Hi everyone!

Excited? Here is another one.

Warning: OOC, random craziness, past dark abuse, many other troubles if mention, cursing, killing, dark themes, sexual interaction and themes, racism mention, stuff children/teen shouldn't do, profanity, self-harm, suicidal moments, cheating, violence, smoking, drugs, alcohol, guns mention, animal death, cringe, bullying, yandere, musical/singing moments and bad flirts.

Error/Moxxie speaking

Voices/flashback/Text

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

"Mox."

"Yes, Madre."

"Got a few minutes."

Moxxie stop sewing and glanced at Maria. Her face neutral but a look in her eyes shows calmness but it was going to be a serious talk. "Sure."

Come into the bedroom and sit down on the bed. "It's about this wedding."

"You don't want me to go."

She sighs it was talk they had before. Couldn't see the invitation as it was eaten by a sheep. "Yes, for many reasons. I get it you want to do this for Stolas. You two are friends. But I do think you need to start thinking about yourself too. Since you gotten to be a bit closer. See this side of Stolas life."

"But I am?"

"I do believe that Mox. But I think you need to open it a bit further about your position here. How long are you going to let this keep going? Sooner or later. Someone is going to investigate 'Puppet' Dig deeper into this background. And what if word gets out, you're an imp." This was getting very serious. In fact, her worries getting haywire after the few sits down Moxxie told her how these Goetia would get nasty. Moxxie doesn't see it but she can.

"I can take care of it. Besides they're not going to be interested in the 'low class commoner with no background'."

One of the nicest insults they got. Not in their face but the whispers around they heard after someone asked about the background. Well, there wasn't any kind of background. At least the kind the Goetias don't like Only told them they have no position of any sorts. Which they found out kind a look down on if you're an avian hellborn.

Now there are other kinds of Goetias in the family. You just typically see them as Avians. Either because they are born like one or is one of their many forms from shapeshifting.

But the many avian you typically see in Hell if they are hellborn got to be top rank, a good job position and some kind of influences. Unless you're a sinner but that a whole situation in general.

But Puppet was nobody in their eyes.

Moxxie was fine with that. There was nobody special as themselves. That was probably one of the few saving graces. Nobody doesn't want to be around an avian that is a nobody. Besides, getting their pride knocks down a head or two when they find out the imaginary friend alive.

The other reason. At the end of the day. There is not going to let this or anyone find out for Maria safety. Made very sure nothing will ever point arrows in her direction. Actually, in fact gone as far to never make sure nobody they know personally at home in their ring.

What? They got close to many over the years. Sue them.

"I'm just worried you getting. You been extra irritated every time you come back. Even your bosses are asking me what is going on. If you're getting in a bad crowd. Or if we are fighting."

Wince at that. That was not what they expected to hear. Let alone others noticing their mood. Took a bit of pride able to hide their emotions, let alone their scarf, but guess all of this was getting at them closer than they thought. Then hearing many thinking they are fighting with their Madre. That's a big no!

"Come on just spill it out. What eating you up about all this?" Maria watches them be very silent. Face would squinch up as they aren't sure what to say. Even as emotions pass through their eyes. She doesn't push him. Just wait.

"I just can't understand why Frogmouth just can't walk away from it. He can do that. Why stick around all that? All of them. They aren't family. Even that father of his. Their just. I don't get it. He is not going to be happy with her. I heard about maybe 25 threats towards Stolas. Don't get me started with that brother of hers. Trying to now play the middle guy card. Many of them. Why can't he just walk away or declare he is not going to get married? He can still the job marriage or not. Isn't that important to this stupid Goetia thing!" Moxxie just can't seem to understand it. Which is kind of funny as they never had their own family. Until well now being adopted by Maria. How he has such a small family and still love. While Stolas has this whole huge family bit barely has anyone besides his butler and a select friend.

"Come here."

Felt arms wrap around him and soon sitting by her side. Felt her chin rest on top of their head. Hands brush their horns and hair. Scarf loosen up to not feel like they are being suffocated. Didn't even realize how much they were shaking. Was all of this affecting them this badly?

"It's just a whole different environment and culture Moxxie. It's different from us. It always has been with the Goetia. It's just this duty they follow strictly. They are loyal to Hell but they have stick in the ass tradition never leaves. It is like that with many rings. It sucks I agreed. Unfair too. I would have run away if my folks pulled me into a force engagement."

"Not like we Imps do that."

"Actually, you're wrong Imps just like many other Hellborns did it too in all the other rings." See their head lift up and blink. "Many families in Wrath would have arranged marriages too. Ones who had bigger farms. Lands. Money. Just over time it became a tradition to die down. There are occasions you might see one or two happen."

Silent hearing that. The thought of being forced into an arranged marriage. It's kind of sickens them. The force part as well. Had no say into it. That this will happen whether you like it or not. Unless it breaks off, or kill the other if it can't work.

"I'm not going to stop you going to this wedding. I can't physically if I wanted to. You would kick my ass."

"I wouldn't hurt you." A small grumble which he got a chuckle out of her.

"I know you wouldn't." Nuzzle the top of his head. "I just want you to think about yourself. I know you're smart but even you need to sit back to think what you want. How far you let Puppet stay one part of your life. But then you need to focus as Moxxie."

Blink at her. Until they slowly nod. Can kind a get what she is trying to say to them, "Okay Madre...I just want him to not be fully alone."

Just like they were alone as Error in a different way.

"You really are the sweetest imp ever." Giggle as she hears him grumble

"Shush." Glance at her face as she still giggles. Both of them relax. "How Ivy?"

"It's good. Things are coming along. It's a change for the both of us." Let go and pat their shoulder. Stood back up. "You're coming with me next time you devious feral child. She did some new stuff for the café."

"Alright. Alright. Pushy."

"Wow! I guess I'll have to return that chocolate pie back."

"Did I say pushy? I meant my Madre an evil queen using my weakness on me."

"Much better. Want me to get you a slice?"

"Yes, please." Watch her walk out. Felt a bit of weight off their shoulder.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

"In a few days."

"Yeah."

"It's big right."

"Too big and too many guests for my taste."

"Sounds like a boring mess."

"Well, you only went to one party."

"I wouldn't call that dinner day a party. Even then it was boring."

"Come now I bet you enjoyed it slightly when you introduce yourself to them."

"I guess the reactions were amusing and ridiculous."

"It was and talking back to them."

"Aren't you supposed to be having some king of groomsman party?"

"Not particular but I'm going to be dreading it."

"You could always slip away."

"Cruel but true."

Another long silence between the pair.

"I'm so sorry about those comments." Stolas sighs as he shakes his head. He really hadn't had time to really talk to Puppet about this. Should have expected many going to be asking about a background of sorts. He kept his beak shut as if it was true Puppet private. Then for Puppet to say no kind of background. While true, at least he believes it, could have maybe figured out something.

Yet, all the Goetia just see this teenager as a nobody that was lucky to befriend Stolas. Along with other choices of words.

"The no class nobody thing." Shrug a bit. "It is true. I am a nobody here in Hell besides your friend."

"Still if maybe, we come up with something. I mean you're not a nobody." For peak sake they can go to space. They have magic like them. Strong magic. They are Hellborn. Can do such marvelous things. Yet, it would drag in unwanted questions neither of the two wants. Questions that Stolas can't even answer. Besides the few things they have picked up.

"I'm fine with that Frogmouth. I don't." Shook their head. "I don't want others in my business."

"I try to understand Puppet. I really do try." Move closer shoulder to shoulder. "I don't care what you truly are you know?"

A small sigh and doesn't move away. "I know."

"Will we get to see each other again?"

"Why wouldn't we?"

"You don't like being around them. Not that I can't blame you. Plus, I need to tell myself you also have a life outside of me. Same with myself. And." Stolas stop and was frowning to himself. Fist clench up.

"And what?"

"I don't want you to get hurt being around me."

"All what I encountered so far of this family whatever. I dealt with worse. I can take care of myself so don't worry about me. Will figure out this mess. Even if we are apart from our lives time to time."

Stolas was silent for a while. His body was shaking until they let out a tired breath. "I don't want this marriage Puppet. Why couldn't the duty be enough? Why this?"

The other didn't say anything. Pull their friend over slightly and let their head rest on their small shoulder. Felt, arms wrapped around them and being held. The pair stayed like this for a while. Just content and floating in space. No, duties getting in the way for the pair. Just two friends being with each other as much they can.

Stolas heard a sound. But barely move their head to see. Then felt something around his body.

"It's done."

Confusion on their face at first. Till it sinks in. Let go of Moxxie and look at the cloak they were wearing. Then stare in awe at the inside of the cloak. It looks like thousands of stars shining inside. In and out of a shine.

"See some the stars are made in constellations you like." Puppet point out each one as much as they can.

The owl prince just stared in shock along with awe. One moment eyes trying to keep track of the inside of the cloak.

All this for him.

"Frogmouth?" Soon, Stolas forehead was pressed against their own. Silent not sure how react with this as they ever done something like this with their Madre.

"Thank you, my friend." Stolas smile at them with their cheeks flushed.

"Your...Your welcome my friend."

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Today was the day.

The day of the wedding.

Might as well be everyone funeral.

That morning it was like any other

At least if you are from the Ars Goetia family. So, everything was on a tight, perfect schedule. Not just for the Bride and Groom to be. But no one else who taking part.

Because why the fuck not.

Get cleaned up early, make up out, and the clothes ready. Eat fast. Arrive at the time when the marriage is taking place along with the venue. Guests of nobles and demons come to this glorious day to look extraordinary. Another reason to show off how much wealth and the position they are in to gloat. Waiters, waitress, cooks' guards and musicians needing to show up early. Make sure decorations are already perfect and still put together. Or else it's everyone's head chopped off. Along with food, alcohol, dessert, and alcohol on standby.

Moxxie was slightly annoyed that the only time they really would be able to talk to Stolas would be at that wedding. Already was given a head up from Stolas. It'll be impossible to talk in the morning as they will be with others. Even if the tone of their voice defiantly showed he rather them with them. Really elsewhere than today. Able to do a quick text exchange that morning but that was about it.

Moxxie, now as Puppet, stared at themselves in the mirror.

Really didn't change too much on their outfit. Stolas help out so they won't get too much cruel remark. Which they don't care about but hey less demons off their backs. A gothic style tailcoat jacket that was black and long. Black trousers. Black gloves. A black high collar undershirt with a dark blue vest with silver designs. Tuck their scarf inside the coat. Doesn't care about the situation not leaving without their scarf. So, they somehow made it look decent with the outfit. Mess with the feathers slightly to not make it too wild. Kept the feather hair in the in the ponytail. Along with the cane.

Stare at themselves. Reach up to touch their tear mark on the scared-up cheeks. Wince and place their arm back now. They're beginning to dislike being an avian. No, really disliking this whole thing in general.

This is way past their comfort zone. Not the outfit. How many demons will be there? The physical closeness. Worry how their phobia is going to act up. If they lose it.

Quickly shake their head and then grip the feather. Stop complaining! Get a damn grip! Try to be damn normal at this bloody event and not embarrassed Stolas!

Just go.

Its official Ars Goetia did a terrible wedding ceremony.

At least in Moxxie opinion as they feel like if they could fall asleep. They defiantly would have.

The wedding ceremony for one was long. The place was packed yet able to hold many demons there. Did they mention it was so damn long? Able to be seated far away but couldn't go upfront as it was for 'special' family and guest. Some looked their way but didn't care. Didn't try to be too rude from a few who said a quick hi and just nod back.

Then it was time.

Stella defiantly did look gorgeous on their wedding day. Physically the young avian really is a catch. Can defiantly see there was a lot work for her wedding dress. It complimented her well and showed she was indeed a Princess. But can tell how she was trying to not scowl or throw a glare at Stolas. Who look quite dashing in their attire and put up well together. The pair standing side by side did give the illusion of a strong future family.

Moxxie wanted to throw up at the sheer illusion.

Or when they kissed.

You know what both. Both of them deserve to hack and throw up from that.

Now the after-wedding party.

Everything looks perfect, expensive, and showing off.

Moxxie has a feeling that this was Stella idea. Or at least her folks with Stolas side to remind everyone in their place.

Every table had names to show where you would be sitting at. Now the Husband-and-wife table would have their family, along with another few extra seats that were occupied. Not that Moxxie was interested who the others were sitting.

But Stella. That Pigeon must have done this. She made sure that not only they got a table alone. It was in the far back close to the doors for the kitchen staff to go in and out.

Now Moxxie doesn't know to be angry or not. Well, actually quite amusing. Probably be the first thing they like what they did for them. Being damn far away from everyone. But far away from Stolas as well. Smart Pigeon almost got them.

Almost.

Observed while ignoring the other tables. Everyone sat down as they ate the food that was brought out. Music being played in the background as staff walks around. A bar in the back as servants going back and forth to get drinks. An open floor where everyone dances when it is time.

Then the table at the front. Stella seems to be talking to her parents that were on her side. Along with Andrealphus as well. Stolas talking to know one. On their side was Paimon and another bird by his side. Stolas mentions possibly his father either be married or have someone along. Didn't pay too much attention. The prince looks downright miserable but putting up a cool front. Occasionally taking a sip of their drink. Until the owl eyes spotted them.

Moxxie look at them with a small nod.

Stolas gave them a small smile. He was very pleased they actually came. Wish he was over there with them hiding now. Away from eyes. Away from the façade. Forget this actually happened and they are married.

The two stayed eye to eye contact as much they could as the rest of the food brought up. Along with some random speech from the pair folk. Then was the first dance for the newlyweds.

Didn't know what was upsetting. Just seeing Stolas reaction as his hand was being gripped tightly by Stella. Or the music choice that fitted the pair. Some of the guests either left their tables to watch or whispered to themselves. Lucky to get a small view as they don't leave their table. Yet, we weren't leaving to get closer because of the crowds.

Grip the cup.

"Puppet."

Glance to see it was the parrot. "Starbird."

Sit down by them. Notice the plate. "Not hungry."

"No." Grumble as they didn't touch the food at all. Lack of care how their tone is as well.

"It was good."

Didn't bother looking as they pushed the food to the side. "Then have seconds."

"I shouldn't." Not bothering to touch the plate either. "Waiting for dessert."

"No, chocolate cake because of the Pigeon." Could hear a chair was being out as the one by them sat down.

"Still calling her that." Smile in place not stopping them at all.

"Not my fault she never verified what kind of avian she is." Heard a small snort of amusement.

"Fair.

Look at him. "Why aren't you talking with your group?"

"Got away." Took a sip of his drink. "Besides I do want to talk with you for a bit. Don't want you to be alone."

"I'm used to it." Look out at the room. "Is this going to happen to you anytime soon?"

"Marriage?" Got a nod yes from Puppet. He shook his head now, "No, but I have to be weary and alert if it does occur. Makes it hard at times."

"You at least have freedom."

"Too a degree."

The pair talk a little bit longer. It wasn't too bad. Vassago tried to contain his laughter at any nickname they heard come out of Puppet mouth. Almost choke on his drink when they learn they called Paimon, Butler to his face. Eventually Vassago was called over to go talk with one of the guests. Didn't look excited but went ahead after a bit. Soon, Puppet was just sitting alone again.

"Oh, Puppet!"

Not long enough.

Glance to see the peacock coming over to them. Held a glass of wine. He looks quite swell in his wedding guest attire. A part of the family.

"How are you on this tremendous day?"

"Go slip on a lava-block Yeti."

"Is that the right thing to say to the handsome brother who trying to enjoy his little sister glorious day." The peacock put their hand pressed against his forehead. "You wound me."

"I can make it physical if you like."

"I got enough pokes from your cane." Look at the cane eerily that Puppet had to bring along. Sat down next to them at cane length. "Come now can't we just talk."

"Don't you have a flock to bother?" Sees Stolas staring in their direction. A small frown in place.

"You mean go to my dear brother-in-law side." Shook his head. "I'm giving him some space. I can join my other fellow companions later as well for this joyful occasion. But seeing you oh so alone. You really should widen your friend group and mingle about."

"I talk to star bird."

"Right Vassago." Andrealphus looks disguised and glares at the parrot direction. "Thinks he is oh so great."

"Tell me you're not going to monologue of you two being some rivals." Got a horrid look.

"We are not rivals and if we are I can do better." A huffy look. "Besides I think it not fair when you both attack me together."

"That was only two times. You had it coming."

Took a sip of his wine. "I'm actually doing you a favor by being around you. The many times I was told I not too. Even by my title."

"Don't want it. Plus, Stolas title higher than yours."

Hand clutches the glance a bit tighter. "Maybe so but he is not as popular as me. Sure, he has gotten a bit better socially. Still not quite favorite from the flock."

Glance at them, "If we were to play this silly game of hierarchy nonsense fine. His duties would be considered extra important. Would it not have compared to yours?"

Place the cup down. "Choose your next words carefully before you become ice statue as their gift."

"Your sister would insult of your taste."

"For someone so young. You have a disrespectful mouth."

"For someone who is supposed to be older. You are a twat." Stare back out at the open, "I'm actually being as nice as I can today for Stolas sake Yeti."

"Stop it."

"No."

"You're lucky I'm being nice too Puppet. I mean after all once the wedding is over you won't get to hang out too much with him. After all his job is so important. Plus, his duties. Both of their duties. To start a family. That can take so much time too. Even though I don't have a child. A family. Or my rank not as busy. I'm still clearly exhausted from my duties. I take whatever I can to go out and enjoy. Poor Stolas won't be as much. Same with Stella." Look at Puppet with their own little smirk. How silent they are. The eyes looking down at the table. "I know when I'll be needed and such during those times. But what about you? The little nobody that was lucky to make a connection with Stolas. Who was lucky to make something nice? You will never be accepted like us. You are just here because we didn't believe Stolas. So, tell me what you will have while we go about out upcoming lives."

"Free."

"What." Not the answer he expected to be,

"I'm still free." Glance at their own drink. Stare down at their reflection. "Rank, hierarchy, species it doesn't matter to me. How you all just look down at me. On others. But all of you. You are all chained up to a degree. To image. To a duty. There are others higher above you. Higher than your 'Kings'. You still have a set of rules that you can never break. But true freedom?"

Andrealphus stares at this look in their eyes when they pierce him. His own eyes widen when they see this smile on their face. Yet it was those eyes.

"That is something none of you can ever take from me. Even if you do look down on me. Even if many of you look down at Stolas. Stolas have somebody can come back to reach and talk too. While you all stay back here to bash others around. Drink away. Cheat. Plot threats and deaths." Stand up and stare down at him "But hey you don't have to worry about that. Don't want to mix with the filth you want to walk all over."

Andrealphus watches them walk away until he snaps out of it. Snatch a glass of wine coming over and drown it down. Forget those stupid things the other said. That smile. That confidence. How dare they! How dare Puppet just lack the care. Not phased what he said before. Then to throw that at him!

How can they not feel affected? He thought they got them before. But now nothing. Can't even read them with that look. That smile. Was it a mask? Were they just being trick? Just holding up a front to damn well. Or do they just not care? Still, it has been a few months and I can't read them. One minute he thought he got them. Till they catch them off guard or just wave it off!

Again.

How does Stolas do it with them? Was it because they aren't like them?-Where Stolas?

Stolas was gone.

Stolas searched around for his companion. Mentally hitting themselves. They should have moved when he saw Andrealphus talk to them. Sure, he knows Puppet can take care of themselves. Then just got up to leave while Andrealphus just looked frozen. Didn't wait to see the rest but go find Puppet. Dismiss himself to go after them.

Look around the building and want to hit themselves. Went outside in the area for wedding guest to go in and out. Yet, it was just them.

"Puppet." Stolas finally found them. Not too far away from the party. Their backs turned away. They were leaning against the stone carved marble railing. Cane by their side just laying against it. Walk over to the side as they lean against the rail. Glance at the garden that fits hell standard. Dark red sky with the pentagram glowing above.

"Your wedding terrible." Just staring at the ground.

"Don't I know it? But hey I look good." Stolas chuckles weakly.

"You do."

"You look quite well yourself."

No, response to that.

"My apologies where you were seated at."

"It's fine. Out of sight from everyone. The doors swinging open help a bit." Turn their head slightly and back to the position before. "Things are going to be different. Huh."

"Yes, but will figure out something." Rub the back of their head. "Might take a bit longer. I have to follow certain guidelines now. Can't miss a meeting if we are all called. Along with how we would meet from my home. Can't have Stella, the other servants and others get suspicious about you appearing. Even if the door been use. Then with space-"

Puppet just listens to them closely. Their chests feel tightened up after explanation after explanation. Too many would be considered well reasonable reason. At least those who do this kind of work. They should understand this too. New duties too well, even if before it was force. Yet, it felt like one excuse after another. But Stolas has lots of responsibilities.

"You can be free you know." Heard nothing for a bit until a sigh.

"Puppet we talk about this. I'm staying for my duties. I want to be," Look to see how their head was down to not at them. Wrap an arm around their shoulder and pull them over. "I'm going to do what I can no matter what. I'm not going to lose my friendship with you. I don't want that. Are we good for now?"

A small nod. "Yeah."

"Wonderful." Gave them a smile that look like a real one compared to the force ones. "You really are a good friend. Will figure this out I promise you."

"Yeah, yeah Frogmouth."

"Seriously!"

"Not making today an excuse on the nickname."

"So, mean." Head down and look like they are ready to cry.

Small snort and nudge them. "Alright stop hugging me."

"But I need love."

"And I need chocolate cake."

"Damn your weakness."

The pair stare and then laugh. Stolas let out joyful hoots. Moxxie low chuckles that they try to hide.

This feels normal.

"Say how about we."

"Prince Stolas there you are."

Both turned to see it was Stolas Bulter. Rivera.

"It's time to go back inside your highness. The cake is about to be cut, along with a photo. Should get inside soon."

The cake is cut as the newlyweds eat their slices. Soon pieces were being sent all around. Puppet just gave their piece away to a servant.

They want this party to be over and done. But at the same time not. Since that means Stolas would be heading off to this honeymoon. So, force to sit and watch Stolas interact with others. Another forceful dance between the pair. It kept going for a while.

Soon enough it was time to say goodbye to the newlyweds as they got in a carriage. Puppet left a little earlier to be by the carriage door. Watch the pair walk down together as guests clap for them. The pair being dignified like the royals they should be.

Stella seems not to have noticed Puppet at the door. But Stolas did. He let loose a tired smile at them. Not breaking eye contact even once they reach inside the door. Then the pair drove off together to head to their honeymoon.

The tear faces of avian stood in that spot for a while till they headed off. Far away to not be seen. Open a portal that was into space. Just alone and away from everyone. Drop the transformation to be back in their imp form. The outfit changes with the size. Their eyes narrowed and they pulled their scarf out to wrap around them better. Silent and floating.

Is Stolas going to stick to his promise?

Moxxie quickly shook their heads along with a light smack. Reopen a portal that led to their bedroom. Change out of the outfit. Check on their Madre to see she was sleeping. Smile a bit at that and let her rest. Go back to their bedroom and sit behind their desk.

Get it together. Keep yourself busy. Wait if you have too.

Wait they did.

And wait.

Wait.

Wait.

Got a small message but it was short.

Wait.

Decline to meet.

Wait.

Wait.

Wait.

At least they did keep themselves busy. Either from their part time jobs to helping Madre with the business. The next coming month was very busy for many reasons. Especially when the day of the event arrived.

The Harvest Moon Festival.

Last time this town hosted it was a few years back. So, many were quite excited to host it. Businesses. Vendors. Sales. Petting zoo. Music. Extra farm hand comes by to help as those area can get booming with business. Along with getting the Pain games set up.

A lot of orders for Bangtail Whiskey for the bars. Many suggested Maria should sell some bottles during this time. Do get many from other areas to come to the main festival host but she declines it. Already got enough orders on hands. Plus, it was pushing at their usual limit. There will be plenty already sold around. Moxxie was a bit happy to not work at the shops. So, I got to spend time enjoying and watching the festival. Just got to help Maria the big day to bring some barrels over at the bar. After that the two of them along with Bolt will enjoy the festival.

"Bolt get back over here." Mara whistles the disguised blaster.

Bolt growled at the hissing rats hiding in some boxes. Then ran back over to the pair going to the festival sight.

"So, what Medea say?" Maria talks to Moxxie as the pair enter the grounds.

"He mentions going to be 'backup' on the game side."

"Free medic."

"Yep. He was a bit too excited." Moxxie stare at some of the booths. Nudge Maria. "Should get Ivy one."

"Ha Ha." Maria rolled her eyes at the plant booth. But they walked over to it anyway. Maria did buy some plants that she would pick up later. "Hush."

Moxxie whistles innocently while petting Bolt head.

All, and all Moxxie enjoyed this. It was like many of the other festivals, carnivals that arrived in town. Just bigger. It was important for the Wrath Ring after all. They were just having fun with their family. Got to play a shooting game and beat the others. Including his boss from Bullet tackle. He smirks while his boss curses him out with a lack of bite. The bite came when the other contestants got rude at Moxxie. This his boss bite hit them hard and made a sailor blush. Some talking around like with customers that Maria, and both Moxxie would know around town. Moxxie did avoid many that were around their age. Old classmates so to speak. At least they were lucky as they didn't seem to focus on them as it been years along with festival events.

Then it was close to the Pain Games.

Moxxie and his family got seats that were at the bottom end row. We were lucky to be very close to the games. Will be getting extra blood, mud and probably body parts thrown at them. Crazy enough right by the medical tent. So, the bloody troll was outside to greet them. A stage was also set up which confused Moxxie a bit. But also, the seats below and who occupying them.

"Madre um what with the cult getup?" Moxxie confused and looked at her. She was even then taken back.

"What are they doing here?" Maria muttered as she got up. Whistle to Medea and motion him over. "Why is the cultist here?"

"To give all of us a headache." Medea smile but their own face twitch.

That didn't seem to answer much besides the many groans around.

"They are here because of the one who is hosting the event. Is finally sending it off to someone else." Medea glanced back at the stage area. "So, they want to see if they got what it takes."

Moxxie was confused until the games started. Until the host makes an announcement to greet everyone at the games.

"Why is the Butler here?"

"Paimon?"

Moxxie stared to see Paimon out the huge tent on stage.

"Greeting Yes, it is the Great King Paimon who is here again at this cute, bloodshed games you simple, poor Wrath imps gladly enjoy! I see the cultist is here." Smile with a twitch glaring down at them.

The robe being said nothing.

"Goodie! Don't worry, words were already said by your glorious leader of Wrath. Along with other news. At last, it shall be my last year to host the games!"

Everyone was cheering at that!

"I know you all will miss me! Especially you mob! But don't worry as your festival will still be happening. Instead, my son shall be hosting the games until either his death or give it to his future heir! Come on out Prince Stolas along with your wife!"

Silence.

Stolas came out the tent. Stella by his side scowling and head raise up high. Both of them look so out of place to be here.

"Frogmouth? Pigeon?" Moxxie whispered with their own startled expression. Everyone was just stunned. Then harden looks at the new Goetias.

Nobody seems thrilled.

"Prince Stolas will be taken great care of you all! HAHAHAHA! So, cultist, you can leave! Go sacrifice a goat or something" Paimon yells down at them and points in a different direction.

"Not until we see he can do his duty! Wrong move and we shall tell our glorious ruler! He alone will make the final decision! He alone can only order us!"

"Plus, we already did the ceremony of the goat sacrifice this morning."

"Hell, for sake I hate you all but I do approve of your respect and loyalty. Now! I hereby welcome you all, who are able to get here, for another year to celebrate the spoils of your labor, servitude to feed all the citizens of Hell! How good for you all!" Paimon smiled out to everyone.

A crowd of imp's glared at him. At the newlyweds. At the cultist. Tough crowd.

"Now let's see which of your meat sacks is going to be the toughest imp in the dominating skills of a fighter! Break a leg! Make my last days as host fun for all!"

Cheers around just wanting the games to start now. Along with don't want to hear them talk again.

"Did you know about this?" Maria whispered to Moxxie.

"Not really." Moxxie whispered back while eyes focused on the game. The wedding was two months ago and we haven't really been able to meet up in space. Look over at the stage where is sitting Stolas.

He seems to be enjoying the game. Stella just looks so bored, disgusted and would glare if any mud gets on her dress. Paimon looks ready to fall asleep or strangle some cult member speaking to him. At least he likes the games.

After two hours have passed.

Soon it was time for the major main event. Stolas was center stage with his grimoire by his side. Lift up with magic.

"My dear commoners of the Ring of Wrath!"

Darn nit Frogmouth. Moxxie would have facepalm but held back. Look like everyone just really focused on the next part than what he said.

"I, Stolas of the Ars Goetia, hereby curse this year's harvest with the glow of the true Harvest Moon!" Stolas lifts his arm out in the air surrounded by magic. The cloud splits apart as a portal is created. A glowing orange full moon can be shown.

Everyone around is just in awe. Even Paimon, Stella had to look as if it was quite grand. The Cultist can be heard talking. No, it sounded like a chant praising the moon. The animals around even staring up to look at the moon. All around the wrath ring celebrating the event stared in awe.

Stolas looked down to smile proudly. To show he did this for all the imps. Sure, it wasn't the best reaction he received to his announcement. Then again it was his father who did it. Still, he hopes over time he can well get used to him. He does enjoy this festival! Such blood bath and fun. He has to admit some of the little Wrathian imps got some impressive muscles.

The cultist was a bit annoying. An intimidated annoying. He didn't even know Wrath had cultist like this! Then again it is Satan home. Still remember his father's words before he left the tent that didn't help his nerves in the slightest.

"Fuck those worshipper freaks are out there! Stolas whatever you do don't piss off the cult members. Their sensitive assholes who will go far to report any mistake to Satan! Those sneaky eels will find a way even if I were to kill them in the spot! But wow I love their dedication and worship! You got this!" Thumbs up to his gapping son as he walks out to greet everyone.

At least things must be fine now.

Eyes scan all around their faces at the wonder of the moon. A look he always gets every time he goes to space. Yet, this moon in this ring is one cherish greatly. Kept scanning around until he looked back at the bleachers. Sees an imp wearing this loose scarf a bit further away just staring at their direction. Not like everyone else who is looking at the moon. Blink at their direction. Gave them an awkward smile. Hope it doesn't terrify them.

The imp returns a soften gaze with a little smile on their face.

A first positive response from any of the locals toward him. An acceptance.

Stolas stare with their cheeks a bit red and feathers fluffed up.

That was probably one of the nicest smiles he ever received.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Done!

What did you all think about this new change?

In a way Moxxie really is free compared to everyone else. At least free in their own

Any questions?

Until next time.

Bye, bye!