Work Text:
Octavia Goetia would say that her life was on the up and up at the moment. The past year she’d accidentally been roped into a Battle of the Bands competition, formed her own band alongside a group of outcasts, fallen in love with a follower of Marquis Phenex, found out her mother was secretly a rock star from back in the day, and ultimately come out victorious against the biggest pop star in Hell’s music industry, Verosika Mayday.
For the owlet on the cusp of turning eighteen, it was an exciting point in her life. She had friends- realfriends, not the ones with fake smiles from other royal families- and she had the support of both her parents, even if Prince Stolas and Princess Stella were divorced now. At least the two of them had found new love, be it the imp assassin Blitzo (the “O” is silent) for Stolas or Stella’s old flame Set, a fellow member of her band, Star Storm, and the Egyptian god of storms.
Currently Octavia was staying at her father’s mansion, the owlet happily texting her boyfriend, a kitsune named Zen, as she went about eating breakfast with the family. Normally she’d be at her mother’s new place down in Envy for the weekend, but Star Storm was currently on their comeback tour, so the swan demoness was unavailable at the moment. That just gave Octavia more time to bond with her father, though, which she would never say no to.
“…And then those humans tried to hurt Blitzy and company again, in my presence,” Stolas scoffed, recounting an IMP adventure from the other day. “Seriously, if it wasn’t for how small and pathetic they looked when I showed them my true demonic form, I would have turned them all to stone right then and there.”
“That’s what happens when they try to fight with ninja weapons for some reason,” Loona chuckled. “They really didn’t expect Sallie, Millie, and I to bust into the place. But still, glad that you could save us when they locked us in, Stolas.”
“It was no problem, Loona,” Stolas replied with a smile. That was something Octavia was still getting used to as well: having Blitzo and Loona around more often in her life. The two had moved into the mansion a month after New Year’s, and while it wasn’t official yet, the princess was sure that her dad was planning to pop the question to Blitzo at some point. The imp was a bit much for Octavia, but she and Loona got along like peanut butter and jelly, their time in the band together making them practically like sisters already.
“Has anyone seen Blitz this morning?” Octavia asked.
“He was still sleeping when I woke up this morning,” Stolas said.
“Eh, Blitz likes to sleep in on the weekends. Helps to clear out his head or something,” Loona replied. “Plus, you guys have the best beds ever. Seriously, those mattresses are like sleeping on a cloud or something. If only they blocked out the sound of you two having “fun” all night though…”
Stolas blushed. “Oh dear, I forgot to put up the noise-canceling spell again, didn’t I?”
“It’s fine, Dad, but do try to remember next time,” Octavia sighed, silently thanking Vortex for getting her those noise-canceling headphones for Hellmas. She then got a devious grin on her face. “You’re lucky that Zen and I agreed to wait until we’re both married to have that kind of “fun”, or else I might just be petty enough to get back at you.”
“Octavia! I’m shocked!” Stolas gasped. He then shook his head and sighed. “The rock star life has truly changed the sweet little girl I knew…”
“Seeing your child grow up sucks, old man,” Loona laughed. Suddenly her phone started ringing, the hellhound pulling it out and smiling to see that it was from her boyfriend, Vortex. “Yo Tex, what’s up?”
“Loona, you are not going to believe who just called me up about a new gig!” Vortex exclaimed with excitement. “You got Via on the line?”
“Yeah, she’s right here,” Loona said, putting the phone on speaker.
“Hey Tex,” Octavia greeted.
“Sup, Starfire?” Vortex said. “Anyways, I was just chilling out at the apartment with Zen when we got a call from down in Gluttony.”
“Some friends of yours?” Loona asked.
“Even bigger: Queen Bee herself wants us to play at The Hive this weekend,” Vortex said.
Stolas spit out his coffee in shock. “Q-Queen Bee!?! As in, Beelzebub herself!?!”
“You got that right, Prince Stolas,” Vortex nodded. “She’s friends with Princess Charlie and apparently has been trying to get our number since the New Year’s Party we played at. I’m sure I don’t have to tell you all how big a deal it is to get the Bee-lzebub to personally invite us.”
“Yeah, that is pretty big,” Octavia said. “So then, when does she want us to come to her place?”
“The party is this Friday, and it is club formal dress code just so you know. Dress fancy but keep it casual if you know what I mean,” Vortex said. “Zen’s working on our set for the event right now. See you girls then!”
As Vortex hung up, Loona and Octavia shared a grin. “This is going to be so awesome!” Octavia giggled.
“Hell yeah it is! Queen Bee is said to throw the most raging Hellhound parties in all the Nine Circles,” Loona exclaimed.
“Now girls, for as excited as you are, please do be careful at this event,” Stolas said calmly. “Queen Bee-lzebub is known to be a bit extra when it comes to her events. I expect my daughter to be home safe and sound the night of, so don’t get into any trouble.”
Octavia rolled her eyes. “Relax, Dad. This is just like the other venues we’ve played at. I’ve got Tex, Sallie, and Loona to keep me safe. Zen and I have some magic spells we could use as well if it comes to that.”
“What’s this about a venue…?” Blitzo yawned as he walked in the room.
“We just got our next gig at Queen Bee’s place,” Loona explained, pouring a cup of coffee for her dad. “We’ll fill you in on what we got…”
On the night of the party, The Howling Starfires arrived at The Hive in style, courtesy of one of Stolas’ valet drivers. One by one, Sallie May, Vortex, Loona, Zen, and Octavia all exited the vehicle, waving to the many hellhounds gathered around as they walked up to Queen Bee’s snow cone-shaped club. Each of them were wearing a new outfit for the occasion: Sallie May had a black crop top with matching skinny jeans; Vortex had a purple variation of his usual vest, with a white shirt underneath bearing the band’s logo and black shorts; Loona wore a red sleeveless dress that stopped just above her knees with a black pentagram design on the chest; Zen wore his usual colorful jacket and Phenex pendant, though switched out his shirt for a black tank top and matching Bermuda shorts; Octavia had a midnight purple sleeveless dress with a neon blue design etched into it, her hair held back in a ponytail.
“Your dad didn’t skimp out on these outfits, Via,” Sallie May complimented.
“He just paid for the stuff. Loona was the one that made sure we’d all rock in these,” Octavia replied.
“There’s a lot of hounds here…” Loona said, looking a bit nervous.
“Didn’t expect you to be the nervous one here,” Sallie chuckled.
“I’ve not had the best reputation at hound parties…” Loona said, looking away and hiding behind her bangs in shame.
“Right, your previous boyfriend…” Sallie said, sucking in air as she recalled the story.
“Hey, it’s all right girl. That’s why you have your crew and especially me to back you up,” Vortex assured her, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “Besides, I’ve been here before with my last band and Queen Bee is super cool, so there’s no need to be nervous, okay?”
Loona smiled and nodded, taking a deep breath. “Okay then. Let’s rock this place.” The band entered the club, where they were immediately assaulted by the smells of delicious food and the buzz of idle chatter, broken up by the occasional howl.
“Wow, when you said this would be a hound party, you weren’t kidding,” Zen said, looking around in awe. “I know we’re in Gluttony right now, but I didn’t think we’d be seeing oversized food here in the club.”
“Bee-lzebub has the power to manifest food and make it grow, among other things,” Octavia explained. “Though Gluttony is more than just overeating. Excess of anything can be considered Gluttony.”
“Yeah, I can see how being a big into the club scene could lead to overindulgence of multiple kinds,” Zen nodded, cringing as he saw some hounds off in the corner doing various drugs.
“So, when exactly are we performing?” Sallie asked, pulling out her drumsticks and idly tapping them together.
“Queen Bee said we’d know when we’re supposed to go on,” Vortex said. “Let’s just enjoy the vibes until then, okay?”
The Howling Starfires spread out to mingle a bit, with Loona quickly finding herself alone. She steeled herself and went about conversing with some of the other hellhounds at the party. Most greeted her with kindness, recognizing her as part of the Howling Starfires, making Loona feel more comfortable as the party goers were willing to come to her for conversation, rather than her having to start one up herself.
“Oh man, I still remember when you guys faced off against Chaos Pack. You really kicked ass at that performance,” a hellhound with a purple jacket and skull shirt named Carver said.
“You never told me you were at that event!” his friend- a hellhound with poofy grey and black hair named Gigi- said, giving him a shove.
“You never asked,” he laughed, taking another sip of his drink. “Aw yeah, this shit hits the spot. You want some, January?”
Loona shook her head. “Nah, I’m not much of a party drinker… that never goes well for me.”
“Your loss,” he shrugged, chugging the rest of his cup.
“Oh Em Gee, is that Loona?” a valley girl voice gasped. Loona internally groaned as she recognized the voice, turning around to see a poodle-like hellhound standing before her. “By Satan it is you! Who dragged this mutt here to a party like this?”
“Hey! There’s no need for that kinda language,” Carver said with a frown.
“Yeah, it’s so not fetch,” Gigi added.
“It’s fine, Carver, Gigi,” Loona said, crossing her arms as she looked at the newcomer. “Vikki here is just being a bitch like always.” The other hounds at the party sucked in a breath as the two girls stared each other down.
Vikki gave a tsk. “Like whatever. I can’t believe you decided to show your face at one of these parties, again. Remember what happened last time?”
“Yeah, I recall getting a spot in one of the hottest bands in Hell,” Loona said with a smirk.
“Hah, and you’re the worst one in it!” Vikki laughed, the hounds behind her giggling as well. “You were so much more entertaining when you were with that Wayland guy. After you twobroke up, you were all like this.” She pulled out her phone and showed a picture of Loona vomiting.
“First of all, Wayland was the biggest jerk ever, and I’m glad that he’s dead now so he can’t screw any more girls over like he did with me,” Loona growled. “And second of all, Why do you still have that?”
“Because you’re supposed to keep the things that bring you joy,” Vikki replied with a smirk. “And nothing is better than seeing Lunatic Loona kill the vibes with her negative aura, like always.”
As the valley girls laughed again, Loona had to resist the urge to lash out at them. ‘I’m not going to stoop to her level…’ she thought. ‘She’s just doing this to get a rise out of me, but I’m not going to give her that satisfaction.’
“I think you’re the ones with a bad vibes here,” a new voice said, cutting off Vikki’s laughter by grabbing the hound by the throat. Vikki’s eyes grew small as she was pulled into the air by a massive bee demon, wings buzzing with the sound of flies as its segmented eyes bore into her soul. “And to act like a bitch to one of my VIPs? Yeah, I’m not going to let that fly in my club. Consider yourself uninvited and banned, for life!”
“Y-Yes Q-Q-Queen Bee…” Vikki choked out, being dropped to the floor and rushing out of the building as fast as possible.
“And the rest of you?” Queen Bee said, looking at Vikki’s friends with contempt.
“W-We’re cool! Nothing wrong here!” a dalmatian hellhound said nervously, giving a thumb’s up before moving to a different part of the club.
Queen Bee sighed, her form warping and twisting before setting into a smaller form, taking the appearance of a foxlike demon with two sets of arms, insect wings and antennae, and a honey-like substance flowing around her hair, tail, and torso. “Sorry you had to see me like that... Some people just don’t like seeing others happy, I guess,” she said, before turning to face Loona with a smile. “Nice to finally meetcha, January. The name’s Bee-lzebub, but you can call me Bee.”
“H-Hey…” Loona greeted, still in awe at being saved by the embodiment of Gluttony herself. ‘Damn is she hot…’
Bee giggled. “Yeah, I get that a lot.”
Loona flushed. “Oh shit- I didn’t mean to say that out loud!”
“It’s fine, January, or can I call you Loona? You’re pretty cute too, ya know?” Bee winked, making Loona even more flustered.
“I have a boyfriend…” Loona mumbled.
“As do all the good-looking ones, it seems,” Bee sighed, though she kept on smiling. “Any who, the rest of your band is looking for you. The show is about to begin.”
“All right! This is what tonight’s all about,” Carver cheered.
“Just give us thirty and we’ll be back out,” Bee said, giving the hellhounds some cotton candy to snack on before grabbing Loona by the arm and dragging her to the backstage of the club where the rest of the band was.
“I see Queen Bee managed to find you,” Vortex said.
“Yeah. Had to deal with a party crasher- totally buzzkill like your wouldn’t believe- but it’s all good now,” Bee said. She looked at the band, her wings buzzing with excitement. “I’m so, so happy you all could make it out here for the party! Seriously, after you all totally trashed those Chaos Walking losers last year, the vibes from my hellhound guests have been way, way up. I just knew I had to get you all to play at my place.”
“You know, for the embodiment of Gluttony, you’re not what I was expecting at all,” Zen said. “I thought this place would look more like a dump.”
“Hey, I may promote Gluttony, but I also like to make sure those beneath me are having fun while indulging in excess. Tastes a lot more sweeter when demons willing partake in my sin,” Bee said. She flew around Zen inquisitively, picking up one of his tails and playing with it. “I don’t see a lot of kitsune down here, and is that a Phenex pendant I see…? Ah, that totally explains the blinding aura you got there. Probably not worth the trouble trying to turn you my side, is it? I know how stubborn his people can be.”
“No, it isn’t,” Zen shook his head. “I’m here as a band member, not to endorse your lifestyle. No offense.”
“Eh, worth a shot,” Bee shrugged. “Can’t win over everyone. Can I get you anything to eat before the show, at least? I like to make sure all my guests are comfortable.”
“Do you have any Konpeito?” Zen asked. Bee snapped her fingers, and a jar of multicolored star-shaped candies appeared in his hands. “Wow, I’m surprised that you knew what I was talking about!”
“Oh, it’s those cute little candies you bring to practice all the time after you visit Yomi Station,” Octavia recalled, reaching into the jar and pulling out a few pieces for herself.
“Of course I know what Konpeito is. The Japanese give me so much power with all the knick-knacks and merch they love to indulge in,” Bee giggled. She took one of the candies and enlarged it to the size of a baseball, shoving it in her mouth and eating it in one bite. “So, like, I got the setlist you guys sent over- great picks, by the way- but I was wondering if you’d be down to have a little fun with the first number, Zen.”
“What are you thinking of when you say “a little fun”?” the kitsune asked nervously.
“Well, you and Starfire are always doing that cool fusion thing when you perform, and I totally wanna try that,” Bee explained, bouncing on her feet. “I mean, just think about it: your foxfire and my honey aura, together. It’d be a total showstopper!”
“I’m not so sure,” Zen shook his head. “I mean, even if you are consenting in letting me possess your body, I’m not sure what’ll happen if I do so with a Ring Lord… My powers can be a bit unpredictable when it comes to mixing with other types of magic.” He looked over to Octavia. “And it’s kind of an intimate thing for Via and me, so I’d only be down with doing it if she gives the okay.”
The owlet looked a bit standoffish at Queen Bee, sizing her up before giving a hesitant nod. “I’ll allow it, but only for one song, and you better not try anything else with my boyfriend, got it?”
“Oh, I totally get it. Cross my heart that I won’t cause any drama for your band,” Bee replied, before taking Zen’s hands into her own, both their eyes glowing with blue energy.
“Woah… that feels… different…” Zen said as he felt Bee’s own demonic energy start to mix with his own. “This must be what pure Gluttony feels like…”
“And? What’s it like?” Sallie asked.
“Like being on a sugar rush, but also hyper focused on everything at the same time,” Zen replied.
“Now then, Zen, let’s get wild!” Bee exclaimed; her body being consumed in foxfire as Zen’s spirit entered her body.
Outside of the backstage, the partygoers in the club were waiting feverishly for Queen Bee and the Howling Starfires to make their grand entrance on stage. The center of the club had been transformed into a stage for the band to use, sitting right underneath the giant disco ball hanging from the ceiling. As everyone continued to mingle, the lights suddenly dimmed to a low green color, smoke rising out from the stage as Queen Bee flew up from it, resting on top of the disco ball as her form was shrouded in shadow.
“Hello my party people! How are you all doing tonight!?!” Queen Bee announced, getting cheers from the hounds below. “Great to hear it! As you all know, I have some very special guests here to help us indulge in all the good vibes I bring, and to start off the night right, you’ll be getting a very special performance from yours truly.”
The Queen of Gluttony flared out her tail, now multi-faceted and bubbling with foxfire thanks to Zen’s influence. Her honey-like hair was the same way, with Bee even wearing Zen’s jacket over her top set of arms. Despite Zen’s spirit possessing her, it was clear that Bee was still in control of the body they were sharing. “Well then, let’s get this party started!”
Down below, the Howling Starfires rose up on a lift, Vortex starting the first song of the night off with a guitar rift before Bee started to sing.
I live for the night, I live for the lights
I live for the high, 'til I'm free falling
I live for the night, I live for the lights
I live for the high 'til I'm free falling… (Falling)
Octavia and Loona joined in with bass and keytar, Sallie May picking up a drumbeat as Queen Bee smirked, reveling in the new power Zen gave her as she playfully flared out her tails, dancing along with on top of the disco ball before the beat dropped.
'Til I'm free falling… (falling)
The band went into full swing, with Queen Bee flying down and doing her thing, creating more Konpeitoto toss to guests as she flew by.
I live for the night!
After doing another fly by, the Queen of Gluttony landed on stage, striking a pose as the lights in the club turned to reds and blues.
I am tryna holla
Got that ink up on my collar
Drinking' 'til there's nada
Isn't whiskey, I don't bother
Bee flicked her hair in a dramatic fashion, the flames coming off it shooting out to create sparks that quickly transformed into sparkling soda for the patrons to enjoy.
My girlies ain't no dimes, they be motherfricking dollars
So we stack our drinks up high, skyscraping' 'til we taller
The queen then summoned a jug of her Beezle-juice, dumping and entire container out and drinking it all in one go. ‘I’m so thankful that I can’t get drunk while possessing someone else…’ Zen thought.
‘Try to enjoy it at least, fox boy!’ Bee thought back.
Ring-ring, hit that up, show that universal love
If you bleed that red blood, dance until you get enough!
Bee used both sets of hands to draw rainbow hearts in the air, before blowing them outwards in a kiss, each heart popping into candy to shower guests in.
Ring-ring, hit that up, show that universal love
If you bleed that red blood, dance until you get enough!
The song then suddenly slowed down a bit, letting Octavia play out some piano notes on her keytar as Bee sang out.
I'mma do what I want, whatever
I'mma rage 'til the dawn, all-nighter
Don't hold your breath, you know I'll sleep when I am dead…!
The Queen of Gluttony gave a wink to the princess, letting Zen take a bit more control for the next part. ‘Give me a surprise, Zen!’ Bee thought.
‘Okay then… Let me try… this!’ he replied.
I live for the night, I live for the lights
I live for the high 'til I'm free falling
As Queen Bee did some more dance moves, Zen used a combination of their magics to create two different colored clones of the queen, mirroring her moves as she danced.
I live for the night, I live for the lights
I live for the high 'til I'm free falling… (Falling)
‘Hell yeah, Zen! This is what I’m talking about!’ Bee laughed mentally as she danced, following along as they got to the beat drop again.
I live for the night!
The Howling Starfires played their hearts out as usual, the crowd howling in approval.
Free falling-
I'm the Grim Reaper when I'm blaring out your speaker
Killing off the weaker, welcome to the final feature
Queen Bee made the room lights change again, this time going purple and pink as she used Zen’s foxfire to make an almost UV effect over the entire club.
My head’s in the clouds, you can say that I'm a dreamer
But I bang it super loud, turn this club into a screamer
She grinned as she held out a hand to her two clones, pulling them close before flying upwards, the clones turning back into foxfire and illuminating behind Queen Bee in a fiery display.
I'mma do what I want, whatever
I'mma rage 'til the dawn, all-nighter
Don't hold your breath
You know I'll sleep when I am dead…!
Bee slowly descended back down onto the stage, doing a few more dance moves as the crowd cheered for them.
I live for the night, I live for the lights
I live for the high 'til I'm free falling
I live for the night, I live for the lights
I live for the high 'til I'm free falling… (Falling)
The Howling Starfires started to play the final beat drop, the lights in the club changing like a lava lamp in time with the music thanks to Bee.
I live for the night, I live for the lights
I live for the high 'til I'm free falling
‘You feel that feeling in your core, Zen? That’s pure Gluttony, the source of my energy,’ Bee thought. ‘Whenever people indulge in my Sin, I siphon off some of that energy for myself. And the more willing people indulge, the greater the feeling is.’
I live for the night, I live for the lights
I live for the high 'til I'm free falling
I live for the night!
Bee struck a final pose, setting off an explosion of confetti as she did so. The crowd clapped for the performance, with the Queen of Gluttony drinking in their praise as she laughed. “Wasn’t that kickass or what!?! I gotta thank K. Sune for letting me borrow his power for that performance you just saw. Why don’t you all enjoy another drink break while we get the next song ready?”
With that Queen Bee released Zen from her body, the kitsune’s fur bristling as he reformed his body. “So, Zen. How was it literally being a part of Gluttony?” Loona asked.
“…An experience, for sure,” Zen replied.
“Hey, don’t you look a bit different?” Sallie May questioned, peering at Zen with curiosity. “Yeah, you totally changed how you look! Why didn’t you tell me you were trans like me before?”
Zen gave a noise of confusion, before looking down and realizing that instead of his normal male self, his body had reformed into that of a woman. “Oops, sorry about that,” Zen apologized, his body flaring with foxfire before returning to his usual male body. “Kitsune are a genderfluid species, so we can take on any body type we want. I just choose to present as male since that’s what I’m most comfortable with, but sometimes when possessing someone, their own will can influence the body I reconstitute with. As you could see, Bee-lzebub being female made my own body take a form closer to her own. I hope that wasn’t too awkward…”
“Not at all,” Octavia said, taking her boyfriend’s hand and smiling. “In fact… you’re kinda cute as a girl.”
“V-Via!” Zen blushed.
“Didn’t take you to be Bi, princess,” Loona chuckled.
Octavia shook her head. “No, I’m not really attracted to a particular gender, and never have been. Zen is the only demon I’ve ever been attracted to.”
“Oh, so you’re demisexual,” Sallie May said. The others looked at her for clarification. “That means being attracted to someone you have a strong bond with, like what Starfire has with Zen.”
“Yeah, okay, sure, let’s go with that,” Octavia shrugged. “Not really one for labels, if I’m being honest, but we can roll with that, Sallie…”
“Hey guys, I know you’re all discovering new things about yourselves, but the crowd is going to want another song soon,” Bee interrupted, getting between Zen and Octavia. “So, I’ll let you have the stage, I can go mingle with my party hounds, and we’ll get back after that for our big number together, got it?”
“You got it, Bee,” Vortex said with a thumb’s up. “So, Starfire, what are we gracing our fans with tonight?”
“Oh, Vortex is a looker in-person too,” Bee said, giving a wolf whistle as she eyed him up.
“Yeah, and he’s my boyfriend,” Loona said protectively.
“Hm…” Queen Bee hummed, looking between the two hounds with curiosity and hunger before flying off. “Well, BRB!”
Shaking her head at the embodiment of Gluttony’s antics, Octavia gave Zen his keytar back as he took up the microphone. Taking a breath, the owlet smiled as she looked out to the eager crowd. “How’s everyone doing tonight!?! I’d like to give a thank you to Queen Bee for inviting us out here. But you didn’t come here for some big speech, did you? Let’s rock this place!”
With that cue, Vortex started up the song with some guitar chords, before the rest of the band joined in, with Octavia leading the vocals.
Right, right, turn off the lights
We gonna lose our minds tonight
What's the dealio?
Octavia tapped her foot along to the beat of the song, getting into the groove as she usually did when taking the lead on stage.
I love when it's all too much
5 AM turn the radio up
Where's the rock and roll?
Vortex did quick freestyle rift before the band went into the pre-chorus.
Party crasher
Panty snatcher
Call me up if you a gangsta
As they played, Octavia started using her magic to create illusionary stars, her signature spell whenever she performed music.
Don't be fancy, just get dancy
Why so serious?
Octavia gave Zen a wink before fully jumping into the chorus, the kitsune taking the cue as he used his foxfire ignite Octavia’s stars, turning them into illusionary fireflies that zoomed over the crowd.
So raise your glass if you are wrong
In all the right ways
All my underdogs
We will never be, never be
As the crowd fist-pumped to the music, Bee watched on with an amused expression. “Damn, these guys are even better in-person,” she said, holding out a hand to catch one of the fireflies. With a bit of her own magic, she turned the bug into a jelly candy, savoring the flavor as it burst open in her mouth.
Anything but loud
And nitty gritty
Dirty little freaks
The other Howling Starfires made sure to add in their own magic as well, thanks to their enchanted instruments: Vortex brought out mist to cover the floor of the stage, Loona’s bass hummed with ghostly spirits, and Sallie May sent up bursts of flames with each drum hit around the stage like pyrotechnics.
Won't you come on and come on and raise your glass!
Just come on and come on and raise your glass!
With the first chorus completed, Octavia laughed went over to Zen, leaning over his shoulder as she continued to sing.
Slam, slam, oh hot damn
What part of party don't you understand?
Wish you'd just freak out
“Freak out already…” Loona laughed, watching as Zen was flustered by his girlfriend.
Can't stop, coming in hot
I should be locked up right on the spot
It's so on right now
“It’s so freaking on right now,” Zen said, getting one over on Octavia by giving her a peck on the cheek.
Party crasher
Panty snatcher
Call me up if you a gangsta
Blushing from the gesture, Octavia retook center stage, dancing along with the song as she continued to use her magic to illuminate the air around the club.
Don't be fancy, just get dancy
Why so serious…!?!
“You better raise ‘em up!” Queen Bee shouted, raising her own cup into the air. The crowd cheered as they did the same, finding their drinks magically refilled by the Queen of Gluttony.
So raise your glass if you are wrong
In all the right ways
All my underdogs
We will never be, never be
The crowd cheered as they guzzled down their drinks with much glee. Zen cringed a bit but shook his head. ‘They make their own life choices, and I make mine,’ he thought.
Anything but loud
And nitty gritty
Dirty little freaks
Won't you come on and come on and raise your glass!
Just come on and come on and raise your glass!
By now the entire band was chanting along with Octavia, all of them smiling as they enjoyed playing together.
Won't you come on and come on and raise your glass!
Just come on and come on and raise your glass!
The song then cooled down for a bit, the lights dimming as Octavia took the spotlight, closing her eyes as she sang out.
So if you're too school for cool…
And you're treated like a fool…
(Treated like a fool)
Loona swayed along with the song, the spirits residing in her guitar humming alongside her as the hellhound sang out.
You can choose to let it go…
We can always, we can always
Party on our own…
“So raise your glass!” Bee shouted, suddenly appearing back on her disco ball as the lights turned into the rave, with the Howling Starfires leading the party.
So raise your glass if you are wrong
In all the right ways
All my underdogs
We will never be, never be
Octavia grinned like an idiot as she grabbed Zen, the two twirling around as they danced together, much to the entertainment of the patrons of the club.
Anything but loud
And nitty gritty
Dirty little freaks
Loona and Vortex went back-to-back as they played together. Hearing loud cheers for her name, Loona looked out to see Carver and Gigi in the crowd, smiling as she saw her new friends supporting her.
So raise your glass if you are wrong
In all the right ways
All my underdogs
We will never be, never be
“Damn do I need to find someone for myself…” Sallie May said, shaking her head at the antics of her bandmates.
Anything but loud
And nitty gritty
Dirty little freaks
Queen Bee grinned as she felt the energy in her club filling once more, and all thanks to her newest guest stars.
Won't you come on and come on and raise your glass!
Just come on and come on and raise your glass!
“Raise! Your Glass!” the crowd chanted.
Won't you come on and come on and raise your glass! (for me)
Just come on and come on and raise your glass!
For me!
Octavia threw up her fist, cutting off her star magic in a display of fireworks as the crowd cheered. Queen Bee clapped as she returned to the stage. “Rocking as ever, Howling Starfires!” she said, holding up “rock on” signs in each of her hands. “But now we gotta give the crowd what they came for…” She looked out to the club goers, picking up her own microphone before shouting. “Do you want what we’ve got!?!”
“We want it!” the crowd responded.
Queen Bee held up a hand to her ear. “Say it louder!”
“We want it!”
“One more time!”
“WE WANT IT!”
“All right then, it’s time for us to rock!” Queen Bee laughed. She then looked back at the band, putting an arm around both Loona and Vortex. “Say, Starfire, how’s about you let these two hounds lead with me?”
Octavia nodded. “Sure. Tex, it’s your call for the song.” The princess produced a tambourine to play since he wouldn’t be on lead vocals this time.
“Well, everyone, it’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for,” Queen Bee announced. “It’s time for your Queen to feature with the Howling Starfires. So then… Tell me, Tex, what song are we playing today?”
“I think it’s time that learn how your Body Talks,” Vortex replied, giving Loona the cue to start with the opening notes on bass.
Your eyes follow like a spotlight
Two eyes like the sun
Go ahead, keep your distance from me
Soon you're gonna come
As Vortex sang, he locked eyes with Loona, the two playing their instruments in sync as he moved closer to her.
When you flick your hair like you don't care
And you're asking where I'm from
Loona retorted with her own line, playfully tossing her hair in his face to tickle his nose.
That game that you're running baby
You've already won
Vortex laughed out his line, before the two started singing in harmony together, Bee joining in as danced along to the beat.
I need to know, know, know
What do ya need, need, need?
What do ya like, like, like?
Because I'm going to be it tonight
The Queen of Gluttony gave a wink to the audience before using her powers to light up the room in various yellows and oranges, lava lamps of honey flowing around the club as the band jumped into the chorus.
You can be cool, you can be shy
Say what you want, say what you like
'Cause ooh, your body talks, your body talks!
Ooh, ooh, your body talks!
Vortex grinned as he played his guitar, singing his heart out alongside his girlfriend.
You could pretend you don't want it now
But I read the signs from your head to your toes
Yeah, you don't need to say a word 'cause
Ooh, ooh, your body talks!
Bee giggled as she suddenly pulled Vortex close, running a hand up his chest as she stared hungerly into his eyes.
Your lips are a conversation
That face is a song
Vortex looked nervous at the way she was eyeing him up, with Loona giving a low growl as she butted in with her own line.
If it's my imagination
Stop me if I'm wrong
Queen Bee let go of Vortex and turn to face Loona, the two girls circling around each other in a stand-offish manner.
I need to know, know, know
What do ya need, need, need?
What do ya like, like, like?
'Cause I'm going to be it tonight
Just as it looked like things might get ugly, Bee playfully booped Loona on the nose, making her flinch before the Queen of Gluttony backed off, going back to singing the chorus with a laugh.
You can be cool, you can be shy
Say what you want, say what you like
'Cause ooh, your body talks, your body talks!
Ooh, ooh, your body talks!
The two hellhounds played together as their bandmates backed them up, with Bee dancing around as she played with the stars and foxfire that Octavia and Zen created. She even pressed her hand over one of Sallie May’s fire geysers, turning it into a stream of orange soda that she sprayed the audience with.
You could pretend you don't want it now
But I read the signs from your head to your toes
Yeah, you don't need to say a word 'cause
Ooh, ooh, your body talks!
The crowd started singing along with the song, waving their hands in the air along to the beat.
Come on, babe!
Vortex smiled as he gave Loona a twirl.
Down, girl, shake your hips, yeah!
She laughed as she shook her tail happily.
Ooh, ooh, it's on your lips!
Loona even managed to steal a quick kiss from Vortex, leaning into his chest as she smirked at him.
Yeah, you know, oh, you're into this?
Yeah, you can try to hide it, but you know you can't deny it!
Bee then suddenly altered her own size, picking up both Loona and Vortex and placing the two on her shoulders as they sang.
Ooh ooh, your body talks, your body talks!
Ooh, your body talks… ow!
The Queen of Gluttony shouted out as the lighting changed back into UV purples and blues, with Octavia’s stars popping out in vibrant pinks as the she, Zen, and Sallie May got a moment to rock out for this song.
You can be cool, you can be shy
Say what you want, say what you like
'Cause ooh, your body talks, your body talks
Ooh, ooh, your body talks!
Tossing the two up into the air, Bee expertly caught both Loona and Vortex, setting them both back down onto the stage as she returned to her normal size and started dancing with both of them as they played.
You could pretend you don't want it now
But I read the signs from your head to your toes
'Cause you don't need to say a word 'cause
Ooh, ooh your body talks!
The crowd started chanting again as the song started to come to an end.
“Loona, sing it, baby!” Vortex shouted.
“Talk to me!” Loona called back, the two hounds touching noses.
“You don't need to say a word!” Bee added, putting an arm around their shoulders as she gave them both a nuzzle, making Loona and Vortex blush.
You can be cool, you can be shy
Say what you want, say what you like
'Cause ooh, your body talks, your body talks!
Ooh, ooh, your body talks!
The song soon ended, with the crowd cheering for the showstopping number. “Thank you, thank you! Once again, I’m your Queen Bee and these are the Howling Starfires!” Bee said, the band waving to the crowd as they were lowered back down into the backstage area. The Queen of Gluttony smiled wide as she looked at the Howling Starfires with a face of pure glee. “That back there… was so crazy! Like, words can’t even describe what I’m feeling right now, but it was like…!” She held out her hands and waved them around, creating confetti fireworks over her head.
“Yessirie, that was pretty great,” Sallie May nodded. “I think I saw a few imps up there giving me the look as well…”
“Speaking of looks,” Loona said, crossing her arms as she stared at Bee. “What was all that touchy-feely stuff you were doing with Tex?”
“She was doing just as much with you, Loona,” Vortex pointed out.
Queen Bee blushed as she rubbed the back of her head. “I would say sorry, but that would only count if I felt bad about it. I just couldn’t help myself: you two are both total stunners in the looks department, and seeing you perform in stage together was really getting my honey flowing, if you know what I mean.”
“I really wish I didn’t…” Zen muttered, making a gagging motion to Octavia.
“So I was thinking… Would you two be open for an extra-special VIP tour of my place?” Bee offered.
“Wait… are you asking both of us out?” Loona asked.
“I mean, not many people can say they got to score with a Ring Lord,” Queen Bee giggled. “Plus, I can sense how in sync yours and Tex’s auras are, so I’d rather keep the mix going and offer to add my own spice in.”
Loona and Vortex shared a look, the larger hound giving a shrug. “I mean, I wouldn’t mind palling around with Queen Bee for the night. And if it goes anywhere else… Well, that’s for Loona and I to decide together.”
“I mean… I’m not not against it,” Loona replied. She then gave a glare to Bee. “But you’re going to have to prove yourself to us first before even thinking about “scoring.” I’m not getting taken advantage of by anyone ever again, not even a Ring Lord.”
“Oh, I totally get that,” Bee nodded. “I mean, I heard your story about what happened with that Wayland guy, so that’s my bad if I overstepped a few boundaries.”
“More than a few…” Loona muttered. She shook her head. “But you’re pretty cool too, Bee, so I’ll give you a chance.”
“Yas!” Bee cheered, pulling the two hounds into a hug again. “Now then, let’s get out there an mingle, people! We can take more song requests later!” The Queen of Gluttony practically dragged Loona and Vortex about out into the club, her wings buzzing feverishly.
“Welp, I’m gonna go mingle as well,” Sallie May said, walking off. “If you two can’t find me when you leave, that’s because I’ll be “sleeping in the barn”, if you catch my drift.”
“You guys really need to stop assuming I don’t know what a sexual inuendo is,” Zen sighed. The kitsune shook his head before smiling at Octavia. “So? Shall we join in the party as well?”
“We shall,” Octavia replied, taking Zen’s hand as they stepped back out into the club. The Howling Starfires had a great time the rest of the night, with Sallie May collecting a few numbers (and maybe hiding a body out in the dumpster of that one imp that got a bit too handsy with her), Octavia and Zen trying out different (non-laced, Bee promised) foods, and Loona and Vortex making new hellhound friends, along with being friends (or maybe more) with Queen Bee herself. It was a concert the band wasn’t going to forget anytime soon, and their fans were pleasantly surprised when Queen Bee even made a guest appearance on their first album. That story, though, is one for another time…