The peeping bird watched as the pair walk off somewhere. Donner couldn't resist following them. If this is an affair like the thunderbird thinks it... He wouldn't know what to say.
Plus, there are times when a lot of succubus, especially if they were prostitutes, would kill their clients and take all their money. Which wasn't uncommon. So rather having one of his friends get killed, he decided to follow and then question and scold him about 'what the fuck?'
"I can't believe I'm actually doing this..." Donner said as he flew from the sky watching Arnold and the mysterious succubus who he was walking with.
He had done jobs to take out certain targets and kill them from above, and some sort of like this, but didn't expect that he'd be following one of his friends to possibly save his life and question him.
From the way they were walking, it looked like they were going to Arnold's place. So with that in mind and how long it would take for them to get there. Donner had a plan to catch the little white rat red-handed.
The house itself was actually pretty nice, about a regular two-story place. It was flashy or nothing but he made quick easy work to disable the security and snuck into the house itself in mere moments. This was like child's play for him.
Upon entering, the thunderbird closed the door behind him and started investigating. Starting with the living room. It was nice, a simple large round couch, a love seat with a small chair on the side and a very expensive looking flat screen that looked attached to a sound system built into the sides.
"Not bad..." Donner muttered as he went up the stairs but along the way he paused. Noticing that there were awards?
A few trophies here and there but what stuck out was a shiny looking record in a glass case. "Since when did he get into a singing career?" Donner questioned. Arnold never mentioned not once that he was into music. He was always occupied working with plants, at least that he'd always seen the imp do.
Then suddenly he heard the front door open. Not wasting another second, he went into one of the rooms that appeared to be a bedroom. A very, very nice bedroom
But then out of the corner of his eye he spotted a picture that showed Arnold in a white tuxedo standing next to his wife who was wearing a very beautiful, lush black dress. This succubus must've been his wife, the same one he always talked about. Something about her looks familiar...
He heard the woman giggling, rustling up the stairs. Donner almost squawked in fright, he looked for a spot to hide. The closest would be a bad idea. The king-sized bed looked tall enough to fit him, although he'd have to turn his head for his beak.
From underneath the mattress he saw four feet walk in. One belonged to Arnold and the other belonged to the succubus, who looked to be wearing very fancy and expensive looking high heels. "You sure there wasn't anything that needed to be done at work?" He heard the succubus question.
"Nah, I'm free for the rest of the day. There wasn't much else to today anyways." Arnold answered.
"You really know how to make time for me." The succubus smiled; Donner guessed. He felt the bed shift, likely Arnold getting pushed down.
"Don't I always?" The groundskeeper chuckled. He watched as his jeans were dropped, revealing his smooth white legs.
"Mmhmm." The succubus got on her knees, thankfully not low enough to see him. However, he could hear the imp groan and moan above him. Oh dear God! What did he get himself into?!
"By the way, I took the test today..." He saw pants dropping and undergarments falling!
"And?"
"Still nothing." The succubus said sadly.
"Well, we just got to keep..." Donner grimaced hearing the moan. Oh shit, this was really fucking happening! "Trying..."
More clothes fell and sure enough, Arnold was moaning. The wife was mewling and screaming the most. Swearing too, especially to... Breed her? What didn't help matters was how close the mattress was to his feathery mug. For what it's worth, he's glad he didn't take the closest.
The only problem was even when covering his ears he still heard some words. "Oh right there~ Don't you dare fucking stop!"
"I ain't going to go now baby! Whoo!"
Donner swore to the gods he wished for some ear mufflers right now! How long are they gonna keep going for!? It seemed like they've been doing it forever! All he could do was try to sing something in his head as loud as he could to try and block them out!
Finally after what seemed to last after eternity was finally done, aside from a bunch of lewd moaning and groans that was it. He'd checked his watch and raised an eyebrow at the time. 'Oh god, they've been doing it for almost five hours!? Sheesh! What the fuck did they take Viagra or what!?' He'd rather not know. He waited a few more minutes to ensure that they are really done and asleep.
'Ok...sneaking out now, please don't sleep sex...' He begged to himself doing his best to ignore all the smells that were present. As Donner got out, he accidentally touched something, it was a bra, he quickly tossed that aside. Finally, he was out from underneath the bed. 'Finally...'
Without not even bothering to look, Donner began to tip away from the floor as best he could, keeping quiet and in the process, he stepped on a freakin dildo! The younger avian demon did his best not to gag and had his boot scootch it aside and continued going towards the door.
The green bird carefully turned the doorknob, opening the door. It creaked, the boy cringed at the sound turning to look at the couple with a hand over most of his vision. Much to his relief, they were asleep, but he didn't realize that one of them was missing...So as he opened the door, he bumped into something.
What he bumped into was something soft and plump. Slowly realizing what was happening, he backed up and looked into the eyes of the same succubus who was with Arnold who looked at him in shock absorbing what was happening just like he was. Much to his surprise it was fucking Verosika Mayday! The famous pop star. And he got a view of her... and a brief feeling of her...assets. 'Uh-oh' This was not good at all.
She broke out screaming covering herself and Donner ended up doing the same thing. This naturally woke up Arnold who jolted up awake. And upon seeing him as well, Arnold screamed. Everyone in this house was pretty much in a screamfest with how loud they are.
During the skirmish Verosika rushed over to the bed taking some of the blanket to cover herself while Arnold and Donner finally stopped screaming and were both out of breath before they spoke.
"What the fuck!?" Both imp and avian exclaimed in unison.
"What are you doing here?" Arnold questioned.
"You married a popstar?!" Donner was indeed baffled.
Verosika looked to Arnold. "Uh, would you mind telling me how you fucking know this perverted parrot?" She looked to Donner. "And What the fuck are you even doing in our house!?"
Donner in response frowned a bit. "Do I look like a freakin parrot to you!?"
"Well you're a bird aren't you!?" The succubus replied back.
"Parrot's don't have teeth!" The thunderbird squawked.
"Ok, ok!" Arnold stood up and slipped on some pants. "Reboot for a minute. Donner, what the fuck man? You stalkin me or something? What the hell?"
"I thought you were cheating and usually succubus prostitutes normally and half the time kill their clients and steal their money."
Verosika hummed a bit. "He's actually not too wrong about that."
The albino imp facepalmed before sighing. "Okay, 1; She's not killing or robbing me. 2; She is my wife!"
"Yeah, I know that now! What went on in here was plenty of proof of that!"
"Ugh..." The groundskeeper groaned, both in embarrassment and annoyance. He cupped his hands to his face, rubbing to calm down.
"So...you gonna introduce me to him or what?" Verosika questioned.
"Donner, one of the Goetia's servants." He pointed to the thunderbird, lazily. "Personal bodyguard and hitman to the prince. Might as well add Peeping Tom to the job description."
"Oh fuck you." Donner remarked.
"Oh you mean that same kid who has a crush on that princess right?" Hearing this now it was Donners turn to glare at Arnold.
"Hey, don't look at me! You started this shit." The older man pointed out.
"And I'm not the only one keeping secrets." Donner pointed a finger back. "Aren't I?"
"Well at least I mind my own business."
"The hell you do!"
"Um...can you step out while I put some clothes on or something?" Verosika asked.
"By all means." The servant agreed exasperatedly, opening the door, slamming it shut and walking down the steps.
A couple of minutes later after everything settled down and the husband and wife putted on some clothes, we see them in the living room waiting for Donner who had to answer nature's call.
In fact, it just happened that Verosika was glaring daggers at her husband. "What? Oh come on, like either of us thought this would happen."
"Which one? The fact that we were followed home? The fact that there was a bird underneath the bed while we were trying to make a kid? Or the fact that this shit did happen?"
"All the above." Arnold responded, earning a groan from his wife who rolled her eyes. "Then again, I've sort of new someone I knew would find out eventually. So did you on your end."
She frowned in response. "Only I'd make sure they wouldn't find out while we were doing naughty business."
Arnold hummed. "True, also I hardly doubt you'd have to worry about Donner spilling the beans to anyone else."
"How do you know?" Verosika was clearly having a hard time believing that.
"Trust me, Donners is actually a pretty decent chill guy once you get to know him. Looking over the fact that he's a very capable killer at my boss's word. I've seen him rip off an imps head one time with his bare hands."
The succubus wasn't buying it. "No offense, Arny, but him?" She jabbed a finger at the stairway which was what lead up to the bathroom. "I don't think so."
He made a flat look. "How about tearing out someone's spine from their actual body? I can't get that image out of my mind."
"Seen it." She rolled her eyes.
"What about him being the actual Electric chair zapping them till their whole body disintegrates into dust? I've seen it...It's not pretty."
"Hmm... Seen worse." Verosika shrugged.
"You really find it hard to impress sometimes, you know that?"
"Hey, blame Fernotube." Verosika shrugged her shoulders before they heard the toilet flush from upstairs with Donner walking down.
"Sheesh, what's wrong with food that tastes good but doesn't agree with your stomach? That's just messed up." He commented before walking over to them and took a seat. "Well, I'm just gonna say it to get it over with. I am sorry."
"Damn right you are." The white-haired succubus glared at the boy.
"Ok, Vero, enough." Arnold said to his wife. "It's over, it happened, let's just move on. Also Donner while the circumstances aren't what you thought, I appreciate you looking out for me though man."
The thunderbird hummed in response before addressing the elephant in the room. "So, your wife is Verosika Mayday. The very same woman you've been talking about for the last few years as long as I've known you..."
"Yes."
"Shocker." Donner commented. "Ok, Arnold what else you got to hide? Because you evidently told your wife something that I thought only a few do know."
"I don't think that's a good idea."
"Oh, what do you have to worry about the paparazzi?" Donner questioned sarcastically. "My thing is worse, anyone of 'you know who' found out, some noble shouting on the top of their lungs 'Off with his head!' Do you?"
"Fair enough." The hornless imp shrugged, before pondering his next words. "...Are you familiar with Typhoon?
Donner made a blank face for a moment before his eyes widened. "No...No...Are you freakin kidding me? You? You're Typhoon? Lead singer of Sour Gear?"
The husband sighed, before lazily presenting himself. "In the flesh."
"So, we literally had a celebrity working with us the whole time who also happens to be married to another celebrity? Yep, that takes the cake."
"I know, it is." Arnold agreed, understanding where he was coming from.
"So...when did this whole thing start?" Donner questioned waving a finger pointing a finger between him and the popstar who looked over at one another.
"I'm not doing the talking, you know him." Verosika said to her husband who sighed.
"Fair enough. To start things off, we've actually known one another since high school. You probably heard something like this in those movies you watch. Me, some lowly nerd, getting the hottest girl in school. Not a lot of context, but it's easy to guess."
Donner chuckled, picturing him with braces while she was like a hot cheerleader. "Yeah, I can see that. So did you?"
"Yeah, I did. Until our senior year."
"Okay, this I gotta hear." Donner was now fully listening to their story.
Everything disperses as we see a photo of a younger Verosika hugging onto a younger much nerdy looking Arnold who did in fact wear braces holding a camera.
"Life happened." Verosika chimed in. "Arnold got accepted into a university in Greed while I was given a contract to pursue my career. Neither of us couldn't really handle a long-distance relationship. So we mutually agreed to break up."
The photo was blown away in a gust of wind.
"Then of course, a few years later the big thing happened." Arnold said as the scenery changed again.
Rewind six years ago.
At the time Verosika was only twenty-three years old. Around the age of 18 she had drawn much attention for a couple of original songs she had made. Those songs in fact did make her an overnight internet sensation, and the number of fans had kept growing by the thousands. Which if lucky enough could be millions, something that everyone rising in stardom in the entertainment industry would need to succeed in the long run.
Speaking of the rising popstar, she was currently in a recording studio preparing to do another song for her new upcoming album.
Hello again, friend of a friend I knew you when
Our common goal was waiting for the world to end
Now that the truth is just a rule that you can bend
You crack the whip, shapshift and trick the past again
I'll send you my love on a wire
Lifts you up every time
Everyone
Ooh, pulls away
Ooh, from you
Got balls of steel, got an automobile for a minimum wage
Got a real estate, I'm buying it all up in outer space
Now that the truth is just a rule that you can bend
You crack the whip, shapeshift and trick the past again
I'll send you my love on a wire
Lifts you up every time
Everyone
Ooh, pulls away
Ooh, it's a mechanical bull and I'm the one
You'll take a ride from anyone
Everyone wants a ride
Pulls away
Ooh, from you
When Verosika was done she immediately got a round of applause from her group including her sound director.
"Verosika, that was fantastic."
"Of course, what else did you expect?" The succubus said proudly running her fingers through her hair.
"But you still need a couple more songs for this one."
"I know." She replied feeling a bit of irritation rising slowly.
"Well, I hate to be hounding you, but you got only a couple of weeks before the album releases. We need those songs."
"And I'll get them done, Karl. Relax." She told the man confidently.
Her manager then piped in. "Darling, you are something, but time don't wait and neither does the money or the studio."
"You worry too much Deevis, I've got it covered." She held up her hands in an easing way. "I'm not that dumb."
"I'm serious darling, because I got other girls wanting a shot too. And I might feel tempted to see what they got."
"Now you're just being overdramatic." The succubus commented. "Again, I know what I'm doing. I'll get these done before the deadline. No fuss."
"We'll see." Her manager said before leaving her to sigh underneath her breath muttering 'asshole'.
"Alright Karl, I'll see you later."
"Will do." Karl replied before leaving while she exited out of the recording booth. Upon exiting she was greeted by her posse. Three succubi Josh, Ace Kat and four other succubus's, Coco, Apple, Milky and Kiki.
"You alright?" Kiki inquired.
"Yeah, I'm fine."
"You've been kind of down all day though." Milky noted. "I mean we all noticed this all day."
"Is this about that B-" Before Kat could speak Verosika punched the wall stopping him from talking. "Never mind." He dropped the subject and slowly backed away to get some distance fearfully.
"Girl, you need to just forget about him already." Ace said getting a hum from his boyfriend Josh. "Totally, he just plain down a piece of shit."
"I appreciate it, but really I'm fine really." They all didn't seem to be convinced but took her word for it.
"So, do you want to try and do anything?" Coco questioned.
"Eh, for right now, I just want a drink." Verosika answered as she grabbed a jacket that was hanging at a coat rack. "You guys go on."
"You sure?" Apple tried to continue persisting, earning a groan from their friend.
"Yes, I'll be fine you sluts. I'll see you all tomorrow. Depending on what happens." She left the recording room, and they all knew the truth.
She wasn't ok at all.
Right now, we cut to a pretty large bar where Verosika was sitting in a private VIP suite. The kind where celebrities could drink and do whatever without getting bothered.
She'd just downed a shot shaking her head. It had been a whole entire year since she broke up with that asshole. Verosika had done a lot of things in her life, and dating that selfish prick was one of them. She showered him with love and affection, gave him both money and sex and he just kept taking and taking till she nearly had nothing else left.
"Fucking asshole..." She muttered before noticing down below there were demons getting excited for something. Naturally she got curious and turned to the waiter who brought her another drink. "What's with the full house?"
"Oh, someone's playing here."
This got her curious as usually whenever she was here, no one would be performing. "Who?"
The waiter shrugged his shoulders. "Eh, some new band."
So it was a group trying to make a name for themselves. For a supposed music group fresh out of the block performing at this establishment wasn't exactly an easy feat. It took her a while when she first started to perform at a high money-making place such as this. "What are they called?"
"They call themselves, Sour Gear...I think."
The celebrity couldn't help but snort at the name. "Sour Gear?"
"I said the same thing too. Actually, word is they've been doing pretty well. Not in the major spotlight, but they supposedly got some decent music."
"Evidently."
"You want to stick around and see for yourself, miss?"
She shrugged in response. "Why not? I'll bite just this once."
She took her drink, the waiter left, and she decided to watch and see what would happen. Down below the crowd was really starting to get excited and their roars grew louder as the curtain raised showing an empty stage that had the instruments. But you could see a flag showing a skull sticking out its tongue making an expression of when you eat something really bittersweet with a large cog right behind it.
Four individuals then stepped onto the stage.
One was a female succubus who had her hair dyed bright orange with red highlights. On her neckline where three large black hearts. Her clothing consisted of a spiked blue jacket with a yellow shirt that showed off a bit of cleavage including blue short shorts with shoes matching in color. She had a name tag reading Jazlynn. Manning the keyboards to the back right.
The Rhythm guitarist was a female imp that had her hair dyed lime green, she had a few white marks on her cheeks resembling freckles, her horns were decorated with gold rings, two on each one. Her clothing consisted of a pair of overalls decorated with a few buttons, with a white shirt underneath that had the black outline of a fist. Lastly, she was wearing purple and black stockings with green laced tennis shoes. Her name tag had the name: Tessa.
Then you had the bassist, it was a demon who resembled that of a demon with light blue skin, and actually had tentacles for hair matching in color. His eyes were dark purple, and you could see that his clothing wasn't much just a simple sleeveless purple shirt, torn jeans with fancy shoes matching in the color. He had a name tag Chuck.
Next was their drummer. One was large, tall, bulky with a lot of muscle, with a square shaped head, green skin with cross lazy eyes. His clothing consisted simply of a red torn sleeved jacket exposing his abs, lastly, he was wearing sweatpants and black boots. He was wearing a name tag that said. What's Up. No joke, that's exactly what evidently his name was.
"Pff, what a bunch of freaks. Wonder where the leader is." Right on que she got her question answered as a fifth demon walked onto the stage. Now this guy stood out among them.
Obviously, the singer was an imp, or not because he didn't have no horns. The upper part of his face was covered by a robotic mask that covered the top of his face while his mouth was exposed. Covering his eyes with electronic goggles that can depict various "emotes" and "expressions" via embedded LED panels. His clothing consisted of a black ankle-length tailcoat, a high-necked waistcoat with gold accents, cinched dark red pants, brown-black winklepickers boots with taller heels and a pair of red gloves. He also had a name tag that read: Typhoon.
"Hmm, someone evidently likes to dress themselves to stand out." Verosika noted as this Typhoon grabbed a guitar and took the mic speaking into it clearing his throat.
"How's it going?" The crowd roared in response. "Were Sour Gear and this will be the last song we'll be playing for tonight. So please enjoy. Alright, let's hear it."
What's up, fuck of name by the way, raised his drum sticks high. Smacking them in rhythmic beat. 1. 2. 1, 2, 3, 4!
And soon Typhoon took the lead with his guitar followed by the green demon adding in the drums, the succubus on the keyboards while the other imp and tentacled haired demon added into it.
Woke up with yawning, it's dawning, I'm still alive
Turned on my radio to start up a new day
As goddamned DJ chattered how to survive
Amazing news got over on that airwave
(Tonight!) love is rationed
(Tonight!) across the nation
(Tonight!) love reflects worldwide
Almost another day
The demons down below were headbanging like crazy while others were dancing.
Woke up with yawning, it's dawning, I'm still alive
Turned on my radio to start up a new day
(As goddamned DJ chattered) how to survive
(Amazing news got over) on that airwave
(Tonight!) love is rationed
(Tonight!) across the nation
(Tonight!) love reflects worldwide
Almost another day
(Almost another day)
Typhoon, Tessa and Chuck start to sync perfectly with one another giving off a very nice and gentle tone that the audience was absolutely enjoying.
She's the shooting star~
Goodnight (goodnight)
Goodnight (goodnight~)
She's the shooting star (she's a shooting star~)
Goodbye~
Typhoon strums away as they repicked up the same pace from before as What's Up did a quick play with his drumsticks.
(Tonight!) love is rationed
(Tonight!) across the nation
(Tonight!) love reflects worldwide, yeah, yeah, yeah
(Tonight!) love is rationed
(Tonight! across the nation
(Tonight!) love reflects worldwide, yeah
Almost another day
Very unexpectedly they all stop all except for Typhoon who topped it off playing gently as the song itself was ending.
See you some other day
When the song was done the crowd erupted loudly cheering and applauding for the performance that had just transpired. With the popstar succubus being one of them, having to admit they did put on a decent show. Even if it wasn't her kind of music.
From the VIP spot Verosika watched as each band member stepped up to the front of the stage and the biggest member What's Up happily decided to do a stage dive jumping into the crowd.
They all happily accepted him and moved him around as he laughed happily enjoying the moment while the other members rolled their eyes while Typhoon shrugged taking the mic. "You guys were totally awesome tonight, but now comes the sad news we gotta bounce!"
The crowd gave 'boo's' in response knowing that the party had to be over. "Yeah, I know I know, it sucks when the show ends. But you'll be pleased to know that we'll be playing somewhere else in Pride. So if you're interested and want to hear more of our music..." Typhoon then gained a teasing smirk. "That is...if you think you can handle it."
A resounding laugh from the audience was their response to the joke. "I'll take that as a yes, because I didn't hear a no. I can't say when we'll be performing, but I'm also pleased to announce that Sour Gear is ready to release its first and hopefully one of many albums."
That definitely got a cheer out of the people. The mysterious imp nodded confidently. "Right on, give a big hand for me, and my pals, Jazlynne, Tessa Nuka, Chuck and What's Up. If you want some merch then by all means, go on right ahead because all those funds go straight into our music."
"What's up!" The large demon cried out earning a confused pause from the crowd who thought to just roll with it while Tessa's face palmed at this.
"Anyways, good night, everyone see ya on the flip side of Pride hopefully soon!" Each band member waved goodbye and walked off the stage.
As for Verosika she had to admit, this group wasn't half bad. Even after hearing one song, she couldn't help but be curious on how their other stuff was.
However, there was something bothering her. The way this Typhoon performed and his personality, it seemed familiar. Keyword, familiar.
She took a sip of her drink going into thought. What was so familiar about this guy? The fact that he seemed to have a blast performing? Him spending time talking to his ever growing and possibly rising fans? Maybe it was the fact that he didn't have horns? Wait! Her eyes widened in realization before doing a spit take.
He had no horns! It was an extremely rare birth defect that especially in the case of Imps are born with and there was only one Imp she knew or ever saw in her whole life that didn't have horns!
Plus, it's not every day you see an imp this white. "Arnold? No fucking way..." She had to get to the bottom of this.
The next day we cut to a much smaller yet cheaper looking studio that looked like it had seen better days. Inside of a room we see Arnold without his mask but kept his clothing as did the rest of his band mates.
Sitting in front of them was their manager who was a fat male imp humming while eating a slice of pizza looking over some notes that were written. He was wearing a simple sweater that exposed a little bit of his hanging muffin top, a pair of shorts and flip flops. This was their manager, Burt. But secretly, they call him Burp for laughs.
Inside of a room we see Arnold without his mask but kept his clothing as did the rest of his band mates.
Sitting in front of them was their manager who was a fat male imp humming while eating a slice of pizza looking over some notes that were written. He was wearing a simple sweater that exposed a little bit of his hanging muffin top, a pair of shorts and flip flops. This was their manager, Burt. But secretly, they call him Burp for laughs.
"Well, looks you did good everyone." The imp said in a pleased tone. "The last concert and location were smaller, then the previous one we were at."
"Yeah, no kidding, but it gave us what we needed." Arnold commented.
"True, very true." The manager nodded agreeing with him. "Every single one can count, especially when nothing for free money is always needed. Now again even though the turnout was less, you all will be pleased to know that your paychecks will be doubled."
This was great news for the band as they all exchanged high fives and low fives with one another. "Hmhm, money aside, I think it'd be awesome if you produce more romantic love songs."
"Romantic Love songs?" The female imp of the band questioned tilting her head in confusion.
"What's up." The square head demon commented.
"Bottom line, people dig and eat the crap out of love songs. Despite how cheesy and cliche it can be at times; the fans love it. Especially the fan girls. Which is another thing that should be addressed." He looked through his notes. "Ok, so here's where we're at, we undoubtedly got a lot of attention from the male populace, but unfortunately we are very much lacking in the female fan department."
What's Up grinned upon hearing this while Arnold hummed hearing this and thought for a brief moment. "Yeah we can do that. How about the rest of you?"
"I'm down for it."
"Yep."
"What's up."
"But we have another problem." Burt said in a displeased tone. "We haven't found a place that'll let you all play in the next two weeks."
"What?"
"Are you freakin kidding me!?"
"That's bullshit!"
"What's up!?"
Each member was very displeased to hear this news.
"What do you mean we haven't found a place to perform at?" Arnold questioned. "We are literally and supposed to have another show in exactly two weeks!" The hornless imp held up two fingers.
"It's exactly as I said, no stage in Hell is interested in the market currently." The manager stated. "Look, I'm trying to find something for y'all. But these guys aren't making this easy."
"Like that one place we booked, and then it got canceled because you boned the owner's wife?" Jazlynne commented. "You didn't screw the pooch this time Burt did you?"
"Ah, geez that a fucking nightmare." Chuck remembered those events. "I really wanted to see what Lust ring was like."
"What's it like?" Tessa glanced over to the tentacled hair member of the band. "It's called Lust for a reason! What else is there to know!?"
"Alright I'll admit, what happened last time was on me." Burt admitted. "But now it's not! Before the argument could continue a beep was heard and Burt looked over to an answering machine. He pressed onto a button. "What!? This better be good!" The receptionist answered back.
"Um...sir? There's someone here to see one of the band members."
Everyone glanced at one another, and they all shrugged holding their arms in response. "Well, what's this guy want? We're busy right now."
"She actually, and she wishes to see Arnold, and evidently she claims to know him."
"Who is it?"
"Um..."
"Spit it out! Who's here!?" Burt was starting to get impatient.
"...Verosika Mayday..."
To say the band is a little surprised would be an understatement. Everyone is shocked to hear that she's here at the studio. But none more so than their own lead singer. Shaking his head Burt's shock disappeared as he replied back to his receptionist. "Well what are you waiting for!? Send her up already!"
"Ok, ok, she'll be right up..." Right then the other band members of Sour Gear turned to Arnold who was absorbing what was happening.
"Sweet donut holes exclaimed the fuck!" Chuck exclaimed in surprise.
"What's up!?"
"Holy shit!"
"Dude...You know Verosika Mayday!? One of the few biggest rising pop stars in Hell!?" Tess questioned taking Arnold by the shoulders getting up close to his face.
"What they all said." Burt agreed. "Arnold you been holding out on us or what!?"
"N-N-No, no! No, nothing like that..." Arnold said holding out his hands in defense.
"Then what was it like, Arnie?" Tessa asked teasingly.
"I keep telling you, it's just Arnold!" He sighed. "I was just tutoring her in high school, and we went on a few dates before graduation. Nothing crazy about it.
"What's up?" The Big demon asked.
"What he said, mate." Chuck nodded.
Arnold held up his arms in defeat. "Ok! We used to date there! You happy getting to know my life?"
"What's up!" What's up, walks up to the little demon and gave him a playful noogie.
"Let go of me!" Arnold got out of his arm lock and before long they heard a knock on the door. Everyone froze and Burst spoke up. "Come in."
The door opened and sure enough. Verosika Mayday has arrived in the studio in all of her gorgeous glory. Something Arnold couldn't help look at in awe, not just his friends.
He was just staring on without saying a word, a blush crept to his face. Because to him it was like, 'oh dear gods, she's still so freakin beautiful'.
Looking around her eyes wandered landing onto the hornless imp smiling a bit. "Hey Arnold." The lead singer stiffened up once the young woman said his name and then some. Shaking his head, snapping out of his thoughts he approached Verosika with amazement and surprise.
"Vee, what are you doing here?" Chuck couldn't help but snort at his friend's attempt to talk. But Jazlynn elbowed his thigh, shutting him up.
"I saw your show last night, pretty good too. I asked around where I could find you and well, here I am." She glanced around. "I wasn't interrupting anything was I?"
"Oh, um... No! No. Actually, we were just discussing where we could perform. But uhh..." The hornless imp rubs his head sheepishly. "They're already booked."
"There's nowhere else?" She was confused. "You said that you were going to."
"I know, but like our manager said." He motioned over to Burt who burped showing no ounce of shame. "No place is available."
Hearing this Verosika gained an idea smirking away crossing her arms. "What if I could help you out with that?"
Everyone glanced over to her. "What's up?"
"What he said, come again?" Chuck added.
"I've got a gig going on in a couple of weeks myself. And seeing as you guys are planning on performing. I could get you all in as special guests." The popstar offered.
"Wha?" Arnold was shocked with this sudden offer. "You-You don't-" Burt pushed him aside and gave off an eager smile. "We more than happily accept!"
"Cool. I'll call my agent and let him know what's up." She nodded to the bloated demon, before she turned and helped her old friend back on his feet. "And if you're not busy after this I wouldn't mind catching up for some time."
"Oh..." Arnold blushed while his band members grinned seeing where this was going, they all nodded their heads and pushed him forward into her. "Uh...s-su-Whoa!"
"Go on right ahead Arnold." Tessa said happily.
"Wait, what?" He was absorbing what was happening. "Yeah, go on there's nothing else to do right now." Chuck added.
"By all means we're just about to go home." Jazlynne commented. "What's up!"
Burt seemed to have the same idea. "You heard them! Nothing else is going on! Dismissed and get the fuck out! Got some calls to make. Oh yeah, also just remember to give me a call." Burt tossed Verosika a business card, which she caught without looking. "Let me know how it goes... Your deal I mean."
She returned her attention over to the imp who was currently settled into her 'asset's' smirking showing she was very pleased while the others continued to watch this interaction while Arnold looked over his shoulder glaring at his friends/bandmates.
"Good luck!" Tessa winked, with her thumb up. Wrapping her arms around Arnold like he was a brand-new prize won in a carnival game, she carried him away all while the group glanced at another breaking down into laughter meanwhile Burt crossed out his arms in anger.
"Lucky mother fucker..."
We now cut to a small coffee shop where the imp and succubus had just gotten their drinks.
"I still can't freakin believe it, you actually saw me and my band play last night..." Arnold was still absorbing what was happening. First they get bad news and then they got good news! Which came in the form of his old girlfriend/best friend from high school no less! Who was now one of the few biggest rising pop stars in hell!
"I honestly wasn't expecting this either." Verosika sipped he cup. "I mean, I know I taught you some things. But damn, you were really something."
"Wait, how much of it did you even see?"
"Just managed to catch you in the final act." She answered honestly. "You were pretty good."
"Oh, come on, you're just being modest Vee..." Arnold said to the succubus sipping from his cup. "I mean, you had the talent for it more than I did."
"Well... Yeah." The woman rubbed her head, chuckling at the obvious fact. "But still, it's good to see you've gotten better than before." She then raised an eyebrow. "But I don't get it, what's with the mask?" He diverted his eyes away from her, keeping his lips focused on his cup. "No...No..." She started breaking down into laughter. "No fucking way...You still have stage fright? Oh, come on!"
"You know that was the reason I always had a hard time performing! I just found it to be easier."
"What with a name like Typhoon? Come on, what are you even trying to go for?"
He shrugged in response. "I don't know, I remember a lot of people asking if Mayday was your real last name and it turned to be true. They used to make the shit fun out of it. But you reversed that in your favor, respect."
"That I did." She nodded proudly. "But still, why Typhoon?
"I don't know," The lead singer shrugged. "Just thought it sounded cool."
She snorted in response, showing her amusement. "Whatever you say. So, what happened? I thought you went to go off to that university in Greed?"
"I did, and I graduated, got my degree in gardening and everything." The hornless imp answered.
"And I smell a big but coming." The white-haired woman said. Although the way she said made the man quirk a brow oddly.
"But..." He rolled his eyes playing along. "...it hasn't been easy...I've been through two different places, the first only six months the second lasted a few years and in my free time, I thought to myself maybe try to give music another go. I did, but then just three months ago, they let me go. So, while trying to find another place to work, the bills weren't paying themselves...You can figure out the rest."
She frowned about that. Although she's thankful he didn't get as bad as she did. Thinking on that note, "So how'd you meet your band mates?"
Arnold chuckled in amusement bringing out his phone and swiped a few times before showing her a photo of him and the rest of Sour Gear. "I just...ran into them by chance...got to know them, we talked a little about music and things just...happened." He first points to Tessa. "That's Tessa Nuka, she our base guitarist, second lead guitarist, and lead female singer."
"Yep, done a few cover songs that are usually done by guys, such examples like Ozzy, Motorhead, Motley Crue, but she likes to mix things up." He smirked. "Just myself, since she started doing her thing, we've gotten a lot more attention that helps make us stand out."
"By ripping off the human world." Verosika smirked.
"Hey, it's not stealing if it's in Hell." He pointed out. "Besides, the old timers wouldn't know them. Plus it ain't like you don't do the same." Arnold added with a smirk. "So, who's ripping off who?"
She wanted to argue, but she didn't have the words for it. "Yeah, fair enough." The succubus took another sip of coffee. "What's the succubus's story?"
"Who Jazlynne? She got kicked out of her last band because she wouldn't sleep with the lead guy. She basically gave them the middle finger, eventually we ran into her and convinced her to join us. Took a while to get some trust, but in the end she's one of us."
"That's pretty good." The succubus smiled. "It's hard for some of us to stand out."
"Well, she's pretty good with the keyboard as you saw last night. But she also knows quite a bit about other effects, like lightning and her personal favorite, fog machines."
"Cool, how about the jellyfish?"
"That's Chuck, evidently he couldn't play worth a shit, but with a little help, tutoring and motivation, boom. He's doing much better." The succubus chuckled at that shorter backstory. "He's an ass sometimes, but he does have his moments. Got us into that one concert a couple years back." The white imp recalled.
"What about the big guy?"
"What's Up."
"Sorry?"
"No, that's his name, What's Up."
"The fuck kind of name is that?"
"I don't know, he just doesn't talk well like you and me do. His only words being 'What's' and 'Up', specifically in that order. But that guy can play the shit out of drums, like almost scary good. We wouldn't want trade him for anyone. He's like a big dull teddy bear."
"Sounds like you've got a some pretty good people, Arnold." The young woman placed her coffee back on the table. "I'm proud of you."
"For...what?" He wasn't expecting to hear this, raising an eyebrow in confusion.
"You're putting your foot in the door. Making some pretty good friends along the way. And when the deal pulls through, you'll be great." Verosika smiled.
"Oh...I see." Arnold smiled, taking a sip from his cup. "So, what about you? What's been new in your life? Aside from your career going well. I even have all of your album's."
"All of my albums?" She looked at her ex with curious eyes.
"Yeah, especially Ride Me Six Ways. That was a good start." Arnold complimented. "Plus, don't forget I helped you with the lyric's Vaycay to Bonetown from way back when. That thing only started out as a joke, didn't expect you to use it that way."
"Oh, I remember." She nodded. "People up and below eat that shit up like edible undies."
"And now it ain't like that, it's one of your few memorable songs." Arnold noted. "I swear every time I turn on the radio, that thing plays away."
"Even after all these years, you're still a dork." Verosika jested.
"And proud of it." The imp puffed up his chest, causing his ex to giggle at his attempt to look bold.
"But seriously, what's new with you?" He was very curious to know. At one point they did write to one another, but with life happening, they'd just seemed to stop. So this was his opportunity to catch up and he didn't want to waste it.
Since he had been kind enough to share his story she did the same. "Well, I made friends too, my posse consisting of Coco, Apple, Ace, Josh, Milky and Kat. But aside from all that, I've been in the works on releasing another album."
"Oh yeah? How's that coming along?"
"It's doing good." She frowned. "Although I wish my agent would get off my ass."
"That bad huh? On a scale of 1 to 10."
"Like an eleven."
"Ah, I see. That's tough. So, what's the deal? You feeling in the slumps? Because that's normally not like you at all." Verosika flinched a bit and Arnold noticed this.
The young woman hesitated. It's been so long since she's seen Arnold. But it hasn't been long enough with that needle dick imp. She just wasn't sure what to do.
"You don't have to say anything if you don't want to..."
The succubus pop star finally gave in and sighed. "No, I've been meaning to...I just held it off for a while..."
"So what is it?"
"A few months ago I went through a nasty break up." Verosika confessed. "And I don't mean we argued or were hate fucked. I mean a really bad break up. That type that makes you wanna string someone up 'til they croak. That kinda a bad."
"Oh boy..." Arnold sat up showing her his attention was fully captured. "What did you do or rather who did what?"
"I dated an imp by the name of...B-Blitzo." She gagged saying that name. "At first things were decent. Not perfect, but decent. We went out for two years or so, but then one day a big fucking line was crossed." She paused for a moment frowning and recalling what had happened. "We booked a night at a nice hotel, had a good fuck, but when I woke up, it all went to shit. I found my credit card gone along with my own car which he used to run three rings to Wrath where he maxed it out spending it on shitty horseback riding lessons."
Arnold sat there for a moment before finally speaking. "What the fuck? You serious?"
"Yes! And it took three days to get back home, but because of that little motherfucker I went bankrupt! If it weren't for some of my friends, I wouldn't be able to get back up on my feet."
She angrily sighs down, chugging the rest of her coffee. "Fucking two years of my life wasted on that mother fuckin' leech..."
"Geez, Vee..." The white imp frowned. "I'm so sorry."
"Pfft, tell me about it. I almost lost my career, and now I'm just doing my best to try and think up what to do next. I need to finish this album."
Arnold frowned a bit feeling bad that she was in this predicament. Back in the day, whenever he was down and feeling doubt, she'd for some reason helped him out. Now it seemed like he needed to do the same, hell she even offered to help out his band lang a gig for crying out loud! She didn't have to or need to waste her time at all. Suddenly he blinked, gaining an idea, and he thinks this could possibly help.
"Hey Vee?"
"Hmm?" He had gained her attention.
"You're free today right?"
"Maybe. Why?" Verosika inquired.
"Well,..." He put a hand underneath his chin. "You remember when we used to...improvise?"
"You and I have a very different definition of improvising." She snorted at the phrasing.
Arnold gave a blank face in response. "No shit." He said bluntly. "But I'm talking about our improvising. You know, prepare."
"Oh..." She realized. "That. Yeah! You got an idea?"
Arnold shrugged. "I might. But, you'd have to make a request to your manager, and I got to talk to mine."
"I might be able to pull a few strings. After all, my deal is still in the cards." The pink skinned woman winked.
She chuckled at this, a bunch of thoughts going through her head. But on the other hand, there was a bit of excitement. Because hearing all of this and talkin' made her think of the old days before she rose to stardom beginning as a succubus with a talent and a nerdy imp that helped her out with that said talent.
The next day as proposed with Arnolds idea, he had Burt call up Verosika's manager Deevis, who at first scoffed at this proposal but after learning the imp's capabilities not to mention his past ties with the succubus who worked under him. He decided to play along and see how this would go.
We now see the succubus in the recording booth and standing next to her was Arnold donning his 'Typhoon' persona. On the other side of the glass her posse and Arnold's band mates sat on the sidelines wondering just what they were up to.
"Just for the record, this is a terrible idea fatso." Deevis said to Burt who was wearing much better clothes.
The said fat imp scoffed. "Oh please, wait till you my boy in action you pompous asshole. You'll be surprised."
"Whatever, we ready?"
"Yeah, all set." Karl the sound producer replied. "You sure you want to do this on Verosika? It just...I don't know seems a bit different. I mean, you do stuff like this all the time. But I've never seen you play with someone else before."
"Well, you said you both wanted something new. We're willing to deliver." She looks down to her masked compatriot, who returns the favor. The eyes of the mask shifting to a wink.
"Just try not to slow me down."
He scoffed in response. "Oh please, if I was that slow, Vaycay to Bonetown wouldn't even exist."
"Touche."
The music started to play and immediately Arnold took the lead for the opening.
A: It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up
It's dare...(Uh)
The music started blaring and Verosika started dancing feeling in the mood and going along with the song starting to get into it. Tapping a foot on the floor before moving around in the booth while Arnold remained still.
A; It's dare.
V: You've got to press it on you, you've just been thinking, that's what you do, baby, Hold it down, dare.
Jump with them all and move it, Jump back and forth, It feels like you were there yourself, work it out
(Back Chorus)
With each beat echoing, the pair nodded their heads. While Typhoon was casually going through the motions, Verosika was in her element. A mix between the rocker's calm and on point nature to Verosika's own sultry and rhythmic tone.
A, Never did no harm, Never did no harm...
It's dare...
It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up...
It's dare...
Both Arnold and Verosika exchanged a low five and high five at the same time before joining in going back-to-back. Within the runtime, the white imp is starting to get the hang of it. Following along to the rhythm of the beats. While keeping close to the mic, his nods turn into a grove. Verosika was practically dancing within the booth, like it was part of a nightclub.
The men outside were watching this very carefully.
(V & A): You've got to press it on you, You've just been thinking, That's what you do, baby, Hold it down, dare,
Jump with them all and move it, Jump back and forth, It feels like you were there yourself, work it out
From outside the recording booth both groups, Verosika's posse and Arnolds bandmates were all surprised by how well they were going together. Much less surprised at how coordinated they were.
The flow, the movement, the timing. It was like they were choreographing each other long before they met. Hell, even both managers were surprised by this.
A: Never did no harm, Never did no harm...It's dare...
It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up,
It's dare...
Never did no harm, Never did no harm...It's dare...
It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up, It's coming up,
It's dare...
Verosika and Arnolds movements started to increase tenfold, perfectly synching each other's movements showing no single sign of mistakes. Throughout the recording, the rocker was swaying his hips, never caring for the popstar dancing along behind him. It certainly got a few of their guys... feeling a little warm down below.
The same also went for the ladies as well. Hell they were even joining in on the dancing, because damn it, the whole thing was just that good.
V: You've got to press it on you, You've just been thinking,
Arnold spins around and joins in on the dancing while she continued doing it around him as both succubus and imp joined in together.
V&A: That's what you do, baby, Hold it down, dare,
Jump with them all and move it, Jump back and forth, It feels like you were there yourself, work it out,
You've got to press it on you, You've just been thinking, That's what you do, baby, Hold it down, dare.
Jump with them all and move it, Jump back and forth It feels like you were there yourself, work it out.
As the song was ending both imp and succubus continued dancing, finishing it off as they both struck a pose to finish it off.
Verosika turned to the right, extending her right leg out, toes suspending her up. Her hand reaching up for the ceiling. Typhoon on the other hand slid to the left turning his right hoove about and points to the popstar with pizzazz. Both of them were out of breath while on the other side of the recording booth both parties erupted into cheers applauding the performance. Mainly the friends of the succubus and hornless imp including the sound producer.
Eventually even the managers gave in on the applauding. Heck, among them What's up put two fingers in his mouth whistling away.
"Now that shit right there! That was freaking great!" Burt cried out.
"What's up!" What's up hollard in approval.
Verosika's posse looked at the cross-eyed demon in confusion. "The fuck is up with that guy?" Kat questioned while Milky was giving him 'the look'.
"I don't know about you all, but I'm liking what I'm seeing." She said with a pleased smirk.
Chuck noticed it and turned to look at his friend and back to the succubus. A big grin grew on his face.
"Either I'm high right now, or is he literally getting some attention?" Jazlynne questioned whispering over to Tessa who nodded.
"Nope, you're not stoned." The imp told her bandmate.
"Ok, everyone settle down now." Deevis spoke up, making them quiet down. "Alright, I will admit it. That was spectacular Verosika darling."
"Thank you." Verosika smiled.
"Same to you as well, Mr. Typhoon."
"And you were saying?" Burt questioned in an amused tone crossing out his arms.
"Yes, yes, whatever." Deevis waved him off. "Now, I seem to recall her suggesting a proposal. At first I dismissed it, but now you both have my attention." He clasped both hands together. "What might be you two suggest?"
"Well, me and my crew were wondering if we could perform alongside Verosika here." Typhoon mentioned. "We'll do some songs separately, but by the end we'll do a couple crossovers. We'll make sure we're not stepping out of line. Sound cool?"
Deevis hummed at this proposal. Not only would this possibly be a possible moment of opportunity that would expand Verosika's stardom but also help new talent rise up. That meant multiple things, more opportunities, partnerships, and a shit ton of money if this was played right.
And from what he'd just witnessed, seeing them go together, he rolled the dice. "Alright, I'm sold. Let's talk business fatty."
A couple of weeks later
Days had gone by and after much set up, hassle, bunch of phone calls and unexpected rearrangement the day had now arrived. This officially marked Sour Gear's first major gig which would in return help them rise to stardom.
Demons who went to this concert went through a lot of shit to get their hands on the tickets that were sold out. Some of which did and most likely kill for them. But for other hardcore, diehard or in other cases very obsessive fans it was all worth it.
In the backstage we see Verosika prepping up for the big finale, while at the same time Arnold and his group just came in. They were setting aside certain instruments and grabbed others for what they were going to perform.
"Ok, is anyone else here feeling something?" Chuck inquired as he dowsed his face with water.
"What's up?" The big man guessed.
"No, not nervous jitters, mate. Something else." The blue demon pondered.
"Well, you better calm them down then." Tessa told her tentacled haired band mate. "We've come this far."
"Yeah, we put on a bad ass show. So might as well go see it the rest of the way." Jazlyne agreed as she was taking a swig out of some booze. "Literally."
"Careful with that, lassie. These wankers are already smashed as is." Chuck warned.
"Don't you worry about me, baby boy." The key player snarked. "I can handle it."
"Hey!" Arnold called out as he finished chugging some water. "Less talk more prepping, this is our big chance. So, let's take it."
"You got it." "You know me." "Yeah, yeah." "What's up."
"Relax, Arnold, it's fine to have it..." Verosika called out as her make up team finished beautifying the popstar succubus. "I did on my first big show."
"I know that, but dammit, I'm literally doing my best to keep myself shaking in my boots here." The hornless imp replied back.
"You've got nothing to worry about." The pink skinned woman approached the nervous Arnold. Placing gentle hands on his shoulders. "Remember what I said about playing with crowds?"
"Picture them naked?" He questioned.
She raised an eyebrow in confusion. "I never said that."
"Yeah you did, when you first did Vacay at that talent show."
"I'm pretty sure I said to picture them in a thong."
"That's not even better!" The white imp stressed. "Besides, I barely even remember at all, I was halfway stoned! Ugh." He groaned, recalling the number of times he seen her like that years ago.
"Ten minutes till you all get your asses out all on stage!" Deevis called out walking by them carrying a fainted hooker.
Just right and then when he said that the hooker woke up and bitch slapped the manager. Knocking his ass onto the floor much to the amusement of Verosika's posse who cheered while Arnolds band mates all laughed. "I felt that!" Chuck cackled, feeling his own cheek.
"Yeah of course you would." Jazlynne chuckled doing a double low five with Tessa and What's Up.
"Oi, it would be nice to have that happen. So long as it's consensual."
"What's up." The green demon shook his head, at his little friend's kink.
Verosika returned back to Arnold. "Ok, ok. Yeah, you are right. But what did we do when we played for the crowd?"
"We just...focus on each other and just say fuck it and have a good time who cares." He now just remembered chuckling a bit. "That was the shortest and weirdest advice I got from anyone. At least, I think that's what you said. Again I was half stoned."
She shrugged in response. "Eh, close enough, I guess."
"Now just sit tight and I'll soften them up for you." The popstar winked.
She walked forward swaying her hips knowing full well he was watching her all while his band mates and her posse came up from behind. All of them put a hand on him. He glanced back to them. "What?"
"It's that obvious/What's Up." They all said in unison.
"What's obvious?" The tall imp questioned. The group looked at him like he just said something stupid... Oh wait, he already did.
"Dude, didn't you say you dated back in high school?" One of the incubi, Josh, inquired.
"Yeah? So what?"
"Have you ever?..." Kiki made a few hand gestures. To fingers shaped like a hole and one other going through it.
"What kind of dumb question is that? Of course, we did." Arnold replied with no hesitation or shame. "Have you forgotten where we live?"
"Yeah, well you seem to have forgotten." Coco jabbed.
"Are you shitting, mate? You didn't see that?!" Chuck looks at the lead singer incredulously.
"Oh, for fucks sake!" Arnold groaned, throwing his head up. "What!? What didn't I see!?"
"What's up!" What's up went to the point. The posse looks at him oddly, even after some time with the big man it's hard to understand him.
"Arnold, baby, your ex wants to fuck you." Jazlynn interpreted.
"What's up." The big man glared at his band mate.
"Well, someone had to say it right." She shrugged. "Yeah, but you could've said it differently than that." Tessa added she looked to the other succubus and succubi. "You guys get what I mean right?"
They all glanced at one another before nodding their heads. "Eh, whatever it's out in the open now."
"That's what that one chick-guy said one time." Chuck said with an amused smirk earning a back hand fist to his face. "Ow dammit! That was my nose!"
"Walk it off, sweetheart." The pianist rolled her eyes.
"Not helping." As Tessa said that from outside on stage you could hear the crowd cheering and roaring away upon seeing Verosika coming out who just loved the attention she was getting.
"Well, I softened them all up for you guys. Show them what you got!" The head honcho nodded her head to the entrance.
"Ok, no pressure guys." Arnold said to his band as they began to leave the backstage area.
"You sure we can't have a quick joint?" Jazlyne questioned but they ignored her. "Or maybe later." They all got onto the stage waving out to their fans not wasting any time to get into their positions.
Coming up to the microphone, Typhoon spoke to the crowd as his gang prep up. "How're y'all doing tonight?"
They all cheered in response and some meanwhile he was pretty sure some of the crazy fans were flipping him off for being with their idol.
"Ok, well first off I very much like to thank my old friend Verosika who helped us when we were in a tight spot trying to find a show to play at. Freakin awesome Vee! Really appreciate it!"
A mix between cheers and boos echoed throughout the stage. Understandable given the circumstances. Verosika smiled, waving both at the crowd and Typhoon. "Now for those of you who don't know us, we are Sour Gear. I'm Typhoon, the leader of the bunch. And I like to introduce you to Mr. What's up, sitting at the drums!"
"What's up!?" The cross eyed demon called out holding out his sticks.
The lights died down and holding a double headed guitar Arnold or rather Typhoon starts to play away in an almost ominous tune with Tessa, joining in for back up support.
Small lights began to flicker as Verosika started walking across the stage followed by fog sweeping in.
V: Baby, I get so scared inside
And I don't really understand
Is it love that's on my mind
Or is it fantasy?
Donning his alter ego Arnold joined in leaning into the mic in front of him.
A: Heaven, is in the palm of my hand
And it's waiting here for you
What am I supposed to do
With a childhood tragedy?
The crowd grew silent as the pair played. Mostly trying to get a feel for it. A couple others are still pretty wound up by Verosika.
A: If I close my eyes forever
Would it all remain unchanged?
If I close my eyes forever
Would it all remain the saaaaaaaaame?
Arnold leaned back his head letting the last word drag on allowing it to echo through the stadium. Right then the other members started joining in, such as Jazlyne.
A: Sometimes, it's hard to hold on
So hard to hold on to my dreams
It isn't always what it seems
When you're face to face with me
Verosika slowly walked over next to the masked hornless imp. All of the fans were on the edge of their seats especially with how this was going
V: Like a dagger you stick me in the heart
And taste the blood from my veins
And when we sleep would you shelter me
In your warm and darkened grave?
The succubus glanced over to him with a smirk while Arnold feeling a blush rushing to his cheeks.
V: If I close my eyes forever
Would it all remain unchanged?
If I close my eyes forever
Would it all remain the saaaaaaaaame?
The audience started to slowly cheer for what they're hearing. Verosika's seductive tone combined with the newcomer's steady pattern, felt like something new. Both the succubus and the imp smiled at what's happening as the next verse begins.
What's Up started adding in his drums and combined it with Jazlyne's keyboards.
V: Will you ever take me?
A: No I just can't take the paaaaaaain
V: Would you ever trust me?
A: No I'll never feel the saaaaaaaaame
(Oh)
Arnold began to play in perfect sync with Tessa & Chuck and the crowd was absolutely loving every single second of it.
The music settled down a bit as they were toning it down a bit all while behind them the lights behind them were beginning to illuminate brightly dazzling Verosika even more to their audience.
V: I know I've been so hard on you
I know I've told you lies
If I could have just one more wish
I'd wipe the cobwebs from my eyes
The music slowly started to grow back to an ominous feeling. This very much was giving the popstar a much more different vibe than normal. The fans were enjoying it very much and even some fans tried to run over the guard railing only to get knocked back by security.
V: If I close my eyes forever
Would it all remain unchanged?
If I close my eyes forever
Would it all remain the saaaaaaaame?
(Oh yeah)
Verosika moved arms spreading them out, allowing her wings to fling out right behind Arnold staying in place all while he finished it off as the tone started to die down.
A: Close your eyes,
close your eyes
You gotta close your eyes for me
The song had now ended and the crowd roared away applauding the succubus and masked hornless imp for their performance. The imp, feeling the rush of excitement, went to the mic and asked the audience one simple question. "So what'd you guys think?"
Once again they roared in response making Arnold chuckle who exchanged looks with the succubus he was performing with. "Well I'm glad that you liked it because there's more where that came from."
Suddenly a camera flash was seen and we now see a photo of Verosika waving out to the crowd with a grin while Arnold made a rock symbol with both hands.
"Yep, that one concert alone is what helped Sour Gear reach to its stardom of today."
We now see another photo showing the band aiming and firing off shirt cannons.
"It did do that, but it also did a big favor for us too."
Another photo showed What's Up making out with Milky backstage, with the thumbs of his band mates being seen.
"It changed both of our lives."
We now see a photo showing the succubus and Imp hanging out by a beach, with lipstick seen at one of the camera's edges.
"Evidently it must've." A chuckle came from the young avian demon.
More photo's showed Arnold and Verosika on a couple of dates. Such examples included dinner and hanging out in the human world in their human forms.
"Oh it did, somehow it brought the both of us back together. Even after all of those years we were apart. We shortly started dating again after at least 4 months when the concert ended."
Another photo showed Arnold jumping out of bed angry at the cameraman, while Verosika looks on spooked.
A sigh was heard from the succubus. "But because of our status, the media would be all over us and don't even get me started on the paparazzi."
"So, wait, no one knows you're married?"
"Besides our friends and family? No." Arnold stated.
The wedding photo was shown. The same one the thunderbird spotted. Another one came around, both band mates and posse in the most fashionable suits side by side with two of their best friends.
We now cut back to the living room.
"Damn, now that's a freakin story." Donner said, giving them a round of applause. "Seriously it is. But Arnold, I don't get it, if you're that famous why do you even bother working under a noble as a groundskeeper? Why keep up the whole secret?"
"Would you rather I be Typhoon every day for the rest of my life?" The white imp asked rhetorically.
"Eh, good point." Donner saw where he was going with that while Verosika wrapped an arm around her husband.
"Plus, it also helps adds in a little spice to our lives. Eventually they'll find out, but we'll continue on one way or another."
"But until then, we want to enjoy our lives together. Start a family of our own." Arnold looks to his beloved for a moment, tenderly. Before looking back at his young friend.
"So you won't tell anyone about this right?"
Donner snorted in amusement. "No of course not..."
"Really?" Verosika looks on in surprise.
"Yeah." He nodded. "Just so long as neither of you say a word about this either." He held a finger up, a little seriously.
"Uh which one?" Verosika questioned as Donner sped up to them in a blink of an eye.
He was bearing a smile, but Arnold could feel the malicious intent. "You know damn well which one. Tell anyone else about it...and..." Donner still kept a smile as sparks emitted from his body as he held up to two fingers. "If you do so...I'll cut it off so you won't have kids...We clear?"
The white imp chuckles nervously, a gulp coming down his throat. "Yeah. Crystal. I still need them anyway."
"Yes he does." Verosika added in earning a hum of approval from Donner who still kept on his smile. She then gained an idea. "Hell, I'll even sweeten the deal for you."
"I'm listening." Donner showed he was willing to negotiate. Reaching underneath the couch the succubus pulled out a box and from it two medium pieces of paper. She presented it to him. "Here, two exclusive VIP tickets for our next concert that'll be coming around next month."
"Two?"
"For you and your plus one." She winked, knowingly. Donner, who at first was surprised by this, soon pouted as he took the tickets and glared at Arnold. This was his final warning to keep his mouth shut.
"I won't tell anyone else I swear!" The hornless imp said, raising his arms up in defense.
"Good. I gotta go now." Donner made his way to the door and the couple walked with him watching as he exited out from their house. He turned around continuing to give Arnold the same smile. "I'll see you at work Arnold." He held out his right hand and a single finger and without looking a lightning bolt shot out startling the two as it hit a car making the vehicle explode.
Both Arnold and Verosika's eyes widened a bit watching as the car landed back onto the ground. Donner let his wings spread and he took to the air. He waved them off. "Gotta go. Byeeeeeeeeee!" In a flash of electricity he flew off leaving them standing there absorbing all of this.
"That motherfu-..."
"Eh, that's fine." Verosika shrugged her shoulders. "It was the neighbor's car. I never liked them anyways. Not to mention it was hideous. But one thing's for sure..." The husband looked to wife curiously. "For that owl girl he's looking after, he's got it bad." She exclaimed with a smirk.
That actually snapped him out of his shock, an audible snort escaped his throat. "That. He. Does!" She then wrapped her arms around his neck bearing a lustful smirk. "What again?"
"Yes!" She eagerly answered.
"Works for me." They rushed back inside slamming the door behind them and locked it.
From the screen of the old tv we arrive back to Destiny's bar where it'd just finished drinking a shot. "Well, there you have it. What did I tell you all?"
Meow
"No not that Mitty! Surprises! They happen when we least expect it! Dammit! You just ruined the vibe!"
The furry pest simply mozzies on away, giving a light tap on leg of the stool, Destiny's sitting on before it left. Suddenly an audible creek was heard and soon the stool imploded from under the host.
"Well that settles it, everyone I love you and all, but get the fuck out of here!" Destiny didn't get a reaction and then it summoned a freakin tank cannon pointing it right at the readers/audience.
"I said now!" The camera pointing fell to the side as you could clearly hear multiple individuals running away in fear. The cannon fired blowing a hole into the bar, it rolls across the set, running over the camera. "No!"
To be continued
Well everyone what'd you think? I'm sure a lot of you would've picked some different songs, and feel they don't fit into this but, eh, to each thier own.
Plus, two tickets. That means you can all expect another chapter packed with some music. You try to submit some suggestions, but try not to go to overboard because there are already some songs prepared to use
List of songs used for this chapter.
Black Sheep: Scott Pilgrim vs The World. Tonight, Tonight, Tonight: Beat Crusaders. Dare: Gorillaz. Close My Eye's Forever. Litta Ford & Ozzy Ozbourne
Now replying back to reviewers
Guest#1. I can't wait for it either, myself.
Marbled Gold: Well, I thought it'd be interesting to 'try' and delve into Octavia's backstory, because logically speaking when Stolas pulled that stunt with Blitzo, it had to affect her in some way, it'd just be stupid not to assume or think that nothing happened after that. Because with those nobles, something would have to happen. As for the flashbacks glad you enjoyed them, and even though there were more in this one, I do so hope that you liked this chapter.
Gzilla54 : You know honestly, it's real hard to say, because Paimon only appeared in one episode, we know he's a shitty father and all that, but at the end of the day, that's all we really know. I'd love to know more, but honestly I'd feel that to Paimon, he'd only be interested in Donner's power, which would be the only reason.
The saiyan boy: Thank you.
King of 2211: I very much enjoyed writing out those interactions with Pyrojack myself and oh yeah big difference compared to Stella. In the case of Donner and Octavia further bonding between the two very much so deepened. As for Striker, you know it's reall tricky to say. He hasn't really crossed my mind yet, sure try to and think of something. If you have an idea I'm more than willing to listen, but please let's talk over the PM and hope you enjoyed this chapter.
desmondbot: Well, come on let's be real here, in the case of children of royalty, they pick up on their parents 'bad traits. While we do know the affair affected Stella, we honestly, have zero clue on how Octavia was affected, only through theories and fan comics but that's it. I real pleased that you enjoyed reading the last chapter my friend and hope that you enjoy this one too.
