A/N:

Hi everyone! Happy to be back for a bit : ) Things have gotten a little busy for me, but I'm looking forward to sharing the next part of the story. The mob confrontation is going to be four chapters long and a lot is going to happen. I hope you enjoy it and thanks for reading!

(Ahhh hey, I just realized I uploaded this chapter to the doc manager last weekend but never uploaded the chapter ^^ So anyway, two chapters up today lol!)

Cw: guns, shooting, Henroin just being a really not nice dad (especially about his gay son)

Partners

Chapter 68:

Mob Mentality Part 1: Casing the Joint

Thanks to an exquisitely lovely start to his night's sleep, Alastor had woken up slightly later than his usual early hour this morning, upon which he had yawned and reached across the bed to pull his darling spider closer…only to find no one there. His eyes shot open and a brief moment of panic seized him, but he calmed when he looked around the room and saw no obvious signs of a struggle (like the mob had broken in to kidnap Angel). He called Angel's name a few times in case the spider was in the bathroom or had gone back to his own room, but got no response. Curious, his first action was to make his microphone appear so he could get ready for the day and search for his dear companion. The moment the item manifested in his hands though, he paused — the eye at the top was blinking red.

That meant Angel had used his radio transmitter and left him a message.

Alastor immediately listened to the recording, face glowing at Angel's sweet words of explanation and heart full of relief at realizing Angel was safe with his siblings.

Alastor got up and proceeded with his usual routine of dressing and ablutions, playing the message over and over again as he did so. Angel's voice could intoxicate, especially when speaking in such a gentle, hushed tone, and all for him. This radio transmitter notion really had been top notch. He could listen to Angel's dulcet tones all day. For the last few minutes he'd set the final words to loop. 'I love you so damn much… I love you so damn much…' Those exquisite words gave him new life.

As he prepared to head out into the hotel though, Alastor knew he'd have to turn off the message for now. He opened his door, about to tap his microphone to silence it, when he instantly came upon the sight of Angel with a fist raised, about to knock.

The spider brightened. "Smiles!"

"Angel!" Alastor all but crooned with joy.

And of course his microphone kept playing: 'I love you so damn much… I love you so damn much…'

Alastor blinked and scrambled and finally managed to tap the cane on the floor to silence it while Angel blushed and giggled.

"Ah, ya liked my message, huh?" Angel asked, arms crossed.

Alastor nodded, shyly holding the microphone close. "Yes, yes indeed, I did…" He gazed at Angel with longing. "Did you have a pleasant meeting with your siblings?"

Angel nodded. "Yeah, it was a good talk — kind of needed it before, you know, everything goes down later."

"I'm very happy you made time for each other…" Alastor assured. Then his grin grew as he added, "And I'm happy you've returned to spend some time with me. I'm afraid after a night together I simply can't start my day without a good morning kiss." He felt pleasant static travel up his ears at his sudden stroke of boldness.

Angel blinked and blushed and held back a giggle. "Well, who am I to deny you, mio cervo?" He stepped forward gracefully.

Alastor leaned up and took Angel's face in his hands and planted one of his enthusiastic kisses upon the spider's mouth, which Angel returned with a little smile on his lips.

They separated after a moment, still close, breaths shallow. Alastor looked into Angel's eyes and whispered, "I will do everything to prevent harm to you and those you love today, my darling. I haven't even begun to show you how deep my power runs…"

Angel flushed, eyes hazed. "And I'm gonna make sure that nothing harms you either in the middle of flexing all that power, you dangerous deer. I'll carry you from the battlefield again if I have to, just like I did at your tower."

Alastor's heart raced in a new way, and Angel's chest rose and fell dramatically with quick breaths.

Suddenly their mouths were together again, and Angel's arms were around Alastor's back and waist, and Alastor was carding his hands through Angel's hair, and now their legs were getting tangled together too.

Alastor tried to understand the moment as he felt his head swim and his body warm. He managed to get out words between kisses. "Angel…should…what are we…?"

"I know…" Angel managed between kisses too. "Before dangerous stuff…emotions…can run high." He kissed Alastor's face, almost lifting the stunned deer from the floor to make their heights match. "Lots of blood racing…for lots of reasons… We can stop…?"

Alastor felt their chests pressed so close and wondered if Angel could feel the thunderous roar of his heart. "I…perhaps…just until after… Oh Anthony…" The moment didn't seem to be escalating to anything imminently sexual as far as Alastor could tell. Yet there was still a raw need on both their parts to be as close as possible and to express their feelings. The intimacy was comfortable and actually quite enjoyable. If, after whatever happened today, they came back here and resumed this fraternization, Alastor decided he would be very pleased indeed.

"Right…" Angel panted. "Just one more kiss, for good luck… Then we go down to breakfast and stop acting like handsy teenagers." He planted his lips fervently against Alastor's, and Alastor tried to meet his energy and even dipped Angel back slightly.

They finally separated after a moment, Alastor gazing down at Angel.

The spider grinned up at him. "You look like I mauled ya a little, heh…"

Alastor blushed thoroughly. "You look about the same, ha…"

Indeed, their hair was tousled and their shirts were askew and Angel's lips were flushed pink and Alastor's face was flushed with his radio glow. The Radio Demon took a deep breath and managed to right them as he let go of Angel.

The spider demon pulled out a compact mirror and straightened himself up a bit while Alastor summoned his shadow to run a comb through his hair and few times and adjust his jacket (his shadow grinning all the while of course, the cheeky thing).

Angel put away the compact, and Alastor's shadow disappeared with a wink. Then Alastor held out his arm. "Shall I escort you to breakfast, Angel?"

Angel hesitated. "Pen's back on his ship, but Baxter could be down there…"

Alastor sighed. "Yes, and as you pointed out it's probably best if we tell him about us at some point since he'll certainly find out anyway now that he's a permanent resident. Even if he does notice this small gesture though, I don't think he'll take too much stock in it. His attention is quite keenly on Niffty these days, you know." He grinned a little.

Angel took his arm with a smile. "Yeah? And you're okay with that? Not gonna go all 'protective big brother' on him?"

"Ha! No. Niffty is an adult, she can make her own choices. And her confidence and sense of ease have grown tremendously from being at this hotel. And Baxter seems to be…a kind soul. I'm glad he found this hotel full of so many other kind souls." His eyes hazed in thought.

"Hope you're including yourself in that list of kind souls," Angel chided softly, leaning against him a little. "Cuz I know I do." He kissed Alastor's temple.

The Radio Demon glowed as they reached the stairs. "I'm touched by your confidence in me. I think only my mother ever looked at me and saw a good person." He squeezed Angel's arm a little.

"When I look at you I see the best person. I see my person. The guy I could love for eternity."

Alastor's face heated, and he glanced over to see Angel giving him a hesitant but hopeful look. The deer's smile grew so much. He had so many plans for them for eternity, in fact…

But now wasn't the time to broach them. Not yet, especially not with so many emotions affecting everything as Angel had said.

So Alastor just raised the back of Angel's hand and kissed it gallantly. Then he cleared his throat and gestured down the stairs. "Come along, Darling. Eternity begins with a hearty breakfast, ha!" He led them to the lobby.

He didn't notice Angel frown a little and sigh before putting a smile back on as best he could.

Once she had finished setting the table with Angel (while Niss was still in the kitchen, fully taking over as master pastry chef), Molly gave a light knock on Husk's door and opened it to peek in. It was still dark inside, and he was still asleep, snoring lightly. It might have been a silly thing to find attractive, but she loved that they were both night owls and late sleepers. She slipped inside and padded slowly to the bed. He was curled up around a pillow, much like he had been curled up around her when she had woken up earlier.

Molly crawled back into the bed, resting with the pillow between them, gazing at his little grumpy face while he slept, whiskers twitching, soft paw hands digging into the pillowcase. Those hands had felt nice touching her last night — so gentle and caring and passionate. For long stretches of time, his chest had pressed against hers, and she'd felt the vibrations of purrs buried deep around his heart. He was a swell fella cuddle with.

Molly sighed and nestled closer.

Husk's nose twitched (how adorable). Then one of his eyes opened. "Morning. Something smells good…"

Her smile brightened. "Hey there. It's Niss bakin' pastries in the kitchen. He's got some good ones goin'."

"Hmm…no, not that." Husk smiled a little and let both eyes open sleepily. "I meant the flowers and sunshine smell. You. Your perfume or whatever."

Molly blushed, eyes wide. "Oh. I…" She played with her hair. "Ya notice that?"

He nodded. "Ever since the first night you stayed in here." Husk sat up and little and stretched, back arching just like a real cat's would as his wings spread for a moment. "Woke up earlier for a minute when my phone buzzed with your text. You three have a good talk on the roof?"

She nodded. "Yeah. Real good. Only makin' sure by brothers are okay could have gotten me outta this room with ya." She blushed, eyes hazed. "Last night was real nice, Husky. Best night I ever spent with anyone."

He blushed a little, smile growing. "Yeah, I…I know what you mean." He swallowed then casually shifted aside the pillow that was between them.

Molly had never cared for being casual. Instead of subtly shifting closer, she just pulled herself right in and put her arms around him. He did the same to her with a little chuckle.

She looked up into his eyes. "Wanna get breakfast? Ya gotta keep up your strength for later."

"Soon. For now I kinda just want this. If that's okay with you." He pulled a paw through her hair.

"That's okay with me for this mornin'…and for however many other mornin's might interest ya." Molly smirked a little, especially as his eyes widened in some fluster for a moment.

Husk finally managed a nod. "I'd, uh…like that. A lot."

"Good." She snuggled against his chest. "I'm a bit clingy when I sleep, I hope that's okay."

"It's really great actually." He let out an easy sigh and brought a wing over them.

They closed their eyes and decided to just enjoy a little more of their morning together.

In the kitchen, Niss was practically waltzing around the room, an apron around his waist as his shirt sleeves rolled up as he baked and brewed coffee and just felt so lighthearted. Everything was right in the world with his siblings, everything was going to be right in the world with their father soon, and everything was beyond spectacular with Sir Pentious. Last night he and the snake had cuddled and joked until late, blushing and lingering for so long before finally separating for the night. And Niss's heart had raced as he had fallen asleep only to dream of dancing with Sir Pentious and somehow managing to dip the enchanting snake back for a kiss.

Niss chuckled as he pulled a pan of biscotti from the oven. Then his phone chimed and his eyes lit up when he saw the snake's name. He answered, glancing around quickly to make sure that he was indeed still alone in the kitchen. "Pen! Morning to you too. Sorry I couldn't stick around. I'm glad the Egg Bois gave ya my note… Yeah, we'll see each other soon." His eyes hazed more as he drizzled chocolate over the biscotti. "And then we'll be seein' each other regularly, all we want. I…had a nice time last night." Sir Pentious replied in that flirtatiously elegant tone of his, and Niss nearly snorted as he blushed. "Glad you had fun too! I can't wait til this is all over. I wanna tell everyone about us…"

Angel and Alastor had made it to the dining room now. The Radio Demon left his beloved for a moment to check where Niffty might be since she was always such an early riser herself, and Angel headed to the kitchen to see if Niss might want any help with breakfast.

He got the door cracked open and heard his brother speak. "I can't wait til this is all over. I wanna tell everyone about us…"

Angel hesitated, eyes wide, and swallowed.

Niss sighed dreamily. "Yeah, and then I just…wanna be happy together. No drama, no danger, just…figuring out what I want to do with my life and having you in it."

Angel knew he needed to go. He could not overhear who Niss's squeeze was like this. The guilt would be too much. But…he suddenly realized the chance to find out the person's name wasn't the reason he was still listening. He was lingering because he had never heard his brother sound so calm and happy. Niss giggled now — Niss could giggle? Angel risked listening for just a moment longer.

"Well, I'm not sure if I really could do ANYTHING I set my mind to, but thanks for the encouragement." Niss cleared his throat, clearly blushing. "I never considered myself brilliant before, but if you think so then maybe there's something to it. You're the smartest person I ever met. I trust ya a lot."

Angel smiled so much, and he found himself wiping a tear from his eye.

The stove timer went off. Niss sighed. "Sorry, I've gotta go before the eggs burn — I'm about to put breakfast on the table. Gotta be the big brother and make sure everyone gets a hearty meal to start the day, heh. You eat something good too." He swallowed. "Next time I spend the night, I'll make us breakfast. I'll bring it to ya in bed and everything." He snorted through his nose at the response he got. "Flirt! Okay for real, I gotta go. See ya soon. Yeah…bye." Niss sighed dreamily as he hung up.

Angel turned away from the door with a content grin and nearly gasped, nearly giving himself away entirely, when Alastor turned out to be standing right behind him, watching with a curious grin of his own.

"Smiles, sheesh!" Angel whispered, catching his breath. "What were ya doing?"

"Watching you watch someone." Alastor shrugged. "I finished wishing Niffty good morning and came back here to find you, and you were pressed so curiously to the door. You seemed intent on silence, so I didn't want to disturb anything. Also the inquisitive smile on your face was rather beautiful to study." His eyes hazed. "I am sorry for startling you though, darling."

Angel smiled again and shook his head. "It's okay. You're cute when you find me cute." His own eyes hazed as he led Alastor to their usual seats at the dining room table. "Can ya keep a secret?" he asked in a whisper.

Alastor nodded, looking quite eager and interested.

It was a pretty cute look — Angel understood completely why Alastor had chosen to watch him just now. "I was heading into the kitchen when I heard Niss talking to his special someone on the phone." He bit his lip. "I wasn't listening to try and find out who she is. I mean, maybe for a second I was, but then I was listening cuz…Niss sounded so happy talking to her. And it sound like she cares about him a lot. I'm real happy he found something so good with someone. He never seemed to have a good time dating in life — warming up to dames was hard for him. But now it's like he's as open with this demon as you and me are with each other."

"Ah! Well, I could not wish for a greater happiness for anyone in heaven, hell, or earth." Alastor took Angel's hand under the table and squeezed.

Angel smiled and squeezed back. Then he hesitated, brushing back his hair. "Hey, Alastor? After this thing with my Pops is done…could we have a talk? One of those 'communicating' talks we need to have so we can keep staying on the same page?"

Alastor blinked but nodded. "Of course, Angel. Is anything wrong?"

Angel shook his head. "Nah. I just…I got some stuff I've been thinking about. Nothing bad." He popped a quick kiss onto Alastor's forehead. "And talking is one of the things we do best."

Alastor nodded, a bit giddy for a moment. "We are rather skilled in that department, yes. Very well, darling, it's a date."

They shared a tender look.

Then they heard footsteps coming from the stairs, as well as the sound of the back door opening and closing.

"That must be the others coming down from their rooms and Niffty coming in from the garden," Alastor observed quietly.

Angel gave his hand a final squeeze and stood up. "Then I should help Niss bring out the breakfast. It's gonna be a good one. A bit heavier on the pastries than the meat, but I did put on some eggs and steak just for you." He winked, and Alastor beamed as Angel sauntered across the dining room.

He didn't quite make it to the kitchen before Husk's door opened and out came Molly with a giggle and a blush, holding hands with a slightly grinning Husk.

Angel smirked at the two of them, but before he could say a word, Molly smirked back and separated from Husk to guide her twin brother to the kitchen, the two of them sharing some whispers and giggles and a quick glance back at their fellas before leaving to help Niss.

Alastor and Husk were left alone now for a moment.

Alastor sat there with very wide eyes and a very wide smile, really not sure what to do. Husk crossed his arms, glancing at Alastor with a blush before taking a seat.

Alastor swallowed. "Husker. Morning!"

"Yeah, morning…" Husk managed warily.

"Er…pleasant evening?" Alastor hated himself the instant the attempt at small talk left his mouth.

Husk's look wary scowl deepened and he crossed his arms. "I'm not one to brag but yeah. You?" He hesitantly glanced at the radio demon.

Alastor felt his ears twitching back and forth, buzzing with static. "Ha, indeed! Pleasant enough." He swallowed. "Looking forward to working together today…" The sentence had come out half as a statement and half as a question.

Husk eyed him. "I don't think it'll be a problem. As long as we actually cooperate. And listen. And respect what each other has to offer. For them…" He gestured with his head toward the kitchen.

Alastor nodded eagerly. "Yes. Quite! Quite…" And yet though he would do anything for Angel and his siblings, he wanted to ask…why he and Husker could not simply do these necessary things just for each other's sakes as well. Working together as…demons who got along and knew each other and had a sort of connection.

But perhaps now was not the best time to suss out their situation. Or why he felt…bad thinking that he and Husk could not count each other as friends.

"Good. Then it's all settled." Husk grumbled.

The deer demon didn't have time to make any other remarks as Charlie and the others finally reached the dining room, and the spiders came out with breakfast.

Alastor just sat beside Angel as they ate and held hands under the table, and he knew that this little version of a 'family' of theirs was worth fighting for whether that meant physically on the battlefield…or emotionally, perhaps with a long overdue talk.

Alastor sighed to himself and promised he would make an effort about Husker as soon as the problem of Henroin was resolved once and for all.

"Okay, you're all here and you know the plan and you have your, uh, weapons…?" Charlie bit her lip, brow furrowed in worry as she surveyed the three gun-toting spider demons before her in the hotel lobby that evening. "Maybe I should come with you? Maybe I can talk to Henroin, or maybe I could even get my parents to? They haven't said anything in a while about being upset about me or the hotel… It might be a good sign? Maybe they want to help now?" She tried to put on a hopeful smile.

The spider siblings (Angel in his usual outfit with the pink jacket and fedora Alastor had made him, Niss in his new suit with a red shirt and red brimmed fedora, and Molly in a red and pink dress with black leggings and a black fedora she'd borrowed from Angel) shared a concerned look. Then Angel turned to Charlie with a gentle smile. "Charlie, we appreciate you wanting to help, but it's better for everyone if we take care of this problem separate from the hotel. We're just grateful to have you here with Vaggie and Louise and the others, ready to help in case anyone gets a little over enthusiastic and needs some aid." He nodded to the other two ladies, currently flanking Charlie.

Vaggie put a hand on Charlie's shoulder. "It's okay, hun. We've already got our stations planned out here anyway. You're on snacks, Louise is on first aid, Niffty's on extra blankets and pillows, and I'm on guard duty in case any of the mob follows anyone back here."

Louise nodded. "Besides, they really don't have time to work out a new plan. The meeting's scheduled in a few minutes." She glanced at the spiders. "I'm sure you'll all be fine. I'll be waiting up for you as long as it takes. And Abel's covering the cafe tonight, but he's gonna bring lots of extra food back for y'all."

"See, everything's fine." Angel winked at Charlie. "Now all we need is our muscle."

Niss glanced at his phone then tucked it away. "Pen says he's in place already, and he brought the airship remote with him in case we need a way out."

Angel grinned. "Perfect, that just leaves our hunky boyfriends." He called out across the room. "Husk! Al! Ya ready?"

Husk and Alastor stumbled out of the kitchen with Niffty dashing around them with a worried pout. "Now remember, keep an eye on each other, and don't get distracted, and please ask for help if you need it. And I know I just made sure you both ate plenty of snacks to keep up your energy, but I'm still going to have a full healthy meal ready for when you get home."

"Niffty, we're gonna be okay, I promise," Husk assured, placing a hand on her shoulder to slow her down for a moment. "We'll be back here eating dinner before you know it."

"Yes, indeedy!" Alastor grinned, leaning down close to her. "You've made sure we're so expertly prepared that I can't imagine this little altercation taking more than a trice. And remember what I said a few days ago? That I was a cad for leaving you without warning and that I wouldn't be going anywhere again anytime soon? I still intend to abide by that promise."

Husk and Alastor both smiled at Niffty, and she instantly smiled back at them and gave them a big hug, pulling the boys close together. "I love you! And I'll wait up for you no matter what."

Alastor and Husk shared an awkward look at being practically pressed together. Thankfully, Niffty soon released them and dashed up to the spiders. "The three of you please take care too!"

Molly leaned down. "We will, Niffty. Promise." She reached out and shared a quick hug with the little demon that seemed to brighten Niffty up a bit again.

"Wait, I'm here!" Baxter came running down the stairs with one of his drones in hand. He stopped short at the sight of Niffty wiping away tears. "Niffty, are you okay?"

She managed a smile and a nod. "Yeah, better now. Just worried about everyone. Thank you for asking."

Baxter smiled a little, blushing slightly. "Oh, well, um…about that. To help you feel better I programmed one of my drones for long distance remote flight. It has a camera so we can keep an eye on things and send help if any us needed." He glanced at the spiders. "If that's okay with you three. I promise the drone will be discrete."

Niss nodded. "It's okay. Thanks for thinking of us, Baxter." He tipped his hat in appreciation.

"It's a wonderful idea, Baxter!" Niffty replied with a happy smile before wrapping her arms around him in a tight hug.

Baxter's lantern lifted slightly and he grinned. "Uh, sure, of course, happy to assist you, always!"

Everyone held back a little extra smile at the adorable sight.

The front door opened now, and Cherri stood there, swinging her key on her finger. "Hey, I'm here! And I brought the two way radios from Rosie for everyone to stay in touch — basically indestructible and completely off the mob's surveillance grid. Are we ready?"

Angel went to her and gave her a hug. "Yeah, we're ready. But remember—"

"I know, I know — I'm only allowed to ESCORT you guys, no sticking around for the fight." Cherri ushered him to the door. "Now the whole group of you get outside. I'm just gonna touch base with Charlie and Vaggie, and I'll be right there." She popped a radio into each of their hands (except for Alastor who would be using his microphone for communication) and sent them out the door.

Then she quickly turned to Charlie and Vaggie and kept her voice low as she shoved a radio into Charlie's hands too. "I'm gonna escort them and I'm not gonna fight…but I am gonna stick around nearby just in case they need some extra help on the scene right away. I've also got my own radio to call in Rosie and Mimzy for back up if things go really south, and this one's for you two just in case you need an update or you don't hear from anyone for too long. After all this time spent in Cannibal Colony, I'm starting to trust radio waves more than cell phones."

Charlie looked at the radio then handed it to Vaggie and hugged Cherri. "Thank you for looking after them. We'll do everything we can here."

Cherri smiled and patted her on the back. "Yeah, yeah, I know." She released Charlie and gave Vaggie a quick tight hug. Then she stepped back and surveyed the two ladies and Louise and Niffty and Baxter. "Don't worry, I got this. Just keep an eye on that drone, and you'll see — no one touches the spiders or their boyfriends on my watch." With nod and a grin she headed out the door.

Charlie and the others watched her ago, hearts feeling a little lighter.

Vox had arrived on the scene of the meeting long ago and chosen the first floor of an abandoned building to set up shop. A couple of mob goons had arrived at one point. He'd hidden in the shadows until they had assured their boss they were in place. Then the moment their cell phones were tucked away he had taken them out with some quick and silent electrical shocks and tossed the stunned bodies into a dumpster. He wasn't here to maim and kill — this whole thing wasn't about hating Henroin. He just wanted Valentino back because no one deserved to die as collateral damage… especially not someone who, in a strained way, was still his friend.

Vox settled into the shadows and his glowing eyes stayed on the street. Now he just had to watch and wait… except first he did have to make one phone call.

Velvet answered her cell phone, holding it between her ear and her shoulder as she filled pastry bags with icing and broken glass while Vark dashed around her feet in Vox's penthouse. "Voxxy? Yeah, yeah, we're fine, I told ya. Just doing normal Auntie and shark stuff. No biggie." She sighed and rolled her eyes. "Of course, I remember what we talked about — I'm not supposed to show up there to help unless you call me. I CAN listen, you know." She gave Vark a big scoop of the fresh icing (no ground glass mixed in), and he jumped to take the bite, licking his lips. "Anyway, gotta go, I'm doing some dessert things and giving Varky all the attention he needs. He's a growing shark, after all! Say bye to daddy, Vark!" The little shark barked. "See ya, Voxxy!" She hung up, tying off her pastry bag and setting it aside.

With a satisfied grin, Velvet looked to Vark. "Now, Varky, Auntie Velvet is gonna teach you a very important skill. It's how to lie and have fun with it! See, I just told your daddy that I remembered our talk about me not showing up until he calls for me. But I never said I was planning to stick to that plan!" She winked. Vark barked happily.

The oven went off in the kitchen.

"Ah, the cupcakes! We have to have a snack before we head out! I'll decorate some safe ones for us and then we'll get going. I've got everything all set up. Come on, Vark!" She skipped over to the oven, and Vark eagerly bounded after her.

Back at the site of the impending mob confrontation, Sir Pentious could barely contain his excitement as he hid in the shadows high up in his abandoned building. A couple of ruffians had shown up and he'd quietly given them what for by shooting them with his ray gun. With the setting on stun, they now lay passed out in the corner. He checked the time then pulled out the two way radio that Cherri had dropped off early this morning. "Hello, fellows? Do you read me? Are you in position yet?" His was set to the frequency of Husk's radio. Though he wished he also had a separate radio to check in with Niss and wish him luck. He hoped he would be able to keep an eye on the spider throughout this whole ordeal.

For now Sir Pentious settled down beneath the window sill and waited, tail practically twitching in excitement. He really could be quite the brawler when he tried. And today he was going to prove it to them all.

On their rooftop overlooking the street in question, Husk and Alastor had just finished tying up and knocking out half a dozen armed men. Husk was securing a rope around them to replace one of Alastor's tentacles so the deer demon wouldn't have to waste magic keeping them restrained. One of the goons started to come to, and Husk instantly smacked him with his wing to knock him out again. With a sigh, Husk wiped his brow. Then he glanced at his wrist. The red ribbon Molly had given him a few days ago for good luck was tied there. His look softened for a moment (mostly because he didn't notice Alastor glancing at him curiously).

Then he blinked and put on his usual serious expression as his radio suddenly crackled to life and Sir Pentious's voice sound out.

"Hello, fellows? Do you read me? Are you in position yet?"

"Yeah, we're here," Husk reply, voice low. "You in place too?"

"Yes, quite! And, er…the spiders?"

Alastor came over, rolling his eyes. "Heading perfectly into position — you needn't worry. We do have their best interests at heart. Over and out." He tapped the radio with his microphone and ended the conversation.

Husk glanced at Alastor with a scowl. "You know, just because you think you're better than that guy doesn't mean you have to constantly give him the brush off. He's trying to help. So just let him do it, and be grateful."

Alastor's back straightened and he glanced at Husk, his smile tight. "You seem rather interested in telling me what to do lately, Husker. And without a single heed of potential consequences." The tone wasn't threatening, merely curious.

Husk's tone in return was blunt as ever. "I'm interested in calling you out when you're acting like an ass cuz someone has to. Otherwise you and that ego of yours would get yourself killed. And I'm not letting that happen today." He positioned himself by the ledge, looking down at the scene. "And 'potential consequences' my ass… Like you're gonna off the one guy willing to do all your mundane dirty work without trying to do you dirty and betray you."

Alastor came over, not making eye contact, voice quiet. "You're right — besides Niffty, you're the only soul in my service who has never tried to fight or harm me."

"That's cuz I take responsibility for my shit. I knew what I was signing up for and now I'm here and dealing with it. And Niffty's just too damn nice to pull some double cross crap on anyone."

Alastor's brow furrowed, and he couldn't help himself. "Then why exactly are you so vehemently angry with me?"

Husk's eyes widened then narrowed as he turned to the Radio Demon again. "You really need to ask that question?"

Alastor bit his lip then nodded. "Yes…?"

Husk sighed deeply and shook his head. "Fuck, we don't have time for this right now. Just focus on the god damn street."

"I mean, if you hate me, I wish you'd just say it outright and get the grand announcement over with." Alastor could feel his blood pressure rising at all of this frustrating uncertainty. His claws dug deeply against the ledge.

"Oh my god, can you control your compulsive need to be liked by everyone around you for once?" Husk held out his arms. "I don't fucking hate you! There, now can we go back to manning our post?"

Alastor huffed, ears down. "That wasn't exactly a ringing endorsement, Husker." Then he blinked and ducked lower. "Husker! They're here."

Husk's scowl fell away and he ducked down low too. The spider siblings were approaching up one side of the street. And in the shadows at the other end of the street there was movement.

Angel and Niss walked side by side as they approached the center of the street. Molly had insisted on standing behind them. She had said it was to cover their backs. In reality her reason was far more complicated…but she didn't have time or energy to explain. She just took deep breaths and tried not think about seeing their father again for the first time in so long… and for the first time since so many things had happened in life that her brothers didn't know about or might not understand…or might be ashamed off her for maybe.

No, she wouldn't get lost in those memories. She focused on the moment, keeping herself steady; she couldn't have one of her anxiety attacks right now.

"Molly, you good?" Angel whispered.

She just nodded and kept her voice steady. "Yeah, I'm good."

"Let's stop walking," Niss said. "I think he's here."

The group stopped, and Molly turned around to peek past her brother's shoulders.

In the shadows covers the last half of the street there was movement. And then they saw red eyes glowing until the large figure they belonged to finally walked into the light.

Henroin puffed on a cigar. "Angel…you brought Niss back to me. Smart move." His eyes locked on his older son. "Niss, get over here. We have a lot to discuss. Presto."

Niss scowled. "First of all, I'm going by Archie again now. Second of all, no one brought me here, I'm showin' up by my own choice. And third of all, no, I am not coming with you ever again. We're done Pops. You're gonna walk away and take your men and stay out of our lives. No trouble, no fighting. It's over. I'm out of the mob."

"Hmm… You've been being a bad influence on your brother, Angel… Shameful." Henroin shook his head. "You think it's over, Archibaldo? It's never over. Do you really believe you have the chops to make any of this stop?" He gestured around him vaguely. Many other demon eyes glowed in the shadows now.

The boys instantly pulled out their guns. Angel scowled.

"Hmm…" Henroin almost laughed. "Just two? I can match two… Actually, you weren't the only ones working with someone about this situation, you know." He came forward more…dragging along a tied up Val, beaten and struggling and with a livid scowl, especially as he laid eyes on Angel. "I think you're acquainted, Angel." He sneered. "Ya know, Archibaldo, I thought this filth had dragged you into some kind of unnatural lifestyle. That's the only reason I bothered talking to him. But then we made a little deal… He was supposed to get Angel to bring you out of hiding, and I'd give him some muscle against that Radio Demon people like to go on about. He failed to keep his end of the bargain though, as you can see." Henroin jerked on the rope, making Valentino wince in pain.

"Jesus christ…" Angel's eyes widened and he swallowed. "Ya really tried to work with my pimp… and then ya kidnapped my pimp? What the fuck?"

Henroin sneered. "I figured he'd make a fun guest in case you were both feeling stubborn. So, Niss, come with me or I'll let this deviant demon go… and he'll be free to take out all his anger about this mess on your brother. Or, maybe you actually like all that depravity from this scum, Angel — in which case I'll have him killed right now and make you watch. Whatever hurts worse." He snapped his fingers, and a couple of mob demons grabbed Valentino roughly by the shoulders and dragged him back into the shadows.

"I fucking HATE you!" Angel spat, pink lines on his body glowing a little.

"God damnit! Keep the shitty moth out of this and fight your own battles against us, Pops!" Niss scowled, moving closer to his brother.

"A battle?" Henroin considered then shook his head once again. "No, no…this is a war. Because for everything I did for you kids, I deserve one son who lives right. One heir to be my legacy. And that's gonna you, Archibaldo. And so help me I'll correct this behavior no matter what I have to do to you to fix it." He clenched a fist, and Niss and Angel both visibly flinched.

Angel's breaths became quick. "There's nothing to fix cuz he's not broken, ya fucking piece of shit, and neither am I!" he managed to yell back, scowling with tears in his eyes.

"None of us was ever broken!" Niss added, scowling too. "You're the broken one. This is your last chance. We wanna do this peaceful. Walk away, Pops."

Henroin puffed on the cigar once more. "I can't. And you know I can't let you walk away either."

"Then we'll just have to win the war." Molly finally stepped past her brothers now, rifle held high.

Henroin dropped the cigar on the ground and his eyes went wide, mouth open slightly. "Molly…"

She cocked the gun, eyes cold. "Surprise, Poppa."

"Molly…go back to Purgatorio. Back to nearly being with your mother…"

She smirked. "No, no… I got myself good and damned." Her eyes and death mark glowed for a moment. "And now I'm here to make sure these two have the life in hell that you made sure they couldn't have on earth. Capiche?"

Henroin was frozen for only a moment longer. And then he smiled a laugh left him. "My Maria Lucia…still with so much wrath in her heart."

Molly fired, and the shot took the fedora off of Henroin's head. She cocked her gun again. "Next one's gettin' aimed two inches lower."

"Molly?"

"Molls…"

Niss and Angel both glanced at her in worry.

Sniper sights instantly shone down on the spiders. Henroin held up a hand, and they disappeared. "You haven't changed."

She held back tears, still scowling. "Enough about me. Let's talk about my brothers and how you're gonna stay out of their lives."

"Hmm, yes, so much to talk about…" Henroin held up his hands and stepped closer. "Very well, let's put the weapons away for a moment and talk. Like the good old days. Like family. Back before all the mistakes…"

Niss and Angel looked to each other and Molly. They lowered their guns away when Molly stopped aiming hers at Henroin. But she did hug the rifle close and keep her eyes focused sharply on him.

This talk wasn't going to be an easy one. And she had a feeling things were going to come up that she wasn't ready to deal with. But if it got this man out of their lives for good and all, she'd face whatever came next, knowing her friends and her fella and her brothers would be there for her when it was all over.

A/N:

That's all for now! I'll try to have the next chapter up soon, and we're gonna learn a lot about what happened back in life during Molly and Henroin's final days, there's some action scenes, and also plenty of drama. Thank you for reading!

Take care!

-Azure129