Hello everyone!

It's time for a part four!

Summary: If Moxxie/Error met Stolas a few years earlier before he got married. Would things be different? Would things be the same? What could happen!

Warning: OOC, random craziness, Error past, dark abuse, many other troubles if mention, cursing, killing, dark themes, racism mention, under-age flirting, profanity, self-harm, suicidal moments, cheating, sexual moments mentioned, violence, smoking, drugs, alcohol, guns mention, animal death, cringe, bullying, yandere, possible musical/singing moments and bad flirts.

Error/Moxxie/Puppet speaking

Flashback/Text/voices

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

"Not bad Mox." Ivy watches Moxxie.

Moxxie shrugged a little.  While their eyes focus on the drink they were making. A Dalgona coffee.

They been in the Pride Ring for two months now. Live in the Imp City. After they were able to finally find a place to stay. It was a good deal but defiantly were some fixer uppers. Maria was slightly worry. A Madre worried for sure just the place in general. Even when she would come up here to do business with Ivy. She was alert. Not like any place in the Rings are safe. It Hell. But Moxxie got her to calm down slightly. This was their choice too after all. Too move and work part time for Ivy four days a week. A suggestion she did made after all. Till they figure out what they should do.

Right now, was content.

"Everything good at the apartment."

"I think the ones down below are dead."

"What gave that away?"

"The smell of death."

"Oh."

"Or just the lack of cleaning in general."

Small nod and got back to work. They were fine at working at Ivy café. Got too slowly get the hang of doing a few recipes and not having to look at directions. The café can be slow, busy or a mix of both. Get the usual rude customer to deal with at times. Those random druggies that need to buy milk elsewhere. They just either ignored it or hit their Pride with the random remarks they'll throw at them. Then the usual mess you see in Hell. Now and then get to take leftover back. Just to have on hand. Really Moxxie thinks Maria asked Ivy to do this. Or the sinner plant just now doing this on her own free will.

Now Pride was indeed a bit different. After seeing some parts of the ugly side.

Besides the many rudeness, jeers and insult that Moxxie will get at times. Because they are an imp. A weird one. Sure, was used to it already with being bullied in Wrath. Since they don't 'look' the part. Yet, up here can see the difference as well. Even when they would be "Puppet' and notice harshness with Goetia would treats imp. Well, really anyone lower in general. But for just being an imp. If Ivy hears it in her shop will get prissy about that crap. Already threw out a customer a few times. Moxxie tells her to not worry about it. Or they are fine.

Since, they were used to it.

Right now, finished up for the day at the shop.

"See you later Mox. Call if you need something."

"Bye Ivy. Same back to you." Wave goodbye and walk out the shop. Then headed off.

No, where special just going back to the apartment.

Lack of care of their surroundings. Which is normal besides taking into account something new might happen to bother them. Either someone tries to jump them, scam, some random insults, or weird comments or ignore them. The last one they don't mind. Then it is just everyone dealing with their own daily life in the Pride Ring. Of, course it can be slightly infuriating if some kind of battle happens. The fights aren't the issue. It just now has to take a longer route to not deal with it. Like come on some them want to go

Soon back at Imp City. Which is just like the rest of Pride City just for imps. Walk for a while till they arrive at the two-story apartment complex with an ugly board over the apartment. But that ugly board did help with the rent deal. Look like it sponsors about selling hot dogs. Open the door and walk to the stairs that lead to the second floor. Past by the first floor that show hazard sign and vacant.

Huh so they were right.

Back in their apartment. Their space. Just a kitchen, living room and three extra rooms. Two of the three rooms could be considered a bedroom and space. Just the bigger one has a bathroom and shower. The last room is a mix of just the toilet with a small washing machine and dryer. A bit old and beat up but can't complain as it does its job.

Just lock up with a wave of their hand. Magic was still in place that secured this area and no trouble. It was similar on their place at home along with Ivy own place. Just protection. Same with phones. What? Don't want anyone in their business. Goes to the couch and just sits. A small crappy tv that gets decent cable. Just put it on something random for sound.

When they aren't working, they do a variety of other things. That they were already doing already back home. Besides a few differences. Sometimes they just sew random stuff in the extra room. Or go into space. Would randomly cook something to see if they can do it. Fiddle with the violin or their gun. Try to find shows that might be close to Undernovela. They think they found one that was close. If not, will randomly look at what on Earth. Just extra bloody. Random text with Madre. The last thing they talked about was the rats.

They were told Striker called when they left. Did give him their number to call. There was so far one. The talk was small and quick.

Somedays just nothing.

Like nothing.

Just sits on the couch or lays in their bed. Just stays like that. While their mind is elsewhere. It would either be random thoughts. Things they should look into. Or unwanted thoughts, questions and vivid memories they rather not remember. They don't like these moments. It the same if they even if they try to sleep. Don't need it along with the nightmares not being helpful.  It felt like back at the anti-void again. Just lack of white.

It's the voices they don't like. 

It's rare they get them now. Like can only count maybe three times it has happened. Apparently today their mind wanted to strike and have some fun.

Where are your buddies?

Little freak!

Why can't you be normal for a demon?

Jeez such a loser then. Such a loser now. It's so pathetic!

How does your dear Madre put up with you?

Where is your charming owl, Prince? Not calling I see. Just like that Cowboy buddy of yours! Maybe both realizing how pathetic you now are!

Don't need you!

Stop thinking about yourself!

A stain to your Madre and boss relationship!

Maybe you should take that peacock offer. Even if it's just fake friendship. Must have pity you so much it disgusting.

Grow up!

All alone again! All alone again!

Ring!

Eyes snap open. The voices now gone. Glance wearily around as their body shaken a bit. Notice their phone that showed the time 9:36 P.M. 

Ring!

That was the mirror. Strings grabbed the mirror in their room and soon were holding it. Grab the blanket and cover their face. Then it turns on.

"Puppet!" Stolas smiled at them. A relief in their eyes to see them. Then confusion. "Why you have a blanket over yourself?"

"Didn't have my mask by me."

"Oh, yes. Well, don't worry no one will be walking in to see you."

"Nice try you're not seeing my face." Sees a pout on their face Inside was filled with relief as well. Okay they can see Stolas now. He looks tired. "What happen to you?"

"Is that all you can say? Not a hello. I miss you. How you been."

"Hello. You answer. How you been since you look sleep deprived."

"Do I look that bad?"

"You look tired."

"Yes, well. A lot of things happen after coming back from the honeymoon."

"Your job?"

"That along, with getting Stella settled in. She's a lot."

"That's the nicest thing you ever said about her."

Stolas blink and then it clicks. Let out a low hooty laugh. "Oh, my gosh Puppet. I must be losing it."

"Eh you probably began to lose it being around me. I'm such a terrible influence."

"I wouldn't say terrible. You defiantly surprised me over the years. I wish I can be bit like you."

"What?" Be like them. "Why the heck would you want to be like me?"

"I meant like be vocal, not care what other thinks, and just talk back."

"You don't want to be me. I'm the one with the blanket over my face." They had heard and seen it before. Sure, there were times they scene less with it. It was like a back-and-forth switch.

"When I'm around you it's different or just even by me I can be myself. Not feel like I roped down. It's not like having tried alone. Just want to make it easy or bearable."

They can understand that to a certain extent. It really is different when you're around others. "Stolas don't let them push you around."

"I don't know when it's my duty. I can tell you that much. Can," A tired sigh, "we just talk about something else."

"Sure Frogmouth."

"How about a new nickname."

"No."

"I had to try."

After that it was just talking. How the other was doing. Some parts about Stolas job at least areas he been lately. A book he has been reading. How their plants are doing and what they have been eating. The excitement and liveness were a better sight to see. Did rant slightly about how Stella seems to be throwing a lot of parties. Her reason is fun, social interactions and duty reasons. 

Yet, Moxxie didn't say a word they move. Sure, Stolas wouldn't be able to go to the Wrath Ring like before to visit the farm. Plus, I always had to ask as well. It just Moxxie wouldn't say it. They are not sure why. Maybe it was to focus on Stolas. Yet, mention little things happening to them."

"Oh! So, you working part time?"

"Three to four days usually."

"I see...Are you working next week on Friday?"

"So, far no and why?"

"It's well, I don't want you to feel obliged to come since you don't like them. Stella, she planning a party."

"For what? Didn't you mention she had one this week?"

"Two days ago. This party of her to celebrate our Five-month anniversary of non-divorce." Stolas looked very annoyed. Either the reminder they are married or the party in general. It could be both.

"Uhhh isn't an anniversary party usually on the wedding day, once a year?" At least what they remember, watch and read.

"Stella doesn't care. Make a comment if we survive the first year of marriage then will have a non-divorce party once a year or every five years. Depends on her schedule."

"That makes no sense."

"Puppet at this point I don't care. She does her thing. I do my thing. I already have to deal with being close to her in the same home, let alone the bed. It's just well I sadly have to be there. Especially when she hosts them in our home."

"Your home."

"Just, can you stop by. Just for half an hour."

"Did she say you can invite anyone?"

"All she said, along with invitation being sent out, that she inviting her friends and high-class society to cherish our curse being together this long. So, really you can say she forgot to asked me."

"Friday corrects?"

"WHAT ARE THEY DOING HERE!?"

"Hello Pigeon." Moxxie in their Puppet Avian form. Casually in the kitchen as they give the Venus flytrap some food. Stolas close by as they watch servants moving in and out of the room as they get the party preparations ready. Along with casually drinking coffee. Gave their plant a pat.

"Why are they here Stolas?" Stella yells and points at Puppet.

Five months.

It's been bloody five months the last time she saw them. Quite frankly almost forgot about dear Puppet. Would been find with that! Still, I wasn't happy they wouldn't work on their wedding dress. A bit smug to see how much work Stolas had gotten to not really interact much with others. Besides colleges but that has his duties. Don't get her started living with Stolas along with in bed. She is about to start something now when she sees them in her kitchen!

"Simple. They came early for the non-divorce party."

"I didn't invite them."

"Well, you only invited your side. It's my anniversary too after all. So, I can invite who I want for this."

"I want them out."

"Stella I am not kicking them out. They are staying for this party." Stolas took a sip of their coffee.

"Fine they can stay. Already unflattering enough, you don't have other friends in this group even being around us. But will have to go with the hand me down version." Stella smirked at Stolas. See him twitch as they clutch his coffee.

"Dirt would have insulted me better than that."

The avian twisted her head in their direction. They just look bored at her. "What did you just say?"

"Your lower than dirt."

"Why you skinny ass- "

Ring! Ring!

"Give me that!" Stella swipes the phone from the Imp servant holding it. Began to chat or rant to whoever as she walks away. Turn their head once to send a glare at the pair.

"She a delight."

"You know lying wrong."

"I'm so terrible. What is my punishment Puppet for such a sin."

"Ten pushups."

"Now you're the cruel one."

"Want to make it twenty."

"Wait? You serious."

"Thirty."

"I got to go get ready! I'll be back!"

"You just earn yourself fifty pushups." Moxxie shakes their head as they watch Stolas run off. Glance at the Venus flytrap as they tilt their head. "What? He can do it."

Growl like snort.

Then it was time for the party.

Quite frankly it's been a half hour now. Puppet try not to yawn. Glance at Stolas who looked as bored as he is as he takes a sip of their drink.

The party was boring for them. Yet, everyone else just seems to not mind it. Then again it seems like everyone either surrounding Stella or with their own little group. Just all around either you were gossiping or about to dance as music starts in the background. Imp servants go around as they serve appetizers and drinks.

"How long was this supposed to be."

"If she did it in the afternoon. It would be till midnight." Stolas grumbled. He was pleased no one was coming offer to talk to him and Puppet. It didn't mean he likes all this. Speaking of that. Where is Stella? Motion a servant over who passed by. "Where Stella?"

"Went to go answer a phone call that was asked for her."

"Alright." Motion them away. Not too phased about it.

"Why do they all like this again?"

"It has good moments."

"Like what?"

"When I find a good answer, I'll get back with you on that."

In the Kitchen.

"-Just wanted a good bloody party. It is good. It's tremendous. Would have prefer the next day but an afternoon party was finding as well-"

"Mhmm."

"-I should have told that twig to go somewhere else. But no, I was being a sweet wife to let them stay- "

"Yes, yes."

"Are you paying attention?!" Stella yelled on the phone as they clutched their cup of wine.

"No, because my dear sweet sister. I have paperwork to do. I just called to see how the party was going. I would have preferred the complaints after the party." Andrealphus at his desk with paperwork. Not so thrilled at the moment but it is such a tedious job.

"Don't dear sweet sister me! Already annoyed as it is!"

"At this point I don't know if your just being bitchy in general or not getting laid yet."

"Shut it you! I heard enough sass today! Even if they are ignoring me."

"Well, that's marriage life"

"How you know your single twat!"

"I forget that unlike you I gotten to have some fun experience. You know if you two actually start having an heir- "

"Oh, hush you think I haven't tried!"

"Quite frankly no to the both of you. You hate him. He dislikes you. Should both get on it with it already."

"You're beginning to sound like father."

"Oh, believe me if that was the case. Things would be different with your tone. Be happy Stolas father hasn't asked again yet."

Stella shuddered slightly at that memory. So, damn awkward from that mirror talk. How he was asking the two about an heir yet. Th two lied their asses off that day. Well, some truth as they were busy plus to settle the 'marriage life'. Accept it but wants result soon. "Already want to gag at the thought of doing it again with him in bed."

"Sister, sister if I wanted to hear bedroom talk and diss Stolas experience in the bedroom. I rather in person with a nice cocktail in hand. Besides, don't you have a party to host with your dear husband? Bet he was out there all alone. Miss your glowing, snarky side."

"Stolas is with his side piece!"

"He has a side piece?"

"Bloody Puppet! Five months and now see their ugly mug because Stolas invited them!"

Back at the party.

"Are you alright?"

"Is that a trick question?"

"Well, you're just looking around a lot."

"Just feel like something is off."

"This room has somewhat refurbished. Yet, not everything is too different. Maybe it's the guest."

"Maybe. Look there the pigeon."

They glance to see Stella coming out of the hallway. Look annoyed if not slightly confused. Then face changed to go back to talking to the guest. Laughs around. Something about finger food. Both shrugged. Stolas went back to talking about a new book to Puppet

A few minutes later.

"I'm here everyone to make this party actually thrilling!"

Everyone turns to see Andrealphus standing at the opening of the dining hall. Stella looked like she wanted to face palm but just kept a pleasant smile on her face. Stolas let out a groan. Puppet just stared at the ceiling and took a deep breath then slowly let it out.

"Why is he here? Stella mentioned he couldn't because of paper work."

"Apparently he finished early." The pair watch Andrealphus greet everyone around. "If we move quick, we might secure ourselves in your office."

"We need to hurry."

"Now where is-Oh! There my dear brother-in-law!"

"Save me." Stolas whispered to himself.

"It's called taking out the trash." Puppet whispered back.

"At least he doesn't see you yet."

"Puppet! It is you as well! It's been so long!"

"Never mind."

Puppet pull their scarf up closer and their cane ready. Stolas just look ready for what's to come. Andreaplus strolls over to the two and smiles big.

"It's been so long last time we met."

"We meet last week for a meeting."

"Not you Stolas. You get to be grace with my presence all the time. By the way where that portrait of me I sent to you?"

"Ask your sister she been doing the redecorations."

"Noted. As for you Puppet. It is so great to see your crying face again. I wanted to meet up after the funeral here. But you left and Stolas here wouldn't give me your number.

"Puppet has other business to worry about then you pestering him." The owl gave the peacock a look to stop.

"You try to ask for my number?"

"Why of course. I know things were very tense between us at the wedding."

"Didn't want to be around you and the others even before the wedding."

"It didn't mean I wanted our conversations to stop."

"I was fine with that." Sent a look at Stolas. A small thanks for not giving out their number. Well, the mirror one at least.

"I do have to tell you a complicated one to find. But at last, I had to stop for my work, my parties, the empty glasses of wine and getting use to my dear brother-in-law."

"How tragic for you."

"Yes-Would you stop with the poking?" He pouted as the cane was keeping him back to be close to the pair.

"Will you keep your distance?"

"Will I have your contacts to reach you?"

"No."

"But what if something tragic happens to Stolas here? Or a friendly reminder of show to come. He won't be able to get in touch with you."

"Andrealphus! That's enough." Stolas stepping up now to get in front of Puppet. Not pleased at all how this topic is now brought up.

"What? I'm just thinking about you. The both of you."

"No, you're not. You're just trying to get under our skins. Besides you only think about yourself."

"That so cruel and cold. It's supposed to be my thing." Mock gasped hurt expression. "I'm trying to look out as well. We are family now Stolas. While many don't approve of your social, mysterious status friendship with Puppet. I for one can look past it just slightly. After all, wouldn't it be better if they heard something instead. Then dead silence for five months."

"I've been busy. They know that."

"I'm busy as well. Don't get me wrong about that. While our busy lives have a few differences. I still had time to at least have some fun." Andrealphus took a sip of his drink.

Stolas shaking as he clutches the cup. He hates how Andrealphus can get under his feathers like this. But now I am trying to twist it all around. Like it was a sick game. Then again everyone here does it as well. Politic, powers and Intel after all.

"No."

The pair glance at Puppet.

"I don't want no one else contact. Stolas is busy. I'm busy. We can figure out our communication issues ourselves." Move the cane in a different direction. "Like this talk for example. You should go talk to your sister before she loose some feathers."

They turn and indeed see Stella look ready to lose her feathers. Either by pulling them out or coming right off her. As she stares at the three of them. While her companions take a small step back.

"Seriously she should know better." He tsk and shook his head. Look back at the two. "This isn't finished."

"Yes, it is."  Watch the peacock walk off to comfort their sibling. Then glance back at Stolas. "I thought the mirror you gave me only connect with your mirror?"

"What? No, it can technically take in other calls."

"Huh alright."

"Yes. Don't worry I'm not giving up anything about you to them. Let alone a number. Already want to throw all the phones out when he calls."

"The mirror too?"

"Moments but I got to keep it. To talk with you and work. Um that stuff that Andrealphus said- "

"It's fine. We already talk about it too."

"Right. Yes, of course." Awkward chuckle and rub the back of their head. "I just want you to know I wasn't ignoring you."

"It's fine." Tilt their head. "About that book?"

"Huh?"

"About the fertilizer part."

"Oh! Well, you see- "Stolas perk back up to talk about the subject. While Puppet listens away.

It's fine.

Everything will be fine.

A few weeks later.

Everything is not fine!

"What?"

"Stella just left when she handed me the egg! Told me to take care of it since she did her part! Says she is going to go relax after I gave her so much stress! I-I don't know what to do with the egg!" Stolas looked like a mess on the other side of the mirror, just wearing a bathrobe. While he was cradling a egg.

"When did she laid it?"

"Like three hours ago! I tried calling her to give me ideas about what to do. She not answering! I tried her brother! Heck, I tried to call Paimon for an idea but nothing! Even the servants were not sure what to do! I-I Don't know what to do Puppet! I never taught how to take care of the egg! I don't have a book for this! I'm already a terrible parent!" Now he looked close to crying, feathers began to fall out as well. He looks close to having a panic attack as well.

"Okay, okay. Um keep the egg close to you. Needs warmth. Get some clothes or a blanket to heat up." Moxxie moves around with the mirror. Mentally cursing in their head at the situation and bad timing. If Stolas could see their face behind the mask. It would be irritation. Not at Stolas but at the others.

"I'm sorry for calling. I didn't know who else- "

"Stolas, just get the egg warm! I'll be there soon. Just give me a few minutes."

"Ok-okay."

Got him to finally hang up. Curse as they grabbed their bag, took the mask off and began to change. While pulling out their phone at the contact list. Brought the phone to the side of their face. "Doc. How do you take care of an egg...I'm asking you because you had a chicken farm before and Susie usually asleep at this time... I'M NOT PREGNANT....NO, I DIDN'T GET ANYONE PREGNAT!"

A few minutes of awkward lies, curse fest and 'borrowed' a few things later.

Moxxie storm into the mansion before the servant can open the door. 

"They're in the living room."

The imp turns avian heads that way fast. Walk in to see Stolas sitting on the couch. Cradle the egg as it was wrapped in blankets. See a few tear stains on Stolas face, along with the amounts of feathers around.

"Puppet...What you got there?"

Moxxie on the ground. An incubator was pulled out of the bag and placed on the table. It actually gave the look like an acorn or a flower bud.

Stolas blink in surprise. He did remember hearing a few of the nobles would use one if they were laying a egg. But it was for emergencies or if they can't hold the egg twenty-four seven. Watches Puppet set it up, along with asking a servant heat up a warm soft rag to fit in the incubator. A orange stone pull out and place on top of the glass. Look like a door handle to lift the case up. Then the stone began to glow a darker orange. These stones are like heating rocks with the magic properties used for these devices. Took the glass off while checking the bottom part. Soon the servant came back with Puppet asked. Put the blanket in place. Double check to make sure there are no issues with tight spots.

"Okay should be good. Now let's put them in it." Reach out to take the egg. Then stop when they see Stolas clutch the egg close to them. "Stolas you're doing well. This will help as well."

"Y-You sure?"

"Yes. Will be right here."

Stolas stared and shakily gave them the egg.

Moxxie stare at the egg and very carefully places the egg in the incubator. Then made sure the egg was secured and snuggled. Then place the covering in over the egg and now secured. A orange shimmered over the glass. Glance too see movement as Stolas join them on the ground. They look deep in a trance.

"Thank you."

"Don't thank me yet. This is just the next step."

"No, really, I should have known about warmth or- "They covered their face and took a steady deep breath

"Hey."

Stolas sniff and look at them. Their eyes blink as they see two books coming out from their bag.

"I asked for book ideas. These should help out. We can look at them."

"Did you- "

"I lied. So, no one knows about eggs besides me. Along with anyone else you told. Same with the pigeon."

"She probably hasn't told anyone yet. You would think with four hours passing now." Took the book and smiled slightly. "I thought that maybe when the time came, we could have announced it to our family. Together. You know to show we did it. But I guess that's not the case...It's a lot to asked. But can you ask your Madre for tips? You know advice for a baby."

"She technically didn't raise an avian." Motion themselves. Got a chuckle.

"Right but she still raised you."

"Yeah." Look back at the egg.

Content.

Safe.

Warm.

Protected.

"I'll ask."

"Thank you." Pick back the books up. "Can you stay?"

"Did say I'll read with you."

Soon the pair read the books with hot drinks close by them. The two kept a close eye on the egg. We were like this for hours. Stolas anxiety did raise up a bit when he read about dud eggs. Even for them. It took a while to calm him down. Just have to keep a close on the egg and they'll go from there.

The owl prince passed out on the couch with the book resting on top of them. Moxxie use one of the blankets to put it over them. Just let them be. It definitely looks like they need as much rest as possible. Sat back down on the ground and put their chin on the table. Eyes focus on the egg.

Stolas egg.

Stolas and Stella egg.

Glance around and let out a sigh. Just need to make sure. If it's a dud or not. Touch the glass with the egg and eyes glowed.

A soul appeared inside the egg

A little tiny one buts it's a soul.

Alive.

"Hello Little Frogmouth."

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Done!

Part 4 everyone!

As you can tell. Defiantly issues and problems around.

The neighbors below Moxxie/Error are defiantly dead.

Stella loves her parties. Yet, she thought it was the last of Puppet.

Andrealphus giddy and ready to have a smack talk down. Yet, get catches off gaurd.

Stolas, Andrealphus will agree on very little things. One of it not liking paperwork.

Doc likes to mess with Moxxie.

Little Frogmouth is here everyone! Stolas is going to be pleading with Puppet to not call them that. Denied.

Hugs, comfort and coffee to the soon to be parents

Hope you all enjoy this!

Until next time.

Bye, bye!