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Stolas was bouncing in place with uncontained excitement. A surprise! His father had given him a surprise! This was the best birthday ever!
Well, almost. His non-negotiable engagement still hung heavy over his head, but still.
When the little imp from the circus approached, Stolas’ eyes widened, heart rate increasing. This was not what he had expected.
Blitzo had been dragged here by his father. Unwilling to go but wanting to help his mother. He approached the royals hesitantly.
“Happy birthday, son.” Paimon stood tall and regal, like he was the greatest parent on the planet for this one act of kindness toward the son whose name he couldn’t remember that morning. It meant little to Stolas, though; he was simply thrilled to have a friend.
Blitzo approached uncertainly. “Uh, hi... I’m Blitzo.” The imp introduced himself, rubbing the back of his neck.
“I’m Stolas!” The little prince bowed. “It’s nice to... ouch!” Stolas was cut off, rubbing his head where his father had thwacked him.
“Don’t bow to that one! He bows to us.” Paimon snapped.
Oh yes, Stolas supposed that was right. He still found such things to be odd concepts, but he knew he had to grow into his position someday. He turned back to Blitzo. “Would you... like to see my room?” Stolas asked hesitantly.
Blitzo was staring wide-eyed, frozen. The phantom grip of his father’s hand was still felt on his arm. He felt for the little owl.
Still...
Blitzo shrugged, then motioned for Stolas to lead the way. Stolas took that as a good sign. He led the imp to his chambers, wondering what he was supposed to do now. Then he decided the best course would be to discuss his interests. That’s what friends do, right?
So, Stolas dragged Blitzo to his library corner and proceeded to show him book after book, explaining the contents of each one in detail. He had a hefty pile when he finally noticed Blitzo’s disinterested look.
Blitzo finally cracked. “Boring! Reading is boring. Let’s do something cool!”
“Oh, sorry. I’ve never had a friend before. What do you want to do?” Stolas fidgeted with his hands, now completely insecure about the situation.
Blitzo jumped up with a grin. “Let’s play pirates!” he said excitedly. He remembered his father's words. Steal as much as possible. He could do this. “It’s where we go around the house and collect all the nicest things in a bag, and then, we throw them out the window!”
Stolas was taken off guard. “Throw them out the window?”
Blitzo jumped up and flexed his arm. “Yeah!”
“I... don’t think pirates had windows,” Stolas muttered.
Blitzo deadpanned. “What, did a book tell you that?”
Stolas nodded and picked up three pirate books. “Yes, actually, several.”
“Well, forget about that! Just trust me!” Blitzo swatted the books from Stolas’ hands, making the prince jump.
Stolas was still uncertain, but he didn’t want to mess up today. He nodded his assent, and Blitzo whooped before running from the room, Stolas close behind. The two made a sack out of an old sheet and some rope and went to town. Blitzo led the way, laughing as he grabbed everything he could see.
Stolas was hesitant at first, fearing his father’s reaction, but eventually he got into it, helping Blitzo scoop things into the bag or holding it open while the imp climbed shelves and various other obstacles. His acrobatic prowess was a marvel to watch.
When the two found the grand chandelier, Blitzo couldn’t help but pull a piece off, sticking it in his pocket instead of the bag. They spent some time lying beneath it, laughing joyously at the fun they were having.
Soon enough, they were on the move again.
Stolas grinned in the next room, bouncing on his talons to reach a higher shelf.
Blitzo was about to go help him when a shrill whistle reached him. He glanced back at the distracted prince, then wandered toward the sound. His father came out of the bushes, holding his hands up. Blitzo looked from him, to the bag, to the prince, and back again. Then, with a deep breath, he tossed the bag over the railing. Cash vanished as quickly as he appeared.
“Blitzo! Over here!” The imp quickly ran back over to Stolas, not wanting to be caught in the act of stealing.
Stolas noticed the missing bag, but he chose not to mention it. He was too busy having fun. The two chased each other around the palace a bit longer before they eventually ended up outside.
They went up to a tree on the far end of the grounds. Stolas sat under it, his new grimoire on his lap, while Blitzo climbed its branches. When Blitzo got a good way up, he wrapped his tail around the branch and suspended himself, looking over Stolas’ shoulder. “What’s that, your diary?”
“No, this is my new grimoire. Father says I can use it to access the living world! I can also read the stars and prophecies.” Stolas held the book up excitedly. “Of course, I can’t do any of that yet.”
“Living world? Like humans and stuff? Cool!” Blitzo dropped back down to land next to Stolas. He settled next to the prince, and Stolas began showing him different pages and spells.
Blitzo was entranced. Now that was an interesting book. To his own surprise, he was incredibly disappointed when one of the palace staff came to retrieve them, saying Blitzo’s father had returned.
Stolas walked with him back to the front of the palace. “Will you come visit again?” Stolas asked hopefully.
Blitzo hesitated, looking from Cash to Paimon and back to Stolas. “I... I’ll try,” Blitzo finally answered.
Stolas seemed to accept this and nodded before suddenly hugging the imp. Blitzo froze before awkwardly wrapping his arms around Stolas in return. He caught Paimon’s narrowed eyes and swallowed. Something told him he wouldn’t be offered a return visit any time soon.
Cash grabbed Blitzo by the arm when Stolas let go, leading him toward the palace gate. Stolas waved. Blitzo gave a quick one in return. Then he was gone, heading back to the circus life he dreaded, yet was all he had ever known.
Stolas sighed and then turned back to Paimon, his father, who was looking at him unimpressed. He shrank back into himself.
He learned later that Blitzo had stolen the items from their game. Paimon forbade him from returning, much to Stolas’ heartbreak.
All he wished for was to see his friend again.
***
Weeks later, Stolas was startled from near-sleep by the sound of his balcony doors jiggling. He pulled the covers up to his chin and watched them rattle with wide, terrified eyes. Was someone breaking in? Were they here to kidnap him for ransom? So many different horrors flashed through his mind.
Then the lock on the door clicked, and they were slowly pushed open. Stolas shook, frozen in place until a familiar red figure pushed through the opening. He gasped. “Blitzo!”
Blitzo jumped, then looked at the prince. “Shhh!”
Stolas covered his mouth. “Sorry,” he whispered.
Blitzo shut the doors, then turned toward Stolas with a grin. “Miss me?”
Stolas nodded, dumbstruck. “What are you doing here?”
Blitzo shrugged. He had been bored and decided to sneak out after Fizz and Barbie turned in for the night. The owl prince had been fun, and the idea of sneaking into a royal palace had made his adrenaline spike. “Had nothing better to do. Figured I'd come back.”
Stolas sprang from his bed, practically bouncing. “I’m so happy to see you again! You absolutely cannot be seen here, though. My father is... rather displeased by your prior antics.” Stolas shot him a look.
Blitzo rubbed the back of his neck. “Sorry...”
Stolas shrugged. “We have too much stuff anyway. I’m not sure why Father is so upset.”
“Probably because being robbed by an imp is a major insult,” Blitzo muttered. “Not my fault we needed it.”
Stolas seemed surprised by that. “Does the circus not pay well?”
Blitzo shrugged. “Dunno. I never see any of the money, and Mama says a lot of it gets drank away.”
“Oh. I’m sorry...” Stolas trailed off, unsure what to say.
Blitzo shrugged again. “Not your fault. It’s just how things are. Sorry if I got you in trouble.”
Stolas shook his head. “Aside from telling me you’re banned from the palace, Father didn’t actually do anything.”
Blitzo physically relaxed. He was happy to hear that after seeing Paimon hit Stolas before. “I’m glad. Well, not that I’m banned, but that you aren’t in trouble.”
Stolas sighed. “Honestly, I don’t think Father cared enough to punish me. Yesterday was the first time I’d seen him in... I honestly can’t remember. He isn’t around much.”
“Who takes care of you then? Your mom?” Blitzo asked.
Stolas shook his head. “I don’t know who my mother is. I’m mostly cared for by the palace staff.”
“Oh...” Blitzo wasn’t sure what to say to that.
An awkward silence fell over the room as the two stared at each other, then finally Blitzo broke it.
“You have any books about horses?”
The two spent several hours going through Stolas’ various books about horses. The imp listened attentively as Stolas read the books to him. He had told Stolas he was a slow reader. In reality, Cash had paused his studies to focus on his circus work. He couldn’t read really, not past the basics. That was a problem for later, though.
Eventually, Stolas started to fall asleep hunched over the book and Blitzo’s own eyes had grown heavy. “Let’s call it, owl boy.” Blitzo yawned. “I gotta make it back before they notice I’m gone, and I’m about to pass out. So are you.”
Stolas groaned but nodded. He didn’t want Blitzo to leave. “Will you come back?”
“If I can get away again, sure. This was... fun.”
Stolas smiled at that. He accompanied Blitzo to the balcony. “Thank you, Blitzo, for coming to see me.”
“Yeah,” Blitzo muttered. “Any time.” Then he waved before hopping the railing.
Stolas watched him go, then deflated. He didn’t know when he’d see Blitzo again. He just knew that until he did, he was alone.
On that sobering thought, he finally crawled into bed, quickly drifting off to sleep.
***
Much to Stolas’ delight, Blitzo kept returning. It made Stolas so happy every time he heard the balcony doors shift. The two spent nights discussing their interests, watching movies, or occasionally playing a game.
Then, one day, Blitzo showed up during the day. Stolas was shocked, staring at the imp as if it were some sort of intruder. “Blitzo! What are you doing here?”
The imp shrugged. “I was bored.” It was true. Today was supposed to be a school day, but his father had insisted he skip to practice. Blitzo hadn’t felt like it, and so here he was. Cash was too drunk to notice anyway.
“Oh! I’m so happy to see—”
“Stolas!” a high-pitched, shrill voice called, cutting off the prince’s words.
Stolas flinched. “Hide!” he said quickly, pushing Blitzo toward the bed. Blitzo quickly crawled under it. He kept himself in the shadows, but crawled so he could see whoever was coming.
The door opened, and a small, angry-looking swan demon stormed in.
“Stella! What are you doing here?” Stolas asked, playing with his hands. His arranged marriage loomed heavily over him every day as it was. He didn’t need the source of his anxiety parading around his home.
“Your father set up another brunch for us. Now, come downstairs. You’re keeping everyone waiting.” The angry bird’s eyes narrowed. “Who were you speaking to?”
“No one! I, uh, talk to myself sometimes.” Stolas answered hesitantly.
Stella scoffed. “Unbelievable. I’m engaged to a crazy owl.”
Stolas shank into himself. “So... who else is here?”
“Andrealphus, of course!” She turned to leave the room. “Let’s go!”
Stolas hesitated, looking back at the bed. Then, slowly, he followed; shoulders slumped.
Blitzo watched him go. That was who the prince was supposed to marry? Yikes.
Blitzo stayed there a moment longer, just in case they came back. When the coast seemed clear, he crawled out, smirk on his face.
He had an idea.
***
Stolas wanted to bang his head on the table as he listened to his would-be brother-in-law drone on about future responsibilities, power, and a bunch of other things Stolas had absolutely no interest in.
Stella kicked him under the table, making him yelp. For a ten-year-old, she was already quite a... well, a bitch.
Stolas sat up straighter, pretending to pay attention. He picked at his food, not feeling hungry. He wanted to go back upstairs. To spend time with Blitzo.
What he didn’t see was the imp swinging from the rafters above them, snickering to himself.
Blitzo looked down at the three. Studied Stolas’ miserable expression, the peacock’s pompous attitude, and Stella’s prim and proper persona. Blitzo was certain he could break her demeanor.
Blitzo glanced up, seeing several spiders minding their own business. Perfect. Carefully, he flipped himself, hanging from the beam with his legs as he reached for them. He was grateful he didn’t have Fizz’s fear in common. “Let’s see how uppity you are with this,” he whispered.
He shook his hand until the arachnids started to drop, slowly descending on their webs. Soon enough, one was right above the swan’s head, another nearly in her tea. She reached for the cup, only to shriek when she saw the spider. Just then, the other one landed on her head, crawling down over her face. She jerked back, chair flipping backwards as she flailed.
Blitzo bit his tongue to keep from laughing.
Stolas was not so lucky, absolutely losing his mind. He did his best to hide his laughter, his hand pressed over his beak. Muffled hoots still slipped through his fingers. Stella stayed on the ground, absolutely screaming while her brother stood over her, trying to make her get up. “Stella! This is quite improper!”
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“Shut up, Andrealphus! Ugh, I’ll need to have this palace absolutely fumigated before I ever live here!” Stella forced herself into a sitting position, then snapped her head toward the ceiling.
Blitzo saw the movement, pulling himself to hide on top of the rafter just in time. Stella scoffed, then stood brushing herself off. She glared at Stolas. “You think this is funny? This palace is disgusting! My servants would never allow such a thing to happen!”
Stolas stopped laughing, the humor lost in her screaming. “Apologies, Stella.”
“Forget it. Come on, Andrealphus. We’re leaving.” Stella immediately headed for the door.
The peacock glared at Stolas. “Best you get your palace in order, little prince. I promise she will have no issues doing so.” He followed his sister out.
Once they were gone, Stolas deflated. That was until he heard giggles coming from the ceiling. Confused, he looked up.
Blitzo leaned over the rafter, waving.
“Blitzo! What are you doing up there?!” Stolas’ eyes had gone wide. “You’re going to fall!”
“Nah, I do this for a living, remember?” The imp quickly swung his way back to the third-floor balcony overlooking the dining area. “Besides, you can’t say that wasn’t funny.”
“That was you?” Stolas blinked, then began to hoot again. “That... that was brilliant!” Stolas gasped. “I’ve never seen her lose her composure like that!”
“Yeah, well, someone had to put her in her place.” Blitzo puffed his chest out. “Now come on! Let’s do something fun! Like pirates!”
Stolas quickly ran for the stairs, more than happy to leave this disastrous meal behind him. “You’re not planning to rob us again, are you?”
“Nah, in fact, here! I kept hold of this.” Blitzo produced the piece of chandelier from his pocket. “It was too pretty to let my old man have.”
Stolas admired the jewels, then closed his fist around it. “I suppose it’s something,” he teased.
“Hey! I could have just kept it, too!” Blitzo hurried back to Stolas’ room, the prince close behind. He dug through his closet until he found what he was looking for. Two hats, a sword, and a telescope. “Catch!” Blitzo tossed the telescope and a hat to Stolas.
“Lead the way then, Blitzo!” Stolas grinned, running after him as he bolted from the room.
“Ya’rr, catch me if you can!” Blitzo laughed, running down the hall and out into the yard. By some miracle without being seen.
“Blitzo!” Stolas gasped, struggling to keep up. “Wait for me!”
Bltzo ran to their tree, quickly climbing and swinging from the branches. Stolas hopped below, reaching uselessly for the imp. Blitzo laughed. “Come on, Stols! Climb!”
“I don’t believe that to be a good idea, Blitzo. Heights and I don’t quite agree.” Stolas gave up, sitting on the ground.
Blitzo blinked at him. “But you’re a bird.”
“Don’t remind me. It’s humiliating,” Stolas muttered, staring at the ground.
Blitzo climbed back down. “Hey, it’s not that bad.” He sat beside Stolas. “Come on, let’s sword fight. I’ll keep my feet on the ground. Scout’s honor.”
Hesitantly, Stolas looked back up. Blitzo didn’t look judgmental at all. Just like someone who wanted to play. The prince smiled. “Alright.”
The two spent the evening play-fighting, Blitzo with his wooden sword and Stolas with a stick. Despite the day’s beginning, everything had gone well in the end.
***
Another year passed. They were thirteen now. With every passing year, the dread in Stolas’ gut grew, but at least he still had Blitzo. The one good thing in his life.
Currently, the two were at their tree. Blitzo was showing Stolas his new acrobatic tricks in the higher branches. The prince clapped, hooting excitedly. When Blitzo finally landed back on the ground, he gave a little bow.
“Brilliant!” Stolas told him. He excitedly reached for his grimoire. “I’ve been working on some new spells! Let me show you!”
Blitzo sat cross-legged beside him, happy to see the magic. Stolas flipped through the pages, then stopped. He looked at the words, words Blitzo still didn’t know, and took a deep breath. Then, he clapped his hands and spread them. A portal opened in front of them, the prince’s room visible on the other side.
Blitzo jumped. “Woah.”
Stolas looked extra excited. “It worked! I’m still learning this one, but I can open a portal anywhere! Even Earth!”
Blitzo’s jaw was practically on the floor. “The living world?”
“Yes! So, I can see their stars!” Stolas flipped to another page. The portal closed, and a new one opened, this one in the sky.
Blitzo stared memorized at the display. It was beautiful. “Damn, Stols. My tricks are nothing compared to this.”
Stolas shook his head. “You’re wonderful! This is just basic magic.” The prince tilted his head. “In fact, I’ve heard some lower hellborn species can perform magic as well. Would you like to try?”
Blitzo held up his hands, stomach jumping. “I... I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
“Nonsense! It’s easy! Here, I’ll walk you through it. You just have to read the spell.” He pushed the book in front of Blitzo.
Blitzo stared at the letters swirling like symbols on the page. His throat grew tight. “I... I can’t Stolas,” he forced out.
“I won’t let anything happen, I swear. Just...”
“I can’t read!” Blitzo blurted.
Stolas stopped talking, mouth falling open. “Oh...”
Blitzo curled into a ball, humiliated. He waited for Stolas to laugh. Mock him.
Stolas looked from Blitzo then to the book and back again. He felt terrible for bringing it up, but then he got an idea. “Would you... like me to teach you?”
Blitzo blinked. He hadn’t expected that. “I... I don’t know...”
Stolas grinned. “I insist! Come on! I still have the books from when I was little.” He grabbed Blitzo’s wrist, dragging him back toward the palace.
Blitzo followed, having no choice but to. His shorter legs struggled to keep up with Stolas’ longer strides. The owl was getting tall.
Back in Stolas’ room, they sat in front of his bookshelves. Stolas pulled out several small children's books. “What do you already know?”
“Uhhh, the alphabet. Mostly.” He hunched his shoulders up. “Sorry.”
Stolas shook his head. “Don’t apologize!” He put a book in front of Blitzo. “We’ll start here. Go ahead and just say the letters you know.”
Blitzo felt a little bit like an idiot, barely able to read a book made for literal toddlers, but Stolas was patient. “A, B, C...”
By the time they were done with the lesson, Blitzo had learned most of the letters he didn’t already know. Stolas sent him home with the book so he could practice on his own.
It hadn’t been how he expected his time with the prince to go, but he was appreciative, nonetheless.
Stolas watched him go, waving over the balcony. He felt bad. This whole time he’d been waving books in Blitzo’s face, from day one, and the imp couldn’t even read them.
The prince was determined to change that.
***
Another year later Blitzo was reading most children's books by himself. He was a bit slow, and sometimes the letters swam, but he could do it. Writing was a different monster. He often made his letters backwards and spelled things wrong. Stolas said he might be dyslexic, whatever that meant.
His newfound skill did have some perks, though. His mom had taken him, Barbie, and Fizz to a nearby market, and Blitzo had seen a book he knew (hoped) Stolas would love. It was called Human Skies. He swiped it when no one was looking, knowing he would get questions if he asked for it. They probably couldn’t afford it anyway.
Instead, he waited until the booth owner was distracted by a customer and shoved it up his shirt. His clothes fit funny right now since he was going through puberty or whatever, and all he had were old circus hand-me-downs. The baggy fabric covered it perfectly.
Blitzo quickly made some flimsy excuses about needing to practice when they got home and ran from the family tent. Fizz and Barbie watched suspiciously but let him go. On the way out, he stuck his head in Cash’s tent. The man was passed out. Perfect.
Blitzo swiped a bottle of wine and quickly ran out, slipping into the shadows of the circus and out the front gate.
Stolas was waiting for Blitzo, knowing the imp had promised to come back that night. He had found a few early reader books on horses he thought the imp might enjoy, and was excited to give them to him.
He found his mind wandering, imagining the imp’s excitement. He smiled to himself, then suddenly blushed. Why in Hell was the imp taking up so many of his thoughts lately? Before he could think too much on it, the balcony doors swung open. “Stolas! Look what I got!” the imp exclaimed, holding a bottle triumphantly.
Stolas blinked, then squinted. “Is that... wine?”
“I think? I dunno, I stole it from my old man.” Blitzo set the bottle on the coffee table by the couch. “I got something for you too!” He reached into his bag and pulled out the book.
Stolas was surprised, then hesitantly approached him, reaching out to take it. He looked at the cover, a beautiful image of the human skies, matching the book’s title. “Oh, Blitzo... thank you.”
Blitzo grinned. “You like it?”
“I love it.” His voice cracked, making him blush.
Blitzo just laughed. “Don’t worry, it’s happening to me too,” he teased, sitting on the couch. “I’m glad you like it though.”
“I have something for you as well,” Stolas told him, going to his bookshelf. He pulled the horse books off the shelf, then went to sit beside Blitzo. “I thought you might enjoy these.”
Blitzo excitedly took them, looking through the options. There were several books about hellhorses, but then he paused at the last three. “Are these from Earth?” he asked, looking up at Stolas.
The prince fidgeted. “They are. I took a trip recently and couldn’t help but look.”
Blitzo turned red, looking back at the books. Stolas went to Earth and still thought of him. “Thanks, Stols,” he whispered.
“You are very welcome.” The prince smiled. “Now then, let's see what sort of concoction you swiped from your father.”
Blitzo made a face. “I swear you’re turning into a dictionary.”
Stolas hooted, then summoned two glasses. He poured some into each, then handed one to Blitzo.
The two stared at each other for a moment, then each raised the glass to their lips. Almost immediately, they both gagged, Stolas’ feathers puffing as though in offense. “That is... quite terrible.”
Blitzo coughed and nodded. “Yep, that’s... wow.” He stared at the glass, then shrugged and took another drink.
Stolas squawked. “Blitzo!”
The imp put the glass down, making a face. “What? I went through the trouble of stealing it. I’m gonna drink it.”
Stolas looked at him, then back to the glass in his hand. He stared at the liquid like it had personally threatened him, then reluctantly took another drink. “This is foul.”
“Says the bird,” Blitzo teases.
Stolas huffed at the pun. They kept drinking.
Eventually, the bottle was empty, and the two leaned back on the couch together, laughing far too hard at some stupid comedy they put on.
“Heyyy, Stols. Have you always had six eyes?” Blitzo asked, looking up at him.
“I have four eyes,” the owl hooted, amused. “You’re drunk.”
“Nooo,” Blitzo grinned. “If I’m drunk, so are you.”
“I’m perfectly fine,” Stolas told him just before he tried to stand. Almost immediately, he tripped sideways and fell back onto the couch.
Blitzo burst into giggles. “Are too.”
Stolas felt his face burn. “Maybe a little. Not as much as you.”
“I’m smaller,” Blitzo pointed out, draping himself over Stolas.
The prince shoved at him. “Blitzo, what are you doing?”
“Comfy,” Blitzo mumbles. Suddenly, his breathing evened out. Stolas stared.
The imp was asleep.
Sighing heavily, Stolas adjusted himself to a more comfortable position on the couch and then shut his eyes— a nap, then he’d wake Blitzo to go home.
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When he woke again, it was to a curse. “Oh shit!” Stolas’ eyes flew open.
Blitzo frantically gathered his things, rubbing his forehead. The sun was up, and Stolas began to panic.
“Shit, gotta go, sorry to run, Stols! Be back soon!” Blitzo ran for the balcony.
“Be careful, Blitzo! Thank you for the book and... whatever that swill was.” Stolas called after him.
“Anytime!”
Stolas heard Blitzo curse as he landed in the bushes below, then his frantic retreating footsteps. Stolas sighed, then sank back onto the couch. He smiled to himself.
Last night had been wonderful. Unlike any they had before. Stolas could still feel Blitzo’s weight on his chest.
He wanted to do it again.
***
They did do it again, cuddling, many times. Soon, they were fifteen. Awkward and lanky (in Solas’ case), and trying to figure out dating with braces (for Blitzo at least). Stolas sighed to himself. What strange few years it had been. He had never expected to gain an actual friend, being raised in the palace as he was. All of his “friends” were political connections for his father or his future.
“You okay there, big bird?” Blitzo’s voice cut into his thoughts. When Stolas looked at him, he had stopped writing in the workbook Stolas had given him.
Blitzo was worried about Stolas. He had been so spacey lately. Constantly lost in his head, it seemed. Even now, during his reading studies, Stolas had the bad habit of giving him an assignment and then mentally vanishing.
Stolas forced a smile. “I’m okay, Blitzo. I’m just... lost in thought.”
Blitzo set his pen down and sat forward, bending his legs under himself. “About what? You’ve been like this a lot lately.”
“Just...” the prince sighed, “the closer my eighteenth birthday comes, the more I fret.”
Something sharp shot through Blitzo’s chest. The thought of Stolas marrying that vapid bitch made his blood boil. “You’re sure it’s happening that year?”
“No, but I highly doubt my father will put it off longer than necessary,” Stolas scoffed. “If not eighteen, I’ll be married by twenty for sure.” The prince put his face in his hands. “I do not want to marry her, Blitzo. At all!”
“Well, no shit, she’s kind of a cun— bad person.” The imp crawled forward, settling just in front of Stolas. “Look, this entire situation sucks. You deserve a normal teen experience. Dating, sneaking out, figuring out who you are.”
“That’s just it, Blitzo. I think I have figured something out.” Stolas put his face in his hands.
“Stols?”
“I don’t... like... women.” Stolas cringed out. Blitzo just looked at him, blinking. Stolas sighed, exasperated. “I am not attracted to women!”
“Ohhhhh. You’re gay.” Blitzo nodded, then sat back. “That, uh, could be a problem. You try telling your father?”
Stolas nodded. “I was told to ‘cease this childish rebellion immediately’. I’m doomed.” Stolas felt truly hopeless. His life was not his own, and his self-discovery had just made things so much worse.
“Wow. That’s pretty fucked up.” Blitzo put a hand under his chin, thinking. “What if you just ran away?”
“I fear they would find me. I am not exactly an inconspicuous demon.”
“A what?”
“I am rather easy to spot, Blitzo,” Stolas sighed, frustrated. “I simply must accept my fate.”
“Nah, fuck that.” Blitzo looked at him, determination in his eyes. “We’ll figure out a way to get you out of this, Stols. I promise.”
Stolas rubbed his eyes. “Truly?”
“Swear on it,” Blitzo smiled. “Now, do you want to hear about the absolutely terrible date I went on with one of the boardwalk girls last week? Turns out she had three mouths and none of them were on her face.”
Stolas hooted. “I’d love to hear it.”
As Blitzo recounted the horrendous table manners of his date, Stolas couldn’t help but smile. Blitzo always knew how to make him feel better. Still, he couldn’t help but feel just a bit jealous at the thought of Blitzo dating other people.
He tried to ignore that.
“...But yeah, it was a total disaster. I have another with some guy named Frank this weekend. I don’t have high hopes, though. None of them are quite what I’m looking for, you know?” Blitzo shrugged as he finished talking, looking at the prince. The tall prince. The tall prince who cared and taught him to read and went along with his crazy schemes.
Oh... shit. Blitzo quickly shook the thoughts away.
Stolas just smiled. “I’m sure it will go fine. You are... easy to like.”
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Those words hung in the air. Both boys blushed and looked away. “Yeah, well... thanks, Stols. So are you.”
“Anytime,” Stolas choked out. Fuck. “We, uh, should get back to your studies.”
“Hell yeah! I think I’m starting to get this writing thing down!” Blitzo handed him the book.
Stolas looked down and cringed. The handwriting had improved over the years, but the letters... not so much.
Blitzo saw his expression and sighed. “Still backwards?”
“Unfortunately,” Stolas told him. “And your spelling is... off. It’s okay, we’ll get there.”
Blitzo shrugged. “Hey, I can read now, that’s the important part. Who needs writing?”
Stolas chuckled. “It is useful, I promise. For tonight, however, let’s take a break.”
“Yes! Can we watch that animated horse movie from Earth again? It’s my favorite.” Blitzo gave his best rendition of puppy eyes.
Stolas laughed again. “Of course. Get it set up. I’ll raid the kitchen.”
“Yes!” Blitzo ran off to the television.
As Stolas went to get the snacks, he smiled to himself. Things would be okay. Together, he truly believed he and Blitzo could find a way to get him out of this marriage.
***
Yet another year had gone by, and the two grew even closer. Blitzo was at the palace nearly every night, and Stolas always eagerly awaited his arrival. Tonight, though, he was anxious.
Blitzo was late.
Stolas was starting to worry. It was very unlike the imp to not show up when he said he would. The owl paced in front of the balcony doors; a pink horse figurine clutched in his hand. He had seen it and absolutely had to get it for the imp. Now, he just hoped Blitzo was still coming.
A sound from outside drew his attention. He pushed the doors open, running to the rail.
“Blitzo!” The imp was climbing, a bag slung over his shoulder.
“Stolas!” He reached the rail, pulling a bottle from the bag. “I got wine!”
“I have this for you.” Stolas held out the figure.
Blitzo’s eyes lit up. “Stols! She’s so pretty! I love her!”
Blitzo swung his legs over the railing, trading the bottle for the horse. He admired her, eyes shining. He found her perfect in every way.
Stolas smiled at the sight, quite pleased with himself. He tilted his head. “Why were you late today?”
“Oh, uh,” Blitzo stuttered. “Well, it seems Fizz and Barb have noticed more than they let on. I had to talk them down.” Blitzo fidgeted nervously.
“Blitzo?”
“They definitely know I've been coming here!” he blurted. “I thought I’d been sneaky, but they caught me leaving the tent. Told me they’ve known for a while. I guess they were afraid I was getting into trouble, though they still weren’t thrilled with the reality.” Blitzo rubbed the back of his neck, sliding the horse into his bag with his free hand.
It had definitely not been his favorite conversation to have. Fizz had literally grabbed the collar of his shirt as he went to leave, Barbie behind him with crossed arms. Trying to explain that he had been sneaking around to spend time with a prince for years now was a hard thing to do. They almost didn’t believe him, but he pointed out that he could read now and they hesitated. Both knew Cash hadn’t taught him, and Mom had been too sick lately.
“Are things going to be alright?” Stolas asked. The prince’s heart was racing at the thought of Blitzo being found out, of losing him.
“They’ll be just fine. Don’t worry, birdie.” Blitzo grinned. “They were thankful I wasn’t illiterate anymore, and that was thanks to you.”
Stolas felt his face heat up. “I am quite glad I could help.” Stolas looked at the bottle Blitzo brought. “Now then, I suggest we try whatever swill you have stolen this time. Perhaps we could watch a movie again?”
Blitzo grinned. “Hell yeah! It’s your turn to pick. Just don’t turn on one of your weird documentaries again. I still know way too much about human priests now.”
Stolas blushed, hooting. “Well... what about... romance? I have found myself enjoying them quite a bit lately.”
Blitzo raised a brow. “Romance, huh? Trying to get some tips?” he teased.
“In a way,” Stolas admitted feeling embarrassed.
It took Blitzo off guard. “What?”
Stolas shook his head. “Never mind. It was a silly thing to suggest.” Stolas set the bottle down on the table, not making eye contact.
“Hey, woah! I never said that. I was just surprised is all!” Blitzo hurried over, setting his hand over Stolas’ reassuringly.
Stolas looked up at him, embarrassed. “You don’t need to humor me, Blitzo.”
“Pfft, humor you? Have you met me, Stols?” Blitzo took the bottle and set it aside, then took Stolas’ hands in his. “When have I ever done something I didn’t fully want to? Especially here? If you want to watch a romance, that’s fine. I won’t promise not to cringe at it though,” Blitzo grinned. “You’re allowed to like things.”
Stolas’ hands tightened around Blitzo’s. “Thank you,” he whispered. “I apologize. Stella has been extra unbearable lately. Nothing I do is correct.”
“Eh, fuck her. She’s just a miserable bitch. Now pick your movie and summon us some glasses!” Blitzo let his hands go.
Stolas mourned the loss of Blitzo’s touch but relaxed some. “Of course.”
Stolas summoned the glasses, and put on the movie. They each poured some of the liquid, until Stolas noticed something was off. “Uh, Blitzo. I don’t think this is wine,” Stolas told him, examining the clear liquid.
“Huh, my old man must have swapped the bottles,” Blitzo muttered. Then he shrugged and took a deep drink.
“Blitzo!” Stolas protested.
The imp gagged and sputtered. “Oh fuck, that’s strong,” he choked.
“I don’t think drinking this is a good idea...” Stolas stared at the liquid.
“Oh, come on, Stols. Live a little!” Blitzo told him. “It’s fine.”
Stolas still felt unsure, but eventually he took a sip. It burned, and he coughed. “That is... vile.”
“We thought the same thing about wine at first. Just keep drinking,” Blitzo forced another swallow.
Stolas couldn’t help but feel this was a very bad idea, but he followed suit anyway.
They were about halfway through the movie and half the bottle deep when Blitzo heard Stolas sniffle beside him. The main character had just finally kissed the love interest for the first time, and now they were agreeing to try and make shit work or something. “You okay, birdie?”
“Fine,” Stolas cleared his throat.
Blitzo paused the movie, then turned to face Stolas. The bird was teetering, a slight blush coloring his face. The booze was definitely hitting him. Blitzo was feeling it himself. “Talk to me.”
Stolas shook his head. “I just... I don’t... I don’t want... Stella is going to be... I’ll never get to experience anything like this, Blitzo! That witch is going to be my first everything!” Stolas put his face in his hands. The closer he grew to eighteen, the worse he felt. He had until twenty due to Stella’s age, but that wasn’t comforting.
Four years left.
Blitzo blinked at Stolas, the realization dawning on him. “Oh, no, fuck that,” the imp blurted.
Stolas’ head shot toward him. “What?” Before Blitzo could think better of it, he had climbed into the prince’s lap, hand moving to cradle his face. Stolas’ breath hitched. “Blitzo?”
“That bitch doesn’t have to be your first anything,” the imp muttered. “Not if you don’t want her to be.”
Stolas’ blush deepened, breath stuttering. “What do you mean?” he asked, even as his hand moved to rest against Blitzo’s back.
Blitzo chuckled, setting his forehead to Stolas’. “You know what I mean.”
Their breaths mingled between them, but neither moved, each waiting on the other.
“Blitzo...” Stolas finally whispered.
That was all Blitzo needed. He moved, gently pressing his lips to Stolas’. It was a bit awkward, the alcohol messing with both of their motor functions. Stolas was tense against him and Blitzo pulled back. “Relax...” he whispered.
Stolas did, melting under him. Blitzo pressed their lips together again, cradling the owl’s face.
Stolas thought his heart was going to beat out of his chest, hands tightening on Blitzo’s shoulder blades. Blitzo’s lips against his felt perfect. Wonderful. He never wanted to stop, but eventually the need to breathe overcame him, and he pulled back with a gasp. His eyes met Blitzo’s, and the breath left him again.
Blitzo looked so soft right now. It made Stolas’ heart skip. Oh fuck...
He had feelings for Blitzo.
Blitzo was struggling with the same realization, air catching in his throat. The bird was too damn pretty. He forced himself to speak. “Feel any better, birdie?”
“Indeed.” Stolas breathed. “I... thank you.”
Blitzo laughed. “Anytime.” He meant that more than he was willing to admit.
Stolas smiled, eyes hooded. “May I...”
Blitzo answered for him, kissing him again. His hands slid down Stolas’ neck, sliding around his shoulders to pull their chests together.
Stolas gasped against him and Blitzo, feeling bold, took the opportunity to slide his tongue along his.
Stolas felt an involuntary moan catch in his throat as Blitzo’s tongue found his. Heat pooled in his stomach. He pulled back. “Blitzo...”
“Got you, birdie,” Blitzo whispered, forehead set against Stolas'. “Always.”
Stolas believed him.
***
An awkward air hung around the two of them for the next few months. Blitzo still came as often as he always did, but neither could forget the kiss. Every accidental touch resulted in a blush. Every glance lasted too long.
Then came the night Blitzo fell asleep again. They woke up together mid-night, Blitzo curled over Stolas’ chest. The imp practically leapt off the prince, backing away. “Sorry! Sorry, I just... I need to go.”
“Blitzo,” Stolas stopped him. “Wait.”
Blitzo paused, shoulders tense. “Yeah?”
“Don’t go,” the owl whispered. “Please.”
“I have to get home,” Blitzo argued, his heart pounding in his chest.
“I know you still have a few hours,” Stolas spoke softly, trying to placate the imp, to keep him from bolting.
Blitzo sighed, then forced himself to relax. “What is it?”
“We need to talk about what happened. We can't… I can’t keep going on like this.” Stolas was practically begging.
Blitzo fidgeted in place. “Is there something to talk about?” he squeaked out.
Stolas tilted his head. “Do… you want there to be?”
Blitzo sighed. “You're engaged, Stolas. I…” Blitzo’s voice cracked as he looked away.
Stolas' eyes widened, then teared up. “I don’t want to be. You know that,” he whispered.
Image by Sanga
“That doesn’t change the fact you are!” Blitzo snapped before burying his face in his claws. “Fuck…”
“What if I wasn’t?” Stolas choked, setting a hand on Blitzo’s shoulder. “Pretend there’s only us, then what?”
Blitzo tensed up at the touch. “Then what?” he whispered. Slowly, the imp turned back around to face the prince. He didn’t speak, he just pulled Stolas down to press their lips together. He pulled back before Stolas could react. “That’s what, but we'll never get to see what that’s like,” Blitzo muttered, pulling away completely. He felt so stupid for letting these feelings develop.
Stolas was desperate now. “Blitzo!” He wrapped his arms around the imp, pulling him close. “Don’t. Don’t say that. We can make it work.”
Blitzo shook in his arms before desperately gripping his back. “How? Your oh so wonderful dad isn’t letting you out of this.”
“No, but we can figure it out.” Stolas pulled back enough to look at him. “Please, Blitzo.”
Blitzo pursed his lips, then sighed heavily. “I want this, Stols, I do, but I can’t see any happily ever after for us.” Blitzo wiggled out of Stolas' arms. “I'm sorry.”
Stolas stood there, heart breaking as he made a split-second decision. “Then don’t.”
Blitzo turned, eyes widening. “What?”
“Don’t give me happily ever after,” Stolas breathed. “Just give me today… and every day after until our doomed end.”
Blitzo’s heart stuttered. This prince… actually wanted him. An exasperated laugh left him. “You’re insane, Stols.”
“Only for you.” Stolas held out his hand, heart jackhammering. “Please?”
Blitzo stared at the offered limb for a long moment, then took it with a sigh and small smile. “Alright. Until the world burns down around us.” He pulled Stolas down to kiss him again.
For the first time in his life, Stolas felt right.
***
Age seventeen came faster than either of them would have hoped. A year left until Stolas took over his Goetic duties. Three until Stella turned eighteen and they would be forced to marry.
The latter hung heavily over Stolas and Blitzo both.
“Do you ever wonder what it would be like to run away?” Stolas asked Blitzo. They were lounging on the chaise lounge in front of the television, a documentary on human horses droning in the background.
Blitzo snorted, cuddling into Stolas’ chest. “And go where?”
“Anywhere.” Stolas traced the spines on Blitzo's back. “Somewhere we could just be… us.”
Blitzo leaned up, staring at Stolas' face. He tilted his head. “You're serious?”
“Yes,” Stolas whispered. “Somewhere we can hide from my family. Where I wouldn’t be forced into a doomed marriage.” The prince teared up, feeling hopeless.
Blitzo reached a hand up to cradle Stolas' face. “What about the circus? My family is there, but we could probably hide you. You have that weird disguise spell. Think you could be an imp?”
Stolas chuckled. “Yes, though I fear I may make for a poor circus imp.” Stolas leaned into Blitzo’s touch, setting his hand over the imp’s.
“Eh, we'll put you on concessions.” Blitzo teased with a smirk. He leaned up to kiss Stolas. “Might be worth it.”
Stolas' breath hitched. “Truly?”
Blitzo grinned. “Bet on it. I'll come kidnap you on your wedding day and we'll run off.” Blitzo slid into Stolas' lap. “We'll have to be cautious around my old man. He’ll do anything for money, but the rest will love having another set of hands to help.”
Stolas’ breath caught in his throat. His heart was beating rapidly, and he leaned to press his forehead to Blitzo's. “Promise me. Promise you'll get me out of this.”
Blitzo cradled the back of Stolas' neck. “I promise,” he whispered against his beak.
Stolas kissed him, pulling him flush against his chest. “Thank you.”
“Of course, pretty bird. We'll figure it out.” Blitzo kissed him again, deeper this time. His fingers threaded into Stolas' head feathers.
Stolas moaned, holding him tighter. He panted when Blitzo pulled back. Then Blitzo was kissing his jaw. His neck. Hands fumbled under his shirt.
Blitzo bit down where his neck and shoulder met, and Stolas squawked. “Blitzo, wait!”
The imp froze, hands retreating quickly. “You okay?”
“Yes, just… I can’t… I'm… I'm not ready yet.” Stolas admitted, looking away. “I’m sorry.”
Blitzo cupped Stolas’ cheek to make him look at him again. “Hey. It’s okay, pretty bird. I'll wait as long as you need.” Blitzo whispered. “It isn’t a big deal.”
Stolas took a deep breath to calm his racing heart. “Thank you.”
“You don’t need to thank me for that.”
Blitzo re-adjusted them so they were laying down with Blizo's arms around Stolas and his head cushioned by his feathery chest.
“Blitzo…”
“Yeah, birdie?”
Stolas took a deep breath, then pressed his beak gently against Blitzo’s temple. Butterflies fluttered in his stomach as he spoke. “I love you.” The prince whispered.
Blitzo choked on his next breath, his heart beating like a hummingbird. “Shit, Stols,” he muttered, then looked up at the owl. “I think I’m going to suck at this feelings thing a lot, but yeah, me too... you know. To you.”
Stolas smiled. “Close enough, darling.”
The two snuggled back together, drifting off soon after.
***
Eighteen came like a slap to the face. Stolas woke up the morning of his birthday, dreading the very thought of getting out of bed. In fact, he very nearly played ill until the familiar sound of his balcony door lock clicked.
Stolas turned to find a grinning Blitzo in his chambers.
“Happy birthday, birdie.” Blitzo approached the bed slowly, knowing Stolas was likely under the weather so to speak.
Stolas groaned. The imp had turned eighteen the month prior, making all the jokes about being an adult now.
Stolas wasn’t so enthusiastic. “My ceremony is scheduled for tomorrow. I'm to finally take control of my legions and purpose.” Stolas rolled his eyes.
“Sounds boring.” Blitzo hopped up on the mattress. “It’s not tomorrow yet though, so let’s live today, yeah?”
Stolas couldn’t help it; Blitzo’s grin was contagious. He found his lips curling upward. “You insufferable man.”
Blitzo leaned over him. “You love me.”
Stolas reached to stroke his face. “I truly do.” He pulled the imp in for a kiss.
Blitzo’s hands cradled his face. After a moment he pulled back. “Get dressed, birdie. I want to see Earth with you.”
Stolas' eyes widened. Blitzo. Earth. The idea made him light up. They had talked about it but never went through with it. Blitzo was always busy during the day nowadays.
But not today.
Stolas loved the human realm, and spending his birthday there with Blitzo sounded wonderful. “I'll be quick!”
Blitzo smirked, watching Stolas hurry to his closet, then the bathroom. He was glad to see his bird happy. The prince deserved it with everything going on.
“Better hurry, birdie. Pentagram is burning,” Blitzo teased.
The bathroom door opened and Blitzo’s jaw hit the floor. Instead of his usual royal regalia, Stolas had donned a pair of shorts and a crop top.
The owl blushed, suddenly unsure of himself. He wasn’t used to anyone he knew seeing him so... exposed. Not even Blitzo. “What? It looks good on my human disguise,” the prince muttered.
“Fuck your human disguise, it looks good on you!” Blitzo’s thoughts were going places. Many places. Most of them dirty.
He shook those thoughts away.
Stolas’ feathers ruffled. “Thank you, Blitzo.”
Bltzo walked over to take Stolas’ hand. “You look good in everything, pretty bird. Though I admit this look is giving me... ideas.” Blitzo ran a hand over the exposed abdominal feathers.
Stolas gasped. “What sort of ideas?”
The imp smirked. “Later.” Then he threaded their fingers together. “Come on, let’s go.”
Stolas opened a portal for them, then cast his disguise spell over himself. He glanced over at Blitzo. “Hmm,” Stolas looked unsure.
“Eh, I’ve heard humans are pretty dumb. Just tell them I have a weird skin condition.” Blitzo shrugged.
Stolas sighed but smiled. “Alright.”
Stolas spent the day dragging Blitzo to all of his favorite places he had found on Earth. Most were cafes or bookstores. Some were both in one. Blitzo enjoyed every moment though. He was just happy to see Stolas happy.
When the sun of the mortal realm began to set, Stolas dragged Blitzo out into an open field. The two laid side by side while Stolas excitedly pointed out various stars and constellations, giving their names and meanings. Blitzo gazed awestruck. He knew Stolas’ duties were interesting, though he may never admit that, but this was actually really... fun. And nice.
Blitzo grinned to himself, content.
Stolas suddenly rolled toward him. “Thank you.”
Blitzo blinked at him. “For what?”
“Today has been... wonderful,” Stolas told him. “I needed it.”
“Always here, birdie, and once we work out our plan, we’ll always be together.” Blitzo smiled at him. “We can do this every day if it makes you happy.”
Stolas kissed him. Blitzo made a surprised noise before happily kissing back. It felt off, though. Blitzo pulled back. “As pretty a human you make, I think I prefer the feathers,” Blitzo whispered.
Stolas chuckled, then with a flash of light, he returned to his usual form. “Is this better, darling?”
“Much.” Blitzo kissed him again, happily running his hands over the feathers this outfit left exposed.
Stolas moaned, pulling Blitzo closer. The kiss broke with both of them panting. “Blitzo...”
The imp’s hands tightened around Stolas’ waist. “Take us home, pretty bird.”
Stolas didn’t need to be told twice. A portal opened under them, and they fell onto the soft mattress of Stolas’ bed.
Blitzo couldn’t help but laugh. “Something on your mind, birdie?” he breathed next to Stolas’ head.
“You,” Stolas whispered. “Always you.”
Blitzo’s breath hitched, and he pulled Stolas into another kiss. Harder this time. Deeper.
Stolas’ hands scrambled against Blitzo’s back, talons catching on spines until he managed to grip the hem of the imp’s shirt and pull.
Blitzo broke the kiss, staring down at Stolas wide-eyed and breathless. “Stols?”
“I’m ready,” the prince whispered, face flushing.
Blitzo blinked, then smiled, his face softening. “Lead the way, pretty bird.”
Stolas slowly pulled Blitzo’s shirt up and over his head, fumbling awkwardly when the article caught horns. Blitzo just laughed, showing mercy and helping.
With shaky hands, Stolas gently traced the lines of Blitzo’s torso, eventually wrapping his hands around the imp’s waist. Stolas had never paid much attention to their size difference until that moment. His talons nearly fully encircled the imp. The idea made something in him ignite.
Blitzo noticed and raised an eyebrow. “Into size difference, birdie?” The imp smirked and leaned forward. “Good. Me too,” he teased.
Stolas flushed. “Oh, hush.”
“Mmm, make me.” Blitzo leaned forward to press their lips together once again. “Pretty bird.”
Stolas suddenly nipped Blitzo’s shoulder with his beak, making the imp yelp. “Careful with that thing!”
Stolas stuck his tongue out. Blitzo kissed him again, sliding their tongues together. Stolas pulled him close, torsos flush together as they made out. There was an unmistakable hardness pressing into the owl’s stomach, and it made him shudder. He wanted to know what that would feel like.
Blitzo moaned into Stolas’ mouth, gently rocking against the bird. It wasn’t enough. Never was with Stolas. The owl made him feel things he didn’t know were possible. Blitzo reached back, hand groping between Stolas’ legs.
And they both froze.
Stolas turned a deep crimson color as Blitzo awkwardly patted around for a second. “Uhhh,” Blitzo suddenly looked completely out of his depth.
“It isn’t... I... my anatomy is... different.” Stolas muttered. “I don’t have a dick.”
“Oh...” Blitzo blinked, then shrugged. “That’s cool. We’ll figure it out.” It wasn’t like Blitzo hadn’t seen some weird things during his dating years. Whatever Stolas had would work for him.
Stolas was still red, now tensed up. “I’m sorry. I should have said...”
“Hey, none of that.” Blitzo held a finger to Stolas’ beak. “You don’t owe an explanation to me. Not for your body. If that was a deal breaker, I’d be an even bigger asshole than I already am.”
That earned a giggle from Stolas who relaxed by a fraction. “Okay.”
Blitzo smiled. “There’s my pretty bird.” His hands moved to lift Stolas’ crop top. “Let’s start here, yeah?” Stolas nodded, letting Blitzo remove the article. Both were left in just their pants, admiring the other. “Now, do you want to go first or should I?” Blitzo asked, fidgeting with his pants button.
Stolas swallowed thickly. He was nervous. He was excited. He had no idea what he was doing. “Y-you if that’s alright...” Stolas whispered.
Blitzo reached to cup Stolas’ face. “Whatever you’re more comfortable with.” He pressed a kiss to the owl’s forehead, then leaned back. Slowly, agonizingly so, Blitzo peeled his pants down, leaving only his thin, tented boxers on.
Stolas choked on his next inhale. Hesitantly, he reached out, stopping mere inches from Blitzo’s aching cock. “May I?”
“Go for it, birdie.” Blitzo knelt beside him, and Stolas very gently ran his hand over the bulge. Blitzo moaned softly, twitching under the touch.
Stolas’ own breath hitched as he watched Blitzo’s face twist into an expression he’d never seen. Emboldened, he hooked his fingers into the band of Blitzo’s boxers. Then he paused, waiting for permission. Blitzo nodded.
Stolas freed his cock and lost his ability to breathe. For such a small creature, Blitzo was rather well endowed. All four of his eyes widened. Hesitantly, he ran a talon along the shaft, gasping when it caught a row of spikes underneath.
Blitzo reached up and cupped Stolas' face. “They don’t hurt, I promise,” the imp whispered.
Stolas still felt unsure but nodded. “Alright.”
Blitzo pressed a kiss to his temple and sat back again, letting Stolas explore.
Stolas stroked Blitzo a few times, watching as pre-come beaded on the head of his cock. He ran his thumb over it, then hesitantly brought the digit to his mouth.
Blitzo’s eyes widened and he shuttered. “Fuck, Stols,” he choked.
Stolas wrapped his tongue around the digit, humming at the bitter-sweet taste. A fire lit behind Stolas' eyes and he shifted forward, head level with Blitzo's waist. “I want to try something,” Stolas whispered.
Blitzo felt like he was going to pass out but nodded. “Watch the beak,” he begged.
Stolas flicked his tongue out, running it along the tip. Blitzo watched, a low growl building in the back of his throat. Fuck this was hot. Blitzo ran his hand over the feathers on the back of Stolas’ head.
Stolas became more confident with Blitzo’s reaction. He slowly moved forward, taking Blitzo into his mouth. The spikes on Blitzo’s shaft caught his tongue, but the imp was right, it wasn’t painful. They were almost soft, like plant burrs. Stolas relaxed further.
Blitzo tightened his grip on Stolas’ head feathers, neck tilting back. “Fuck, pretty bird,” he gasped. Stolas’ beak caught his lower abdomen. Just a nick but enough to make Blitzo yelp in surprise. “Careful,” he squeaked.
Stolas slowed, rubbing a thumb over Blitzo’s hip in apology. Stolas started a steady pace, putting to use the few usable techniques from his romance novels while making sure his beak didn’t shred anything important.
Blitzo watched him through hooded eyes. The imp’s grip on Stolas’ feathers tightened, a whine escaping his throat. It felt so good. He was getting close.
Stolas’ motions were halted suddenly as Blitzo gripped his feathers tighter. Slowly, Blitzo drew him back and off. Stolas caught his breath, watching Blitzo’s cock twitch, the spikes flexing. He touched them with a head tilt.
“They lock in and harden when I orgasm, and you just kind of have to wait for them to relax. I didn’t think your mouth was the best way to experience that the first time.” Blitzo rubbed the back of his neck.
Oh. Stolas gave a nervous smile. “I suppose not.”
Blitzo stroked Stolas’ cheek. “You did good, pretty bird. I thought you would choke.” Blitzo laughed.
Stolas chuckled. “That would be difficult, seeing as I have no gag reflex.”
Blitzo’s eyes widened. “Oh...” Shit. No wonder Stolas was a natural.
Stolas just smirked and leaned back. “Are you ready for me now, darling?”
Blitzo’s mind snapped back to the present moment, and he looked down at Stolas. “Fuck yeah!”
Stolas laughed again, then hooked his fingers under his waistband, pushing down. Blitzo’s hands came to help drag the shorts over his knees and off, leaving Stolas in a pair of panties. Blitzo’s mouth watered. The imp leaned down and nipped Stolas’ hip before hooking his thumbs in the waist of the remaining article. “You okay?”
Stolas moaned softly and nodded. “Yes.”
Slowly, Blitzo peeled the article down, watching as Stolas was slowly exposed. Once they were off, Blitzo sat back to admire the view. Between Stolas’ legs was a single, glistening hole. He licked his lips.
Stolas started rambling. “It’s a cloaca. I know it’s not quite what you expected. I’m sorry if that’s not...”
Blitzo put a finger over Stolas’ lips. “Your bird-puss is perfect.”
Stolas flushed fifty shades of red at those words. “Biltzo!”
“What?” The imp grinned. “It is.” He leaned down, licking a stripe up the apex of Stolas’ thigh. The owl gasped.
Stolas watched as Blitzo settled between his legs, radiating confidence. It was incredible to witness. “Blitzo...” he breathed.
“Relax, birdie.” Blitzo licked a stripe right over the glistening hole.
Stolas squawked, arching off the mattress. One of his talons flew to grip one of Blitzo’s horns, the other tangling in the sheets.
Blitzo chuckled. “Sensitive.” He ran his fingers over the hole, learning. Exploring. He found a ridge just outside the entrance that made Stolas gasp with pleasure.
Okay, he could work with this. Gently, Blitzo pressed a finger inside, curling it.
Stolas moaned, hand tightening its grip on the horn. Blitzo pressed another finger in and Stolas arched again. Then the imp's tongue flicked against his ridge. Stolas clenched, pleasure shooting up his spine. “Fuck!”
Blitzo carefully worked Stolas open. The owl was tight, and he certainly didn’t want to hurt him. Slowly, he added a third finger, feeling the walls flutter around the digits. He started to work in earnest, curling his fingers, tonguing the ridge, and scissoring Stolas open.
Stolas’ head thrashed. It was too much. It wasn’t enough. He had never felt like this before. Sure, he had explored his body, but it was never like this.
A warmth gathered in his lower abdomen, and Stolas couldn’t help but moan. “Fuck. Blitzo.” The warmth began to burn, until something in him seemed to snap, and it spread throughout his body. A wordless cry left Stolas as he arched off the bed, gushing around Blitzo’s fingers. His body shook as pleasure overwhelmed him.
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Blitzo kept working Stolas through the orgasm, cock twitching as he watched the prince come undone. When the shaking turned into minor shivers, Blitzo pulled back. “Still okay?”
Stolas was gasping, wide eyes staring at the ceiling. He slowly released Blitzo’s horn, running his hand over it with a laugh. “That was... amazing.”
Blitzo grinned. “Not done yet.” He crawled back up Stolas’ body. “Assuming you still want to continue.”
“I do,” Stolas whispered.
Blitzo kissed him softly, then pressed their foreheads together. “Lay back and relax then, pretty bird.” Stolas did, trying to keep calm as Blitzo shifted down and positioned himself between his legs. “Ready?”
Stolas nodded. Blitzo’s cockhead teased his hole, then, slowly, it began to press inside. The stretch burned, but not painfully. It felt right. Like being completed. Stolas could feel each of Blitzo’s spikes as he slid in, finally seating himself fully. Stolas was panting, body adjusting. It didn’t take long. “Move,” he begged.
Blitzo had just opened his mouth to ask if Stolas was still okay when the command came. Blitzo grinned. Stolas didn’t need to tell him twice. He pulled back slowly, letting the bird feel the drag of each of his spikes before pressing back in.
The way the spikes caught Stolas' inner walls was indescribable. Blitzo was right. They didn’t hurt. They felt amazing. Blitzo’s pace was steady, and Stolas relaxed into it, soft sounds of pleasure leaving him.
Fuck, Stolas was tight. Blitzo could feel him wrapped around his cock like a glove and it was glorious. Before he knew it, his hips were already stuttering. He picked up the pace, thrusting harder.
Stolas gasped when Blitzo snapped his hips forward, hand flying to hold the imp’s back. “Blitzo!”
Bltzo grinned up at him. “Think you can come again, birdie?”
Blitzo didn’t even need to ask. Stolas was already toeing the line once more, ready to cross it. “Please.”
Blitzo thrust even harder, watching Stolas’ face. A few more snaps of his hips and the owl’s expression twisted with a cry. He clenched around Blitzo’s cock and the imp cursed, suddenly falling over himself.
Bltizo buried himself as deep as he could, filling Stolas with his seed. His spikes locked in, pocketing themselves into Stolas’ soft walls.
The feel of Blitzo’s spikes locking in was indescribable. It very nearly sent Stolas over again. Stolas whined. He felt so full. He could feel the heat of Blitzo’s release. The hardness of his locked-in in cock. “Fuck,” he panted.
Blitzo looked up at him, eyes still hooded with pleasure. His hand found Stolas and locked their fingers together. “Okay?”
“More than,” Stolas whispered.
The two lay together, fingers threaded until Blitzo’s spikes softened again. He slowly pulled out.
The rush of liquid suddenly dripping from his hole made Stolas moan again. He felt completely sated.
“Stay here, birdie. I’m getting something to clean you up.” Blitzo squeezed his hand then let go.
Blitzo hurried to the bathroom, wet a washcloth, and went back to wipe the mess between Stolas’ legs. The prince let out a very owl-like sound, overstimulated. “Sorry,” Blitzo whispered. “There.” He tossed the rag aside and crawled back into the bed.
The two curled around each other, slowly beginning to drift off. “I love you,” Stolas breathed against Bltzo’s horns.
Blitzo smiled, holding the prince tighter. “Love you too, birdie.”
***
“Stolas!”
Blitzo and Stolas both jumped awake at the high-pitched shriek of the prince’s name. “Oh, fuck. Stella.” Stolas gasped.
The two scrambled, Blitzo shoving himself and his belongings under the bed while Stolas quickly pulled his robe on, hiding his outfit from yesterday with Blitzo. He had just made it to his wardrobe to look like he was picking an outfit when the door slammed open.
The prince flinched hard but forced himself to turn. “Stella, what are you doing here?”
“I’m here to make sure you don’t embarrass me by being late to your ceremony,” the swan snapped. “Seems it’s needed as you’re still in that ratty robe.”
Stolas’ eyes twitched. “I have several hours yet, Stella.”
“Early is late when it comes to these things. Now get your twig ass into something acceptable and come downstairs. Andrealphus is already finding many things that need updating, and seeing as I’ll be living here soon enough, I do think it's best you fix them now.” Stella turned, storming from the room. “You have twenty minutes!” The door slammed.
Stolas deflated once she was gone, falling to sit on his couch with his face in his hands.
Blitzo crawled out from under the bed, hurrying over to the owl. He took Stolas’ hands in his own. “Hey, it’s alright.”
Stolas gasped, tears spilling. “I do not want to do this, Blitzo.”
“I know,” Blitzo whispered. “I know. I can’t save you from today, but we’ll figure out the wedding. I promise.”
“Truly?”
“I’m not letting that bitch have my bird. Especially not when she thinks you’re too skinny. Has she seen that ass?” Blitzo grinned.
Stolas let out a watery laugh. “I suppose you are correct. Thank you, Blitzo.”
“Always.” Blitzo kissed him. “Now, put on that princely persona and go show all those royal pricks who they’re really dealing with. I’ll be back either tonight or tomorrow.”
“Okay.”
Stolas went to get ready while Blitzo slipped out of the palace.
Today would mark everything changing, but Stolas genuinely believed Blitzo could save him.
***
A year and a half passed with Stolas playing his princely duties during the day and rendezvousing with Blitzo at night. Everything felt different now. Too real. Often, Blitzo would try to make him forget about his responsibilities. Reminded him he was still there, but it was hard.
Stolas had expectations of himself now, both personal and projected, and he didn’t want them.
It was now six months until he was supposed to marry Stella, and Stolas had had enough. Blitzo held him while he had a complete breakdown. “I can’t do this, Blitzo!”
“Shhh, birdie. You don’t have to. Won’t have to.” Blitzo cradled his face. “Fuck the circus. Fuck this palace. Let’s run away, you and me. We can live as two imps making our way in this shitty world.”
Stolas blinked at him. “You mean that?”
“I promised I’d get you out of this. I meant it.” Blitzo cradled his face. “The day you’re supposed to say ‘I do,’ I’ll kidnap you from that alter and we’ll escape. The last thing you’ll ever see of this shitty place is the cunt’s shrieking face as her power-grabbing plans die.”
Stolas let out a watery chuckle. “I would love to see that.”
“I know you would.” Blitzo wiped Stolas’ tears away. “We’ll make our own life, Stols. Together.” He threaded their fingers together.
Stolas kissed him, and they fell into a tangle of limbs. Soft touches. Whispered promises. It finally felt like things were going to be okay.
In the afterglow Blitzo turned to Stolas. “I’m leaving to tour with the circus again, but I swear I’ll be back in time to save you.”
Stolas held Blitzo closer. He hated when the circus traveled. Especially now. Still, it was Blitzo’s job. “Okay,” the prince whispered.
“I love you, pretty bird. One more tour, and then it’s just us.” He squeezed Stolas’ hand.
One more tour. A few more months, and they were free. “Will I see you again before... everything?”
Biltzo gave a sad smile and shook his head. “No, but I’ll be back. You know I always am.”
“I do,” Stolas whispered.
They spent the night curled together. When Blitzo went to leave the next morning, Stolas kissed him hard, holding him tight.
“Next time I see you, it will be to free us both,” Blitzo whispered. “I love you.”
“I’ll count down the days,” Stolas promised. “I love you too.”
Blitzo went back to the circus, ready to say goodbye. Stolas went back to his duties, thrilled he would be free soon enough.
Neither thought of the potential of anything going wrong.
***
A week before he was supposed to run away with Stolas, Blitzo’s world ended. It started with him seeing Fizz with Cash. Jealousy boiled in his gut. Fizz was the son his hold man always wanted.
As he stormed away from the tent, he tripped the imp carrying Fizz's cake in his hurry to leave. He needed air. Needed a moment alone.
Blitzo wanted Stolas.
That’s when the flames began to engulf everything. The hellhorses startled, the tents burned. A box of fireworks exploded.
He was hit by a blast of flame. Burns covered his face, hands, and parts of his body.
Blitzo turned to see Fizz in the flames, but as he moved to help, another tent became engulfed.
His mother's.
He ran for her, ran to save the only parent who ever cared, but as the heat hit his face, he knew the truth.
It was too late.
Her broach rolled from the flames, and Blitzo snatched it, falling to his knees and pressing the hot skull to his chest.
This was all his fault. He killed his mother. Probably killed Fizz.
He was a monster.
He found out days later that Fizz had lived. He had tried to visit. Was beaten by Cash.
So Blitzo ran. He ran from what remained of his family. Ran away from his old life.
Ran from Stolas.
Blitzo felt he didn’t deserve any of them. He was a disgrace. A disgrace. A terror.
Stolas was strong. He would be better off without Blitzo there to ruin him.
***
The day of his wedding, Stolas awoke feeling anxious. Not because of his impending marriage, but the promise of leaving everything behind. Of being happy with Blitzo.
Stolas let the servants dress him. He participated in the pre-ceremony traditions. All the while he counted down the hours until Blitzo was meant to crash the wedding. They would portal away, never to be seen again. At least Stolas wouldn’t. He’d take on a new life as an imp, and he was okay with that.
Soon, though, he stood at the altar. No Blitzo. No text. No indication that anything was going to plan. As things moved forward, Stolas' stomach rolled.
He went through with it of course. What choice did he have without his escape partner? All he could do was hope something held Blitzo up. That he would show up in the night and whisk Stolas away.
He never did.
Blitzo never showed up. Stolas was trapped with his new duties. With the need for an heir looming over him. Alone.
For months, he kept up a hope that slowly died.
Blitzo never came back. Stolas finally accepted that he would likely never see him again.
***
Eighteen years was a long time.
Blitzø approached the palace wearily, begging to go unseen. He just needed to grab Stolas' book and slip back out the window. Or door. Or whatever he could reach.
Founding an assassination business hadn’t quite been his original dream, but here he was. Adding a niche to draw customers was the next step, hence the book. Humans often wronged the dead.
Blitzø scaled the palace wall, reaching a window looking into Stolas' room. It looked almost identical to the last time he was here. His stomach clenched uncomfortably.
Then he saw him.
Stolas hadn’t changed much over the years, though he looked tired now. Almost sad.
Blitzø’s heart ached. He remembered the years he spent with Stolas. The fun. The lessons. Falling for him.
Breaking his promise.
Blitzø looked away. Fuck, he wished it had been different.
A loose brick under his hoof broke free suddenly and Blitzø flailed, falling backwards. The flower bed beneath him broke his fall, and he sighed with relief.
Then two large shadows blocked out the sun. Hellhound guards. Fuck.
Blitzø tried to bargain as they led him inside. Tried to talk his way out of this.
It didn’t work.
“Stolas, sir!” one barked out and Blitzø cringed, looking down as if that could hide his face. “We found this nasty imp trying to break into your chambers.”
Stolas choked on the absinthe he was drowning his emotions in, looking at the guards who held the imp. Confusion washed over him.
Then the imp glanced up. Familiar eyes met his, and Stolas’ heart stopped. He was different, scaring covered nearly half of his face, but there was no mistaking it.
“Blitzo?!” Stolas dropped the bottle, ignoring the mess it made.
Blitzø looked away again, shame washing over him. “Hey,” he muttered.
“What… how…?” Stolas suddenly composed himself, clearing his throat and straightening. He looked to the guards. “You can leave him to me. I'll handle this personally.”
The guards looked at each other, then shrugged, dropping Blitzø.
Stolas watched them leave, then glided past Blitzo. “Follow me, imp.”
Blitzø felt like someone stabbed him in the chest. The coldness. The insult. They burned.
Yet he knew he deserved it. He had abandoned Stolas. What else did he expect?
Stolas ignored his racing heart. Tried to play into his princely role as he led Blitzo down the halls he knew were ever so familiar to the imp.
Blitzø studied the portraits as they passed them. Gone were the ones from his childhood. No more baby Stolas, or Paimon. Now in their place were images of the prince that Stolas became. Family portraits, too.
A daughter. Stolas had a daughter.
Blitzø’s heart cracked further. He thought of Loona. Of how much he and Stolas had changed.
Of how much they missed.
The sound of Stolas’ door opening broke Blitzø’s thoughts. He swallowed thickly before following Stolas inside.
Stolas kept his back to Blitzo, hiding how wrecked his emotions were. He wanted to keep his stern façade. “What are you doing here, Blitzo?” His voice wobbled more than he'd have liked, and he was fighting back tears.
Blitzø rubbed the back of his neck. “The, uh, O is silent now. Just Blitzø.”
A humorless laugh left Stolas. “Blitzø then. It seems much has changed since we last saw each other.”
Regret pulsed through Blitzø’s chest. “Y-yeah, uh, how are things?”
Stolas was silent for a long moment, trying to give voice to his thoughts. Finally, he just repeated himself. “What are you doing here?”
“I, well, uh, you see… I was in the neighborhood…”
Blitzø’s fumbling broke something in Stolas and his tears spilled. His head shot around to look at Blitzø. “You left me! I waited! For months! You never came back!” Stolas choked on a sob. “Why? Why come back now?”
Blitzø froze, then wrapped his arms around himself. “You were better off without me, Stols.”
“Better off? Better off?” Stolas practically shrieked. “I have been stuck married to that, as you always put it, vapid bitch, for nearly two decades! You think that was better than whatever cold feet you developed? Or was I always meant to be the fool? Just another circus act?”
The air left Blitzø’s lungs. “Stols, no... you were never...”
“Then why?!” Stolas sobbed. “Why would you leave me like that? To face my worst nightmare?”
“I had to, okay?!” Blitzø snapped, tears overflowing. “You have no idea, the things that happened, what went wrong. It was all a mess and I just, you deserved so much better than a fuck up like me.” Blitzø put his face in his hands.
Stolas laughed bitterly. “I deserved better, yet I was married off to Stella. Glorious.” Stolas walked to sit on the edge of his bed, hand to his forehead. “You came here for a reason, and it clearly wasn’t me. Just, do whatever it is you came to do and leave me be.”
Blitzø’s tail dragged limply as he approached the prince. “Stolas...” his voice cracked.
Stolas looked up at him. There was a coldness in his eyes that never used to be there. Weariness too. Blitzø felt awful.
Stolas studied the imp. He was different. His emotions were locked away, but they were still visible in his eyes. The sadness. Hopelessness. Against his better judgment, it made Stolas want to listen. He motioned Blitzø to speak.
Blitzø approached the owl, pulling a trembling hand into his claws. “I’m sorry,” Blitzø whispered. “I never... you never should have had to put up with this. I failed you.”
Stolas stared at him with a hardened expression. “You did,” he agreed. “I suppose I am partly to blame though. I had no backup plan should ours fall through. Or one of us fail our part.”
Blitzø flinched, grip tightening on Stolas’ hand. “I promise you, Stolas. There was a reason I didn’t show, and it wasn’t because I didn’t want to.”
“What was it, then?”
Blitzø’s tail curled around his waist. “It... I... I can’t talk about it,” the imp finally whispered. “I just... I want to tell you, but I can’t.”
Stolas pulled his hand from Blitzø’s. “Right. Of course.”
Blitzø lunged forward, cradling the prince’s face. “Stolas, please!” Blitzø begged. “I swear on my daughter’s life it was never you! If I could do it over, I’d find a way to keep my promise.”
Stolas was only half listening. “Daughter?” the prince choked. He pulled back again, curling into himself. “Of course.” Stolas took a deep breath. “Go home to your family, Blitzo... Blitzø.”
Blitzø knelt there, hands still hovering awkwardly. “...What? No! Satan, Stolas, that isn’t... Loona’s adopted! She’s a bloody adult! Though, I don’t want to admit that most days.” Blitzø reached for Stolas again. “Please, birdie. I missed you.”
Stolas shuddered, eyes squeezing shut around a fresh wave of tears. “Damn you, Blitzø. I missed you, too.” His breath hitched. “Every day.”
Blitzø wiped the tears from under Stolas’ eyes. “Come here, pretty bird.” He opened his arms.
Stolas practically flew into the imp, holding him close, as though he might disappear at any moment. “I never thought I would see you again.”
Blitzø’s heart shattered further. “I’m sorry,” he muttered, stroking Stolas’ head feathers. “I’m here now though.”
Stolas kissed him suddenly and Blitzø let out a sound of surprise before quickly relaxing into it. They fell back into a rhythm as though no time had passed. Their tears made things a little wet and uncomfortable, but neither were able to care. They missed each other too much.
They broke for air with their foreheads pressed together, breaths mingling. Their eyes met. “Stols...” Blitzø whispered before kissing him again. Their tongues slid together and Blitzø moaned.
He missed this. So much.
Stolas gasped into the kiss, pulling Blitzø down and over him as they kept kissing. Blitzø ended up sprawled over his chest, straddling his waist. Hands began to wander until Stolas broke the kiss, gasping when Blitzø tugged on his shirt buttons.
Blitzø froze. “Okay?” he asked.
Stolas looked unsure. “It’s... been a long time. I don’t... I haven’t done this since you left.” Stolas admitted.
Blitzø stared at him, head tilted. “But... I saw the portraits... you have a kid...”
Stolas flinched, hard. His eyes squeezed shut as he desperately tried not to think too hard about how she came to be.
“Hey, hey! Pretty bird, it’s okay. I’m right here!” Blitzø panicked, cradling Stolas’ face.
“I love Octavia,” Stolas finally whispered, “but her conception was not my choice.”
Stolas, unfortunately, remembered those nights, though he spent most of them trapped in his head.
Blitzø felt the wind leave him as he stared down at Stolas, nausea catching in his throat. His fists clenched. “Son of a...” his voice cracked. “I’m so fucking sorry, Stolas. If I... you never would have...” Tears spilled over from his eyes.
Stolas ran a thumb under Blitzø’s eye. “I wouldn’t change it. Not now. Octavia is my entire world.”
Blitzø understood. As much as he fucked up, he couldn’t imagine a world where he hadn’t adopted Loona. “It’s still fucked up.”
“It is,” Stolas agreed. “Nothing can change it, though.”
Blitzø shook his head. “No, it can’t.” Blitzø pulled Stolas close, burying his face in the prince’s neck.
Stolas ran his talons over Blitzø’s spines, sighing. “I would like to continue, if you would.”
Blitzø pulled back, looking at Stolas’ face. He huffed a watery laugh. “You sure? ‘Cause I’m more than happy to just hold you.”
That made Stolas smile. “I missed you, Blitzø. Completely.” Stolas stroked the imp’s horns. “Give me better memories.”
Blitzø stared for a long moment, then huffed a laugh. “Yeah,” he choked. “Okay.”
It was indescribable, being together again. Blitzø had missed Stolas more than words would ever describe. When they laid together, later, Stolas spoke again. “I still love you. I never stopped.”
Blitzø’s heart skipped. He wasn’t sure he remembered how to say those words. “Yeah...” he choked out. “I... I know.”
Stolas didn’t seem to be aware enough to catch the odd reply, drifting to sleep. Blitzø followed soon after.
The next morning, Blitzø woke up before the prince. He pressed a kiss to Stolas’ temple as he untangled their limbs. “I’m sorry...”
He grabbed the grimoire off the shelf, half-dressed himself, and went to scale the balcony, only to lose his footing.
He landed on a table, smashing a cake and coming face to face with the bitch that had been tormenting his bird as long as he could remember. He should say something. Do something.
Instead, he panicked.
“Sorry, I fucked your husband!” Then he ran away, book pressed tightly to his chest.
He could hear her shriek for Stolas behind him, and his heart thundered. Fuck. Why the fuck would he say that? He just fucked things up so much worse. As per usual.
Stolas jumped awake at the sound of something falling from the balcony. He heard Blitzø’s words and his heart stopped. Then he saw the empty spot on the bookshelf. Something in him went numb.
When Stella began shrieking, he was completely done. With everyone. He pulled his robe on and went out onto the balcony.
“What the fuck, was that, Stolas?!” Stella screamed, glaring up at him.
Stolas tore the stupid “still not divorced” banner with his hands, leaving only the last word hanging. “That, was the sound, of a fucking divorce!” The hysterical laugh that left him was unnerving, even to himself, but he was done.
So very done.
***
Blitzø, for some reason the imp himself couldn’t comprehend, actually thought he had gotten away with stealing the book. It was quiet for a few weeks. His little assassin business was thriving now. Sinners loved getting revenge on the living. Loona had asked questions, Moxxie had panicked, and Millie seemed suspicious when he showed up with a demon lord’s tome, but he thought it would be fine.
Until one night, when he had stayed late and alone, filling paperwork out. He was humming some nameless tune while trying his best to not fuck up writing his name on three thousand documents. No, he was not exaggerating, thank you.
Something in the air shifted, and Blitzø paused, humming going quiet. There wasn’t anything immediately off, but something didn’t feel right. His hand slowly moved toward his gun when his wrist was pinned to the desk by a familiar hand.
“I believe you have something of mine.” Stolas glared down at Blitzø, eyes glowing in the dim light of the office. He stared at his old friend, his lover, the man who had betrayed him.
Stolas’ voice was cold, and it made Blitzø shiver. Fuck. “S-Stolas! I can explain...”
“No need. I see exactly what you were after.” The grip on Blitzø’s wrist tightened. “Do you take me for a fool, Blitzø?”
The imp gasped, hand flailing under the prince’s hold. “Of course not! I just...”
“Wanted the book? Wanted to lie to me? To make me think you still cared even the smallest amount?” His grip tightened further.
Blitzø was starting to worry that his wrist was going to break. “Stolas, no! I meant every damn word I said! I swear!” Blitzø panicked.
“You have an odd way of showing it.” Stolas finally let go, and Blitzø’s wrist flew to his chest. “You show up at my palace after years, get caught sneaking around my chambers, whisper sweet nothings to me, and vanish with my book. Am I supposed to believe you weren’t planning to rob me the entire time?”
“I was... I mean... fuck, Stolas! You weren’t supposed to even know I was there!” Blitzø admitted, only to then cover his mouth.
Stolas froze, his cold façade cracking. He laughed humorlessly. “Of course not. Silly me.”
“Wait, no! That doesn’t mean I was lying to you!” Blitzø tried, reaching for the prince.
Stolas jerked away. “Just return the book and you never have to see me again, Blitzø. That was clearly your goal from the start.”
Blitzø’s heart shattered. “No!” he choked. “I’m not losing the only thing...”
“The only thing allowing you to murder humans?” Stolas practically growled.
Blitzø was silent, and Stolas just stared coldly, holding out a hand. Blitzø shook his head. “I’ll never see you again.”
“That is the goal,” Stolas told him. “Give it to me, Blitzø.”
The imp just shook his head more. “Stolas, please. I need this job.”
“I’m sure you can find something else. You’ve always been good at finding advantages.” Stolas began to approach him, and Blitzø backed up until his back hit the wall.
Blitzø’s heart hammered in his chest. He stared at Stolas. The prince he had grown up with. The man who taught him to read, showed him things he never would have seen otherwise. The man he loved. The one he betrayed. Blitzø teared up. “Please, Stols. I don’t want to lose you.”
“You lost me when you left me at that altar,” Stolas replied coldly. He was hurting. There was nothing Blitzø could do to salvage this. Not anymore. Or so, he thought.
“Please.” Tears fell. “I did love you, Stolas... I... I still do, but I’m just a shitty, no good piece of trash. You deserved better, you still do.” Blitzø looked away. “I did miss you. I wasn’t mad I was caught, because I got to see you again.”
Stolas stopped, studying the imp as he fought to keep his emotions in check. “Tell me the truth, Blitzø. Tell me why you never showed up.”
Blitzø shook his head. “I... I can’t...”
Stolas closed his eyes, a single tear escaping. “Then there’s nothing left to say.” His hand shot out, magic shining. The picture on the wall fell, and the safe door unhinged as Stolas pulled the book to his chest.
Blitzø panicked. He knew if Stolas stepped through a portal that was it. He would never see him again. “Wait, no!” The imp literally wrapped himself around the prince’s leg. “I’ll tell you, just... don’t hate me.”
Stolas didn’t give any promise, just stared down at Blitzø, waiting.
“I... it was a week before we were supposed to run. It was Fizz’s birthday, and as per usual Cash was up his ass. I don’t know if it was because I knew I was leaving soon or what, but it bothered me more than usual. I stormed away, but when I did, I tripped the guy with the cake. The tents caught fire.” Blitzø’s eyes squeezed shut against the tears, one of his hands touching the burnt side of his face. “It spread so fast Stolas. Fizz almost died, I was burned and my mom... fuck. I fucking killed her. She died because I had a jealous hissy fit a week before I was planning to leave her.” He laughed hysterically. “I knew I was a shitty son but damn, had to go the whole nine yards with that one, didn’t I?” The imp sobbed, not able to look up at the prince.
Stolas’ cold image had cracked completely as he watched Blitzø fall apart. The owl wanted nothing more than to pull the imp into his arms, but he was afraid that if he did, Blitzø would stop talking.
“I was barely able to function after that. I was already injured, and when I found out Fizz lived, I tried to see him, only for my old man to beat me within an inch of my life. By then, you were set to be married in like two days and I just... couldn’t do it. You didn’t deserve a fuck up like me. Someone who managed to ruin his entire family with one stupid tantrum.” Blitzø pressed his forehead to Stolas’ knee. “I’m sorry, pretty bird. So sorry. I’m a monster.”
Stolas broke. He fell to his knees, pulling Blitzø into his arms. The imp sobbed into his shoulder while Stolas rocked them. “You are no monster, darling. It was an accident.”
“I hurt so many people. I hurt you.”
Stolas hushed him. “Yes, you did,” the prince whispered, “but you didn’t mean to. I see that now.” Decades. Stolas spent decades thinking Blitzø had abandoned him. In reality, the imp had been abandoned too and blamed only himself for it.
“I should have sent a message. Should have done something to get you out. I’m sorry I didn’t,” Blitzø cried.
“You should have,” Stolas agreed. “I don’t blame you for not doing so, however. You had more on your mind at the time than me.”
Blitzø shook his head and pulled back to meet Stolas’ eyes. “I thought about you all the time, Stols. About how I failed you. When your guards caught me, I was so scared. I thought you’d hate me.”
Stolas swallowed. “I did, for a time, but seeing you again... I realized I could never stop loving you.”
Blitzø’s lip wobbled. “Me too,” he whispered. “Don’t... please don’t leave. Not forever.”
Stolas sighed heavily. “I won’t. I don’t think I could if I tried.”
“I don’t want to lose you,” Blitzø choked. “Never again.”
“Then we shall figure out a way to make sure that doesn’t happen,” Stolas told him. His eyes landed on the book now sitting on the floor, and he hummed to himself. “A deal, perhaps.”
Blitzø sniffled, then looked at Stolas, confused. “What?”
“You need my book, as do I. I cannot let you keep it all the time, but perhaps we could trade off. You can use it when you have hits and bring it to me when I must fulfill my duties. We each get what we want, and on top of that, get to see each other.” Stolas stroked Blitzø’s cheek.
Blitzø’s eyes widened at the implication, and he surged forward to kiss Stolas. “I’d like that. A lot.”
Image by Sanga
Stolas chuckled. “Of course, we’ll have to keep quiet about it, at least until my divorce is finalized.”
Blitzø blinked in surprise. “Divorce?”
“Yes. It seems seeing you again helped me grow a backbone.” Stolas grinned. “So, thank you for that.”
“If you need the bitch to have an accident let me know.” Blitzø grinned back. “You never know how slippery those palace steps can be.”
“You are unbelievable.” Stolas shook his head.
“Always have been. You love it,” Blitzø whispered.
Stolas stood, bringing the imp up with him. “I always have.”
Things may not have gone to plan, but in the end, both were able to keep their promises to each other. In the most convoluted way possible, Blitzø still freed Stolas from his marriage, if only by giving him the courage to get a divorce. Stolas would get to spend forever with Blitzø, now helping him run his assassin business through use of his book. For the first time in a long time, the two were happy.