Welcome back for Chapter 26 of No Way Back!
Yeah, I know it has been a bit of time (2 months-ish?) since the last update. I really don't want to sink into this kind of release schedule, but I think this is how it is gonna be until I retrieve motivation to write consistently with work and stuff going on. It doesn't help that I basically get an hour or so for writing given how things work out. I don't want to spend the time really explaining all that has happened, so just know that time has escaped me.
Anyways, onto Guest Reviews:
Guest #1: Thank you for the update. Please update soon. I love this story. I have known that was Baal, but I didn't know that she was bee sister. I can't wait for the battle to continue and for kyle and loona to defeat her
Response: Glad to hear you are enjoying the story. As for the reason for Bael, Beelzebub somewhat derives from it, so I thought it fitted to have them be sisters. You will have to wait and see what happens...
Guest #2: Bite her throat out. At the end of the day, she's a goat.
Response: Uhh, sure? I can only guess who you mean (Loona?). XD
ReadingBeta (Guest): In other words, he walked right into this trap perfectly like an idiot. Which will now cost him dearly n will have to explain everything to everybody here. N I thought he was the smart one but instead he was played like a fool with half a brain. I admit that the fact that Bee has a sister, Bael, was a shock but he insisted that Bee was the threat when it was obvious. Looks like Bael wants to take a higher place for herself in hell. I wonder if this was what Azazel wanted to kill all along. Update soon.
Response: Yes, he did. Can't have him act perfectly all the time. He doesn't have the benefit of viewing things from the outside. Basically, he didn't know Bee, and he didn't know about Bael. This was an image that Bael wanted to be seen by everyone.
Guest #3: If kyle doesn't become an hellhound, can you at least give him an armor identical to that of sauron please?
Response: Making him a hellhound would be pointless at this point. As for the armor, it is a little overkill. I just don't see it working out well.
lurker no more (Guest): I must admit, I was kind of worried about Beelzebub being the evil one. Good thing that falls to her sister, Bael! From her description, she fits the role well! I'm really looking forward to the next chapter along with Kyle and his allies taking her down a peg and what happens next!
P.S: Have you seen the second season trailer for Helluva Boss?
P.P.S: I would recommend the video "Helluva Boss has a helluva problem" if you have the time. But I am glad that you do a great job fleshing out the characters as well as yours! It's like you tapped into what the show's leaving behind.
Response: Yeah, I decided to adhere to the demands of the fans and make Beelzebub not the problem. It took some thinking, but I guess it all seems to fit decently well enough. Yes, I have seen the second trailer, and I am very much well aware of Vivzie's storytelling problems in Helluva Boss. XD
Tyler432 (Guest): Great chapter nice work
Response: Thanks XD
Guest #4: To the Guest who reviewed April 20th:
He'll get there, just be patient, please.
Response: I don't know... Chapter 27, Chapter 28?
Guest #5: Well, you did a great job laying the groundwork for what will happen next. I'm eager to see what will happen going forward!
Response: Glad to hear it. Hope I deliver!
Guest #6: Well, I'm eager to see what will happen in the next chapter! Hope to see it soon!
Response: Same response as above. XD
Guest #7: While I hope the wait for the next chapter isn't as long as last time, I know you will have it released when the time is right!
Response: I basically release it when I finish. XD
cotia110 (Guest): when the character oc goes to los angeles he must beat up a street artist clown for swearing at octavia [seeing these stars]
Response: I am formulating that chapter in my mind still. I see him likely protecting her, but that clown is just not worth the work of beating up.
Guest #8: It'll be interesting to see what happens next, but I'll be all in!
Response: I hope to deliver. XD
Guest #9: I know the next chapter will be worth the wait, and I'm eager to see what will happen!
Response: Same response as above.
Guest #10: With the most recent episodes still fresh, it will be great to see the next chapter!
Response: Does this count as fresh? XD
...
That's it for reviews. Let's get to it!
Chapter 26: Some Things End Where Others Begin
My vision was blurred from the impact I had just taken, but I was still able to see Loona disappear over the edge vividly. That image burned in my head as I continued to look at the rising smoke and cracked concrete in my vision. Whether I was kept from saving her or was too late, it didn't matter. I was unable to save her. The last thing I would remember of her was the fear in her eyes before being consumed by the black smoke.
What I was experiencing wasn't new. Loss wasn't a new concept to me. The overwhelming despair and grief hit me all at the same time as they had all those years ago when I lost one so close to me. Yet, this crushing reality felt way more intense. I couldn't even put it into words as I continued to lay on the roof with Bael standing near me. Despite the injuries I had suffered, it was my wounded heart that kept me from getting up.
All the while, Bael took a deep breath as she didn't even look over the edge as she walked away. She seemed happier in attitude, "How does it feel knowing that all of this happened because of you? You decided to come here, and now your friend is dead." She let her words sink in before offhandedly stating, "I was sort of hoping for some screams from the poor pup, but I probably wouldn't hear them anyway." She then crouched down to look at me more closely. When a few tears fell from my eyes, she scraped one away while trying to cut my cheek. However, her claw couldn't pierce my skin. She comments, "Now, this is something I can savor. It might even be more enjoyable than killing you."
Bael looked at her nail to see that there was no blood. Her smile slightly dimmed, but she just let out a stress-relieving sigh before she turned around to look at her weapon. She began to speak again, "It is a new beginning for Hell. I can feel it…"
I began to zone the demonic prince out as I could feel myself slowly getting to my feet. I couldn't comprehend exactly why I was getting up. Loona was gone, so I shouldn't have much of a will to fight. Still, I was slowly pushing through my wounds to stand up. Looking at the ground, I saw my sword. I extended my hand, and the sword flew into my grasp.
It was when I finally concluded something. All this preparation and training had come to this point. I still had my friends below counting on me. Beyond that, there were countless demons in Hell that would suffer due to Bael. I also knew that Loona wouldn't want me to lay here and die without a fight. I had to push through this and not blame myself. For the first time, despite the blame Bael put on me, I knew this was not my fault. It took all my friends, as well as two incredible girls, to make me realize that I can't always take the blame.
My eyes fixed on Bael as she reached down and picked up her weapon. When she turned around, shock replaced her excitement. She spoke, "I was certain that you would've given up!" She then growled, "This won't take long."
Bael twisted her weapon in her grasp, and I could already see a change from earlier. It wasn't much, but she didn't seem as strong or as fast as before. I couldn't quite place it, but then a voice inside my head began to speak to me, "I'm impressed. You managed to last this long."
My eyes widen as I listen, "Azazel! I thought you couldn't communicate with me while I was here?!"
"No time for that. Listen to me…" While doing this, I lifted my blade defensively while Bael approached me. I was intent on listening to Azazel since I had a feeling that he was going to provide me with valuable aid now. He began to explain, "I've never been much of a doctor, so the best I can immediately do is dull the pain from your injuries, but that won't be enough to do this. If you can hold her off while I meditate, I'll be able to give you more direct assistance. Do you understand?"
It felt like Azazel was keeping some of the information to himself, but I had no other option than to follow his guidance. With a sigh, I mentally respond, "Fine. I'll do my best."
I felt the grip of my sword heat up as the sensation of magic running into my body felt like a drug moving through my veins. My lacerations and injuries seemed to dull as if morphine were being pumped into me but without any groggy and sluggish mind. Even my bleeding ceased as I felt my strength somewhat return to me. It should be enough to hold Bael off for whatever Azazel was planning.
I didn't even have to wait before Bael charged forward to strike me. I swung my weapon around to meet her spear and redirected it. The power from us wasn't as apparent this time, but I could sense that our strikes mattered so much more. She was testing my defenses as she stabbed and swung her 'stinger' around. On my end, I was careful to not allow her weapon to scrape me. I didn't want to test anything when it came to holding Bael off.
Frustrated, Bael spits out, "Even when you have lost, you still fight?! You really are an annoying flea!"
I push my sword against the pole of her spear to create a little separation. I let out a breath before looking Bael in the eyes. I never responded to her, and I have a feeling that irritated her more than anything I could've said. With a sneer, Bael lunged forward to strike me once more. Despite what had just happened, I must continue to fight.
Moments Ago…
POV: Blitzo and Verosika
The moment Loona was tossed from the roof, both Verosika and Blitzo felt their hearts sink into their stomachs. Verosika audibly gasped while bringing both of her hands to her mouth. Tears immediately began to roll down her cheeks as she watched in terror. Blitzo himself couldn't help but scream out, "LOONY!"
They helplessly watched as Loona careened toward the flames of the burning structure and alcohol that had once housed and entertained guests of the party before. Her form soon became encased in smoke as only her silhouette was seeable. Those watching from below were completely powerless to do anything. However, something sped over Blitzo and Verosika as they flew directly into the smoke.
Both Verosika and Blitzo looked on with astonishment as the figure was too quickly moving to distinguish. That didn't stop them from having their terror turn to hope as they darted right for Loona's falling form. There was a second in which they held their breaths as nothing was clear for the two.
Then it became clear who went to save Loona. While holding Loona in her four arms, Beelzebub came flying out from the smoke and towards the others. Verosika and Blitzo looked back to where she was moments ago to see Vortex holding his arms out from where Bee had left. It was obvious that even he was astonished by his girlfriend's quick thinking and speed.
Verosika held her breath as she watched on with misty-eyed relief while Blitzo found himself tossing his weapon to the side while the prince flew with his daughter. Despite this overwhelming relief, it could be seen that Beelzebub put everything she could into rescuing Loona. Her wings sloppily fluttered while she did her best to keep them airborne. She was still pushing through her injury for this. The two were flying faster and faster toward the ground.
Beelzebub finally lost all strength, and the two dropped and rolled on the ground. After a few moments, the two came to a complete stop. Beelzebub held her stab wound while grimacing in pain while Loona slowly sat up. Her dress was a complete mess at this point, and she even coughed a few times after being grabbed by the throat and from dealing with the smoke.
Loona turned to look at Bee on the ground, but she was then wrapped up in a hug from both Verosika and Blitzo. Loona was taken aback by how both were completely disregarding their hatred for one another for her sake. She felt her emotions even boil over a little as she hugged both of them back. She was certain that fall was where things were going to end for her.
Blitzo was the first one to choke out, "I thought I was going to lose you." He hugged her more before saying, "I'm so sorry."
Loona was still overcoming the smoke she inhaled. While she was coughing from that, she could smell the alcohol wafting from Blitzo. She cleared her throat, "It's fine, Blitz."
He shakes his head, "No." He pulls away a little before saying, "I don't know what I would do if I lost you. I promise that I'll start doing better." He hugged her again.
Loona was about to respond to him, but Verosika grabbed Loona's cheeks and made the Hellhound look at her. She checked Loona over before pulling her into a hug as well. Fresh tears were going down her cheeks. She couldn't even form any words as she hung onto Loona tightly.
Loona was taken aback by the sudden surge of emotions from Blitzo and Verosika. However, she turned her attention to the injured Beelzebub as she was looked over by Vortex. Loona was completely perplexed by the decision. Given her state, it was a major risk trying to catch her. Something could have easily gone wrong so that they both don't come out of it.
Loona asked, "Why did you do it?"
Beelzebub held her stab wound in pain. She hissed in pain before looking back at Loona. All eyes were on her, and they all seemed equally interested in her motives. So, she explained, "I've really fucked up, okay. I haven't been the ruler I always wanted to be here. I just wanted to show my peeps a good time while sharing good vibes. Gluttony was supposed to be a place where everyone should indulge in goodies and have fun. I know it may be hard for you to see, but I do care about everyone that enters my home. I'm just powerless out there in the rest of Gluttony, so I never really bothered doing anything to stop what my sister was doing. After everything that has happened what you said I was allowing to happen and this…" Bee pointed at the destruction of the scene, "I feel like a complete failure and fraud."
Loona's gaze hardened a little, "So you just let her take control?"
Bee nodded solemnly, "I knew where it led, and I still gave her control."
Loona wanted to grill Beelzebub, but there was something in there that set her apart from Bael. It came from one action, and Loona felt her voice soften as she spoke, "You still risked yourself for me."
There was a small laugh followed by pain before Beelzebub responded, "Yeah, I didn't think I would hurt this bad. My sister is such a bitch." Bee let out a few more pained laughs. It wasn't met with the others of the group seeing the lack of laughter.
Beelzebub sighed before saying, "It was a risk, but I can't sit around now that I know what is happening. You were right, Loona, I was completely naïve and neglectful. I don't know the details of what happens at those adoption agencies, or even what other dark secrets my sister keeps, but that isn't because I wasn't kept from the truth. I actively dodged the truth of what was happening." While saddened, there was a determination in Bee's eyes, "I don't want to be that way anymore. I CAN'T be that way anymore. I need to be better."
While this conversation was happening, Verosika and Blitzo sat next to one another. While they were also wondering what had just happened, the two of them were also thinking about other stuff. They each took note of how the other was so concerned for Loona's safety and well-being. Not only that, but the show of emotions each of them showed.
Blitzo started, "I didn't realize you felt that way about my daughter."
Verosika rolled her eyes before scoffing, "I'm not an icy bitch to everyone, you know. I just can't stand you."
Blitzo groaned a little, "Yeah, I know that you think I am a-"
Verosika cut in again, "Just shut it, okay? I'm just going to say what I want to." Verosika sighed as everything tonight settled in. It was crazy, and she didn't quite know why everything was happening. However, there was one moment that stood clear to her, "I don't know where everyone else stands for you, but I can see that you really care about Loona." Verosika offhandedly comments after, "It's kinda weird seeing it, to be honest."
Blitzo spoke with a deadpanned inflection, "Great… Glad you now know that I'm not a completely uncaring asshole. What point are you trying to make?"
"As much as you may not like it, I'm not going anywhere. I can tell that this stuff with Loona and Kyle is starting to get serious." Blitzo rolled his eyes right into a scowl from hearing this. He probably didn't like the idea of his ex getting into a relationship with one of his employees and his daughter. That wasn't the point Verosika was trying to make, "I care for her a lot, too, so I will make you a little deal."
Blitzo asked, "What deal?"
Verosika quickly explained, "I will keep things pleasant between the two of us whenever we happen to be together. My feelings for you won't change, but the bickering will stop." Verosika looks back at Loona, "I suggest you do the same."
Blitzo found himself thinking for a moment. A lot has happened tonight, and this was something he didn't see improving. He didn't see his relationship with Verosika ever getting better, and a part of him wanted to reject this offer. He also didn't want Verosika near Loona. When he looked back toward his Hellhound daughter, his thoughts changed. It was a small change that Loona may never see, but that didn't matter. He felt himself wanting what would make Loona happy. So, he finally came up with his response, "Fine. It's a deal."
Back with Loona's conversation with Bee, she looked back to the rooftop to see the two figures dancing in battle. She asked, "Can you get me back up there?"
With effort, Bee nodded, "Yeah, I can try…"
Bee tried to get to her feet, but she faltered and fell back into Tex's grasp. He exclaimed, "Bee!"
She waved him off, "Yeah, I'm fine, boo." She held her wound again before saying in discomfort, "Sorry, sweetie, but I don't think I have what it takes to get you up to your boyfriend."
Loona's ears flattened against her head as she looked back up to the rooftop with fear. Unlike the others, she knew exactly what state Kyle was in. She uttered, "So, he has to finish this alone…"
Beelzebub nodded while also worried, "Yeah, everything is up to them now." She was silent for a moment before looking up as well. She held her tongue for a moment, but then allowed the question to slip out, "He's… going to kill her if he gets the chance, won't he?"
It was hard to know what Beelzebub was thinking, and Loona took a moment to look her over. Bee could be furious with this, plea for her sister's life, and maybe even do more. That, or she could sit still and see what happens. Despite her doubts about telling her, Loona nodded, "Yes, he will."
There wasn't a moment where Bee's expression betrayed her emotions. Loona was completely in the dark about what the Prince of Gluttony was thinking. However, her attention soon settled on the fight happening on the rooftop. From what she could tell, things were at a standstill. Kyle was defensive while Bael was aggressive. One thing was for sure, things could not stay this way forever. Something was going to have to change, and Loona found herself hoping that Kyle could find a way to turn the tide.
POV: Kyle
My defense shifted a little while I waited for Azazel to complete his side. I knew that I would run out of ground if I continued to allow Bael to push me, so I did everything in my power to keep her on her toes. I couldn't match her aggression with my own, so I had to be even more crafty than her.
Bael was forcing me back as she made quick stabs at me with her weapon. I was able to hit them to the sides before I flicked the end of my sword to come close to her hands. I could almost feel the blade slice the air only millimeters from her flesh. I would then take my ground back before she could react aggressively again. If only I could even the playing field a little more by wounding her.
Bael growled, "I would be impressed by your resolve if I didn't know any better. That Fallen is already aiding you when he should know that this fight should only be between you and me."
I am about to respond, but I choose to ignore her words. It feels like she is also trying to catch the edge in this fight, and it is likely through distracting tactics. So, I ready myself once again right before she sneers and lunges more attacks on me. It was met with the same defense I had been running before right before I bought more time with conservative attacks. This was met with further frustration from Bael.
Bael's anger turned as she turned to more cruel tactics. Her anger turned to an insidious smile as she laughed darkly, "How does it feel to lose another girlfriend?" My gaze narrowed as Bael smiled at my response, "That's right. You should be angry, but not at me." She shakes her head, "No, no. I'm the wrong person to be angry at. You were the one who put her in danger, human."
I felt the grip on my weapon tighten as my emotions swelled within me. I knew her words were wrong, yet they aggravated me. I was about to lurch forward, but Azazel's voice stopped me, "Don't be foolish. Bael doesn't even need magic to be a master of manipulation. She has been preparing for this fight for a while. Whatever information she has on you, she will try to use it. Keep check of your emotions."
I didn't even reply before Bael spoke again. Her voice was mocking sympathy, "What's the matter? Did neither of them matter enough to you? You let your girlfriend die in an accident, and then you let one die here." Bael rushed forward, and I was barely able to redirect her attacks before forcing her backward with a few of my own. She then sneers, "You will always be around to watch them die."
Gritting my teeth, I refuse to respond. Instead, I focus on keeping her at bay. From this change in demeanor, Azazel seems pleased, "Good. Only hold her off for just a few more seconds. I should then be ready to assist."
"What do you mean-" Before I could finish, Bael was already stabbing her spear forward in multiple, precise attacks to take me out. I took a few steps back as I redirected her attacks to the side before she barely cut me on the side of my abdomen. However, I was able to hit my hilt across her face with a loud impact.
Bael angrily growled while she regained her footing. She spat out some of her demonic blood before continuing, "Perhaps I'll grant you mercy by ending you here instead!"
Azazel's struggling voice from when he was focusing was gone. Instead, he seemed very pleased, "I'm afraid she has misspoken. We'll end this right now."
The sensation that overcame me was beyond description. As Bael moved forward to strike me once again, it felt as if my weapon expertly carved through the air to meet the spear before Bael could even cross into my territory. This change in speed and aggression was immediately noticed by Bael and me.
Bael's eyes widen, "How'd you…" She tried to figure out what happened before it dawned on her, "You didn't…"
Instead of focusing on the gravity of this situation, I relaxed and worked along with Azazel to finish this fight. I tightened my jaw and focused on getting the job done. There wasn't a moment to waste in this fight.
Bael found herself nearly completely on the defensive as Azazel's control over my movements showed the difference in skill between me and a Fallen who used to be a top angel with a lifespan of hundreds to thousands of years longer than mine. The speed and precision with which my strikes came in would've been hard to imagine had I not gotten to see it now.
The sensation of allowing Azazel to use my body felt beyond unusual. It felt like I was still the one fighting, but every movement I had was almost subconscious. It was like my body was falling asleep, but the movements I made were like a jolt trying to wake me up. If I were to put it into words, it was continuously in a loop of feeling like I was falling before trying to catch myself.
There was a certain swiftness in which the tables turned on Bael. My attacks came in and would nearly hit Bael, but her spear would manage to catch and redirect them at the last second each time. However, this could only happen for so long until I finally broke through. All it took was one small nick on the arm when Bael's defense wasn't strong enough. She hissed in pain as her skin began to burn a little. More of her power was drained away, and panic settled in. She jumped back a bit to give herself time and space.
The roof below my feet began to crack under the insurmountable destruction that had been brought to Beelzebub's home. The fires had eaten away at the insides of the house, and now everything was threatening to come down. This was an opportunity for Bael that she was going to fully utilize. Her wings flapped a little, but the pain she felt made it difficult to make it into the air.
Seeing where this was going, I finally managed to take control of my body over Azazel as I pursued Bael. She saw this and threw her spear as hard as she could at me. I didn't even have to react as Azazel spun the sword around and knocked it out of the way. Bael was now over the edge giving me no other option than to jump.
I jumped off the edge of the house right as the building started to go down. I extended my arm and swung my sword downward barely managing to cut off one of Bael's wings. She immediately lost all control as she cried out in pain. However, this critical strike didn't come without its drawbacks as I was left tumbling toward the ground along with the demonic prince. I lost her form in the smoke and dust plum before I found myself completely consumed.
I could tell that Azazel's influence was starting to dwindle when I crashed against some of the rubble from Beelzebub's home. I hit the remains of a concrete support, and I felt my breath knocked out of me. My wounds were no longer numb as I felt each hit with red-hot pain. The strength and speed had dwindled back to what it was. I couldn't even sense his presence like I had before.
My body finally hit the ground with a loud thud before I rolled for a moment. After a few seconds, I felt the world become still as I coped with the impending agony and choking. I coughed a few times while groaning from the pain. I even spoke out loud to Azazel, "Azazel? What the *cough* fuck? What happened?"
I was met with complete silence. If I had to guess, Azazel's current power level was exhausted in that assist he gave me just then. Still, as the dust settled, I could tell by Bael's wandering form that it was more than enough to finish all of this.
I slowly got to my feet and moved through the dust cloud to Bael. She seemed to be in great pain since one of her wings was sliced off. As for what she was looking for, I could only guess. She could be looking for her spear, which was in the opposite direction. So, I could only guess what she was up to.
My limping pace was slow, but I finally managed to make it to Bael right as she made it to the edge of the dust. I could see the crowd of familiar faces showing their surprise. Vortex sat together as the former was getting bandaged by her boyfriend. Then, there was Verosika and Blitzo embracing a single figure: Loona. I felt my breath caught in my throat, and I felt myself focusing purely on the Hellhound. Our eyes connected for a brief moment. I had even, very momentarily, forgotten about Bael.
The prince noticed this moment of pause. She brandished a hidden blade before twirling around to stab me in the chest. There were gasps from everyone watching. Before it could make contact, my arm instinctively flipped up and severed two of her arms above the elbow. Her arms and the knife in one of her hands fell to the ground as the wound burned from the angelic energy of my sword.
Bael held her arms in pain before howling, "Ahhh!" She fell backward onto her back while she mustered all the strength she could to not continue screaming. While she did this, I picked up the knife she had and threw it to the side. Looking back at her, Bael's eyes burned with pain and hatred, "I'll skin you alive, you dirty fucking human!"
Tiredly, I respond, "It's over, Bael."
Bael looked around in a panic before her eyes connected with Beelzebub's. Depowered from the injuries inflicted on her, and wounded to the point where she could no longer fight, Bael turned to her last lifeline. She pled, "Beelzebub, you have the strength to end this right now. He is weakened. All you must do is finish him off!"
My eyes settled on Beelzebub for a split second to determine what she was going to do. I expect her to be unsure about her place in all of this. Did she want to keep the status quo going by sticking by her sister despite everything that had happened tonight, or was the guilt she held all real? I thought she would be struggling between the two options.
However, Beelzebub's face remained as stoic as possible with only a glimmer of sadness in her eyes. She didn't move an inch forward as Vortex supported her weight. It wasn't a sure thing that she would even win if she decided to fight me given both of our tired and injured bodies. It wasn't that which was keeping her from fighting though.
My mind finally connected that Loona had to have been saved by someone, and the dirt that Beelzebub told me the picture. Somehow, she managed to fly and save Loona from certain death. It painted enough of a picture for me to understand that Bael's plea was going to be unanswered. Queen Bee had made up her mind well before this crucial point.
Instead of having the attention focused on Beelzebub, I cut in, "You are alone, Bael. No sister to answer your beckoning call, and no drones to spy and distract. Even your magic has been sucked away from you." From the side, Beelzebub adverted her gaze from her broken sister. Tex did his best to console her for the inevitable. I ended, "This ends right here."
There was more panic from Bael as any power she felt she had in the situation dissipated. She was completely corned, panicking about what was going to happen. Her violent gaze met my icy one.
She spat out with hatred at anyone who would listen, but mostly to Beelzebub, "This human is going to rip everything apart in Hell! You think this will stop here?!" She glares at Beelzebub before yelling, "He is working with Azazel! As long as there is the Ars Goetia or 'the Sins', he won't stop until he turns Hell on its head for those in Heaven to pick apart." Her eyes intensify on Beelzebub, "You know you are never going to be safe from him since you are a part of the problem."
I slowly stuck my sword into Bael's shoulder to stop her talking. My anger had completely been replaced by mental fortitude. I pulled my blade away from Bael's shoulder, and a stream of dark blood began to seep from it. She groaned from the pain before looking back at me.
I calmed my breathing as I held my sword up high getting ready to strike. This should have felt easy given what kind of monster she was, but the pressure of pulling it off was starting to settle in. I had a few of those that I cared about watching me with worry, and countless Hellhounds were looking in from outside Beelzebub's property. Beyond that, the helicopters from above were probably giving a live broadcast of what was happening for all of Hell to watch. Tomorrow or even sooner, Heaven will be notified of this development. Bael was right about one thing, nothing would be the same after this point.
Bael screamed at me, "What the fuck are you waiting for?! Be a good puppet and kill me al-"
With a swift swing of the sword, I didn't even let Bael finish this last sentence before slicing right through her. No one knew what had happened until Bael's head slowly split from her neck before rolling onto the ground. Her body then went completely limp and collapsed to the side. Blood began to pool on the pavement leading up to the now-decimated home.
A black, smoky mist began to seep from Bael's corpse before collecting to be sucked up by the sword in my grasp. I was completely taken aback by this, and all of this was done before I could even react properly. A new symbol, Bael's symbol, was now etched in the blade near the crossguard. I didn't contemplate what this all meant. To me, it was a symbol that this fight was finally over.
I felt myself grow a little weaker from all the wounds I had sustained. My legs wobbled a little before I felt as if I was about to collapse. However, I felt two figures crash into me and support me. The sword dropped out of my hand from the two, and I looked to either side of me to see both Verosika and Loona tightly squeezing me in a hug.
I held it together for only a second before I hugged them both just as tightly. Their touch, warmth, and smells eased my mind away from the intensity of the situation. I finally choked out, "I'm so happy that you two are alright." I hugged Loona tighter, "I thought I had lost you."
Loona rested her head against my shoulder and neck before saying. Emotions swelled in her voice, "I'm still here, and I'm not going anywhere."
I couldn't help but kiss her cheek before looking at Verosika in my other arm. I said, "I'm so happy you are alright, too. You aren't hurt, are you?" Pulling away from both girls to look at both, "Neither of you are seriously hurt, right?"
Verosika is somewhat taken aback by immediate concern over her well-being. She came out of it quickly with a small blush, "Y-Yeah, I'm fine. That bitch's drones weren't too much for me and dumbas- I mean, Blitzo."
I felt that I was missing something that had happened between them, but I felt like addressing that was for another time. I looked at Loona in her ruined dress. She brushed a little dirt off before saying, "I'm a little bruised up, but I can manage."
I nodded before trying to move forward only to feel myself stumble. Loona helped me stay on my feet while asking with concern, "Shit, dude. You should be thinking about yourself more than thinking of us right now."
Verosika nodded with equal concern, "Yeah, Loona's right. All of those cuts look like they fucking hurt."
I simply nod before bluntly saying, "They do."
Finally, Blitzo walked up before folding his arms. He asked, "So, was this what all that training with Millie was for? Just so you could kick some royal demon ass like you did just now?"
I was hesitant to respond, and I looked at Loona for some guidance. She rolled her eyes for a moment at Blitzo before giving me a small nod. The truth has to start somewhere, right? Looking back at Blitzo, I say, "Yes."
Blitzo then looked at Loona before asking a little more heated, "Is that why you've been going to Stolas's?! Is he a part of-" Blitzo pinched between the eyes before saying, "Nevermind. That royal pain-in-my-ass is way too focused on other things than to be that involved in this shitty mess." Blitzo then pulled out his car keys before pressing a button. Surprisingly, the sound of his van's horn started to go off underneath all the rubble. He groaned in response, "I'm still getting him to fix up my van."
I said, "Blitz?"
Blitzo looked at me with hesitation in his eyes, "Yeah?"
There were quite a few things I could say, but I kept it short at as least awkward as possible, "Thanks for being here to help with this. I couldn't have done it without your help."
After a long, miserable night, Blitzo's gaze softened for a moment. There was a sense of vulnerability in being recognized for doing something positive. After letting it sink in, he resorted to his defensive tactics to not show emotion, "Yeah, well, this entire thing was a fucking blast. I needed to let loose after the shitty night this turned out to be."
No one, not even Verosika put a damper on his mental state. Instead, Loona seemed slightly panicked, "Motherfucker! The book! Where did that book go?!"
Loona looked around in a small panic before seeing some cosmic-looking energy seeping from Bael's body. Verosika began to support me so that Loona could check and see if Stolas's grimoire was the thing emitting the magic. She realized that the magical signature was familiar, and so she went over to turn the body over. She groaned at the sounds it made, but then her ears popped up when she finally caught the sight of the grimoire. She picked it up and brushed it off. She said, "Stolas would've killed me if I somehow lost this."
Verosika softly asked me, "So, now what? I know demons die in Hell all the time like this, but…" She looked over at Bael's body, "this is different. There have only been a handful of times when royalty in Hell even gets hurt in a fight, let alone die to a human."
I nodded, "I know. This won't be viewed lightly by anyone. I have a feeling that I may have made a lot of enemies tonight." I look over to see all of the Hellhounds outside of Beelzebub's property. One thing was for sure, I could see in their gazes that they understood that this fight was for them. They all seemed to cheer and make a lot of noise. I comment, "Hopefully the support I gain is just as strong. Regardless, I think all of Hell watched this go down."
With Loona and Verosika, we all looked up at the various news choppers that were filming us. The sounds around us somehow felt like they were quiet around us. Somehow, it was like we were on a stage for everyone to watch.
With a calming sigh, I looked back forward to see both Vortex and Beelzebub standing there. Bee was still injured from Bael's betrayal and, from what I could guess, saving Loona. Vortex was there to make sure Bee could stay on her feet. From there, Loona, Verosika, and I didn't make a move forward, and neither did the other two. Meanwhile, Blitzo was to the side trying fruitlessly to dig out his van.
I was about to speak, but I was then cut off by Beelzebub tiredly raising one of her hands, "Please, just let me speak, first."
One of Beelzebub's hands ran through her hair in an exhausted manner. I do suppose a lot happened tonight, and none of it was pleasant. Seeing her completely serious was an unexpectedly nice change of pace. So, she started bluntly, "I'm sure you probably think I'm the biggest piece of shit in Hell right behind my sister, huh?"
I don't initially respond, and I hold my emotions close to my chest. Despite this exhaustion, there didn't seem to be the same tension in the air as before despite the fact either of us could do anything to the other without any notice. Well, I was certain that Beelzebub wasn't going to make a move against me. As for me, she probably wasn't certain.
With the lack of response, Beelzebub continued, "Well, I think I'm pretty shitty." There was a small laugh from the Queen of Gluttony before she clutched her side in pain. She continued, "I knew about the pain Bael was causing, and I willingly became a part of that. There is no level of 'sorries' that I could give to make any of it better, but I want to do my part in repairing the damage that I was a part of."
I considered her words carefully. My eyes did flick to my sword on the ground, and to Bael's body that had leaked dark blood everywhere. I knew what Azazel would want if he could speak in my ear. He would want me to take my sword and finish off what Bael started when she injured her sister. However, he wasn't here, and he had no choice in the matter. It was entirely up to me.
Beelzebub seemed to have been on the same page. She helps up her hand to tell Vortex to let her go. She took a couple of small steps closer to me. She said, "I know that you are the Champion of Azazel, and I know that he wants you to kill me. Just know that you have a choice. I don't know you, but my Tex does. I believe you want to do what is right. I don't want it to end this way, but if dying is what-"
Looking at Loona, the answer behind what I wanted to do regarding Beelzebub stood right beside me. I cut Bee off and asked, "You were the one who saved Loona, right?"
Bee was initially surprised by my calm question. After a second of gathering her bearings, she nodded, "Umm, yeah? Yes, I guess I did."
"Then I'm not going to kill you." It seemed like Beelzebub wasn't the only one who was holding their breath. Vortex, Loona, and Verosika all seemed to relax a little more knowing that there would be no more fighting here. I continued, "That alone shows me that you are being honest with your words."
Beelzebub seemed stunned that I came to my decision so quickly. She wasn't even prepared with a response, so she went to the default, "Umm, cool…"
Grimacing from pain, I added, "Nothing I have seen of you screams that you are ready for this kind of change. Seeing as Bael was the cruel one out of you two, I can only see you are a demon that ignored the plight of those she was supposed to watch over. This is only one of the many mistakes you have made, and it will take a long time and a lot of effort to right your wrongs. I will be watching you carefully. I hope you know that."
I could see the pressure starting to wear on Beelzebub already. She didn't seem like the same free-loving demon that hosted some of Hell's most exciting parties. Instead, she seemed weary and serious. She commented in a way to deflect from her stress, "Man, you know how to kill a mood." Beelzebub looked down at her sister's corpse with a small level of sadness. She added, "What a shitty night. I really need a drink…"
Tex spoke up for the first time seeing as the business of the evening had already been taken care of, "No, we need to get you to a hospital."
Beelzebub looked down at her wound which was still leaking a little blood. She let out a hollowed laugh, "Yeah, this stings like a bit. At least I'll get the good drugs to make this pain go away."
Loona lightly held me from the side before saying, "You should also get checked out and fixed up, Kyle. Not to sound worried, but Bael kicked the shit out of you. You'll probably need stitches for some of these."
Looking down at my body, I could see that my clothes were pretty much ruined with blood and sweat. My body hurt to move in any regard, and I could feel my strength starting to wane. Not only that, but Verosika and Loona seemed deeply concerned for me despite the fight being over. Looking over at Blitzo, I could even see him looking at me occasionally.
For once, I agreed with Beelzebub. Tonight had been a shitty night. I was looking forward to whatever break I could get before things got any messier. With a prince of Hell dead, my break from everything was going to be very brief.
I nodded, "Yeah, that sounds like a good idea. Loona, do you mind opening a portal for us? I suppose it is onto the Sloth Ring to some hospital."
Loona nodded before using Stolas's grimoire to open a portal to the Sloth Ring. There, I could see the hospital that I would inevitably be receiving treatment at, St. An's Hospital. Vortex carried Beelzebub through while I slowly moved through with Loona and Verosika supporting me. The last to come through was a somewhat sour Blitzo, who was likely unhappy about his van. Behind us, we left behind the chaotic crowds and devastation at Beelzebub's home.
That's all I have to offer for now. A little shorter than I wanted, but I also know when to not force the chapter. The same will be for Chapter 27. I have an idea on what I want to do, but I don't really know how long it will be. Of course, I want to take as little time as possible while also delivering quality content.
I should say that a majority of the chapter was proofread by none other than Stingywingy, who has helped before with this story. If you have the time to, please check out the story he co-writes, Star Trek Redemption Part 1: To Boldly Go
If you are enjoying the story, I implore you to support the story in any way you see fit. I very much enjoy hearing and seeing all that good stuff from you guys. I am always happy to answer questions as well. I usually work on the chapter when I am feeling motivated, so it is hard to know when it will release.
Now, if anyone is interested, I am going to leave the discord channel code available to any of you. I usually ask for small details, and some ideas are discussed with others on what I should do with the story. You can even just chat with others in it.
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INVITE CODE: 8RT9hC5Aau
That is all I have to give!
Until Next Time,
Forsvaret-Komandir
