Chapter 07: Invitation to Hell
The sun was setting, casting a warm golden hue over the town as Danny and Octavia sat outside the quaint ice cream parlor. The storefront with striped awnings and wooden benches. The gentle hum of the town's evening bustle provided a comforting background noise as they enjoyed their treats.
Octavia, disguised as a human, looked like any other kid enjoying their evening. She wore a simple sundress, and her hair had subtle highlights.
Danny sat across from her, holding a cone with a generous scoop of chocolate ice cream. He took a bite, savoring the rich flavor, before grinning at Octavia. "You know, this place has the best ice cream in town. I've been coming here for years."
Octavia nodded, her expression curious as she tasted her ice cream. She had chosen a colorful, cookie caramel-swirled flavor. "It's really good," she agreed, licking her lips.
Danny chuckled, leaning back on the bench. "So, what's the verdict? Is it better than anything you've had before?"
Octavia tilted her head, considering. "It's different. But in a good way. Everything here is so... lively. There's a certain charm to it all." She took another bite, savoring the sweetness. "And this ice cream? Definitely a highlight."
Danny smiled, pleased. "I'm glad you like it. It's nice to just hang out and enjoy ourselves without our parents."
Octavia nodded, her gaze drifting to the passing people on the street. She watched them with fascination, her eyes taking in every detail. "It's so different from what I'm used to. People here seem so... carefree. The sinners in my ring can be awful."
Danny followed her gaze, observing the relaxed atmosphere around them. "Yeah, I guess so. That is why they're there. Earth's not always perfect, but having moments like this is nice."
They sat silently momentarily, enjoying their ice cream and the gentle breeze.
Danny looked over at Octavia, who was licking her cone. He hesitated momentarily before asking, "Octavia, what's it like growing up in Hell?"
Octavia looked up, her eyes reflecting a mixture of emotions. "Well, I don't leave the house much, but I've seen the news," she began. "My dad doesn't want me to interact with the sinners in the Pride Ring. They're a bad influence. He says it's not safe, and honestly, I believe him. They're not the kind of people you'd want to be around."
"Well, they were sent there for some reason or another." Danny nodded, intrigued. "So, you stay home a lot?"
"Yeah," Octavia sighed. "I mostly stay at home or go to my parents' stuff, but those aren't fun either."
Danny frowned, feeling a pang of sympathy for her. "That sounds tough. Do you ever get to visit the other rings?"
Octavia shook her head. "Not often. Sometimes, it's for special occasions or important events, but it's rare. Each ring is different and can be dangerous in its own way. My dad is very protective and wants to ensure I'm safe."
Danny smiled gently. "Well, I'm glad you're here now. You deserve to have fun and be a kid like anyone else."
Octavia returned his smile, her eyes brightening. "Thanks, Danny. Being here with you and your family is really nice. I like it."
Danny felt fuzziness in his chest. "We can have our own fun and do our own thing," he said.
Octavia nodded, her spirits lifted. "Yeah, I'd like that. Maybe next time you can come to my place. My dad's mansion has some really cool rooms and secret passages."
Danny's eyes lit up with excitement. "That sounds awesome! I'd love to see it."
Octavia looked at Danny thoughtfully. There was a hint of excitement in her eyes, something she'd been holding back. She took a deep breath as if gathering her courage. "Actually, Danny," she began, her voice soft but steady, "my birthday is coming up in a couple of weeks. I'm turning ten. We usually have a big celebration at our mansion in Hell. Would you like to come?"
Danny's eyes widened slightly, surprise flashing across his face. "Your birthday in Hell? Huh." The idea of visiting such a place was ironically tempting.
Octavia nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "Yeah. My mom and dad usually go all out for me. There's always a huge party with lots of guests, music, and food. There won't be any sinners around. It's... different from anything you might have experienced here." She paused, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of the table. "I know it's not your typical birthday party, but I'd really like you to come. It would mean a lot to me." If all else failed, she would give him the eyes.
Danny blinked, processing the invitation. He'd known Octavia's background was far from ordinary, but the idea of attending a party in Hell, at a mansion, no less, was beyond anything he'd imagined. Despite the unusual nature of the offer, there was a genuine warmth in Octavia's voice, a hint of vulnerability that made the invitation feel special.
He smiled, his nervousness melting away. "I'd love to come," he said, trying to match her excitement. "It sounds... incredible, actually. I've never been to Hell before, but I'm sure it'll be an experience I won't forget."
Octavia's eyes lit up, a mix of relief and joy washing over her features. "Really? You'd come?" She seemed almost surprised by his enthusiasm, as if she hadn't fully expected him to agree so quickly.
Danny nodded, grinning. "Of course! It sounds amazing. And besides, how many alive people can say they've been to a birthday party in Hell?" He chuckled, the situation's absurdity making him feel more at ease.
Octavia laughed along with him, the tension lifting. "True! Not many, I guess."
He chuckled. "So long as I'm not having a permanent stay."
She nodded. "Yeah. Hell is my home, but even I sometimes want time outside of it."
Danny hummed. "So, do I have to wear a disguise like you are right now? I would think that a human showing up would be strange."
Octavia froze. "Oh, right. I forgot about that." She slumped a bit. "I still have to ask my dad to portal you to our house and back."
Danny patted her on the shoulder. "Don't worry about it. You still have time to set things up with Stolas. In the meantime, I'll let my parents know about the party. So, do I have to wear anything specific for fancy rich people's birthdays? Just tell me, and I'll be ready."
Octavia shook her head. "If anything, Dad will probably give you a glamour."
Danny beamed. "So I get to look like you guys? Sweet!"
"That's one way of looking at it." She reached out and took his hand, a gesture of genuine gratitude. "Thank you, Danny. It really means a lot to me that you'll be there."
Danny felt a warmth spread through him at her touch, a connection that had grown stronger since they'd become friends. "I wouldn't miss it," he replied, squeezing her hand gently.
Octavia nodded, her smile widening. "I'll take care of everything. My dad can set up a portal so you can get there easily. And don't worry about the dress code; just be yourself."
#
Octavia found her father in his study, surrounded by stacks of ancient books and scrolls. The room was dimly lit, the only light coming from the soft glow of a chandelier hanging from the ceiling. Stolas was seated at his desk, flipping through an old tome with a look of intense concentration. As Octavia entered, she hesitated momentarily, not wanting to interrupt. But the excitement bubbling inside her couldn't be contained any longer.
"Dad," she called softly, stepping closer.
Stolas looked up, his red eyes softening as he saw his daughter. "Ah, my little starlight. What brings you here?" He closed the book gently, giving her his full attention.
Octavia took a deep breath, her fingers playing with the hem of her shirt. "I was wondering... Can we bring Danny to my birthday party?" She looked at him with hopeful eyes, her voice a mix of excitement and nervousness. "I really want him to be there."
Stolas leaned back in his chair, pondering the request. He tapped his chin thoughtfully, considering the implications. After a moment, a smile spread across his face. "Of course, anything for you, my dear. It would be lovely to have Danny join us for the celebration."
Octavia's face lit up with a bright smile. "Thank you, Dad! I know he'll love it." She paused, then added, "But... Danny might need a glamour disguise. You know, to blend in."
Stolas nodded, understanding the need for discretion. "Indeed. Stella usually handles the guest list and invitations, but adding one more should be simple enough." He chuckled, the sound deep and melodic. "A lost child from a lower family, perhaps? It would explain his unfamiliarity with aspects of hell and why he's not well-known."
Octavia's eyes sparkled with excitement. "That sounds perfect! Danny could fit right in without drawing too much attention." She was thrilled at the prospect, imagining her friend navigating the strange and wondrous world of Hell. Maybe they could travel the other rings down the line.
Stolas couldn't help but giggle at the enthusiasm. He and his daughter were on the same wavelength, understanding the delicate balance of blending Danny into their world. He reached for his grimoire, going over the demon families. As he flipped through the pages, he considered the different appearances he could bestow upon Danny. Ambiguity would help them craft a believable backstory. In his mind's eye, Stolas envisioned a few possible disguises for Danny. After a few moments of deliberation, he closed the grimoire with a satisfied nod.
Octavia, practically bouncing on her feet, asked, "So, what will he look like? Can you tell me?"
Stolas smirked, a playful glint in his eyes. "Ah, that, my dear, will be a surprise. You'll find out when we pick up Danny for the party." He winked at her, enjoying the anticipation on her face.
Octavia pouted slightly, but her excitement quickly returned. "Fine, I'll wait. But I can't wait to see it!" She hugged her father tightly, her gratitude evident in her embrace.
Stolas hugged her back. "It will be a memorable night, my little starlight." His heart swelled with affection as he watched his daughter leave the study. For Octavia, he would move mountains, and if it meant bringing joy to her life, he would ensure Danny's presence at the party was nothing short of perfect. He giggled at the thought of a new gift, sure Danny would be on board.
#
AN: Special thanks to Seana, Jebest4781, Charles, vividlearner744, OmegaDelta, Henry Stickman, fearmegu, Kitsune Robyn, Salo Guzman, Traiton Moses, SonicSonicsSonic, and KA012!
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