A/N: Just wanted to show you all an art of Danika in her Swimsuit 2024 Playmat design! Art drawn by HelluvaOCCustom from Etsy that I bought from her!

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Years ago...

A full moon night adorned the sky, casting a soft glow over the landscape. Stolas, in his ordinary owl form, soared through the night sky, eventually perching on a branch to gaze at the stars. He smiled nostalgically, feeling a sense of tranquility as he tilted his head, mentally tracing the lines of the stars to imagine connecting them into a butterfly shape.

"Butterfly Cluster." he hooted softly, taking note of the name in his mind.

"A fitting name for this particular star formation!"

With a contented hoot, Stolas soared off the branch, ready to continue his stargazing journey. Unseen by him, danger lurked nearby as he glided beneath the log. Suddenly, he was caught in a snare, the sharp bindings gripping his wing. With a yelp of pain, Stolas fell to the ground and quickly broke free, but not before sustaining an injury that immobilized his wing.

Stolas hastily got up, wincing slightly from the pain in his injured wing, his heart racing with a mix of fear and concern. Just as he considered transforming into his demon form to escape, he heard a distant growl that sent a shiver down his spine. Stolas froze in place, ears pricked up and alert as he cautiously glanced around, searching for the source of the noise.

The growl grew closer, echoing through the still night air, and Stolas quickly realized he had no time to waste. With a surge of adrenaline, he sprinted away from the danger, his injured wing slowing him down slightly. He ducked and weaved through the surrounding terrain, slipping through narrow gaps as he tried to put as much distance as possible between himself and the predatory coyote on his tail.

Gasping for breath and feeling the exhaustion setting in, Stolas desperately scanned his surroundings for any sort of cover or shelter. Just as he began to despair, his eyes spotted the camp up ahead, a glimmer of hope in the darkness.

He hastily altered his course, making a beeline for the campground, hoping to find refuge from the pursuing coyote. He pushed himself harder, straining against the pain in his wing as he drew closer to the tents and cabins that dotted the area.

Finally, Stolas found a nearby bag that offered a temporary hiding place. He quickly took advantage of the opportunity, swiftly crawling into the bag and concealing himself inside just as the coyote emerged into view. The coyote sniffed the air, searching for its prey with keen senses.

Stolas held his breath, his heartbeat pounding in his ears as he remained hidden within the bag. He watched anxiously as the coyote sniffed around the area, its gaze fixed on the spot where he had been just moments before. It stalked closer to the bag, its snout nearing Stolas' hiding place.

Stolas silently prayed for the coyote to divert its attention elsewhere. He held perfectly still, desperately hoping that the bag would conceal him from the predator's keen senses. The coyote's nose twitched as it sniffed the air, its eyes gleaming in the darkness as it circled the bag cautiously.

Just as the coyote began to approach the bag, its snout mere inches away from the canvas fabric, a sudden sound pierced the tense atmosphere. Stolas flinched, his heart skipping a beat, as footsteps entered the scene. The coyote snapped its head around, attention shifting away from the bag and redirecting towards the new arrival.

The canine's ears perked up, alert to the unexpected intrusion. It let out a low growl, baring its sharp teeth, before swiftly turning away from the bag and scampering off into the night, its pursuit of Stolas momentarily abandoned.

Stolas let out a silent sigh of relief as the coyote retreated, the danger momentarily subdued. He allowed himself a moment to catch his breath, feeling the tension gradually ease from his tense muscles. However, he remained cautious, still hidden within the bag and unsure of the new presence that had interrupted the encounter.

He listened carefully to the muffled sounds of the newcomer's approach, trying to glean any information he could about the unexpected visitor. Anticipation and apprehension mingled within him as he huddled inside the bag, awaiting whatever might come next.

The footsteps grew louder as the individual drew nearer, the crunching of leaves and snapping of twigs echoing in the night. Stolas strained his ears to hear any indication of their intentions or identity, anxiously waiting to see if the new arrival posed a potential threat.

He tensed slightly, ready to react if necessary, silently hoping that the person meant no harm. The footsteps stopped just outside the bag, and a soft rustling sound indicated that someone was bending down nearby.

The eerie silence that followed was almost deafening. Stolas felt a mix of curiosity and apprehension as he heard the person's presence just outside the bag. He prepared himself for whatever was about to happen, mentally bracing for any possible scenario.

The sound of hushed murmurs and gentle movement reached Stolas from outside the bag. It seemed like the person was handling something, but Stolas couldn't tell what it was. He remained hidden, his eyes fixed on the canvas that separated him from the stranger.

He strained his senses, trying to gather any clues he could about the person's intentions. He cautiously hoped that they were oblivious to his presence, not wanting to expose himself unless absolutely necessary.

Stolas tensed as he felt the bag being picked up, the sudden movement sending a jolt of alarm through him. He shifted within his hiding place, careful not to make any noise that might give away his presence as the person carried the bag towards a tent nearby.

He furrowed his eyebrows, a mix of concern and curiosity filling him. Stolas wondered what the person planned to do with the bag and why they had brought it into the tent. He remained silent, listening intently to try to decipher any sounds or clues that might help him understand their motives.

He mentally prepared himself for whatever might happen next, acutely aware of the vulnerability of his situation. Stolas quietly shifted his position within the bag, making sure he was in a comfortable yet inconspicuous spot to avoid detection.

Stolas' heart skipped a beat as the bag was unzipped, momentarily blinded by the sudden influx of light. He blinked quickly, his eyes adjusting to the brightness, only to find himself face-to-face with a human girl, her gasp of surprise echoing in the confines of the tent.

His eyes widened in surprise and a mix of astonishment and confusion washed over him. Stolas had not expected to come face-to-face with a human girl, young Danika particularly in his current predicament. He looked up at her, trying to gauge her intentions and figure out what her reaction meant.

"Hello, little guy.. You lost?" she greeted.

Stolas blinked at the sound of the girl's gentle voice, his initial surprise mingling with curiosity. He tilted his head a little, considering her question with a mix of wariness and confusion.

"Don't be afraid. I won't hurt you." she assured him, moving the bag to give him space to show she meant no harm and hold out her hand.

Stolas observed the girl's movements, taking in her gentle tone and the reassuring smile on her face. He could sense the genuine concern in her words, and the offering hand presented a gesture of kindness.

He remained still for a moment, his eyes studying the girl's expression thoughtfully. Slowly, he relaxed a fraction, the tension in his feathers easing slightly at the absence of any threatening intent.

Stolas glanced at the extended hand, weighing the decision in his mind. It was clear that the girl meant him no harm, and the sincerity in her gestures was difficult to ignore.

.After a moment of contemplation, he made a cautious move, taking a step closer to the edge of the bag. His eyes remained fixed on the girl, gauging her reaction as he tentatively extended his head toward her offered hand.

Young Danika smiled and gently stroked his head, happy that he trusted her. He felt the gentle touch of the girl's hand against his head, a soft smile tugging at the corners of his beak as he accepted the gesture of kindness. Stolas observed her fondly, feeling a small sense of warmth at the care being shown towards him.

She was about to introduce herself when she frowned to see his wing injured.

"Oh, you poor thing."

Stolas blinked as the girl's expression changed from gentle to one of concern. He followed her gaze to his injured wing, a small wince escaping him as he reminded himself of the recent skirmish with the coyote.

"Let me take a look."

Stolas straightened slightly at the girl's offer, a mix of curiosity and appreciation in his eyes. He stretched out the injured wing cautiously, allowing her to examine it, trusting her good intentions.

The girl examined his injured wing with a mixture of sympathy and determination. She took in the sight of the bloodied feathers and winced softly, clearly saddened by his discomfort. Reaching into her backpack, she retrieved a first aid kit, ready to tend to his wound with care.

He watched her retrieve the first aid kit, feeling a pang of gratitude for her willingness to help. Stolas appreciated her attentive and compassionate demeanor, reassured by her intention to attend to his injury.

The girl gently began to tend to his injured wing, handling it with care and expertise. She applied the necessary materials from the first aid kit, treating the wound with gentle yet assured movements, careful not to cause him further discomfort or pain.

Once the wound was cleaned and treated, the girl skillfully wrapped the bandage around his injured wing. She made sure it was snug enough to support the injury but not too tight, demonstrating her knowledge of how to care for such wounds.

"There. All better."

Stolas watched appreciatively as the girl finished wrapping the bandage around his wing, grateful for her assistance. He flexed the wing slightly, testing the movement and feeling the support of the bandage. A gentle smile tugged at his beak as he looked up at her.

"You're welcome, little one. I'm Danika. Danika Nightingale. Nice to meet you." she introduced herself.

Stolas nodded in acknowledgment, appreciating her willingness to share her name with him. In his current state, he chose not to reveal his ability to speak, knowing it might startle her.

"You hungry? I got some food." she said, gesturing outside where they can hear a crackle of a campfire.

Stolas tilted his head curiously at the mention of food, his interest piqued. He glanced toward the outside of the tent, picking up the crackle of a campfire and the subtle scent of cooking wafting through the air.

His stomach grumbled softly, reminded of the hunger gnawing at him. Food sounded like a welcome prospect after the recent events. He looked back at young Danika, a glimmer of gratitude in his eyes, silently expressing his appreciation for her thoughtfulness.

She smiled and held out her hand for Stolas to get on. Stolas observed the offered hand, feeling a mix of trust and curiosity. He understood the gesture, recognizing it as an invitation to come along with her. He glanced back at her reassuring smile before making a small leap onto her hand, settling comfortably on her palm

Stolas followed closely as young Danika carried him outside the tent, his keen owl senses taking in the various scents and sounds of the campsite. The enticing aroma of the food being cooked at the campfire filled the air, awakening his hunger. As they approached the campfire, his eyes widened at the sight of the weed rats on skewers, resembling miniature rotisserie chicken.

He watched with fascination as the rats sizzled over the open fire, his beak slightly agape in admiration of the cooking process. The smell was irresistible, making his mouth water in anticipation. He glanced up at her, silently conveying his appreciation for the offering of food.

Young Danika then removed the skewered rats from the campfire and placed them by a big green leaf like a plate on a rock and let it cool down. Stolas observed his surroundings while they waited for the rat-skewers to cool. He noticed the single tent and the few belongings scattered around the campsite, hinting at young Danika's solitude in the forest. The absence of other people or adults raised questions in his mind about her situation, prompting a concern for her well-being and whether she had any familial support.

He glanced up at young Danika, his gaze holding a subtle hint of concern as he processed the information. He wondered if she was in any danger being out there alone, or if there was a particular reason for her solitary camping trip.

Stolas couldn't help but feel slightly protective towards her, even though he had just met her. He remained silent, his thoughts swirling with curiosity and worry as he continued to observe her and the campsite.

Young Danika looked down to notice a look of concern from Stolas and stroked his fluffy chest.

"Don't you worry. Your food will be ready. It takes time to cool off, and you don't want to eat when it's hot." she assured him, not realizing he was concerned for her well-being.

Stolas blinked at the gentle stroking on his fluffy chest, his focus shifting away from his thoughts for a moment. He offered a soft hoot in acknowledgment of her words, appreciating the care she took in ensuring the food was safe to eat.

He allowed himself to be comforted by her soothing gesture, momentarily setting aside his concerns. He understood the importance of waiting for the food to cool before consuming it, and he trusted her judgement in that regard.

Once the food is cooled down, Stolas found himself gently placed down in front of the cooked rats, the aroma of the food even more enticing up close. He watched as young Danika took half of the portion for herself, leaving the other half for him. With gratitude in his eyes, he gently picked up a rat skewer in his talons and began to delicately nibble on it, savoring the taste.

He chewed thoughtfully on the rat, appreciating the flavors and textures of the cooked meat. The flavor awakened his hunger even further, and he ate with relish, feeling a sense of satisfaction with the nourishing meal.

As he ate, Stolas glanced up at young Danika from time to time, thankful for her kindness and hospitality. He offered a soft hoot of appreciation, expressing his gratitude through his avian way of communication. She looked down and smiled to see a thankful look on the owl's face.

"You're welcome." she said before continuing eating.

Stolas looked up at her with a grateful expression as she smiled down at him. He couldn't say thank you in words, but his eyes spoke volumes. He nodded gently, acknowledging her kindness, and then turned back to his meal, continuing to devour the rat skewer with relish.

After dinner, Stolas followed young Danika back into the tent, appreciating the comfort and security it provided. She closed the tent once they were inside, enveloping them in a cozy and peaceful atmosphere. Stolas settled down next to her, feeling content and drowsy after the satisfying meal. He watched her fall asleep before closing his own eyes, ready to rest and rejuvenate for the night.

As the days turned into weeks after young Danika took care of Stolas, Stolas became an invaluable companion to her in the wilderness. He used his keen senses and hunting instincts to help her locate food and even taught her some hunting techniques, all while communicating through his distinctive hoot hoot sounds.

He was a perceptive helper, attuned to her needs and always ready to lend a helping hand. With every passing day, their bond deepened as they supported each other in their shared existence in the rugged wilderness.

Young Danika's peaceful existence in the woods was abruptly interrupted when her parents arrived unexpectedly, announcing their financial struggles and their needs for her assistance. Despite her reluctance to leave, she packed her belongings, feeling a pang of sadness at having to bid farewell to Stolas.

She turned to Stolas, offering him a gentle smile despite the disappointment in her heart. She explained that she had to return with her parents, and he listened attentively. After expressing her gratitude for his companionship and healing his wing, young Danika bid him a heartfelt goodbye, unaware of his secret decision to follow her.

Stolas had made up his mind to follow her, driven by a mixture of affection and concern. He watched as young Danika left with her parents, his gaze lingering on her retreating figure. Once the car started moving away from the campsite, Stolas wasted no time in taking off into the sky. He spread his wings gracefully, flapping them with a steady beat to gain altitude and pursuit.

He tailed the car discreetly, keeping a safe distance to avoid being noticed, his sharp eyes keenly focused on the vehicle carrying young Danika away. Stolas glided silently through the air, carefully maintaining his distance from the car. He followed closely, ensuring that he wouldn't lose sight of her and her parents, determination evident in his avian expression.

Stolas witnessed the unfamiliar urban landscape and eventually arrived at her home. He perched on a nearby tree branch, observing the interaction between her and her parents. He listened to their request for her help and sensed her reluctance but compliance, understanding the dynamics at play.

Stolas perched quietly on his branch, still observing from a distance. He noticed the frustration and discontentment in young Danika's expression as her parents made their demands, his avian sense heightened in understanding her emotions.

He maintained his covert watchfulness from his perch, attuned to her feelings and the complexities of her family situation. Stolas' gaze remained fixed on the house, silently supporting young Danika from afar.

From his vantage point, Stolas continued to observe her house and the interactions between her parents and young Danika. He couldn't intervene directly, but his presence in the background was a silent beacon of support in the midst of her challenging circumstances.

Stolas watched as her daily routine unfolded - going to school, working, coming home, and surrendering the earnings to her parents while growing up into an adult. He couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness and frustration on her behalf. Despite her outward smile, he sensed the emptiness within, longing for some acknowledgment and affection from her parents. Stolas felt a simmering protectiveness and anger towards her parents for treating her unjustly.

Determination sparked in Stolas's eyes as he made a firm resolution - he would adopt Danika and find a way to take her to Hell, where he could provide a home. He knew it wouldn't be an easy task, especially convincing her parents, but he was willing to do whatever it takes to give her a better life

Stolas observed as now adult Danika headed off to school, his protective instincts stirring within. He then transported to her home, finding her parents oblivious to her absence, engrossed in their leisure.

With a mix of irritation and cunning, he secretly sketched a symbol on the ground, remaining unnoticed by her parents. He watched as the room flickered and the TV glitched, capturing their attention. Seizing the opportunity, Stolas transformed into his demonic form before them, his demeanour calm and composed.

"Greetings, dear mortals." he replied in a courteous and composed tone, his sharp eyes fixed on Danika's parents with a mix of authority and graciousness.

Her parents freaked out at the sight of the demon.

"W-Who are you?" they stuttered.

"I am Stolas, a powerful demon from the depths of Hell." Stolas calmly introduced himself, his words carrying an air of self-assuredness and authority.

He met Danika's parents' frightened gaze with a steady gaze of his own.

"I have come in response to your invocation, summoned by the symbol you've drawn on the ground." Stolas added, gesturing subtly towards the unseen symbol he had drawn earlier, further solidifying his presence in their home.

He maintained an air of composure and control, understanding the fear and confusion his appearance might evoke in your parents, He spoke with a steady and confident voice.

"Fear not, for I am not here to cause harm or distress. I am simply here to assist you, as summoned." he reassured them, hoping to ease their apprehensions and establish a sense of trust, despite the unexpected nature of their encounter.

"Assist? Like anything we can assisst?" Danika's dad asked.

Stolas nodded gracefully, his tone courteous and respectful.

"Indeed, I am here to offer my assistance in any manner you may require. What is it that you seek my aid with?"

He smiled politely, his demeanor exuding an air of readiness to help. Stolas emphasized his willingness to assist them in any way they needed, his focus entirely on their request.

"Please, don't hesitate to share your concerns or needs. I am here to listen and provide aid if it aligns within my capabilities." he encouraged them, his tone open and inviting, expressing his readiness to lend a hand.

Danika's parents look at each other for a moment before smiling.

"Can you offer us money? Like a lot money!" they said in unison.

Stolas arched an eyebrow, a hint of surprise crossing his features at their straightforward request. He maintained his polite demeanor as he responded, his tone measured and collected.

"Ah, financial assistance, I see. While I can certainly consider your request, I must understand the nature and purpose behind your need for substantial funds."

"But what is it can you offer if you want money?" he continued.

Danika's parents then grinned a little bit evilly.

"We can give you our daughter for an exchange of money."

Stolas raised an eyebrow at their proposal, his expression a mix of surprise and displeasure. He maintained his composure but his tone grew firmer.

"I beg your pardon? You wish to offer your daughter in exchange for financial rewards? Such a proposal raises serious concerns."

He laced his fingers together, his gaze remaining steady on your parents. Stolas firmly expressed his disapproval of the proposal, emphasizing the gravity of their words.

"Oh, I'm sure our daughter wouldn't mind. We just needed the money. We're tired of waiting for her to finish her job, and we just want it now. We don't need her." Danika's mother waved off.

Stolas' frown deepened at their dismissive attitude towards Danika. His tone held a hint of disappointment and frustration.

"I find your nonchalance towards your daughter's well-being quite disconcerting. Your child is not an asset to be sold or traded for financial gain."

"She'll be fine. Give us money, and she's all yours." Danika's dad said without care.

Stolas glared at them that they didn't show any care towards Danika. But this is his perfect opportunity to adopt her and take her in under his wing. This is his way to show his gratitude for the help she had given him. His gaze fixed on them with a mix of contemplation and concern. He wanted to ensure clarity and certainty before proceeding.

"Indeed, I am inclined to consider your proposal. However, I must ask for your unwavering conviction in this decision. Are you absolutely certain about this exchange?"

"Absolutely." Danika's parents said in unison without a second thought.

Stolas nodded somberly, accepting their agreement.

"Very well then. If it's a deal you seek, a deal it shall be."

Stolas extended his hand toward Danika's parents, sealing the agreement with a firm handshake. As their palms connected, and the room grew brighter, a palpable energy coursed through the air, symbolizing the binding nature of their pact.

While Stolas was relieved to have secured Danika's safety and freedom from their clutches, he couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness and disappointment in her parents' actions. It pained him to think of the emotional impact this revelation might have on Danika. He dreaded the moment she would find out about their betrayal, knowing it would surely bring Danika hurt and confusion.

Yet, amidst his sadness, Stolas held onto a glimmer of hope. Perhaps this turn of events could serve as a catalyst for her growth and empowerment. He believed that it might ultimately provide Danika with the freedom to make her own choices and foster a newfound sense of confidence. Stolas nurtured the hope that this separation from Danika's parents could lead to positive transformations in her life.

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Back to present...

The portal in front of the Ars Goetia Mansion was opened by Danika who's transformed back into a human as she waved Bee and Vortex goodbye while holding bags full of leftovers and drinks before she made the portal disappear. She looked up at her home and smiled. Danika then started walking towards the door and was about to open it when she heard someone singing. She looked up to hear it coming from the balcony. Danika placed the bags down in front of the door and walked backwards to see who is singing. She was surprised to see it was Stolas and he appears sad. She could see his mascaras stained from tears as she figured he was crying.

https://youtu.be/SaiUqekVrB4

Owl in a cage
You show your age
Your sweetness has run foul

Without a change you're lost, exhausted
By your time on stage

Then you walked in my room
And like sparks in the dark
Life was suddenly thrilling and new

What between you and I
Just a comfortable lie
I'm the fool who believes when you look in my eyes

Prince, all alone, upon your throne
Your power is so frail
You raise your voice
You have no choice
Inside your gilded jail

After he finishes singing, Danika couldn't help but tear up, feeling sympathy for him. The noise of footsteps; Stella walks up behind him being dramatic on the balcony.

"The fuck are you doing?"

Stolas flinches slightly while Stella yells. Danika winces to hear her voice again and listens quietly while she starts climbing up to the balcony after grabbing the leftover bags from the front.

"Reflecting." Stolas answered without looking back.

"Well, stop. It's annoying to hear you screeching your silly woes all the time." Stella said angrily.

Stolas then turns around to look at her.

"Why are you still here? You leave with Via on weekends, but then you stay around the house despite everything."

"I like tormenting you. I want to keep reminding you of what you did." Stella smirked.

"I know what I did. I would feel bad if I hurt you, but we both know I didn't do that. You and I were arranged for one reason; to birth a precautionary heir to the Goetia family, nothing more. I tried so many years to make it comfortable for us; to have this family, especially adopting Dan, but it was never enough. The only reason I have endured your constant insults and cruelty was for that girl to have a normal life. ...I cannot do this anymore. I want you out. Now." Stolas ordered, having enough of her and pointing to the door.

"What do you mean, out?" Stella glared.

"I mean out! Out of this palace, out of my life! We are getting The Divorce!"

Stella's feathers flared up in anger and disbelief.

"How dare you?!"

She steps forwards as Stolas shrinks backwards looking slightly frightened of her. Danika notices and gets ready to defend her dad.

"What do you think the rest of the Goetia family will think?"

Her hand moves towards Stolas to backhand his face.

"Andrealphus-!"

Stolas catches her hand, stopping it before it can hit his face and cutting her off. This shocks Stella while Danika smiles with proud.

"I don't care what your arrogant brother thinks! And the only thing the Goetia family wanted from our marriage is already 17, so, it's over, I'm DONE!"

Stella stares intensely, then pulls her hand away from him in a silent rage.

"Fine. I have no desire to stay in the place of a traitorous embarrassment. You have fallen from what little grace you had, and I know you'll pay for it."

Stella walks away. Stolas sighs, collapses onto the balcony and looks up at the sky.

"Hey, dad."

He looks down and yelps to see Danika hanging by the bottom of the balcony.

"Danika!"

Stolas carefully grabbed her and placed her down on the balcony.

"Don't scare me like that. You could've fall if I wasn't here." he scolded.

"I just wanted to check up on you. I heard and saw everything. Are you doing alright?" Danika asked with concern.

Stolas was surprised by this and smiled fondly. He gave her a gentle hug.

"Yeah... I'm fine. I'll be alright. Thank you for your concern."

Danika smiled and hugged back before pulling away.

"I brought some leftovers and drinks from the party."

"Is that where you've been? Well, you shouldn't have." Stolas smiled. "Let me put them in the fridge."

With a snap of his fingers, the bags in her hands disappears and all the foods and drinks are now inside the refrigerator while the bags hung by the kitchen table.

"Let's get you to bed." Stolas said, about to lead her to her room.

"Actually, can I sleep with you tonight? You look like you needed some comfort." Danika said, surprising him.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

Stolas hesitate for a moment before smiling again.

"Alright. Just change into your pajamas."

Danika nodded and headed to her room to change her clothes before coming back to see Stolas in his robe. She crawled into the bed next to him and cuddled with Stolas. Stolas gently stroked her head as Danika slowly fell asleep before he turned off the light and soon went to sleep after her, feeling reminded when he first met Danika and slept with her at this very same moment.