Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Eda felt the breeze flowing in her hair, walking along the shore, holding her partner's hand.  The evening was perfect.  Not a cloud in the sky, the ideal temperature for her favorite dress, perfect.  The blood-orange sunset filled the sky with a warm, comforting hue.  There was only one thing that would make this night better. 

Eda gulped, fairies filling her stomach.  All she had to do was ask.  Get down on one knee and ask.  Yet her mind raced.  She and her partner, Raine Whispers, had been together for the few months since Belos' defeat, and they dated when they were younger.  Raine, however, was perfect.  And Eda didn't want to lose that relationship or make it awkward. 

Stopping on a cliffside to watch the sunset, she knew her perfect moment was coming.  Soon. 

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Raine knew they only had one shot at the coming conversation.  

'Just chat for a bit, tell her how much you love her, ask her to close her eyes...

Ask her to be your wife!

Simple, right?'

Sitting on the cliffside, they felt worry forming in their gut.  The last time they had a moment like this, they broke up with Eda.  The memory was still fresh in their head.  

"This place sure is beautiful, huh, Rainestorm?" Eda's voice was smooth as ever, but Raine thought they could hear some anxiety in her tone.  

"Yeah..." They tried to hide their stutter, but it wasn't wholly successful.  

The two of them talked for a bit.  Eda told Raine about Luz and King, while Raine kept Eda up to date on the project they had been working on with Darius, Alador, and a few others.  They figured the famous wild witch would be interested in hearing that they were developing a way to remove sigils permanently and restore magic.  As they thought, it made the owl lady ecstatic.   After years of his terror, they could finally start to undo Belos' tyrannical influence. Together. 

"Eda...could I ask you something?" Raine took a deep breath, ready for their moment. 

"Only if I can ask you something too!" 

"Of course Eda." Raine smiled "Wait... can we ask at the same time?"

Eda laughed.  "Okay! Can...uh...can you close your eyes?"

"Only if you do as well."

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Both of them giggled, closing their eyes.  This was Eda's moment.  It was hard to take her earing out with her eyes closed, but she managed.  She softly knelt on her right knee, trying not to be heard, holding out her earring.  "Okay...open in 3...2...1... Will you marry me, Raine Whispers?" She blurted out before she even opened her eyes.  

As she opened her eyes, she saw Raine also on one knee, holding their earring.  "I...uh... Yes! Eda the Owl Lade, will you marry me?" They stuttered out.  

"Yes! I will!" Eda jumped up, pulling Raine into a kiss.  They exchanged earrings, happy tears running down their faces.  

"I'm almost sad I didn't get to ask you first." Raine's face was red with blush.  "I've been panicking for two weeks about how to ask you."

"So have I, Rainestorm." The two witches embraced, watching the sunset together.  This was a new chapter the two of them would take on. They didn't know what it would bring.  But they would face it together. 

Chapter Text

Amity exhaled, stepping into the strange cave the trails she'd been following led to.  She'd gotten a letter from someone, instructing her to follow clue after clue.  She, out of pure curiosity, obliged.  "Luz? Hello?" She called into the darkness, glancing back at the letter in her hand.  The little doodles suggested it was from Luz, but she couldn't be completely sure.  There weren't enough spelling mistakes.  

Walking through the cave, she saw strange pictures painted on the walls.  She cast a light spell, trying to see them a bit better.  She smiled when she finally saw them.  The drawings were primitive drawings of adventures she'd gone on with Luz.  There was one of Grom, one of them with who she assumed to be Camila, one of them striking Belos down, and finally one of them reentering Hexside with Hunter, Gus, and Willow.  It was heartwarming, seeing a little memorium of all their adventures.  

The path continued to wrap around bend after bend, eventually leading to a lake of some kind.  "Luz?  Are you here?" 

"Amity Blight." A booming voice rippled the water of the lake.  The water began to swirl, similar to a whirlpool.  It started changing colors, some type of light reflecting through the crystal clear water.  "Kneel."

She obliged.  Whatever creature was speaking to her may have tricked her.  Amity was at their mercy.  The water erupted into a grand gieser, piercing into the ceiling of the cave.  From within, she was a purple light emerging from the water. 

"Sweet potato..." Amity instantly recognized the voice.  It was Luz.  

"Luz?" Amity asked.  The light dissolved, revealing none other than Luz Noceda herself.

"Will you be my weirdo, Amity Blight?" All seriousness was gone.  It was just Luz being Luz.  "Will you go to Grom with me?"  Luz ran over to her girlfriend, revealing a custom t-shirt asking the same question. 

"Of course, I will you silly goose!" Amity was a blushing mess, but her response was crystal clear.  "Honestly, I'm surprised it wasn't just implied.  We've been together for almost a year! And this was so elaborate too!" 

"Thank you! It was mostly Vee's idea! But Em and Ed helped a ton too!"

"I'm just so...uh...wow..."  Amity stuttered out.  "Of course, I'll go to Grom with you, Luz!"

"Yes! Mom said she'd take us dress shopping together if you want!"

"I'd love that.  Thank you fro being the best girlfriend ever, Luz!" She ran over and hugged her girlfriend. 

"You too sweet potato..."

Chapter Text

"Hunter come on! It'll be fun!" Luz jumped up and down excitedly.  She was holding three colors of food dye in her hand. 

"What are we doing, Luz?"  Hunter asked, looking at the various things strewn across the countertops. 

"I'm gonna teach you how to bake a cake!"  She gestured to the area.  Flour, sugar, eggs, oil, baking powder, salt, butter, milk, and vanilla were all in a line next to some measuring cups, a few large bowls, and a spoon.

"What are the little teardrop thingies for?" He asked, referring to the food coloring.  He'd never seen such things used when he rarely got to look in the kitchen in the castle.  

"Oh! Since this is your first time baking, and it's your first pride month, I figured we'd make a bisexual flag! It'll make it more fun!" Hunter smiled at the idea.  Belos had never taught him that people who weren't straight existed, and his first experience with someone who wasn't cisgender was with Raine.  Once Luz taught him what bisexuality was, it felt so right to him.  

"Good idea!"  He gave Luz a high five, causing her to almost drop the food dye.  

"Let's get started then!"  She already had the ingredients laid out, so she started using the measuring equipment to get the right quantity of ingredients and put them in one of the bowls.  

"So... what do I do?" Hunter asked, watching Luz work with amazement.  

"You can start mixing! Just be careful not to splatter too much.  Use the spoon next to the bowl."

"Will do, Luz!" He saluted, starting to mix the powders and liquids carefully.  Luz noticed a smile creep across his face as he worked. 

'He looks like he's really enjoying it'  

"All the lumps out, Hunter?" She asked, looking at the batter.  For his first time, it was incredibly smooth.  Much better than her first attempt. 

"Yes ma'am! This concoction is very smooth!" 

"Good job! I've got just one more thing to add before we can put this baby in the oven!" She stood over the batter, adding a few drops of pink food dye.  Hunter watched in amazement as she swirled the liquid around, turning the batter a deep pink.  

"Woah... How does that work?"  His eyes were wide with intrigue. 

"It's just dye.  All it does is change the color! Makes baking more colorful and fun!" She poured the newly colored batter into a cake pan and put it in the oven to bake. Dusting her hands off, she put the pink dye away, taking out the purple bottle. "That's one layer done! Two more to go! And frosting of course! You having fun, Hunter?"

"Yeah! It's actually a lot like potions at Hexside!" She could tell he was really enjoying it, making her smile.

"Yeah, it is! Come on! Let's get baking!" 

The two teenagers continued to prepare the cake layers.  Once they were out of the oven, they began making frosting while the cake cooled.  They decided to try making a strawberry frosting to go with their vanilla cakes.   When it was cooled, Luz showed Hunter how to use a piping bag.  He proved to be a talented piper, only getting a little bit of the frosting on the cake stand.  "This looks really good! We did an awesome job, ay Hunter?" Luz lightly elbowed Hunter in the ribs.  He was beaming at the cake, watching it sit tall on its stand.  

"Yeah! You're right! I'm actually really excited to admire it!" 

"Admire it? We're gonna eat it, silly!" 

"Ohhhh.  Belos never let me actually eat any of the cakes he had prepared.  Told me it would make me weak."

"Well, we'll make sure you get the first piece this time!" She smiled at her brother.  "We worked way too hard to let this just be admired." She stepped back, looking at the beautiful cake she and Hunter had spent the afternoon making.  "Mom! Eda! Guys! We made cake!"

Chapter Text

The banquet hall was filled to the brim with people.  The coven heads were hosting a fancy part to celebrate Belos' defeat, along with the return to almost normality in the isles.  Alador Blight was having a conversation with another former Abomination coven member.  "So, what's your plan for Blight Industries now that you and Odalia are divorced?"

"I'm not quite sure yet.  But we will for sure be undergoing a major rebranding.  I'd like to get everything Odalia forced me to have out before we continue production of our abomatons."

"Why did you get divorced?"  Another witch asked.  She was a former member of the Emperor's Coven named Severine.  She also quit her duties with the Emperor after mistreatment. 

"Our parents arranged our marriage.  And Odalia is a horrible person who doesn't deserve me or my kids."  His therapist always told him to put himself first; with Odalia gone, he could finally start doing that.  "She was a horrible wife and an even worse mother.  I'm working hard to rebuild myself, my life, and my relationship with my kids.  And it's much easier with that hag out."  He was finished being the absent father his children lived with for sixteen years. 

"Ah. I hope everything goes well for you!" Severine smiled, happy for Alador. 

The group around him dissolved, leaving Alador alone once more.  He sighed in relief, staring out at the mass of people towards the center of the hall. He had never been a huge fan of people, but he knew it would be important for him to come to the party.  He knew the other witches but never considered himself 'close' to them.  He was always wary to call someone his friend, not knowing if they would overreact or outright tell him they weren't.  He only had been 'friends' with a few people in school.  Edalyn, Lilith, Raine and... Darius...  He had been more than friends with Darius.  However, after Odalia was arranged to be his wife, he had to break up with him on poor terms. 

He missed Darius, he really did.  But nothing would make up for the unpleasant way their relationship ended.  Zoned out, Alador neglected to notice the Abomination Coven Head approaching him. 

"Alador." The curt, cold voice snapped Alador out of his head.  He jumped a bit. 

"Ah. Hello, Darius." He responded, trying to remain calm.  

"Just figured I'd check in with you after all these years.  I'm uh..." Darius rubbed the back of his neck.  "I'm sorry for ghosting you for so long.  I shouldn't have held a grudge for as long as I did.  Also, Hunter is friends with all three of your kids, so I figured we should at least be on speaking terms." 

"I agree in that regard." Alador felt his heart rate increase a bit.  He was trying his hardest to suppress a blush, just barely succeeding.  It was strange hearing Darius apologize.  He always had one of the biggest egos that he knew.  Of course not as big as Odalia's and his just as big heart made up for it, but it was still there.  "How's Hunter adjusting?"

"He goes between Camila Noceda and I.  That way he can meet with his therapist every week." His demeanor was softening.  "He seems to getting better slowly.  We still have a long way to go, but it's progress.  We've gotten past the point of fear I'd hurt him.  I've also started going to therapy.  I started just to help him through it, but it's helping a lot."

"That's wonderful.  Whenever Belos invited Odalia and I over to the castle, he never looked alright."

"How have you been holding up, Blight?" Darius asked, curious how his ex was coping with the events of the past few months.  

Alador looked down, trying to determine the best words to use.  "Well, the house is a lot quieter without Odalia's constant yelling.  There's less money coming in, obviously, but we don't have anything to worry about.  Odalia was always the biggest spender.  The hair dye she bought for her and the kids alone was five-hundred snails a month."  Darius looked shocked, but intrigued, confirming to Alador that it was okay to continue. "Ed's finally old enough to fully transition, so we're starting him on that in a few weeks."

"Oh? That's great for him." Darius smiled. 

"Yes, everything will be a lot more permanent now.  He's excited. "

"I'm happy for him."

"And with Odalia and I's divorce finalized, I get my life back."  Alador was beaming. 

Darius noticed how happy he looked.  He felt a soft blush form over his cheeks.  He missed seeing Alador like this.  He just missed the authentic him.  The one without anyone controlling him.  "Well, I'm happy the old Alador is back."  Alador's face turned bright red.  "I'll see you around, Alador"

"Y-Yeah! See you around Darius!"

Chapter Text

It'd been a month since Emira's mother, Odalia, divorced her father and moved out of Blight Manor.  She never missed the woman, but it made Em realize how much of her childhood she missed trying to placate her mother.  She, Edric, and Amity were finally free.  Alador, her father, still had a lot to make up for, but he was trying.  He was making a start.  She looked around the campus of Hexside.  It had changed a lot since she last attended classes, but it still had the same feel despite the damage.  Principal Bump, Luz, and the gang were making a lot of progress on restoring the school so classes could resume. 

"Em! Over here!" Viney's cheerful voice lit up Emira's heart.  The two witches became best friends when she started the healing track.  They worked together to heal people and keep the peace during The Collector's Reign over the Boiling Isles, when many people were sheltering inside of Hexside.  Em rushed over to Viney, who was sitting on the bleachers of the old grudgeby field.  It was still recognizable, but it was badly overgrown and messy.  "Nice to see you again, girl!"

"Yeah! I missed ya!" She hugged Viney, who blushed for a brief second. 

"How's everything going with Ed and Amity?"

"Good.  Mom moved out a few weeks ago, thank Titan. " Em laughed.  She blushed as well, noticing Viney's slightly pinker face.  As much as she was scared to admit it, Emira found the other witch cute.  And not in the little brother or sister way.  

"That's good.  No offense, but I always hated Odalia."

"Oh, absolutely none taken.  She's a hag.  How've things been with you?" Em got a bit more serious.  "Did you hear anything about your brother?  The one at Epiderm?"  She remembered Viney's panic seeing the puppets in Bonesborough.  

"Oh uh..." Viney's expression shifted.  It was clear she was trying to stay strong, but was struggling to hold back tears.  "They found him... The students of Epiderm were all branded by Graye...He..." she sniffed.  "He didn't survive the draining spell..." She wiped her eyes on her sleeve.  "Me and my parents are coping alright though.  Just made me want to help even more with the rescue.  Maybe try and save someone else..."

"I'm so sorry, Viney" She hugged her again. 

"It's alright.  I was still able to help people.  Saved a few kids from trapped buildings with the help of Puddles.  I wanna make sure no other families meet the same fate.  But anyways, we're starting Flyer Derby up again soon! Or at least a boot camp for it.  Our skills are really gonna come in handy with rebuilding! Fly fast or be last, y'know!" Emira smiled, seeing Viney light up a bit more.  She hadn't realized it before, but she looked so tired.  Which made sense after everything she'd gone through.  "I would uh... It would really mean a lot to me to have you there." Viney's face turned pink again. "You don't have to play unless you want to, but I'd really like to spend more time with you. " She dried her tears, stroking Puddles' coat.  

Emira took a moment to look around the area.  When she turned back to Viney, she noticed the other witch holding a red, butterfly-shaped card. 

"I guess what I'm trying to ask is... Emira... would you, uh... like to go out with me?  Once everything is cleaned up better of course... I care about you a lot and you're one of the reasons I've been able to stay as strong as I have.  You make me want to fight on and recover with our home... I'd love it if you'd be my girlfriend..."  

Emira found herself blushing like Amity.  Her face was a tomato.  "Viney... I'd... I'd love to.  I really like you too.  It's been awful not being able to see you as often."

"Really?" Em nodded. "Thank you thank you thank you!" She practically tackled her to the ground.  "Thank you... Though we're both healers... You're definitely healing me... Thank you."

Chapter Text

"How does this magic foldy thingie work exactly?" Amity asked, looking at the laptop on Luz's desk in amazement.  

"It's a laptop.  It's really similar to a scroll but bigger.  And you have to use a keyboard to type out your messages.  Hunter's a lot better using this format since it's something he can feel." Luz pulled her girlfriend closer to the keyboard so she could see it's unique properties.  

"Oh."

"Don't worry, I can take care of actually making the slideshow.  I just wanted my batata here to bounce ideas off of."

"Oh, gotcha" Amity sighed with relief.  She was grateful she wouldn't have to pretend to understand human technology. 

"So I was thinking... 'Hi! I'm Bi!' for the slogan!"

"Oooooh! That's good! Maybe on the next page explain what bisexual means?  I know some parents on the Isles didn't know what it meant so it might be the same here."  Amity stared out into space, thinking. 

"Smart!  I think I'll say something along the lines of 'Bisexual means being attracted to more than one gender.  This, for me, means I would date guys or girls.  I'm not yet sure about non-binary people, but I'm open to the idea!' How does that sound?"

"I like it! Sounds pretty informative."  Amity smiled before a realization.  "Oh!  One more thing! 'This does not necessarily mean I would date both at the same time, just that over the course of my life, I may date either.'  When Emira came out as bi, she got asked that question a lot, especially by my mom. "

"Good call!" Luz continued typing, she and Amity worked together to sufficiently bedazzled the slideshow as they worked. "Hmm, maybe I'll ask Gus and Vee to take a look at this.  Y'know for the showmanship aspect." 

Amity giggled.  "Great idea.  Gus is crazy over the top and Vee seems to have gotten really good at... what do you call it again?"

"Microsoft?"

"Yeah! That!" Amity blushed.  It had taken her a while to figure out the names of Luz's human gadgets, but she would be willing to learn anything for Luz.  Her batata. 

The two worked for a few more hours, polishing the project, rehearsing a script, and quizzing Luz.  Taking a step back from the desk, Luz kissed her girlfriend, pulling her close as the two of them admired their hard work. 

"Well, are you ready?"

"As ready as I'll ever be." Luz smiled, picking up the laptop and heading towards the door. "Let's do this.  Time for my mom to meet you as my girlfriend, Blight!" 

Amity blushed, holding Luz's hand.  "I'm kinda nervous..."

"Don't be! Mama already loves you!" Luz dragged her out of her bedroom and into the hallway.  "Mama! Can we talk to you?"

Chapter Text

"Vee hurry up!" Luz called out, wanting to get her sister in on the next round of smash bros.   Masha was sitting at the dining room table, enjoying a cup of tea and talking with Raine.  Ever since the two of them met, they were instantly able to connect.  Both of them grew up with parents who were trying their best but had to learn a lot when they came out as non-binary, even making things worse on a few occasions. 

"Mx. Whispers?" Masha asked, once they were sure Vee was out of earshot.  

"Yes?" The older witch replied. "And no need for formalities, you can call me Raine." They moved a strand of their mint-green hair out of their eyes.  

"How...uh..." Masha tensed up, stuttering over their words.  They didn't quite know how to frame their question without pushing too much into Raine's personal life.  "How did you tell Miss Eda you liked her?"

Raine smiled, reminiscing over fond memories.  They picked up from Masha's question that they wanted to ask someone out.  They were an open book, easily read.  "Well, it all depends on the person."  They cut right through Masha's mask, leading the human to blush.  "But I told Eda during lunch one day at school.  I wanted it to be a bit more public, and Lilith was sick with the common mold so I had my chance."  They smiled warmly.  

"So it all depends on your comfort and what you think the other person would find comfortable?" Masha asked, typing something into their phone.  

"Pretty much."

"Thanks for the advice, Raine." 

"Of course, kiddo."  

Masha took another sip of their tea, placing their phone on the table.  "How'd you guess?" Their face blushed red.  

Raine smiled empathetically.  "You remind me a lot of myself when I was your age.  And I know how hard things like this can be.  But I've seen the way she looks at you. It's only a matter of time in my eyes."  They gestured to the living room where Vee and her friends were.  "Just be yourself.  Even if she doesn't feel the same way, she isn't going to bite your head off for telling her how you feel."   

Masha's face turned bright pink.  Thinking about it, Raine was right.  Vee wasn't the type of person to break up a friendship over a confession.  "Thank you.  It makes a lot of sense." 

"Any time.  And if you're worried about the parents, Camila sees you as one of her children." Raine smirked, winking.  

"Really?"  Masha was a bit shocked.  They were with Vee pretty often since she told them the truth, but they didn't expect Camila to notice.

"Yep.  She talks about you almost as much as Vee when she comes to visit the Boiling Isles."  

Masha smiled.  They liked to see Camila as a second mother when theirs was away for work.  "At some point... do you think I'd be able to come see the Boiling Isles?  For real?  I've heard so much about it but I've never been.  Only seen pictures from Luz's phone." 

Raine smiled warmly.  "Of course, I'm sure if I talk to Luz she'd be ecstatic to show you around.  And I'd love to give you a tour sometime.  

"I'd love that.  Thanks, Raine.  I feel a lot better now."

"Of course.  I'm happy to help!"

Chapter Text

"You really up for this, Vee?" Luz asked, holding her sister's hand.  The two girls faced the house, the portal door calling to them.  

"Yeah! I'm ready." Vee sounded unsure but determined. "I want to show Masha this place.  I told them I'd show them around.  And I know I can't run away forever."

"I'm proud of you, Vee.  I know how hard it must be for you." Vee tensed up, second-guessing herself. 

"I've got this.  Let's go." She took a step forward and opened the portal.  "Eda and Raine promised to help me set something up for Masha.  They're coming to the cabin after work."  

"Oooh nice! I can help too!" Luz smiled, entering the portal with her sister. 

"I also uh... finally wanna tell Masha how I feel.  Raine said they'd help me rehearse what I want to say." Luz was happy.  Vee was a complete mess around her crush, almost as bad as Amity had been when they first met.  She was happy her sister was finally confident enough to speak her mind.  

Emerging in the Boiling Isles, Vee felt the warm breeze from the Boiling Sea.  It was nice.  A bit nerve-wracking after months of the cool breezes of Connecticut, but she liked it.  

"Come on! I'll take us to the Owl House!"  Luz pulled her sister onto Stringbean, who had transformed into a staff.  She got on, admiring the changed landscape.  

"This place sure has changed a lot since I was last here."  Vee continued to stare out at the horizon, watching as they swerved through trees and hills.  Eventually, they landed outside of the Owl House.  

When they arrived, Raine and Eda were there waiting for them.  "Eda!" Luz exclaimed, running over to hug her "other mom".  Raine stood behind and waved at Vee.  She waved back, smiling.  

"Come on in, kiddos!" Eda gestured the two kids inside.  Once inside the living room, Vee noticed the various party supplies that the two witches had sitting on their counters.  

"So, Vee, we spent some time looking for some party supplies since you wanted to surprise Masha.  From the conversations I've had with them, Eda and I picked out a few things I think they might like."  Raine followed behind, a warm smile etched on their face. 

Vee picked through some of the bags.  There were streamers in different purples and silvers, a garland made from Hexus Holdem cards, and some classic "witchy" decor.  She didn't like using that term, but it was the only one she could think of to describe it.  "Thanks, guys! I think they'll really like this!"

"Are we ready to get started then?" 

"I think so!" 

They began putting up the decorations, making a welcome banner, designed by Luz of course, and hanging it up over the entryway.  Once they finished, the group stepped back to admire their handiwork.  It was dramatic, the change from decorated to left alone clear as day.  "This is perfect!" Vee jumped up and down with excitement.  The others wiped the sweat from their brows, making sounds of agreement.  It was hard to set up, but for Vee, it was worth it.  

"I agree." Raine smiled, their palisman, Avi, transforming back into a fox and scampering away to play with Owlbert.  "Well, Vee, would you like to get started practicing?" The basilisk nodded.  "Great! Do you already know the gist of what you'd like to say?"

"Yeah, I think I do.  Just need to practice not stuttering over it."

"Remember that you don't have to read off of a script if you don't want to.  If there's something you think about adding or getting rid of in the moment, trust your gut." After all their conversations, Rain was proud of the progress that Vee had made on her confidence.  

"Got it!" 

The two of them ran through possible outcomes for around an hour when Vee's phone buzzed.  "Oop, that's my cue.  Luz! We gotta go pick Masha up!"

"Coming!" Luz kissed King on the forehead, running back to join Vee.  "We'll be back soon!"

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Masha stood in front of the door, waiting for Vee to exit from the Isles.  Their mind was racing with excitement, imagining the demon realm based off of their friend's descriptions.  They pictured blood-red skies with beaches made of pure bone.  A night full of terror and fright, stars eating each other in the sky.  It was a few minutes before the basilisk came out, but Masha spent the time picturing each part of the new world they would be exploring.  

"Masha! Hi!" Vee's face blushed red.  Luz was holding the door open.  "Um... before we go in... could I talk you to about something?"

"Sure, of course.  Also hey, Luz!" Masha waved to the other girl.  Luz winked, giving Vee and thumbs up.  

"So... I just want to say that I think you're really cool."  Vee held back her stuttering but looked like she was about to break at any time.  "You're really smart, you're really welcoming and kind, you still accept me as a friend despite well... this." She gestured to herself.  "I really like you and I wonder... would you... uh... would you want to go out with me sometime?  I could give you a more closeup tour of the Isles, or we could go get something to eat or something?"

Masha giggled, blushing.  "Aww, Vee.  I'd love to.  I... think you're really neat too.  Ever since I met you I feel like we connected in a way that nobody else I've ever met has.  And I'd love to spend more time with you." The two of them looked at each other for a few moments before grabbing hands and walking through the portal.  

When Masha first faced the view, they were speechless.  The sun was going down right beyond the horizon, blanketing the land in calming crimson.  "This is even more beautiful than I imagined..."

"I know, right? It's changed a lot since I last lived here, but it feels more like home already." The two smiled at each other, grabbing hands as they watched the stars appear in the deep red sky.  Together. 

Chapter Text

Ever since they were four or five, Raine knew something was different about them.  Their brain worked a little differently and they liked it.  They also never felt content being seen as a boy or a girl.  They were born AFAB but didn't like it at all.  On their own, they tried he/him pronouns, but they didn't like those either.  Finally, after lots of trial and error, they tried they/them pronouns, and a piece of their brain clicked into place.  It felt perfect.  And  today, at the age of thirteen, they were finally ready to tell the world.  They couldn't lie, they were scared.  But they believed in themself and wanted to be honest.  It was just a conversation.  They could do it.  

"R____! Come down for dinner!" Their mother, Alison, called from the kitchen.  Raine did a double check of their emergency bag.  It had their violin, extra food, another pair of clothes, their epiderm uniform, and one of their plushies.  If anything went wrong and they needed to leave quickly, they'd be able to.  Inhaling, they put the bag on their bed and walked down the stairs.  

"Hi, Mom! Is Dad home from work yet?" They asked, setting up the three plates that their mother placed out on the table.  

"No, but he's on his way home now, sweetie.  Had a meeting with Head Witch Averos today and you know how much that man loves to talk. " Alison giggled.  Her husband, Theo, worked as a producer for many of the illusion coven heads crystal ball shows.  

Raine nodded as they finished setting the table.  "Okay." They replied, smiling.  "While we eat, can I tell you and dad something?"

"Of course, baby.  As you know, you can always talk to us.  Whenever you need." She smiled, patting her child on the head, ruffling their mint-green hair.  

When Theo arrived back, Raine's family began eating.  Alison had made spiderghetti and eyeballs, one of their favorites.  The three of them talked about their days, Raine told their parents how they had to perform in class at St. Epiderms, Alison told her family how she nearly got hit by a griffen on the way to work, and Theo ranted for a solid fifteen minutes how much he dislikes Head Witch Averos.  After he wrapped up his malign of the head witch, Raine saw their moment.  A lull in conversation that they could take as an opportunity.  

"Can I tell you guys something?" They looked down at the table, trying to hide their nerves.  

"Of course, R____!" Theo smiled as his kid.  

"I...um..." They stuttered.  Taking a deep breath, they tried to remember the techniques their teacher had taught them to handle stage fright.  They decided to try the breathing strategy that Ms. Harison  told them about.  

In '1,2,3,4' out '1,2,3,4'

"I don't think that I'm a girl.  Or a boy." They tried to keep everything concise, just like they practiced, but it was proving more difficult to remain calm under the watchful eye of their parents.  "I know my brain is different, but neither gender feels right to me.  I've tried a bunch of identities and stuff, but they all felt kinda wrong.  I also would like you to use they and them as opposed to she or her.  Y'know kinda like 'This is my kiddo, I love them very much' or something.  Sorry I'm rambling.  I don't really know how to explain it, but that's how I feel.  And how I have felt for a few years." They were starting to panic.  Alison and Theo remained silent, trying to process the information.  After a good few moments, Raine started to fear the worst.  

'Oh titan they're gonna kick me out! I've gotta run! Gotta get away! I don't want to hear them reject me! Not like this!'

With one calculated move, they sprinted up the stairs and grabbed their emergency bag.  Not wanting to go back down and face their parents again, they decided to exit through the window.  Landing on a nearby tree, they whistled a tune to levitate themself down.  And they ran.  They ran into the sunset, not quite sure where they were going.  Just that they were going away.  The colors of the spring were breathtaking, they pink and purple flowering trees filling the forests with brilliant color.  They wound up on a cliffside overlooking the Boiling Sea.  With no room left to run they collapsed into a ball on the ground. 

"They hate me now! Titan! Why am I so stupid!? I thought they'd respect it..." Raine sobbed, letting tears soak their plushie.  

"R____! R____! Where are you?" They tensed up, hearing Alison's voice from behind them.  Once she saw the sobbing child sitting on the cliffside, she ran over, wrapping up Raine in a hug.  "Oh dear I'm so happy you're alright! I'm sorry your father and I didn't respond.  We never meant to make you feel like you weren't welcome after telling us something like this.  It was just... a lot.  And we didn't know how to react." She kissed their head.  "We will always love you, R____, no matter what."

Raine was still a bit tense, overwhelmed by everything.  "Raine.  I want my name to be Raine." 

"Sounds perfect to me, Raine." The smaller witch relaxed hearing those words.  "We'll figure this out together, okay? No need to be scared.  I love you very much."  The two of them stayed there for another moment, calming each other down.  "Come on, baby.  Let's go find your father."

Chapter Text

"Gus..." Mattholomule stuttered, his cheeks flushing red with blush.  "I really like you.  I would love it if you were my boyfriend."  He hid his face behind a book, all except for his eyes that looked hopefully at Gus.  

Gus looked down.  He didn't know how to phrase his words.  He always had a suspicion but despite all the practice of expecting a confession, the script he had lined up vanished from his head.  "I... Matt... I'm sorry but I don't feel the same..." He saw something break in Matt's eyes.  It hurt seeing his friend like it, but he didn't want to lie. 

"Oh... I get it.  Sorry... for uh... telling you..." Matt blinked back tears.  "I... I'll go.  See you at school." Without another word, Matt left.  

Gus felt a lump in his throat.  He thought his honesty would make his friend feel relieved.  He didn't mean to make him feel bad.  "Matt! Wait!" He ran after the other witch.  "I didn't mean it like that!" However, the other witch was nowhere to be found.  

----------------------------

Matt curled up into a ball and sat against the wall of Hexside.  "Of course, he doesn't feel the same you're just wasting your time, Matt.  Bria's right... you were never meant for anything more than a pawn!" He put his head between his knees, letting soft sobs escape his mouth.  Gus was one of the only people he saw as an actual friend, and he'd ruined it by trying to be something more.  

"Matt! There you are!" Gus sounded worried as he ran over to the crying witch.  "I'm sorry... I didn't mean for it to sound like that."

"No." Matt lifted his head, using his sleeve to wipe off the loose tears.  "No, I get it.  I completely understand if you don't want to be friends anymore."

"What are you talking about, dude? Of course, I still want to be your friend.  It's just... I don't really feel that way for people." Gus scratched the back of his neck.  "It's complicated.  I'm aromantic, meaning I don't really find people attractive in a romantic way.  It's just something I've known for a while.  Sorry if I made you feel like it was your fault I rejected you.  You're a great guy, Mattholomule.  And I'd be really sad to lose you as a friend over something like this."

Matt stared for a few seconds before he started laughing.  "I'm so stupid..."  He kept laughing, causing Gus to worry a bit.

"You're not stupid, man!  It's been a rough time these past few months and our minds aren't exactly the greatest."  Gus decided to give Matt a hug, wanting to comfort his friend.  "We still friends?"

"Yeah! If you wanna be!" Matt smiled, accepting the hug with gratitude in his eyes.  

"I, for sure, do.  Thanks for being such an amazing friend, Matt."

"You too, Gus." 

Chapter Text

Hey guys, sorry this isn't a conventional chapter. I've been having a pretty rough day (been like a combination of overwhelmed and shutdown all day) and my mind isn't letting me write a good chapter for you guys. So with that, I'll make sure to give you guys both tomorrow's planned chapter and today's planned chapter tomorrow. Once again, I'm super sorry, but I don't wanna give you guys bad writing. Also thank you all so much for over 1k hits! I really appreciate all the support. Hope you all have a great day and sorry for the inconvenience. If I end up feeling better later, I'll release the planned chapter and delete this one, but for now, I figured I'd leave this up.

Chapter Text

Hunter felt waves of excitement running through his veins as he and Willow weaved through the trees.  The two of them were on their way to a dinner party hosted by Steve Thollomule to celebrate the two-month anniversary of Belos' defeat.  Back in the Emperor's Coven, Steve was the only person who would sit with Hunter in the mess hall when he had the chance to eat with the other scouts.  He was the only person Hunter even started to consider a friend.  He was looking forward to seeing him again.  

"I'm super happy Steve decided to invite us!" Willow beamed, glancing behind just long enough to see Hunter's smile.  "I've only ever seen you this happy when we watched the Cosmic Frontier movies with Darius!" She giggled.  "The smile looks good on you, Hunter!" 

Hunter's face turned bright pink.  " Y-Yeah! I'm excited to see him again!  He was the only person who'd sit with me during meals or talk to me unless they had to."  The two of them came to a soft stop, landing on the cobblestone streets with minimal scuffing.  

"This is the place, right?" Willow asked as Clover transformed back into a bee and nuzzled her witch's shoulder. 

It was a quaint little cottage a few blocks outside of Bonesborough.  Hunter looked it over, noticing a few errors that a fully-trained construction witch would never make.  He remembered Steve telling him that his younger half-brother, Matt, had built the house after deciding to move back in with him.  The rough patches gave the house character; it was one-of-a-kind.  Just like the witches who lived in it.  "Yeah, looks like it."  He took out his Penstagram, rereading the message from Steve to make sure they were at the right spot.  

Willow skipped up to the door and knocked.  After a brief second of waiting, Steve opened the door.  "Hey! Hunter! Willow! Welcome! Come on in! We're getting set up on the back patio.  Has a view even better than the castle.  Darius, Eber, and Lilith are already here, but you guys beat the rest of your crew."  That wasn't surprising.  Willow was a very fast flyer.  

Steve led the two teenagers through a pleasant-looking living room covered with pictures.  Ones of Steve and Matt, along with an older looking demon, one of him with his Emperor's Coven acceptance scroll, one of Matt's first day at Hexside.  It felt so lived in.  Hunter also noticed a rainbow flag hanging just above a fireplace.  

When they reached the patio, Hunter saw chairs surrounding a large fire pit.  "Make yourselves comfortable!" Steve ruffled Hunter's hair before turning back towards the sliding door.  "If you guys need anything, I'll be in the kitchen finishing some stuff." Willow found herself a seat to the left of Lilith.  Hunter joined her, sitting between her and Darius.  

"How was school, Hunter? Willow?" Darius asked, sipping some kind of cocktail that Hunter didn't recognize.  

"It went pretty well!" Willow spoke up first.  "We did a lot of sparring during PE and I got to hang Boscha upside down by her feet with vines!" Willow's voice was full of confidence and power.  Hunter just giggled, picturing her teasing Boscha like that.

"I am so proud of you, Willow!"  Hooty, who was inside of a smaller house that was on Lilith's back piped up, causing the younger witch to squeal a bit out of surprise.  "Looks like you're taking after your old pal, Hooty!"  

"Not everyone is taking after you, Hootsifer." Lilith giggled a bit.  "But well done, Willow.  I'm sure Edalyn will be very proud to hear that when she arrives.  From what I've heard, Boscha is a complete brat, just like her mother was when we went to Hexside."  She crossed her arms.  "Right, Darius?"

"Oh, my Titan she was the worst." Darius pinched the bridge of his nose.  He looked like he was about to either laugh or erupt with frustration.   To put it in perspective, picture Adrian Graye Vernsworth, but with three eyes, and pink hair.  And as mean as he is egotistical." Hunter shuddered at that picture.  

"That sounds horrible.  Graye was already awful.  And Boscha is even worse." Hunter frowned.  He spent long enough living with that narcissist that he didn't want to picture another version of him.  Other than Boscha who was, unfortunately, real. 

"It was.  How was your day, Hunter?" Darius changed the subject, noticing that Hunter looked more uncomfortable.  

"It was good! I had beast keeping with Viney so that was a ton of fun! We got to teach Puddles how to say 'Hello' so it was a blast.  The teacher didn't know what hit him when he met a talking Gryffen." The look was priceless though!" The group continued talking for a few more minutes before Luz, King, Amity, and Eda showed up.  Lilith was right, Eda burst out laughing when Willow told her what happened with Boscha.  Hunter thought it was pretty funny, especially because a bit of her drink came shooting out of her nose.  The chatting continued, but soon got a bit too noisy for Hunter.  He figured he'd go help Steve.  Make sure everything was alright.  

"Hey, um, Steve?" Hunter stepped into the kitchen, relishing the quiet and calmness of the inside.  "Do you need any help?" Steve was washing a few plates in the sink.  

"I'm alright, but thanks for asking.  You need anything?" Steve replied, his voice calm and cool as ever.  

"No, I just wanted to see if I could help out at all."

"I've got it, promise.  You guys are guests here.  And you, dude, have done enough work for one lifetime." He chuckled a bit.  "I heard you're staying with Darius, huh?"

"For the most part, yes.  I stay with Camila Noceda in the human realm every weekend."  He looked around.  More pictures were hanging in the kitchen, though not quite as many as in the living room. 

"Ah, gotcha.  You liking it?" 

"It's great! Not as structured as back in the castle, but I'm getting used to it.  It's different, but I guess not all different is bad."  Hunter would be lying if he said it was easy.  Everything was hard, but he was finally healing.  

"Good to hear.  I'm just happy we finally got you outta there.  Was always worried about you back in the coven, man." Steve opened a cupboard and put a stack of plates away.  

"Yeah... How've things been for you?"

"It's been good. Matt moved back in with me, so at least I'm not alone.  The house has its little quirks, but I'm super proud of him for building it.  No structural issues with it that we know of, so that's a good thing."

"That's good." Hunter felt a wave of relief rush over him.  "I...uh... noticed you guys have a rainbow flag hanging up in the living room... are you guys?"

"Matt is for sure.  Luz got it for him and I saw the surge of confidence when we put it up that it just lives there now.  I might be, but I'm not entirely sure yet.  I'm not gonna put a label on it for now.  Just gonna figure it out as time goes on, y'know?"  Steve smiled, putting the final few plates away. 

"That's a thing you can do?" Hunter tilted his head, perplexed.  He was always told to have an exact definition for feelings.  Belos never liked it when he was vague with his emotions or desires.

"Yeah, of course!" Steve ruffled Hunter's hair again.  "I haven't yet found a label that fits me yet, so I'm just Steve for now."

"Oh..." Hunter felt his confusion melt into curiosity.  Like gears were turning in his head.  Suddenly, a lightbulb went off.  "So that means I don't really have to have a way to describe what I'm feeling?"

"Nope.  Not unless you wanna." The older witch noticed Hunter's expression change, giving an understanding smile.  "Did I just see a lightbulb go off?"

"Maybe.  I don't know yet."

"That's a-ok.  You just focus on being Hunter, and I'll focus on being Steve.  'Cause no matter what, we're gonna be the best ones at it."  The oven dinged.  "Well, guess it's dinner time.  You mind carrying that stack of plates outside?"

"Of course!"

Chapter Text

"I am both king and queen! Best of both things! Wehhh!"  King's shrill laugh rang through the in-between, right into the ears of the nearby Titan.  They sat behind the screen, eyes glued to the image.  For eight long years, the Titan sat there, watching their son grow up.  Lost and alone.  A figure approached the Titan from behind.  

"Ah, you must be King's dad, huh?" His voice was calm.  Warm and deep with no trace of malice.  

"Yes, you could call me that."  The Titan replied.  

"It's a pleasure to meet you, mighty Titan.  I am Manny Noceda.  It seems our kids are getting along quite well.  I'm Luz's father." The two creatures stood in silence for a moment.  A comfortable one.  Not one of awkwardness or fear, but one of respect as they watched the children on the screen.  "I'm so proud of her.  She's been so strong.  Lost and away from home this long.  At least my little light has found friends and a family to make her own."

The Titan smiled.  The same could be said about their son.  King had been left under 'The Experiment's' protection but was found with no parent of his own.  The same was true of many titans.  It doesn't mean the parent felt less longing to see him, to be with him as he grew.  To show him the full scope of his powers.  To ensure he knew they loved him.  

"Your little guy's the same, isn't he?" Manny's voice was filled with understanding.  "Had to forge his own path?" A tone that told of shared life.  Of shared loss.  

As time went on, Manny and the Titan continued to observe.  They bonded over it.  Watching their children, smiles of pride on their faces.  Until two became one, and one became zero.  No longer watching from behind a screen.  But from above.  No doorways, no water, no spiral gateways.  Only love.  And when all was done, they continued to watch.  There was no longer the parental need for protection.  Just care and curiosity.  Their kids had their own families.  Built on the love and support that their children needed and craved throughout their lives.  

King grew mighty, guiding the Boiling Isles under the name Clawthorne.  He helped bring back mixed magic, along with new forms of power and energy.  

And Luz.  Luz grew strong, mentally and physically.  She lived two lives during her high school years but morphed both of them into Luz Noceda-Clawthorne.  Manny's heart glowed with pride as he watched her walk down the aisle to her new wife.  Just as he did at her graduation, or when she helped her friends recover.  Manny and the Titan watched it all.  And they couldn't be more proud. 

Chapter Text

"So it's like toast but spicy?" Lilith asked, eyeing up the piece of bread in front of her.  It had some sort of strange, flecked spread on it.  A bizarre but wonderful aroma filled the entire kitchen.  

"Not really..." Luz replied.  "It's not really spicy more than it is seasoned.  It's garlic bread! Garlic isn't that spicy.  We have much hotter things around here!  It's the best!" 

Lilith tilted her head at the so-called 'Garlick Bread'.  If it was the best, should she bow to it?  Was it similar to the filing demons at the library?  Looking innocent but is a creature of fierce power and determination.  She decided to bow.  Better safe than sorry in her eyes.  "I beg for your mercy, oh powerful creature Garlick Bread." 

"Hah! Lilith what are you doing? It's food! You eat it, silly!" Luz giggled.  Lilith's face turned red with blush.  The older witch stood up and continued to stare at the bread.  "You wanna learn how to make it?"

"I guess..." 

"Cool! I'll show you! So we have this thing called a toaster oven where we put the bread and it'll get all toasty and good!" Luz put the bread into the toaster oven and watched it.  It remained in there for a few moments before the oven dinged.  "Now that's done we can add the spread.  My Mami makes this, but I don't know the exact recipe.  Spread it just like butter!" 

Lilith obliged, spreading the paste over the toast and placing it on the table.  She kept looking at it, unsure when it was complete. 

"Go on! Eat it!  It won't bite!" Luz giggled. 

Lilith took the piece of bread, biting off one of the corners.  As soon as the delicacy hit her tongue, she felt a wave of power rush through her.  Her eyes went wide with sheer joy.  "Oh. My Titan." She scarfed down the rest of the treat, the whole thing gone in seconds.  "This is delicious!" 

"I knew you'd like it!  We can make some more if you want?"

"That'd be incredible."

Chapter Text

"Eda, are you insane?!" Raine put their hands on their head, trying to figure out if what Eda had said was serious.  "I've never even played Grudgeby! And you want me to just walk on the team right before the championship?!" 

"I know you can do it, Rainey!" Eda encouraged, taking her friend's hand to try and calm them down.  "I wouldn't ask you if I didn't have full faith in you.  Also, you'll be with me and Mira.  You know how good she is.  Grudgeby is in her blood!" 

"So is being a jerk." Raine had a point.  Mira had a reputation as the school bully, but not even Eda could deny her talent.  She hated her, but she was an asset. 

"I mean... fair." Eda shrugged. "But I'll protect you.  If she says anything mean to you, I'll kick her butt!" 

Raine's face lit up a little bit.  They were still unsure, but they wanted to try.  For Eda.  "Okay, Edalyn.  I'm in."

"Great! Let's get started!  We gotta teach you how to play now! Come on!" 

The two witches proceeded to spend the rest of the afternoon on the grudgeby field.  Despite Eda's best efforts, Raine was still struggling.  After a few hours, Mira showed up.  

"Oh if it isn't the bard.  Edalyn, what are you doing with them?" Her voice snapped.  

"I'm training Lilly's replacement!  She's out with the Mold." Eda's voice wasn't angered, but the tone in her voice said she would be. 

"Ugh really?! Can't you find anyone better? Like, someone who isn't a bard? Maybe a healer.  Healers have useful magic. And Whispers would be completely useless with their stage fright." She scoffed.  Raine lowered their gaze and started walking away. Mira was right.  Unless they were able to play violin and run, they didn't really have a use on the grudgeby field.  "Yeah that's right, go run and hide in your little music room! What are you gonna do? Write yourself a useless soliloquy?" They tried to hold back tears, but found droplets escaping from their eyes.  They didn't want Eda to see them crying, so they ran.  They ran as fast as their legs could carry them.  

Once they made it to the bard track homeroom, they sat in the corner, pulling their knees up to hide their face.  "I knew I was just a screwup!  Mira's right... I can't even play a stupid song in front of people! How am I supposed to do anything in front of hundreds of people?!"  Raine's stagefright was debilitating.  During the last inspection, they were set to perform for the Bard Track, but froze up and made a complete fool out of themself.  Principal Fraust was about to expell them before their teacher Professor Lyra stepped in to defend them.  

"Raine? Are you in here?  I thought I saw you run past me in the hallway..." Professor Lyra's voice was soft and sweet.  Melodic, just like always.  She heard Raine's sobbing, eyes glancing around the room to try and find them.  She found them in their usual spot, tucked between two shelves of sheet music.  "What's going on, Raine?" 

"I... I'm just such a screwup!" They shouted, instantly putting their hands over their mouth.  They didn't mean to yell.  "I-I'm sorry I didn't mean to yell!" 

"Raine, you are not a screwup." Lyra's voice was stern, but calming.  "You never have been and you never will be."

"But I can't even defend myself when someone's picking on me! Or play in front of the Emperors inspector... Eda wants me to take Lilith's place on the grudgeby team for the championship, but I know that I'll just end up having an anxiety attack and ruining everything!" 

"Listen to me, Raine.  Performing is scary.  I won't lie, I still get nervous talking in front of you kids.  But just because you have stage fright, it doesn't mean you can't overcome it.  Do you want to playon the grudgeby team?"

"Yes... I don't want to let Eda down."

"Than do it.  It'll be scary, but if you run away because you're scared, you'll never get better at handling that fear."

"But can I even be useful on the team?  Mira was saying bards can't do anything useful..."

"Mira is... well... interesting." Lyra cringed a bit. "A lot of people underestimate what bard magic can do.  But let me tell you a little secret." She took out a photo of her and Vice Principal Bump playing on the same team.  "I used to play Grudgeby myself.  And although everyone thinks of grudgeby witches as Potions or Construction witches, I was one of the star players.  There was one move that worked for us every time.  Want me to teach it to you?" 

"More than anything!" 

"Alright.  Here's how it goes..." 

___________________________________________________

The game was tied with enough time for one more play.  Eda and Mira were panting, talking together to determine their next move.  The Gladiators were just one score away from winning.  And so were the Banshees.  Play started, a Glandys witch getting the ball first.  Mira threw a fog brew, distracting her while Eda got the ball.  She was running down the field, followed by the two remaining Glandys witches, who were quickly closing in.  Raine knew this was their chance.  "Eda! Ball! Back here!"  Raine shouted.  They were a bit far from the goal, but if the other team got the ball, the Banshees would lose.  Eda tossed the ball to Raine, who bounced it into the air off of their shoulder while pulling out their violin.

'Alright Rainestorm.  You got this.  Go Thundershock!'

They bowed the lowest string, letting out a roaring tone.  The ground started shaking, the soundwaves resonating into the dirt.  Eda, Mira, and all three of the Glandys witches were knocked on their knees.  They kicked the ball towards the goal, aiming for a bit more momentum.  It started sailing through the air when they played a high pitched chord, powerful enough to cause the air to knock the ball through the hoops.  As the buzzer went off, the Banshees were one point up, declaring them the victors. 

"Raine! You did it!" Eda rushed over to her friend, picking them up into a bear hug.  "I knew you could!"

"How did you...?" Mira shakily stood up, dusting herself off and walking over to join the other two Hexside witches.  "How'd you do that?"  Mira's voice lacked its normal sass.  

"It was really simple actually.  Low resonant tone to shake the ground, chord to pierce through the air! Pretty easy!" Raine beamed.  

"That was super cool!  I'm uh... sorry for what I said.  I really underestimated you.  I hope you can forgive me." She scratched the back of her head.  "Maybe you bards aren't so useless after all."

"I don't forgive you yet..." Raine's voice was serious and stern, but eventually let up into a more tired, relaxed tone.  "But it's a start.  Thanks for all your help."

"You were doing it too! Eda's a pretty good teacher, huh?"  The two witches giggled as they watched Eda pretend there were paparazzi around her.  "Did you even use your cheat box at all?"

"Nope!" The red-haired witch tapped her hair. "Did have to! You two were amazing! Come on! Apple Blood on me!" She pulled the two witches into a group hug, not noticing how red Raine's face turned.  

"Yeah! Let's go!" 

Chapter Text

"I'm sorry, she what?" Camila's voice got louder with shock.  She didn't mean to yell, but she could feel her blood start to boil.  "Dios mío..."

"It's not that big of a deal.  She did that to Ed and Em as well.  She just liked green hair better.  But I didn't so I decided to go purple.  It's stuck." Amity nuzzled her girlfriend.  Camila just stood there, trying to process what she had heard.  Amity had just told her that not only was she only allowed to be friends with kids whose parents were rich, had to dye her hair green, and was forced to sell products since she could walk, but that her siblings had also been put through the same thing. 

"Lead me to her." Camila took a mighty weapon out of her purse.  La Chancla.  A purple flip-flop with white flowers on it.  

"What?" Amity asked, confused.  

"I asked you to lead me to her, Mija.  I would like to have a chat with her."  She emphasized the t in chat, making sure the threat was known.  Amity, not wanting to anger her girlfriend's mother, led her toward the old Wittebane House.  Luz stopped to grab a camera before jogging to catch up with her girlfriend.  

"Luz, why do you have a camera?" Amity motioned to the device in Luz's hand.

"To film this obviously.  Vee's gonna be so mad she missed this!" Luz giggled, opening the door to the demon realm.  

"Why does your mother have a flip-flop?" The purple-haired witch noticed the flowery shoe that Camila held in her hand as they flew towards the Conformatorium.  Camila was on StringBean, while Luz and Amity both flew on Ghost. 

"That's La Chancla.  She's a powerful warrior who strikes fear into the hearts of many.  You've never seen rage until you've seen a protective mother with a flip-flop.  Mom used its power to beat up that hack Jacob when he kidnapped Vee."

"Oh. This'll be good." 

When the group reached the Conformatorium, Amity wasted no time, leading Camila straight to Odalia's cell.  

"Ahh if it isn't the woman trying to steal my daughter." Odalia spat through the bars. Her hair had grown long and ragged, surprising considering her "perfect hair routine". "What do you want, human?"

"I just want to have a little talk." She hit the flip-flop against her hand.  

Chapter Text

"I believe this mural will make the perfect addition to the entrance of Hexside.  Very well done, Luz." Principal Bump leaned closer to the drawing in Luz's hands.  It was a double-sized sheet of paper, covered to the brim with pride flags of every kind and students, both former and current.  Across the center in large bubble lettering were the words "You are loved and welcomed in these walls." Luz had been working tirelessly on the project, staying up past 2 am every night to get it done.  Hunter always kept her company, much to her dismay, but they worked out the mural design quite well.  

"I knew you could do it!" Amity gave her girlfriend a kiss on the cheek.  "So when do we get started?"  Amity was eager to help her girlfriend as much as she could.  Luz had always been there to help her, so she had to do the same.  

"Well, I have a list of paint colors that you all could start mixing while Hunter, Lilith, Raine, and I sketch everything.  Is that okay?"

"Yep! Sounds perfect!" Amity grouped up the other helpers, mainly Willow, Eda, King, Gus, Skara, Gilbert, and Harvey, who began taking assignments for different colors and mixing them.  After about an hour, everything was complete.  The sketch was drawn in dark pencil on the wall and the paints were ready.  

Luz took a step back, admiring her masterpiece.  "Are we good to start painting, Principal Bump?" 

"Go ahead.  I'm just supervising." 

With the go-ahead, the group began splitting up.  They took paintbrushes and began listening to Luz as she barked instructions.  It was originally going to be Hunter's job to command the helpers, but he had a breakdown over sounding too mean or too much like the golden guard, so she decided to take it instead.  "Looking great everyone! Just be careful of the sketch lines! Shading is gonna be added by Hunter afterward, so make sure to not overlap the colors as much as possible!" 

Another hour went by, with progress going very fast with so many people helping.  It was shaping up to be stunning, a representation of community and safety for the students of the school.  Luz swore she could hear Principal Bump start to cry when everyone took a step back to let the layers dry before Hunter shaded it.  Camila brought food for everyone, and the group had a picnic outside in the sunshine.  A bit later, Hunter got to work.  Luz was proud of all the progress her brother had been making in art.  He started barely able to draw a stick figure but was now doing complex shading and anatomy.  It was for sure going to help him when he started his apprenticeship with Dell.  She decided to let him work, trusting his abilities over her own.  

"Luz! I'm done!" Hunter called, popping his head back outside.  Luz put down her sandwich, almost running back to see the finished product.  When she saw it, she gasped.  It was beautiful, the colors popping beautifully on the dark background of the school hallways.  She looked over towards Principal Bump, who had tears running down his face.  

"This is beautiful.  Absolutely stunning.  Thank you so much, everyone.  I'm glad this will be the first thing new students see when they walk through these doors."

Chapter Text

"Alright, I've got the pinks for Amity, blues and purples for Raine, Eda, Willow, and Luz..." Hunter sat in his and Darius' shared sewing room, various different fabrics strewn across the worktable.  He looked down at the sheet of paper.  He had a list of names and flags or flag combinations to make.  Hunter's found family had helped him so much in the months since he left the Emperor's Coven and defeated Belos, so he wanted to repay the favor.  He started up his sewing machine, working to attach red and orange fabrics together.  He figured he would start with the LGBTQ Pride Flag, a commission for Principal Bump.  Sewing a few more colors, he finished the iconic rainbow.  He held it up towards the window, admiring the way the sun made the colors glow. 

"What are you working on, Little Prince?" Darius Deamonne stepped through the doorway.  He had originally set up the sewing room to house his projects, but once Hunter moved into his house, he started sharing the room with the younger witch.  He was pretty sure Hunter spent more time in there than he did.  

"Luz told me about these things called Pride Flags."  He held up the colorful flag to Darius.  "They basically represent self-acceptance and pride in yourself.  There's one for every sexuality and gender, but this rainbow represents the community as a whole.  After we finished the mural, Luz suggested I make one for Hexside.  Principal Bump agreed and paid me a few snails to make this.  I've got a ton of fabric. so I'm gonna make flags for everyone."  Darius smiled and ruffled his hair.  Hunter flinched a bit but eventually smiled.  

"I'm glad to see you this excited about something.  Need any help?" 

Hunter nodded, making a checkmark next to Principal Bump's name on his list.  "I'd love the help! I've got the fabric numbered and next to each order is the list of colors needed.  Would you be willing to get the fabric organized?"  Darius nodded, starting to gather materials to give Hunter.  

The blond-haired witch continued to sew strips together, embroidering his initials in small, red thread on the bottom of each flag.  Once he got through the checklist, he thought to himself for a moment.  Suddenly, an idea popped into his head.  "Hey, Darius, do we have any more white and pastel fabric?"

"Yes, we do.  Think of another order we missed?" 

"No.  Not quite."  He held up a flag labeled with a sticky note saying 'Steve'.  It was a pastel rainbow, each stripe a lighter, diluted version of the classic rainbow flag.  In the center, there was a large, white question mark.  "It's this one."

Darius looked at the piece questioningly.  "Who's it for?"  He asked, placing all the needed colors on the table.  

"Me." Hunter put the flag back down on the table.  "It's for me."  He started measuring and cutting the fabric.  "I've been trying to figure things out about myself.  I didn't really know what to call my thoughts, so I never said anything.  Belos always told me 'If you don't have a name for what you're feeling, you aren't feeling it.'.  But at the dinner party, Steve told me what he was going through and taught me that I don't really have to have everything figured out.  That I can question things as long as I need.  This is the questioning flag.  For people who are trying to figure out where they belong in the LGBTQ community." 

Darius scratched his chin, absorbing the information.  

"I'm probably not going to hang it up anywhere since my Bi flag takes up most of the space on my wall.  There might be space for it, but I only really care about having it.  Just as a little reminder."

Darius smiled, watching Hunter work.  "I'm happy for you, Hunter.  Whenever you figure everything out, I'll be there to help.  However I can."

"Thanks, Darius."

"Of course, Hunter." 

Once he finished sewing the flag, he took it into his room.  Luckily, right next to his Bi flag, there was a spot that was the perfect size for the new flag.  He grabbed two clips from one of his drawers and hung it up.  Perfect. 

Chapter Text

Groupchat: RULERZREACHFAN, WITCHCHICK_18, Edthemonsterman, GoodWitchLuzura, Emiraaaa

RULERZREACHFAN: aRE yuo suRE ths is a GooD idAe?

Edthemonsterman: Positive.  We all know they'd never get together on their own!

Emiraaaa: And we convinced Dad to actually go outside

Emiraaaa: We got to take this opportunity

WITCHCHICK_18: Where are the notes going to lead them?

Edthemonsterman: There's this nice restaurant that opened in the knee.  We're having them meet up there.  

RULERZREACHFAN: wOnt theY jusd leAVe?

Emiraaaa: That's the thing.  We don't know if they will.  

Emiraaaa: but Raine told me they spotted the two of them talking at the party Hettie Cutburn threw at the castle

Emiraaaa: I think they still like each other, but have always kind of been forced apart. 

WITCHCHICK_18: And Dad told me that he and Darius are at least on speaking terms now. 

Edthemonsterman: Well, that's a start at least

WITCHCHICK_18: Luz, you've been awfully quiet

WITCHCHICK_18: What's on your mind?

GoodWitchLuzura: I was just talking to Eda

GoodWitchLuzura: Apparently they were a big thing back when they were at Hexside but once Odalia and Alador got together Alador had to break it off

GoodWitchLuzura: She said she found him crying on the grudgeby field after school and was told the story

RULERZREACHFAN: dAriuS is sTubbOnr but HeS bEn gettNg bEtter aT tAlKinG about feelunhs

RULERZREACHFAN: i ThinK he WonT haTd uS

Emiraaaa: Well, let's hope this goes well

GoodWitchLuzura: We told Raine and Lilith and Eda so now we're having a watch party at the Owl House

WITCHCHICK_18: Isn't that a little weird?

GoodWitchLuzura: Maybe

GoodWitchLuzura: But its also gonna be awesome

---------------------------------------------

"Hunter, I've got something to do this evening.  You're heading over to Edalyns, right?" Darius asked, taking a final sip of his apple blood.  

"Yes.  Luz is coming to pick me up on StringBean.  Have fun!" Hunter smiled, waving as his guardian walked out the door.  His scroll buzzed.  It was the group chat between him, the Blight twins, Luz, and Amity. 

--------------------------------------------

Edthemonsterman: We just got Dad out of the house and on his way

Edthemonsterman: Ratador was a big help

RULERZREACHFAN: dArius hAs lft as wRll

GoodWitchLuzura: Alls going according to plan

GoodWitchLuzura: Ill be over to get you in a bit 

GoodWitchLuzura: Also whos Ratador???

WITCHCHICK_18: That's Dad's palisman.  It's a rat. 

Emiraaaa: Thank you captain obvious

RULERZREACHFAN: Whos CAptain ObvIoS?

GoodWitchLuzura: Its an expression

GoodWitchLuzura: Dont worry about it, Hunter

------------------------------------------

Darius checked the note in his pocket again as he approached the restaurant.  'Kneelings of Love'.  Such a cheesy name.  He stepped inside the building.  It was a calm and peaceful red color, much like the sky at sunset.  The hostess was wearing a standard uniform with her bright blue hair pulled back into a French braid.  Classy. 

"Greetings, Mr. Deamonne!  I hope we find you well tonight.  Right this way.  A table has already been set up for you."  She led him into a courtyard, exotic flora filling the area around it.  There were three canopied tables, telling Darius that this area was reserved for reservations only.  She led him to his table and he sat down.  A menu was handed to him, which he began skimming through.  

"Thank you, miss." He replied, giving a respectful nod to the hostess.  

"Of course.  Have a good evening!"

It was a few minutes before Alador arrived.  Upon seeing the other witch's face, Darius forced himself to hold in a blush.  He was wearing a black and lavender suit, the same type of fabric he'd seen in Hunter's workroom.  Strange.  "Alador." Darius curtly responded as Alador sat down.  His voice sounded a bit annoyed, but he tried to hide it.  As Hunter suggested, he would at least hear him out.  

"Darius." Alador responded.  His ears were turning the tiniest bit pink, but Darius decided not to mention it.  "So you were the 'secret admirer' that sent me those notes?"  His voice was a bit sarcastic, but in the Alador way Darius knew and loved.  He'd never understood sarcasm back at Hexside, so it was always humorous to watch him attempt it.  However, the statement confused Darius.  He had received a note from a 'secret admirer' as well, asking him to meet with them at the restaurant.  He also didn't ever recall sending a letter to Alador. 

"I never sent you anything."  Darius pondered.  "I was about to ask you the same thing, Blight." 

"Interesting..."  Alador took a sip of water.  "I think someone wanted to set us up on a blind date..."  A wave of realization hit him.  "The twins..."

"What do you mean?" Darius asked.  

"N-Nothing!" Alador's face turned bright red.  He hid his face in his sleeve, trying to hide his embarrassment.  

"You know... you're pretty cute when you're embarrassed." Darius let his cheeks flush pink.  He reached out his hand for Alador.  "I missed you.  I know we didn't end well, but I missed you, Alador."

"I missed you too, Darius.  I'm sorry I had to break things off with you, but my parents were forcing me to marry Odalia.  I want you back..." Alador revealed his face.  A few tears were in his eyes."  Alador grabbed Darius' hand.  

The date continued, and both witches got along very well.  It was nice for them to reconnect.  Darius' scroll buzzed.  It was Eberwolf, asking when he'd be back.  Hunter was out of the house and they didn't know how to cook at all.  It'd be something he'd work with them on.  

"Sorry about that."  Darius put his scroll away.  "Eberwolf is asking me for something." 

"I understand.  I've got three kids.  Family's important.  Since you might have to go soon..."  Alador scratched the back of his neck.  "Would you want to do this again sometime?  I really liked spending time with you.  Just like old times."

"I'd love to, Alador." 

Chapter Text

"How long is this going to take, Lulu?"  Hooty's complaints rang throughout the Owl House's living room.  "We've been here for hours~!"

"I'm almost finished.  There was a lot of graffiti on you, Hootsifer!" Lilith stroked her friend's 'back' with a sponge, removing a particularly nasty comment.  "I'm also doing your makeup when we're finished.  Amity showed me some new techniques that would make you look beautiful."

"Oooooh! A makeover!"  

"And I'll spill some of the secrets I learned in the Emperor's Coven.  I know how much you wanted to know their crushes." 

"Yess! Spill all of the tea!" Hooty squirmed a little, causing Lilith to lose her hold of the house demon.  

"Hooty for Titan's sake, stay still!  I can't help you if you keep squirming."

"Sorry, Lulu."

Luz walked in through the door.  "Hey, Cool Aunt Lilith! Hey Hooty! Whatcha doin'?"  Lilith stopped for a moment to look at the human.  She was grinning ear to ear, holding a small package in her hands.  

"Luz! Hiiii!" Hooty exclaimed, curling Luz up in a hug.  "I've missed you so much!"

"Hooty it's been three days."

"And those were three lonely days, Luz!"

"Am I not enough for you, Hootsifer?" Lilith had blatant sarcasm in her voice.  

"No! You're always good enough for me, Lulu! I'm sorry!"  Tears were streaming down Hooty's eyes as he wrapped his best friend in a hug. 

"Well, I've got something for you two..." Luz handed Lilith the package.  Inside, there was a black right with what Lilith learned to be the 'AroAce pride flag'.  There were also two pieces of jewelry, completely identical to each other with the exception of size.  "I made you guys friendship bracelets!  Or more like a friendship necklace for Hooty since he has no arms.  Masha taught Vee and I how to use resin, so we made you a silver owl symbol to represent your friendship!  And that..." Luz pointed to the ring.  "Is an Asexuality Ring! Masha's idea for you, Lilith.  Also made of resin.  It goes on your middle finger!"  The human witch waved goodbye and left, mentioning that Amity needed her.  

"Byeee! Come see us again before you leave!" Lilith finished cleaning up Hooty and did his makeup.  She opted for a rainbow eyeshadow look, which the house demon adored.  She finished by putting the friendship necklace on him. 

"There." She said, putting on her bracelet as well. "Now we're together forever."

Chapter Text

"Okay, Hunter."  Hunter looked at the mirror in his room.  "Focus.  You gotta figure out who you are."  He started flipping through the book he found at the library, taking notes in his notebook.  Raine also lent him some of the notes they took while figuring themself out, but the notes were a bit hard to read due to not only the poor handwriting but also the spelling and grammar errors typical of a six-year-old.  "Let's try... 'Hi! I'm Hunter!  I'm a guy who loves wolves and helping his friends..."  He hesitated.  "No, that's not it at all.  And I wouldn't be trying to figure this out if I liked being a guy."  He crossed out 'guy, he/him' in his notebook.  He was going to write everything down since he didn't know how long it would take and he knew how poor his memory was.  

"Okay... next one... Hi! I'm Hunter! I'm genderfluid...I...don't get it...doesn't feel right.  It's not like my feelings have changed... that's not it."  He crossed out 'genderfluid'.  "Hi! I'm Hunter! I use it/its pronouns." He instantly tensed up as the words came out of his mouth.  "Nope! Nope! Nope!  Definitely not that!" He felt like calling himself 'it' was calling himself an object.  And he'd had enough objectification for a lifetime.  He aggressively scratched it out.  "Ugh! This is so hard! Why can't I just know what I want?!" He faceplanted on the floor and groaned.  He remembered what his therapist told him and took some deep breaths, trying to calm himself down.  "Just try one more...  You can finish this tomorrow if the next one doesn't go well."

He sat up and looked in the mirror again.  His hair had grown out a good bit since Halloween.  He had to turn all the mirrors around for the first month or so, but his therapist helped him push the image of Caleb out of his head.  He liked what he saw.  Longer hair looked good on him.  He liked it.  "Let's try this again.  Hello! I'm Hunter.  I'm a trans girl..." He felt something glow in his heart.  He couldn't help but smile.  "I use she/her pronouns and I love my friends."  She looked at herself again.  Something felt right.  She felt right.  

---------------------------------------

Luz and Hunter were walking through a crowded 'shopping mall'.  Luz had agreed to help her friend pick out a new outfit or two for his birthday.  Or at least what she thought was Hunter's birthday.  "So... what kinda stuff do you wanna look for?"

Hunter looked around at her surroundings.  "Do you... Do you think I could try on a skirt?  I know it's not really something for..."  Hunter hadn't yet told Luz or anyone else she was trans, but she didn't think she was ready yet.  But she wanted to at least try a skirt.  Just one and she'd be happy.  

"Nonsense!  Skirts are for everyone!"  Luz grabbed Hunter's hand and pulled her around the corner.  The two of them picked out a few outfits that Hunter liked.  "Now! To the fitting room!  We gotta make sure these fit you!" 

Hunter was practically pushed into a dressing room and tried the first skirt on.  She shut her eyes, worried that she wouldn't like the picture that looked back at her.  With a deep breath, she tore her eyes open and gasped.  She almost didn't recognize the witch in the mirror.  It was her.  It was Hunter.  She wanted to look like that all the time.  

---------------------------------------

Hunter sat down on the couch beside Gus.  Amity and Luz were on a date and wouldn't be back for about half an hour and Willow was spending time with her dads so it was just the two of them.  "Hey, Gus?"  

"Yeah, Hunter?"

"I'm uh... trying to come up with a name for someone... Would you be able to help?  I know you've always been better with names than I have."  Gus gave her a questioning stare.  "I-It's for a character!"  Hunter tried to lie, but she could tell that Gus wasn't buying it one bit.  He didn't mention anything though. 

"What's the character like?  If I know their personality I can give them a name that suits them!"

Hunter had to think.  How could she describe herself without giving herself away?  "Um... She did some bad things but tried to make things better... Loves her friends and enjoys crafts... Trying to distinguish herself from her family that didn't treat her that well..."

"How about Bailey?"

"Like Chief Engineer O'Bailey?"

"Yeah!"  Gus exclaimed.  "O'Bailey cared a lot about his friends and wanted to distance himself from the fact that he's a clone!  Plus I've heard it's a popular girl's name.  It's perfect!"

"Bailey..." Hunter repeated to herself.  She felt a warm feeling inside as she said the name.  It felt like her.  Like the missing piece to her happiness.  Bailey's happiness. 

---------------------------------------

Group Messages 

IN: Eda's Orphanage

RULERZREACHFAN: hEy guYs

RULERZREACHFAN: SuPre Xcited tO SeE you aLk At diNNer toNight

chilly.lilly: Speaking of.  Edalyn, we arrive at 7 pm, right?

Bad_Girl_Coven69: Yep!  Rainestorm's cooking!

RULERZREACHFAN: thAt iw what I wAnTEd to aKs abOUt

RULERZREACHFAN:  WOuLd it Be PosSible to get therE a LitTle eArly?

RULERZREACHFAN:  I HAvE soMething I wanT to talK to yoU all aBout beFore tHe otherS arrive

Camilla.N:  If it's okay with you, Eda, Vee, Luz and I can come over early

Bad_Girl_Coven69:  Come on over whenever ya want! I'll be home all day!

rainey.day:  I'll be at work, but as long as Eda doesn't mind, I don't either. 

goo_daddy43:  I can head over once I get done with work.  

WITCHCHICK_18:  We can come over after school.

hello_willow:  Yeah! I've got a gardening club meeting, but after that, I'll be over!

hello_willow:  You have to meet with Dell about your apprenticeship right?

RULERZREACHFAN: yaH

RULERZREACHFAN: bUt thX

Camilla.N: Of course, mijo

Camilla.N: Anything for you

Bad_Girl_Coven69:  Seconded

GoodWitchLuzura: Thirded! 

WITCHCHICK_18: Luz aren't you supposed to be at school?

GoodWitchLuzura: I've been caught

GoodWitchLuzura: Byeeeee! See you all later!

Bailey felt her heart rate increase as she got off of Waffles and knocked on the door to The Owl House.  Hooty answered and let her in.  When she walked in, she saw her entire found family sitting in the living room.

"Hunter! There you are!"  Willow ran over to her and gave her a hug.  "You wanted to tell us something, right?" Willow giggled, bringing Bailey over to an open spot on the floor, right where she normally sat for movie night.  

"Well...um..."  Bailey stuttered, trying to control her anxiety.  "I...I'm transgender." She stammered.  "I'm a girl and I'd like to use she/her pronouns if it's okay with everyone here."  She shut her eyes as silence filled the room for a brief second.  

"Oh my gosh!  That's awesome!" Luz was the first to speak up, excitement in her voice.  

"I'm proud of you, Goldie." Eda teased.  

Darius and Raine walked over to Bailey, Darius ruffling her hair and Raine hugging her.  "I am so proud of you!"  Raine's voice was so positive and supportive that it made Bailey blush.  "I know firsthand how scary coming out can be but you did it! I've very happy for you, Hunter!" Darius gave a loving smile.  

Bailey inhaled.  "Actually, I'd like to go by Bailey."  She smiled at Gus as she spoke.  

"I knew you were lying when you said it was for a character!" 

"Eeeeee I've got another sister!" Luz practically tackled her into the ground.  And for the first time in her life, Bailey felt complete. 

Chapter Text

"So... How do I look?"  Bailey asked Darius.  She was wearing a red sundress that she upscaled with some silver ribbon from the craft store.  

"I think you look wonderful, Bailey,"  Darius replied.  Bailey ran her fingers through her hair and smiled at her reflection.  "Have fun tonight.  I'll be at the Owl House if you need me.  Eda, Raine, Alador, and the Parks will be there too so don't hesitate to call."

"You guys won't be spying on us with a scrying potion like Eda and Alador did on Luz and Amity's first date, will you?"  Bailey smiled smugly.  

"No promises.  I'll see you later."  Darius ruffled his daughter's hair.  "Make sure she doesn't get into too much trouble, Waffles.  Take care of my girl."

"Will do! Bailey will be safe!  No harm to her!"

The bluebird chirped.  Darius, since meeting Waffles, another rescue palisman like Flapjack, had been able to start understanding her words.  "I know she will.  So long as she has you."  Darius gave the bird a little head pat before heading out the door.  

When Bailey arrived at the portal door, her girlfriend, Willow, and Luz were already waiting for her.  "Bailey!" Willow ran up and kissed her on the cheek, causing Bailey's ears to flush pink.  "You look beautiful."

"So-So do you, Willow!"  The two stared at each other with love in their eyes for a few moments.  

"Come on, lovebirds! We've got a reservation!" Luz teased.  While Willow and Bailey were complimenting each other, Amity arrived and was waiting with Luz.  

"S-sorry..."  Bailey blushed, not meaning to hold up the group.  

"Hey! No apologies!" Luz pulled her into a hug.  "It's okay to flirt with your GF." 

"Where are we going again?"  Amity asked, holding her girlfriend's hand.  

"A place called 'The Cheesecake Factory'.  It's amazing! And fancy! But not too fancy!  A comfortable amount of fancy.  And they have Cheesecake.  Mama's dropping us off."

"Oh okay!" Amity blushed.  She always loved hearing Luz ramble about something.  

The four girls walked through the portal and to Luz's house.  When they arrived, Camila pulled all four of them into a hug.  As they pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant, Bailey and Willow's eyes grew wide.  It was beautiful, the architecture a brand of fancy neither of them had seen before.  

"It actually looks a lot like Blight Manor.  I like it."  Amity smiled.  

The group was seated by a waitress named Alexis and they all ordered drinks.  Willow got a bit overwhelmed by all the choices but decided on a shrimp dish.  Luz got a chicken pasta dish, Amity got Chicken Parmesan, and Bailey ordered a salad.  The date was going very well, both couples seemed to have a good time.

Suddenly, Bailey saw a face out of the corner of her eye.  It was him.  She turned her head and saw it.  An older man who looked exactly like Belos.  She started hyperventilating, holding her head in her hands and tugging on her hair, causing Willow to notice.  "Bailey, are you okay?"  Willow pulled her girlfriend into a hug, trying to understand her stuttering. 

"I-I h-he found me...  I-I-I-I thought I got away... h-he's dead, right?"

"Bailey..." Luz stood up and walked over to hug her, but she dodged it, clearly on guard.  "It's okay.  He's gone.  He can't hurt you anymore."

Willow let Luz take over.  "I'll be right back, okay?"  She stood up and walked over to the man Bailey saw.  Titan, he did look like Belos.  "I'm so sorry to interrupt you sir, but what's your name?"  Willow hoped that by proving his name wasn't Phillip, she'd be able to reassure Bailey she was safe. 

"Kevin.  Why do you ask?" 

"My girlfriend saw you and... unfortunately, you look a lot like someone who really hurt her.  I just wanted to know your name so I could convince her that you aren't him."

"Ah, I understand.  I mostly get compared to the Wittebane Brothers, so many years ago, some older women said that same thing.  I trace my DNA directly back to Caleb, but I'm mostly compared to Phillip.  I apologize for the trouble.  I hope you have a good day."

"You as well, Mr. Kevin."  Willow walked back over and hugged Bailey tight.  "It's okay, Bailey.  It's not Belos.  He's gone.  That man over there is named Kevin and he's very nice.  We won't let anyone hurt you again.  Promise." Bailey relaxed into Willow's arms.  

"M'sorry..."

"Don't apologize, sweetheart."  Bailey was safe.  She was safe with Willow.  

Chapter Text

"Deep breath, Eda.  You can do this."  Eda Clawthorn took a deep breath and knocked on the door.  She had her first date with her crush, Raine Whispers.  After a few moments, Raine's father, Theo, opened the door.  

"Edalyn! Welcome! Come in!" Theo's voice was welcoming and warm as he led Eda into the small living room.  "They should be coming down soon.  Go easy on them, will you?  Alison told me they were having a bad hair day." He chuckled.

"Don't worry, sir.  I will."  Eda was tense.  She loved Raine so much that she didn't want to blow their chance at a relationship by embarrassing herself in front of Raine's parents.  

"There's no need for such formalities, Edalyn.  You're dating my kid now.  You're part of the Whispers family now.  Call me Theo."

"Alright, Theo."  They chatted for a few more minutes before Raine walked down the stairs.  

"Eda!" Raine ran into their girlfriend's arms and hugged her.  They were wearing a white button-up shirt and a black embroidered vest.  They had their palisman sitting on their shoulder.  

"You look beautiful, Rainestorm."  Eda blushed, holding their partner's hand.  

"You two have fun now." Theo walked up the stairs, leaving Eda and Raine alone.  

"Are we ready, Eda?"  

"Yeah! Come on!  I've got somewhere to show you!"

Raine smiled as they let Eda lead them across the Boiling Isles.  Eventually, the two witches ended up at the Clawthorn family Palistrom forest.  When they landed, Eda took her partner's hand and led them on a trail through the forest.  She led them to a quaint, isolated clearing among the trees.  It painted a fairytale picture.  

"This is beautiful, Eda..."

"I knew you'd like it, Rainey!"

"This actually looks like the perfect spot to write a new song.  Would you care to join me?"

"Of course.  I love writing songs with you!" 

The two witches, arm in arm, began playing a son.  Violin and Mandolin.  The sounds entwined together into a chorus of magic, lighting up the forest around them.  They played throughout t the evening, fire bees dancing to the stunning melody.  

"I love it, Rainestorm.  The music of our hearts."

Chapter Text

"Em, I'm scared!" Edric whimpered, hugging his sister tightly.  

"Ed, it'll be okay, I promise!"  Emira hugged her twin brother back, rubbing circles between his shoulder blades to comfort him.  "Also, do you know how many times Mom's cursed me out and wished for a son?  She'll accept you, bro!"

Edric laughed.  "Y'know how messed up that sounds?  But it helps.  Thanks, sis."  He squeezed the blanket between his hands, calming his nerves.  "Okay, I'm ready.  Let's go tell them."  Emira smiled at her brother's confidence.  Edric was ready to live as the witch he wanted to be.  

"Emira! Elina! There you are!" Odalia was sitting on the abomination couch, sipping a glass of apple blood.  

"Hey, uh, Mom, could I talk to you?"  Edric combed his fingers through his hair.  

"Of course, dear, but make it quick.  I've got a meeting with representatives from Alizor's Abomination Inc. in about an hour concerning our new products."

Edric felt a bit awkward.  His mother, Odalia always had business on her mind.  He was just lucky she would even give him the time of day to tell her.  But he still wished she would be less distant.  "Is dad free?  I'd like to talk to him too..."

"Alador! Come up here! Your daughter would like to speak with you!" Alador stumbled up the stairs, wiping the abomination goo from his brow.  

"Yes?"

"Go on, Elina"

Edric took a deep breath.  "Okay well, Mom... Dad... I'm a boy.  I've always felt like a boy and I don't like being a girl. My... My name is Edric."  The room went silent for a few moments.  

"Alright, dear,"  Odalia said, dismissively.  "I've got to go get ready."  She left, leaving Edric and Emira alone with Alador.  Edric sat down on the floor, dejected.  He hoped that his mother would at least look at him.  

"Ed, it'll be okay... I'm here for you."  Emira put her head on his shoulder.  

"I'm sorry for your mother's actions, Edric," Alador put a hand on his shoulder.  "I know she can be... a lot.  I'm proud of you kiddo."  Edric smiled.  "Don't let her get to you.  He/him pronouns I presume?"  

"Yes please." 

"Of course, son."

"Thanks, Dad."  

"You wanna get your hair cut, right Ed?" Emira smiled and pulled her brother up.  Edric nodded.  "Come on! Let's go pick out a style!" 

Chapter Text

"You kids ready?"  Eda smiled, looking at the kids sitting in her living room.  Luz, Vee, Bailey, Amity, and Willow were adding finishing touches to their outfits before they left.  Willow was braiding her girlfriend's hair, Amity was fixing Luz's makeup, and Vee was messing around with her hairpins.  

"Yep! Come on guys!  I wanna watch Boscha try and fight Grom!" Luz jumped up, causing Amity to get a bit of eyeshadow on her cheek.  

"You know we're gonna have to save her, right?"  Amity walked up to her girlfriend and wiped the extra makeup off with her finger.  

"Yeah! It'll be like last year!  We'll save her, rub it in her face, and enjoy our night!"  Luz felt nostalgic thinking of last year's Grom.  How she and Amity defeated the monster and faced their fears together.  Boscha was this year's Grom Queen.  However excited she was to watch the fight, Amity was most looking forward to seeing what Boscha feared most.  Throughout their friendship, she had never shown signs of weakness, always using her confidence to push everyone else down.  

"But what if she succeeds?"  She couldn't deny it was a possibility.  Boscha would gloat for years if she defeated Grom.  

"Come on, Amity," Bailey teased.  "This is Boscha we're talking about.  She'll probably get too scared and run."  

"I guess I'm just worried she'll pick on you guys again..." Amity had a point.  Even after they helped defeat Belos and save the Boiling Isles, as soon as they all started at Hexside again, Boscha resumed picking on Luz and her friends.

"If she does, just stick me on her!" King jumped up from Eda's lap.  "I'm a Titan after all! And nobody messes with my friends!" 

"Thanks, King."  Luz smiled and kissed him on the cheek.  The six witches got up from their seats and headed toward the door.  Tonight they were gonna party.

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When they arrived at the newly-rebuilt Hexside, students were gathered at the door, all trying to get in.  

"Oh look.  If it isn't the half-a-witch and all her loser friends."  Boscha sneered, followed by a boy none of them recognized.  

"Can it, Boscha!" Luz spat back.  Amity saw the three-eyed witch smirk at the comeback, causing her to hold her girlfriend defensively.  She glanced back at Willow, who had a blank look on her face.  No emotion showing. Bailey was trying to comfort her.  

"At least I still have magic!" Boscha laughed.  "That's more than you, human, or that stupid clone will ever have."  She emphasized the word 'clone' and looked directly at Bailey.

Amity saw red.  "You do not get to talk to my girlfriend like that!" She shouted.  Bailey instinctively began backing away, looking at the ground with dull eyes.  Willow was squeezing her hand, trying to calm her down.  She turned back to look at Luz.  "You go make sure Bailey's okay.  I'll handle Boscha."  Amity tried to control her anger, but it seeped out like venom in every word.  Luz nodded, leading the rest of the group inside.  "What do you think gives you the right to pick on my friends?  Especially Bailey.  What has she ever done to you?"

"Oh, her name's Bailey now?  Good for her."  Boscha sounded weirdly genuine before her voice turned straight back to nasty.  "And you know what," She started, anger building up with each word. "She just waltzed in after working for the man who nearly killed us and stole all my friends!  I used to rule the school!"  She grew more and more upset.  "Now I can't even get anyone to sit with me at lunch!   They all want to be with the 'precious reformed golden guard who wants to help everyone'!"  Poisonous sarcasm leaked through each syllable.  "She took everything from me! So did that stupid half-a-witch!  And that powerless human! Why do they get it all?!  They already get the glory of saving the world, what else do they want?!" Boscha's eyes were misty with tears.  

"Have you ever tried being nice?"  Amity hated how much she sounded like Odalia, the know-it-all tone acting like a punch in the gut.  

"I already tried that!"  Boscha snapped.  Amity dropped all emotion from her face and looked her in the eyes.  "I used to go to Glandys when my mom was playing Grudgeby around there.  I tried being nice cause that's what my mama told me would get me friends.  But they just pushed me around and used me for years!  When I came to Hexside I swore I'd never do that again!  I'm not letting that happen again! I've been beaten and bruised and berated too much!"  Boscha wiped the tears from her eyes.  

"So you're doing that to other people?"  Amity questioned.  

"If I don't let anyone see a soft side of me, they can't exploit it."  Boscha looked at the ground.  She had a similar look in her eyes to Bailey when Amity found her in Eclipse Lake.  

"Give it a second chance."  Amity put her hand out for a handshake.  "There are people out there who won't push you around.  Promise." 

Chapter Text

"Hey, Am,"  Luz waved Amity over to a corner in the gym.  "You deal with Boscha?"

"Yeah, I did,"  Amity replied.  She thought back to the conversation.  She wanted to feel bad for Boscha, she really did.  But after everything the three-eyed witch had done to her friends, she just couldn't.  "How's Bailey?"  Amity looked towards the witch curled up into a ball, rocking back and forth while Willow held her.  

"I think she's having another flashback... She gets these at Mom's all the time..."  Luz grabbed Amity's hand.  Willow let Bailey's head fall onto her shoulder, keeping her comfortable but supported.  Amity's heart sank.  Bailey's eyes were glazed over and she was shaking slightly.  

"Breathe with me, dear." Willow cooed, stroking her girlfriend's hair.  "You're safe.  He can't hurt you anymore."  Amity knew that Willow was avoiding using Belos' name.  The former emperor had hurt a lot of people, especially the former golden guard.  After a few minutes, Bailey stopped shaking and cuddled into Willow's shoulder.  

"Boscha shouldn't bother us anymore.  And if she does I'll give her a beatdown fit for a Titan."

The six witches continued chatting for a while.  Eventually, the lights dimmed, the music stopped, and Principal Bump took the stage at the front of the gym.   "Good evening students of Hexside.  As you all know, this year will be my final Grom as principal,"  Principal Bump was finally able to retire after working at the school for over thirty years.  "With that in mind, let us kick off this evening's festivities by introducing this year's Grom Queen Boscha Donovan."  A few awkward strands of applause broke the silence of the crowd as Boscha walked into the room, her palisman, Maya, in hand.  "Good luck, Boscha.  We are all counting on you.  Now introducing, our announcers: Augustus Porter and King Clawthorn." 

The crowd went wild as King and Gus took the stage.  Bailey was cheering loudly, calmed down from the incident earlier.  Amity thought back to last year when Gus and King announced Luz's fight with Grom.  Slowly, a section of the floor began rising, giving access to various weapons and tools.  Boscha chose a crossbow and a few exploding arrows.  She rifled through a bag and found some kind of potion that Amity didn't recognize.  With a single gulp, she downed it and descended into the pit of Grom.  

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Boscha gulped as she walked into the pit.  

'Don't show weakness.  Don't give them a reason to pick on you. 

You are a winner!'

The shaking, shambling form of Grom slithered around her, covering her vision in looming shadows.  "Come out you stupid monster!  I'm ready to fight you!" Despite her insistence to herself that she wouldn't be scared, Boscha didn't want Grom to take the form of insecurity.  She didn't want the whole school to see her afraid of some dumb Glandys kids.  The beast reared up and lunged at her, swinging one of its strange limbs at her. 

"Eat this, you monster!" Boscha threw an exploding potion, maiming the creature temporarily.  With a harrowing shreik, the monster pounced, morphing into a teen-sized figure.  

"You'll never be anything more than a fool."

Boscha flinched, the words cutting deep into her heart.  She couldn't back down, not after everything she did to rebuild herself.  Maya jumped off of her staff, using her claws to chop off one of Grom's arms.  She punched back, shooting it in the eyes with her crossbow.  However, she neglected to notice the column falling on her head.  Grom had swiped at one of the pillars holding up the rest of the gym, sending it tumbling right towards her.  

Amity sensed the collapse and lept into action.  Ghost transformed into a staff and sent out an abomination strand, pulling Boscha out before she hurt herself.  "I've got you, Boscha!"  She lept down, shutting her eyes tightly as she summoned an abomination to slice right into Grom's chest, sending a black fluid spurting out, staining the walls. 

Boscha threw another potion right into the open wound, the creature letting out a heinous screech, causing her to cover her ears to cancel the noise.  Once it died down, she saw that Grom was crawling back into their hole, hiding from the world once again.  She fell onto her knees, panting as she tried to calm herself down.  

"You okay, Boscha?"  Amity dusted her dress off and helped Boscha stand again.  

"Yeah... Just... Didn't expect Grom to know that was my fear."  She wiped the goo off of her dress and turned.  "I'm gonna go meet up with my boyfriend."

"Grom knows everyone's fear.  And it's nothing to be ashamed of.  Mine was getting rejected by Luz last year, and I needed help as well."

"I don't want your sympathy, Blight.  I just," Boscha turned back, putting her crossbow away.  "I just want to understand what you meant by 'some people won't take advantage of you.'"

"Than maybe I can help.  This does not mean we're cool, but if it'll help you, I think Luz'll force me to be nice.  But if you ever hurt any of my friends again, you will face my wrath, understood?"

Boscha laughed a little bit.  "Understood.  Thanks."

"Of course.  I'm always a sucker for some good old character development."

Chapter Text

"What exactly are we looking for, Evelyn?"  Caleb asked, his eyes wandering to the various faces around the market.  Witches and demons of all kinds were walking through Bonesborough, each with their quests to embark on.  During his few months living on the Boiling Isles, Caleb Wittebane learned a lot about the culture and practices of the demon realm.  Some things still confused him though.  Like how there were no churches or cathedrals, nor mobs with pitchforks hunting down those who didn't believe in god.  He learned that their god was the Titan, but there was no organized worship, only individual beliefs, and prayer.  

Evelyn always looked at him strangely when he asked where he should pray.  She always told him that it could happen anywhere, that he needed no reason to do so.  The demon realm was different, but it was beautiful.  So unlike the human world.  There were no public executions, no stoning, no torture for being different.  Everyone could just be who they were.  

So when he first saw two women getting married in the town, he was incredibly confused.  "We're just looking for some more apple blood.  I ran out and you've gotta try it."  Evelyn didn't bat an eye.  It was completely normal to her seeing a wedding between two witches.  But to Caleb.  He felt like he was about to see a mob beat and kill both brides.  

"Evelyn, can two witches marry each other?" Caleb asked in confusion.  Evelyn turned back to face him and smirked, thinking it was a joke.  

"Why wouldn't they?  If they love each other they should."  She saw her fiance's face and questioned him more.  "Is that not a thing in the human realm?"

"No... Back in my town they only allow men and women to marry each other."

"That's stupid.  So what do people do if they like their same gender?"

"Hide it..." Caleb's tone darkened.  "There were mobs everywhere that hunted down and killed anyone who was different.  My brother and I were once part of one."

"Were you ever happy?"  Evelyn asked, touching his cheek with her fingertips.  

"I don't know..."  Caleb looked down, playing with his jacket.  "Can I be honest with you, Evelyn?"

"Of course, you can, dear."  She smiled at him, pulling him off to a curbside where the two of them sat down.  "Speak."

"If I'm being honest, I've wanted to marry another guy before... but I love you very much.  And it feels weird because I'm only supposed to like one an-"

"Says who?" She cut him off.  "Who says you can only love one gender?"

"I- What?"

"You can love whoever you want.  In your case, you might be bisexual.  I am too.  Not gonna lie, women are hot.  But so are men.  I completely understand you."

"There's a word for it?"

"Yeah, of course! Some people just like the same gender they are.  And people who don't identify with the gender they have biologically."

"Like a man who thinks he's a woman?"

"Yeah, kinda!  That's not me, but there are many people here that are like that."

"Oh." Caleb thought to himself.  The Boiling Isles were very different than his home in Gravesfield.  But he liked it.  He felt like maybe he could understand himself more.  It was different.  But maybe different isn't always bad.  

Chapter Text

"The rain won't hurt?" Amity asked, her eyes full of wonder as she looked outside of the windows of the Noceda house.  She and her friends had been stranded in the human realm for just over a week and besides the first night, when she was in too much shock to notice, this was the first time it rained.  The gentle patter of drops on the window was calming, like a sweet lullaby she used to sing to herself back home.  "Are you sure?"

"Of course I am, hermosa!"  Luz put on her jacket and stepped out the front door, holding Amity's arm just near the doorway.  "I promise, it's not boiling.  It's actually really cool!  The rain always feels best on a hot day in the summer, but it's so beautiful in the fall, all the drops on the different leaves and all that."  Carefully, Luz pulled Amity's fingertips out of the door, reaching just far enough outside to feel a few drops on her skin.  

Luz was right.  The rain was cool and comforting, unlike the dangerous rain the Boiling Isles had.  It was nice.  She stumbled out the door, allowing the rain to shower her in the cool liquid.  "It's so nice!" Amity spun around, letting her hair get dampened by the water.  A gentle breeze was flowing through the air, slanting the rain ever so slightly.  

"I told you!  You wanna go for a walk?"  Luz pulled her girlfriend into a spin.  

"Do you think Camila would let us?"

"My mom trusts me! And she knows you'd never let me get hurt!"  Luz ran back inside briefly and grabbed an umbrella.  From outside, Amity could hear her call out, "Mama, Amity and I are going for a walk!"

When she came back outside, Luz put her hand in Amity's.  The two girls began walking down the sidewalk, hearts both fluttering as they walked arm-in-arm.  Luz led Amity on a trail that made a few twists and turns before stopping at a park.  Trees lined the walkways, piles of leaves covering the open grass.  In the middle of the area was a gazebo.  It sat tall and stunning, periwinkle curtains creating a canopy.  

"This was one of my favorite spots to go with my dad."  Luz smiled, leading Amity into the gazebo.  Under the roof, they were temporarily shielded by the rain, but the harmonious patter of rain was still present.  "Since I don't know how much longer you'll be here, I wanted to show it to you."  She sat down on her knees on the hardened wood floor.  

"Thanks for showing me this, Luz." Amity planted a kiss on her girlfriend's forehead as she sat beside her.  "It's beautiful."

"I know, right?  I'm so happy Dad showed this to me when I was little."

"It's secluded.  Perfect for a date in the rain, huh?"

"Yeah."  Luz smiled and laid her head to rest on Amity's shoulder.  "I suppose it is."

Chapter Text

"Are you sure you're ready for this Vee?"  Luz put her hand on her sister's shoulder as she looked down the dark corridor.

"Yes.  I have to free them."  Vee had intense determination in her voice.  She stared into the darkness before hesitantly taking a step into the unknown.  It had been over a year since she escaped.  A year since she made it out of Belos' clutches.  And a year since she last saw the other experiments.  Step by step, she inched her way into the cold, uncaring walls of the lab, the metal chains, and empty cages bringing back memories she never wanted to see again.  But Vee knew she had friends supporting her.  Masha, Luz, Amity, Willow, Gus, Camila, and... Hunter. 

When the golden guard first showed his face in the lab, he stared.  He stared with curious, innocent eyes.  But as he kept sneaking down, those eyes became less innocent.  They became cold and unwavering.  Just like Belos.  Typical of the right-hand man.  According to some of the older basilisks, a previous guard had attempted to free them.  So had another witch, but he was petrified soon after her discovery.  But Belos was gone.  Melted by the very land he dared to try and change.  

"Guys?"  Vee stuttered, transforming back into her demon form.  "It's me, number five..."  She cringed at the name.  Her name was Vee.  But the others never knew her outside of a number.  "I'm here to help you guys."

"It sure took you long enough."  A small, thin basilisk sneered.  Vee recognized him.  Number 8.  "Why would you even try to help us now?  Belos will just capture us again.  Zero and Flint already tried that."

Zero.  That was the name of the witch who was petrified.  A beast keeper who believed all creatures deserved the right to live.  He was petrified by Belos.  "Belos is gone."  Luz cast a light spell with her palisman, illuminating the room.  "We're here to help you."  The caged creatures hissed and cowered.  But it was Number 8 who noticed the former golden guard in the purple light.  

"It's him!" He hissed.  "It's the golden guard! I know you're all here to lull us with false security! We don't accept it!"

"Number 8, please it's okay!  Hunter's not going to hurt you."  Vee pleaded.  "I know you guys have been through a lot, but I can promise.  Hunter's seen me at my most vulnerable.  If he wanted us hurt, he would have done it to me first.  Belos is gone.  Luz destroyed him.  I promise.  You're safe.  And I'm not letting you guys sit in those cages anymore."  She stared back at scared eyes of each creature.  

"But how will you get us out?"  A larger, female basilisk asked.  Number 6.  "The locks can't be broken with magic... After Flint tried to help us escape, not even Belos' own artificial staffs have that much power..." She hung her head in sorrow.  

"I have the keys,"  Hunter stated with a blank expression as he pulled out a ring with eight keys.  "It can't make up for my inaction to stop your suffering, but I want to help.  I promise.  I will never hurt you ever again."  He held up the ring towards Number 8's cage.  Guilt was etched on his face.  Vee could tell he'd be having a conversation with his therapist about this.  "Please.  I'm not asking you to trust me, but I want you to know that you're safe."

Number 8 gave an unsincere nod.  Hunter began unlocking the cages, watching the basilisks embrace each other.  Vee joined them.  The other witches and Masha watched, answering any questions that the freed creatures had.  

"Number 5, are you one hundred percent certain that Belos won't be back?"  Number 6's voice was uneasy and scared.  

"Yes.  He's gone.  Things have changed a lot since we defeated him.  It'll be okay.  I promise."  Vee smiled, watching her friends and family walk towards the exit.  They were free.  And Titan, did they deserve it.  

Chapter Text

"Edalyn, can I come in?"  Lilith asked, knocking on the door to her sister's dressing room.  Today was the day she'd been looking forward to, but also dreading for months.  Eda's wedding.  She knew her sister would be nervous about it, so she wanted to make everything as perfect as possible.  

"Uh... Yeah."  Eda's voice sounded like she was hiding something, causing Lilith to worry a bit.  "Come on in, Lilly."

When Lilith opened the door, she saw Eda sitting at her makeup table, head in her hands.  "Edalyn, what's wrong?"

"I... I'm fine."  Eda shook her head, clearing her tears.  "No who am I kidding?  I'm scared, Lils..."

Lilith sat down on the stool next to her sister and hugged her, comforting her.  "What are you scared of?"

"I'm scared I'll screw this up again... Raine means the world to me but I've already ruined our relationship once!"  Eda broke down, relaxing into her sister's touch.  "I'm scared I'll mess it all up.  They deserve the world, but I don't know if I'm good enough for them...  I've edited these vows at least five times since the rehearsal dinner and I'm terrified!"

"Edalyn you are good enough.  I promise.  Raine loves you.  I know you're afraid, but they care about you so much.  And I'm sure your vows are perfect.  Just to ease your mind, do you want me to look over them?"

"Could you?  I want to make sure I didn't make any dumb grammar mistakes."  Eda chuckled, wiping the tears from her eyes.  "I want them to be perfect.  Just like Raine."

Lilith smiled and took the piece of paper off Eda's table.  She took a look at it, beginning to read it.  

'Raine, thank you.  You've helped me so much and the world wouldn't be the same without you.  Ever since I met you all those years ago, you've been funny, you've been strong, you've been there.  And that's what I needed.  Even when I tried to push you away, you forced your way back with all of your strength and I'm so happy I got to be with you again.  You're brilliant, always looking for the right way to fix a problem and help others.  You're determined, not giving up even when you fail.  You're kind, and your heart is so big that you were able to believe in me when I didn't believe in myself.  You saved me.  You saved me from myself and I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you.  Back when we played that duet, I was ready to end it all since I thought that was all I was good for.  But you believed in me and convinced me to keep living.  And you're strong.  You are so, so strong and it always amazes me.  The fact that you were willing to sacrifice everything to save us, the fact that you put your life on the line so we could keep living, the fact that you gave up your freedom to infiltrate the castle.  It always made me stronger.  I thought, if you could do all that, I could keep it together for my kids.  I want to be as perfect for you as you are for me.  I promise to always be there when you need me and do all I can to help you.  I may not have magic, but I'll have a shoulder to cry on when you need me.  I vow to be stronger for you.  And most of all, I promise to communicate.  I know how much that means to you, and I always regret that I didn't let you in sooner.  I love you, Raine.  I always will.'

"Edalyn this is perfect.  They'll love it, I promise."  Lilith realized that she started tearing up while reading the vows.  Eda and Raine really were perfect for each other, she thought to herself.  

"You think so?"  Eda had calmed down, but still sounded a bit nervous.  

"I know so, Edalyn.  Don't be scared.  Raine loves you, they really do.  Come on, let me fix your makeup before you go meet your partner."

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"Raine, calm down."  Darius soothed.  Raine kept hyperventilating but started to try and regulate their breathing.  "What's going on?"

"Do I look okay?  Is my hair messed up?  Oh Titan oh Titan what if I stutter?!  You know how terrible I am at public speaking!"  Raine was panicking.  Today was their wedding.  They should be happy and excited.  But instead, they're a lump of anxiety.  

"Raine, look at me."  Raine tore their eyes up towards Darius.  Darius wanted to be snarky but knew it would do little to help his friend.  "You look fabulous.  That's me being genuine.  And if you mess something up, no one will care.  Today's for you and Eda, not for anyone else.  And if anyone says a thing, me and Eberwolf will shut them up.  Promise."  His words seemed to calm the bard down, their breathing becoming less tense.  

"Thanks, Darius.  I just want today to be perfect.  Eda means a lot to me and I want her to have a good time."  Raine looked down at their suit, dusting off some eye shadow that fell onto their pant leg while Darius did their makeup.  "I'm just worried I won't be good enough..."

"Nonsense.  Look at me, Whispers."  Raine awkwardly looked up and smiled.  "You are good enough.  Have you seen Eda talk about you when you aren't there?  She is madly in love with you and you know it.  If any two dorks were perfect for each other, it's you two."

Raine scratched the back of their neck and looked in the mirror.  "You think so?"

"I know so.  Come on, let's go meet your future wife!" 

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The sun shone down onto the Boiling Isles, filling the air with an air of positivity.  Chairs were set up along the forest floor, shaded by the towering palistrom trees.  The hollow was a lush red, with flowers and vines of all kinds decorating the area.  Willow had been hard at work decorating the area with different plants.  "This is so exciting! My first Boiling Isles wedding!"  Luz jumped up with joy, her tux dress shimmering under the sunlight.  

"You're pretty excited, huh?"  Amity teased.  "I can't deny, I'm excited too.  Eda and Raine need to be together."

"I know right? Come on, let's go get seated! It should be starting kinda soon!"  Luz walked over and took her seat.  

Eventually, she was joined by her friends and King, who sat to her right.  Lilith was sitting right next to her, but she was coming in later with the couples.  

After a few moments, the proceeding began.  The bridesmaids and "gridesmen" began coming out in pairs, standing by the altar.  After they finished coming out, Raine took their spot right next to them as Eda began walking down the alter.  She was guided by her father, Dell, who led his daughter along before handing her off to her partner.  

"Edalyn..." Raine started their vows.  "Thank you for everything.  From the moment I met you, you made my life so much brighter.  You showed me that there was so much more than pleasing others, and taught me how to enjoy my life, to "take life by the horns".  Since we reconnected, you stubbornly stuck by my side, even when I begged you not to.  On the Day of Unity, you were so brave and fought for me like a soldier.  I'm forever grateful for that.  You inspired me to rebel, to break the rules for what I thought was right.  I promise to stay by your side, through thick and thin and to protect you with all I am.  I love you, Eda the Owl Lady, and I'm forever grateful to have you in my life."

Eda said her vows, the emotion she shared overwhelming her partner.  By the end of their promises, both of them were crying.  Luz could even see tears in Darius' eyes as they kissed, which Bailey brought up as very strange.  

"I love you so much, Eda.  I always will."  Raine whispered to their wife, keeping her close in a tight embrace.  

"I love you too, Rainestorm.  And I'll love you forever."  Eda looked into her partner's eyes and smiled, wiping Raine's tears away.  

Chapter Text

In the Noceda Household

"Vee, Mija!"  Camila called up the stairs to her daughter, who was debating with Luz over what to wear.  The two options were a black and rainbow tank top or a "Be Gay, Do Witchcraft" shirt.  "Your partners here!"  Vee quickly chose the tank top and rushed down to see her partner.  Masha was wearing a dress with the colors of the non-binary flag making up their skirt, along with a sapphic pride button on their top.  

"Vee! Hiii! I'm so ready for you and the others to see a pride parade! They are the best!"  Masha squealed a bit with excitement.  "Luz still getting ready?"  

"Yeah, she's going all out.  Had Bailey help her make her dress and everything.  I'm really excited!"

As excited as Vee was, she was also a bit nervous.  During her time in the human realm, she'd unfortunately dealt with people who weren't as welcoming as her own family.  She researched pride parades and they seemed to be a safe haven, but she still felt a bit scared. 

Masha seemed to sense the tenseness in their girlfriend. "What's bothering ya?"

Vee shook her head, trying to get out of her thoughts.  "Sorry, it's nothing.  It's just... I'm worried people might not be so accepting as they are in the demon realm..."

"It's complicated.  People here aren't always great.  But when you meet people that are, it's something special.  You'll be safe at the parade, I promise.  All of us there have been through some kind of harassment and pain for being who we are.  Maybe not as much as you did back in the Boiling Isles, but they'll be there for you! So will I!"

"Thanks, Masha!"

"My pleasure! Now do you want a sapphic flag or a rainbow one on your cheek?"

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In the Blight Household

"You know Mom would kill you if she saw you leaving the house like this, right Mittens?"  Emira teased, looking at her sister, who was struggling to put a lesbian flag on her cheek.  Facepaint was running down her face, threatening to drip on her shirt.  Amity wore a "Be Gay, Do Witchcraft" tee shirt that Luz had gotten her for their first anniversary.  She looked in the mirror and smiled.  Emira was right.  Her mother would kill her if she saw this.  

But Odalia wasn't there.  She wasn't controlling Amity's life anymore.  She could be the person she wanted to be, spend time with all of her friends, and not have to worry about her mother ruining it.  "You're right, Em.  But I don't care what Odalia would think.  Her opinion doesn't matter to me anymore."  Emira smiled.  Ever since Amity stopped calling Odalia "Mom", she'd considered doing the same.  It distanced their family from that horrible woman even more.  Edric needed it.  The two witches finished getting ready, both hodgepodges of color by the time they finished.  Emira put her makeup away and headed down to the living room, where Edric and Alador were waiting for them.

"What took you two so long?" Edric laughed, fiddling with the trans pride flag around his neck.  Emira was surprised.  Edric's outfit was somehow coherent, even with the pastel flag as a cape.  Must be Bailey's work, she thought to herself.  

"Shut up, Ed!"  Emira punched her brother lightly on the arm.  "So Dad, you gonna be hanging out with your new boyfriend all day?"  She smiled smugly, watching her father's cheeks flush a bright red.  

"If um... Darius will be there... If he wants to spend time together I'll allow it."  He hid his face in his jacket.  Amity convinced him to wear a pride pin, but his outfit was pretty tame compared to the other Blights.  

"Keep telling yourself that, Dad."  Amity chuckled.  "You know Darius'll be too stubborn to actually ask you to hang out.  Just do it.  What've you got to lose now?"  Amity hugged him and began walking out the door.  "Come on,  Luz is waiting for us."

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In the Deamonne Household

"Hold still you mutt!" Darius exclaimed, trying to hold Eberwolf's head still.  He was using Bailey's extra facepaint to make a genderqueer flag on Eberwolf, but their squirming was not making it easy.   

"Everything okay, Darius?"  Bailey walked into the living room, holding her hairbrush.  

"Yes, everything's fine.  Eber just won't stay still."  He struggled, trying to paint the final stripe the neatest he could.  "Finally!"  He turned to his daughter. 

"How do I look?"  Bailey asked, self-consciously looking down at her outfit.  She'd spent hours sewing it together with the help of her father, but she still wondered if she could have done better. 

"You look stunning, dear.  Your stitching has really improved since you tried to fix your cloak."  Darius affectionately ruffled her hair. 

"Thanks.  And old Bailey had to focus on trying not to die on a daily basis! New Bailey can afford to spend time getting better."  She laughed.  "Do you think you could paint a trans flag on my cheek?  I'm not great with makeup and..."

"Of course, I will."  Darius cut her off and began pulling out the colors.  "I'm very proud of you, you know that, right?  I know these past few months have been harder on you, but I'm proud of the person you've become."

"Thanks."  Bailey smiled as she sat down on the couch next to her father, waiting for him to start painting.  "If you asked me how I saw myself in a year back in the coven, I never would have thought this.  I would have told you I might not even be alive.  But I am now.  And I'm finally living as myself."

"Exactly. I probably wouldn't have believed you even if you knew."  Darius laughed, painting stripes of pink, blue, and white.  "You grew up to be someone who's more you.  And I know you've made your predecessors very proud."  

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In the Park Household

"Papa, I'll be fine, I promise."  Willow did one final search through her things.  

"Willow, we're worried, honey,"  Gilbert cooed.  "The last time you went to the human realm, Bailey ended up having a panic attack..."

"Yeah..."  Willow took out a mirror and some eyeshadow, making pan flags on her eyelids.  "And we helped her through it.  I'll be with Camila and the others."  Willow reassured.  Her dads were always overprotective, so she got used to explaining every reason why she can go somewhere.  

"What if I human tries to hurt you?"

"They won't.  Luz told us all about pride parades and they're super safe!"  Willow finished her makeup and started putting her things away.  "And you know Bailey won't let anything happen to me.  I'd do the same for her, so we've got each others backs."

"We're just worried about you, Willow."  Harvey piped up. 

"I know, dad.  You guys are just looking out for me.  But I've got this.  We'll be fine.  I'm bringing my scroll along, so if anything happens, I'll contact you guys.  Promise."

"Okay, just be careful, Willow."

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In the Porter Household

"Thanks for letting us come along, Gus."  Mattholomule smiled.  He and his brother, Steve, were waiting for Gus to finish getting his stuff together before they left for the human realm.  

"Of course, man!  The more the merrier!"  Gus finished clipping his asexual pride flag as a cape and turned to look at his friends.  "Also, I like hanging out with you, Matt."  He noticed that Steve was watching too.  "And Bailey would be sad if you didn't come, Steve.  You're one of the reasons she found out she was trans, so you're officially part of the big extended family we made!"

"Thanks, little dude.  I'm super proud of her and I'm happy I helped her out."  Steve was rocking a dress made of the colors of the gender non-conforming flag, along with having several pins on his jacket.  "She even helped me figure some stuff about myself too."

"That's awesome!  Has it been weird not being in the coven anymore?" Gus asked.  

"It's been a little weird, but I like the new weird.  I don't have to share a room anymore, no more daily checks of my belongings, I finally get to have a palisman.  Bailey said she'd help me make or adopt one, so I'm really excited to have one.  I had to give up Icey when I joined the coven and I miss her every day.  But it'll be nice to give another palisman a home.  I'm gonna be adopting one."

"That's awesome! Emerine was adopted, and she's been my best friend ever since we met.  Everyone at Hexside but Luz adopted theirs.  Or I guess the palisman adopted them, haha!"

"Yeah, that's a good way to put it."  

"We ready to head out?  We've got the others waiting by the portal!"  Gus practically dragged the other boys out the door.  

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In the Clawthorn Household

"I'm so excited for this!" Raine beamed, adjusting their wife, Eda's, hair.  "It'll be so cool to see so many people in pride flags."  They were wearing their normal outfit, but had a non-binary flag sash across their torso.  

"I've seen one of these before.  Made a trip to the human realm at just the right time to see the Gravesfield one.  It's a ton of fun."   Eda smiled, letting Raine fix her hair.  "And there's free junk."

"Edalyn this is so cool! Luz just sent me pictures of the street so far and it's so colorful!"  Lilith rushed into the room and showed Eda and Raine her scroll.  On it, the picture of Gravesfield showed rainbow flags and colors everywhere.  

"I'm excited too!"  Hooty exclaimed.  He was in his portable form, wearing his friendship necklace.  On the smaller house, Lilith had painted a giant rainbow flag on it.  "I'll finally get to see other proud parents!"

"Hooty, you're not a parent."  Eda said sarcastically.  

"LET ME HAVE THIS!"  

"You do you, Hooty."  Eda's hair was finished.  She looked in the mirror next to her.  "Dangggg I am working this!  By the way, if someone calls me Marilyn, that's me.  I went by that in the human world when I used to hang out there."

"Ah, understood."  Raine smiled and kissed their wife on the cheek.  "I can't believe this is our first trip to the human world since our wedding."

"Yeah, it'll be weird.  But now I've got another way to fight off the crazy boys!"  Eda snorted with laughter.  Raine giggled too.  

"Eda!"  King squealed, running out of his room.  "Can you put this pin on my skirt?  I kept stabbing myself and Owlbert chased me around with it!" 

"I've gotcha little guy.  You like the skirt Luz picked out for ya?"

"I love it! It makes me feel powerful!"  Eda was grateful something brought out the old King.  Ever since he, Luz, and Hooty went to Titan Trapper Island, he'd been different.  He looked less like a kid and more scared.  Once Belos was defeated he got better, but there was still a part of him that wasn't the same.  "I can't wait to see Luz again!"

"Bud, you saw them last week."

"I DONT CARE! I MISS MY SISTER!"  King sprinted out the door and began drawing a teleportation rune in the dirt.  

"Well, let's get going then.  We don't want to keep them waiting."  Raine ruffled the fur of their palisman and walked out the door, followed by Lilith and Eda.  

"Yeah, you're right.  Don't wanna miss the other weirdos."  Eda took her partner's hand and finished the rune, teleporting to the portal.